MHSHL Player Placement FAQ (2026–27 Season)
1. Who should attend the April 21 draft skate?
The April 21 draft skate is intended for Indiana-based players.
If your player attends a high school in Indiana, they should plan to attend as scheduled.
2. Should Michigan-based players attend the April 21 draft skate?
No.
Players who attend high school in Michigan should not attend the April 21 draft skate. A separate draft and skate opportunity will be scheduled specifically for Michigan-based players.
3. Will there be another draft for Michigan players?
Yes.
MHSHL will hold a separate draft for Michigan-based players who wish to participate in the league. Details, including date and format, will be shared as they are finalized.
4. Who is eligible for the Michigan-based draft?
Michigan-based players who:
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Choose not to participate in a school-based program, or
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Are not placed on a school-based team
will be eligible for MHSHL placement.
5. What if my player is still deciding between different options?
That’s completely fine.
We understand many families are evaluating different paths. MHSHL will continue to provide a clear and flexible placement opportunity, and there is no requirement to make an immediate decision.
6. Will every player who wants to play MHSHL be placed on a team?
Yes.
Our goal is to ensure that every player who wants to participate in MHSHL will have a team placement opportunity.
7. Can players request to be placed with friends or teammates?
No.
Teams are formed through a draft process designed to ensure competitive balance across the league. As a result, players are not placed based on requests to be with specific teammates or friends.
If an existing club team structure remains in place (such as a returning program), those players may remain together within that structure. Otherwise, all players will be placed through the draft.
8. How are teams formed?
Teams are formed through a draft process designed to:
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Promote competitive balance
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Distribute talent evenly
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Provide development opportunities for all players
League leadership works with coaches to build complete and balanced rosters.
9. What should players bring to the draft skate?
Players should bring:
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Full hockey equipment
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A light and dark jersey
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Water bottle
Additional details will be provided prior to each skate session.
10. Are all players eligible for the MHSHL draft?
Not all players will be eligible for draft placement.
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Players who are part of an existing MHSHL member program (such as a returning team) will remain with that program and are not part of the draft pool.
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Players currently rostered within an established program are expected to continue within that structure and are not eligible to enter the draft.
The draft process is intended for players who are not already part of an existing team structure.
11. Where can I get updates and additional information?
Updates will be posted on our website:
You can also contact the league directly at:
mhshl.draft@gmail.com