About Us

The Women's Central Hockey League (WCHL) is an 18+ recreational women's ice hockey league dedicated to encouraging women – regardless of talent or experience – to participate in the wonderful sport of ice hockey. The skill levels within the league span everything from those who grew up on skates and have played in college (or even skated with the pros) to those who have never strapped on ice skates or played a sport in their lives. 

The WCHL has grown to include over 50 member teams from Illinois, Wisconsin, Iowa, Missouri and Indiana and close to a thousand skaters. There are a handful of collegiate club teams that participate across all divisions based upon the structure of their team, some organizations that comprise of multiple teams at different levels, and many standalone teams throughout the region. 

We have partnered with organizations such as the Chicago Blackhawks and others, to grow the sport in our community, offering clinics, hosting women-only tournaments, and educating girls and women about the sport. We believe in diversity and inclusion, and all are welcome to play in a judgment-free environment. Our goal is to provide a safe place for women from all backgrounds, regardless of race, ethnicity, age, religion, political affiliation, sexual orientation, gender identity, etc... to come together to enjoy this sport that we love. 

• 99.9% of league games are played on the weekends