Open Ice Rules

GSC – Open Ice Time Policy

Purpose: Open Ice Time aims to provide GSC members with unstructured ice time to use at their discretion, whether for recreational or figure skating or hockey-related activities. The Open Ice Time Schedule is available on the GSC website “Schedule” tab.

The purpose of these rules is to establish clear expectations and ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all participants.

Rules for Playing Hockey During Open Ice Time:

• Designated Areas – If sticks and pucks are being used, and the ice is being shared with non-hockey members, hockey participants must ask the rink staff to place partitions on the ice to separate a designated area for hockey activities (no more than half ice).
• Safety First – Players must keep shots and passes controlled to avoid injury. No slap shots or aggressive play.
• Equipment Requirement – If you choose to use sticks and pucks, the same equipment requirement as Open Hockey applies. Shinguards, elbow pads, gloves, helmets and facemasks are required for all players using sticks and pucks.
• Net Placement – Nets may be placed in the goal crease or against the boards, not against the partitions. No shooting in the direction of the partitions is allowed for safety reasons. 

Rules for Recreational and Figure Skating:

• Figure Skating – Skaters may practice individual routines at controlled speeds while being careful to avoid other participants. 
• Skating Etiquette – Skaters must follow proper etiquette, avoiding abrupt stops or erratic movements that may endanger others.
• No Horseplay – Roughhousing, tag, or excessive speed skating is not permitted.
• Music – Personal music devices may be used (no headphones allowed for safety reasons). Use of GSC Sonos sound system is permitted at or below 65% of maximum volume to be respectful of neighbors. 

Who’s eligible to participate?

• Open to All Members of All Age Groups– Guests are not permitted.
• Respect for All Activities – Skaters and hockey players must share the ice responsibly, respecting different activities happening simultaneously.
• Supervision – Children under the age of 10 must be supervised by a parent or guardian.

Operations team responsibilities: Place nets and dividers on the ice if requested by participants who would like to use sticks and pucks on the ice (see above). 

Assumption of Risk: Open Ice Time is an unsupervised activity (i.e., no GSC staff will be on the ice). By participating, you acknowledge the risks associated with the on-ice activities listed above and agree that GSC shall not be held responsible for any injuries that may occur to participants during open hockey. 

By using Open Ice Time, all members agree to follow these rules and maintain a positive, respectful environment for all skaters and staff.

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