Ice hockey involves two teams of players who try to shoot pucks into each other’s goals with the help of hard sticks. Each time a team hocks the puck into the other team’s goal net, points are earned. The team with the most points at the end of a game is declared the winner. Five people from each team will skate the ice at any given time, trying to get the puck into their opponent’s goal. There is a goaltender on each team who mans the goal net to try to keep the puck from going into it.
The Popularity of Ice Hockey
Hockey is especially popular in the United States and Europe, although it is an enjoyed sport all around the world. In fact, there are more than 70 countries that have hockey federations to manage professional teams. However, it can be argued that Canada is the most enthusiastic about ice hockey, where it is considered the official winter sport.
Ice Hockey Safety
Hockey is a fast-paced sport that is often dangerous and can lead to serious injury, so proper training and practice are necessary for players who are on professional teams. Whether playing on a professional or a casual team, each player must wear proper safety gear in order to minimise injury risks. Some of the most important gear needed includes:
- Helmet
- Shoulder pads
- Padded shorts
- Athletic cups
- Shin pads
Of course, one of the most important pieces of equipment for any hockey player is the hockey skates. They play a big role in the strength, speed, and accuracy players are able to conjure up as they play against others on the ice.
The History of Ice Hockey
The first versions of field and ice hockey date back to the 1700s in Europe, where it was first referred to as “Bandie” ball before being renamed hockey in the late 1700s. During this time, hockey was played with a piece of equipment called a bung, which is a small piece of oak placed at the end of a barrel and used as a stopper. These bungs would be used as the pucks.
The Beginning
In the early 1800s, depictions and stories of hockey games on ice were noted in Canada and the United States. For example, the Boston Evening Gazette outlined an account of an ice hockey game in 1859. Back then, there were no official rules for the game, and the physical demands were similar to those implemented when playing lacrosse.
There isn’t a known origin for the actual word hockey. The first time it was mentioned was in 1773 when it was found in a book about juvenile sports. The game of ice hockey didn’t get its start in Montreal; this is where the sport evolved to become the game that it is today. The first official indoor game of hockey was played in the Victoria Skating Rink in Montreal in the year 1875.
At this time, the bung was replaced with a circular piece of wood that was sanded flat on all sides. This is also the first time a hockey game was conducted under the official rules of the Hockey Association. There were a total of 12 rules for each player to memorize and practice. As the game became immensely popular, the first World Championship was held at the Winter Carnival in Montreal in 1883.
Current Scenario
Today, hockey is a popular game worldwide, particularly in Canada, where nearly every province has a professional hockey team. The game is pretty dangerous due to the amount of competition in the sport. Nowadays, all hockey players must wear padded clothing, helmets, shin and elbow pads, and mouth guards. A modern hockey stick and puck are used in every game, whether casual or professional.
Conclusion
Overall, ice hockey is a favourite pastime for many people around the world. Avoid the dangerous nature of the game by using the safety gear while playing the game. You should play for fun with friends and family at the local ice rink with all the safety gear. Keep visiting our blog for more educational content on Ice hockey.
