KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

What is the USHL?
The USHL, governed by USA Hockey, is the only Tier I junior league in America. To compete, players must be 20 years old or younger before the season begins.

What is the purpose of the USHL?
Because of the extensive practice and game schedule in the USHL, players have an opportunity to develop their skills at an accelerated pace that might otherwise be unavailable. The main purpose of the USHL is to help players, coaches, and officials advance their careers to the college and professional level.
The USHL prides itself on the professional presentation of an amateur sport. That professionalism manifests itself in the number of players and coaches who graduate to the collegiate and professional levels of the game.

How long is the USHL season?
Each team plays a 62-game regular season schedule starting in early October and finishing in early April. With exhibition games and playoff games, teams can total nearly 80 games played.

Where do USHL players come from?
The USHL attracts players from all over the United States as well as Canada and Europe. The league has a voluntary draft system to help insure parity among its teams from season to season.

Are USHL players paid?
Players are not paid for performing in the USHL. In accordance with the rules of USA Hockey and the NCAA, the league maintains a strictly amateur status.
USHL games are regularly scouted by NHL teams, NHL Central Scouting, and Division I-III universities. Because playing junior hockey often requires a player to move to the team's city, the teams help arrange housing and part-time jobs. Community involvement by the players is also encouraged by each team.

How do I buy Des Moines Buccaneers tickets?
The Bucs tickets are available online at https://tickets.bucshockey.com/. Fans can save time and money by purchasing tickets online and in advance.

Where are the Des Moines Buccaneers Located?
The Bucs are located at the MidAmerican Energy Company RecPlex for the 2024-2025 season and for direction you can click HERE.