# How to run a hockey pool

> How to run a hockey pool step by step: choose a format, set rules and a deadline, invite people, handle entry money responsibly and keep the standings current.

Canonical: https://officehockeypool.ca/how-to-run-a-hockey-pool
Last updated: 2026-10-26

Running a hockey pool takes about ten minutes of setup if you make three decisions up front: the format, the deadline and what the winner gets. Here is the order that works.

## 1. Pick the format for your group

- **Casual or large:** [pick'em](https://officehockeypool.ca/pick-em-pool) or a [bracket](https://officehockeypool.ca/hockey-playoff-pool).
- **Hockey fans who like strategy:** a [salary cap pool](https://officehockeypool.ca/salary-cap-hockey-pool).
- **A group that will meet:** a [draft pool](https://officehockeypool.ca/hockey-pool-draft).

## 2. Set the deadline

For brackets and salary cap pools, picks lock at the first playoff game. In the NHL that usually falls in mid-to-late April, a day or two after the regular season ends. Send invites as soon as the matchups are set so people have a weekend to pick.

## 3. Write the rules down

Use the [rules sheet](https://officehockeypool.ca/hockey-pool-rules) and paste your version into the pool announcement. The tiebreak and what happens with injured players cause most disputes.

## 4. Handle money carefully, or not at all

Plenty of pools play for a trophy, lunch or a charity donation. If you take entry fees, keep it to people you know and pay out everything collected. Check your employer's policy and your province's rules. Office Hockey Pool never collects or pays out money; the Manage page has a paid checklist so you can keep track.

## 5. Keep people engaged

- Post a short update after each round. The pool announcement shows at the top of the standings.
- Reveal everyone's picks after the lock. It's the best part.
- Need names? Try the [hockey pool names](https://officehockeypool.ca/hockey-pool-names) list.

[Set up your pool now](https://officehockeypool.ca/pools/new)

## Related

- [Hockey pool rules](https://officehockeypool.ca/hockey-pool-rules)
- [Office hockey pool, without the spreadsheet](https://officehockeypool.ca)
- [Hockey pools for sports bars](https://officehockeypool.ca/for/sports-bars)
- [Hockey pools for beer leagues](https://officehockeypool.ca/for/beer-leagues)