The Michigan Senior Women’s Hockey League began with only 4 teams in the early 1990’s. Currently, the League has 40+ teams in advanced, intermediate, and recreational divisions. This means over 600 women participate in the one of the largest senior women’s leagues in the country. The purpose of the League is to encourage and improve the standard of ice hockey for women in the State of Michigan; to develop and encourage sportsmanship among all players for the betterment of their physical and social well-being; and to conduct an organized league wherein women may learn and enjoy recreational and competitive ice hockey. The League is a member of MAHA and USA Hockey. The season begins in September and runs through March, concluding with the annual "Ruicci Cup"-a weekend hockey playoff.