Maple syrup is one of Canada’s most iconic sweet treats, loved for its unique flavour and natural origin. However,...
The importance of hockey in Canada
Hockey is undeniably Canada's favorite sport. Much more than a pastime, it is deeply rooted in the country's culture. In this article, we will look at why ice hockey is so popular in Canada. Also, we will return to its origins and its evolution.
What is ice hockey?
Very popular in Canada, ice hockey is a very physical contact sport. It has a large number of rules, and is played on an ice rink.
The ice hockey rink must have a length between 56 and 61 meters. In width, it must be between 26 and 30 meters. The regulations require that competitions take place on an area of at least 60 x 29 m. Any rink that does not meet the dimensions cannot accommodate these major events.
There are also several tracks on the ice hockey rink. These lines delimit the zones of the field and are useful for separating the numerous sectors of the game. In fact, the ice hockey rink is divided into three distinct sectors: the attack zone, the neutral zone, and the defense zone.
Furthermore, an ice hockey team can have up to twenty-two players on its roster. Among these twenty-two, you must have two goalkeepers.
On the playing area, only 6 players are allowed to play. Indeed, ice hockey is played with five field players and a goalkeeper.
It should be noted that only the captain has the right to speak with the referee during a match. In the event of scuffles, only he can claim or contest the decision taken.
Additionally, an ice hockey team can have up to eight players on its bench. Of the eight, five can enter at the same time during the same match. Note that a change of player in hockey is called a line change.
Finally, the goal of ice hockey is simple. To win, you have to score more goals than the opposing team.
Equipment needed for playing hockey
Like most team sports, ice hockey is played with special equipment. To enter the ice rink, a player must have skates, a stick, clothing and protections.
The rules also require that skates be well sharpened and adapted to ensure the safety of the players. Without the right equipment, a player cannot participate in a match.
Furthermore, the cross or hockey stick must have a curved end and is used to manipulate the puck. This cross can be made of wood or another material, but must meet the conditions required by the regulations to be used.
For the outfit, the player must also follow the regulations. To be able to participate in the game, he must have a sweater (jersey), thighs (pants) and stockings. Please note that players from the same team must wear a similar jersey on the ice. The color of the equipment is what differentiates two teams competing against each other.
Finally, protections are also very important. Since contact is frequent, you must protect yourself well to avoid injuries. As the rules say, an ice hockey player must have a helmet to protect his skull. This helmet must be worn by the player during the warm-up and throughout the duration of the match.
Note that the helmet must have a chin strap to be accepted. In ice hockey, only the visor and the full grille are optional. In his jersey, the player must also wear additional protection. He can use shoulder pads, greaves, a shell, and a breastplate.
As for the goalkeeper, he is entitled to additional protections. To absorb bullets, he uses a reinforced chest plate and a helmet lined with a mask.
The place of hockey in Canadian culture
Hockey holds a special place in Canadian culture. Having become a benchmark sport in the country, it has many followers and enthusiasts.
Indeed, Canadians' passion for hockey is often shown in films. Much more than a sport, this discipline has become a real institution.
On match days, you can feel a strong atmosphere. The fans being particularly active, a meeting even without stakes never goes unnoticed. You will have understood, hockey is an integral part of the life of the country. It is not just a discipline, it is the sport par excellence for Canadians.
If you are in Montreal, don't forget to visit the Bell Centre, the stadium of the Montreal Canadiens team. The energy that reigns there will transport you. During matches, the stadium is always buzzing. The team being the most successful in the National Hockey League, it has a large number of supporters. For many Montreal residents, this is their favorite club.
But it is not only in Montreal that the supporters are so active. In Quebec, hockey fans also know how to set the mood. If you're in the area, don't hesitate to go see a match. You will see that the local teams have nothing to envy of those from Montreal.
Moreover, Quebec has many prestigious players. All over town, you can see portraits of these players or their names posted on walls.
Finally, know that hockey is not just a men's sport for Canadians. In the country, you will also find many women's teams.
Indeed, many women play hockey in Canada. There are even several competitions where you can see the best players compete.
The origin of this sport
Hockey was created centuries ago by European settlers. To design the game, they took inspiration from several other sports.
The term hockey comes from the French “hiccup” and means shepherd’s staff. This prop was used in a famous Scottish game in the 18th century.
Furthermore, the first ice hockey match officially took place in 1875. The scene of this event was the city of Montreal. After that, the sport continued to develop. As the rules were established, teams were formed, and leagues were created.
The first annual ice hockey championship began in the 1880s. It still brought together few teams, but the enthusiasm was already there.
Then, professional hockey leagues began to flourish starting in the 20th century. Among these leagues, one quickly stood out, the National Hockey League. Having become the largest hockey association in North America, this league still occupies a special place today.
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