If you’re just starting out in your ice hockey career or brushing up on your sporting knowledge for the next pub quiz, we’ve got everything you could possibly need to know right here…
The national winter sport of Canada, hockey or ‘ice hockey’ has been around for centuries, with the first recorded game taking place in Montreal’s Victoria Skating Rink in 1875. Whilst the game has changed a bit since then (and stricter rules have been introduced), it’s now played by both men and women at the Winter Olympic Games, with more than 1.5 million people taking to the ice every year.
What size is a hockey rink?
Hockey rink sizes can vary depending on the level of those playing, however there are two typical dimensions which tend to be adhered to; the National Hockey League (NHL) rinks in America and Olympic rinks. NHL rinks measure 85ft x 200ft (26m x 61m), whilst international rinks differ slightly and have dimensions of 98.4ft x 197ft (30m x 60m).
How many players are on a hockey team?
Six players make up a hockey team; five skaters and one goalkeeper. However, teams tend to have approximately 20 players in total, as you can have as many substitutions as you like at any time of the game (except when the defensive team ices the puck).
How long is a hockey game?
Hockey games are made up of three lots of twenty-minute periods, with the total game time coming in at one hour.
What is a hockey puck made of?
Hockey pucks are 1” thick (25mm) x 3” (76mm) in diameter and made using vulcanised rubber – a special process which involves mixing rubber with chemical compounds such as sulphate to make the rubber as strong as possible. Those used in NHL games weigh approximately 170g (6oz), however many players will practice with heavier pucks in training to improve their shots and novices may use slightly lighter ones.
What are the dimensions of a hockey goal?
Unlike ice rinks, regulation hockey goals don’t differ in size. All adhere to the NHL’s ruling which states hockey goal dimensions must be 72” x 48” (1.8m x 1.2m). If yours has taken a few too many slap shots this season, then look no further than the Net World Sports Professional Ice Hockey Goal & Net. Made from 2” thick galvanised steel with a robust 5mm net (1 5/8” mesh size), it’ll stop any puck in its tracks!
What do you need to play hockey?
There’s quite a few things players need for hockey before they can take to the ice. From hockey sticks and specific skates through to helmets with face shields, shoulder and shin pads, gumshields, gloves, neck guards… the list goes on! The most important thing to remember is you’re well protected and have all the correct gear before playing.
So, there we have it, Net World Sports’ Ice Hockey 101! There is so much more information out there if you’re thinking of getting more into the sport and don’t forget to visit our website for all your match day and training equipment needs – just click on your country below…
By: Andrew Griffiths