Anyone here familiar with the Scottish National League? I am contemplating a move to Scotland shortly and would love to continue to play hockey and was wondering what the quality of play is like and their import rules were like. Thanks.
I'm not too sure about the SNL, I don't believe it is a very high standard overall, although Fife Flyers and Dundee Stars are quite (relatively) good, so the games between those two should be ok. Unfortunately if they play anyone else they win by loads.
The Edinburgh Capitals play in the Brtitish Elite League though, which is a 10 (or 11 I'm not sure) import league, predominantly with North Americans. This is the best standard in Britain, although Edinburgh are one of the weaker sides at that level.
There is a long, rich, culture of hockey in Scotland though, so there are lots of lower level and rec teams if you want to keep playing.
If you didnt play MJ or JrA you might have a problem making a team. There are a ton of Canadians over there. I have a few buddies that have played in the UK and they all say it is a pretty high level. Doubt its any higher then the E.
A safe rule of thumb is if you could make the E, you could play almost anywhere.
I'm an Edinburgh Capitals fan, great wee club the SNL is much smaller than the Elite league, Scottish hockey isn't of the best standard but it is growing, we had the Hamilton Bulldogs and the Marlies over last month, it's a small but good scene
