As spectators, we have always watched ice hockey with enthusiasm and fun. We’ve seen men run through targets. But have you wanted to play it? Have you ever stopped to think how difficult it would be? There is an easy way to learn and play.
Like many other games, ice hockey is also a team sport. It has two teams of six players each, a goalkeeper and five defenders. All five players can move around the rink (the ice field). The objective of the game is to have the maximum of objectives to be the winner. You have to make sure you don’t let your opponent score, which is called playing defense. The game has a temporary structure. It is divided into periods of twenty minutes. There are three such segments in the game. In case the score is equal or neither team has scored, extra time is allotted which is quite similar to the game of soccer.
To regulate and maintain the decorum of the sport, there are some rules and restrictions. There are two types of penalties in the game, one recognized as major and one as minor. As you play, you will often find players pushing each other to possess the puck. There are some forms that are considered offensive. Cutting, hooking, interfering, looking from behind, etc. all are considered minor sanctions. Avoid making them. For example, while in control of the puck, if a player comes up and attempts to take possession of your back, it is considered a minor foul and can take a player off the ice for two minutes. Substitution of this player is not allowed. That leaves the team with only five players on the court. If the team scores a goal after the minor foul, the player can re-enter. There are also cases where opposing teams fight on the track. This leads to a higher penalty. The player is kicked off the ice for a full five minutes. Major penalties may also involve the issuance of a player who caused physical injury to another.
When you start as a beginner, the biggest challenge is knowing how to hold the hockey stick correctly. The idea is to be comfortable so you can maneuver the puck accordingly. Dribbling, slapping, hitting and pushing with the stick should also be practiced regularly. Each game also has a set of guards and safety equipment. Make sure you have the important few before you begin. The helmet, mouth guard, puck, stick, skates, shin guards, jockstrap and socks are all essential to player safety.
Once you take note of all of the above, you will slowly realize the simplicity of the game and start enjoying it. The game tests your strategies, team spirit and individual skill at all times. Ice hockey is played nationally and internationally in many countries. It’s an extremely fast game and can get difficult at times, so if you have a weak heart, don’t try it.