What are the rules regarding players fighting on the ice? When pushing and shoving leads into a fight; referees may allow the players to fight and let off some steam. Once a player is clearly being beaten, falls to the ice or is in a vulnerable position (shirt over their head for example) then the fight will be stopped. A player who intentionally starts a fight may be assessed an additional two minutes for instigation plus the five minute fighting penalty.
Why are broken hockey sticks left on the ice during play? Rules state that a player must release a stick immediately when it breaks, even if it breaks up at the handle. There is no stoppage of play though so the stick may get kicked around until there is a faceoff or timeout.
Why do goalies sway back and forth during the National Anthem? Players go through their warm up routine and once the adrenaline is running, it is hard to stand still. Goalies are ‘on their own island’ and often do things to stay loose and focused during the game like skating back and forth when play is at the other end of the ice.
In addition to the goalie, what are the five positions and what do they do? A team consists of three forwards and two defensemen. The forwards are classified as the left wing, right wing and center. The job of the forwards is to start the rush towards the goal and keep the puck moving that way. The defensemen’s role is to get the puck out of their own zone. The center also falls back to help on defense and handles most of the face-offs in the game.
Why do players keep going on and off the ice? Players are usually on the ice for about 40 seconds although that can stretch up to a few minutes in some cases. A ‘line’ of players will enter the ice and play for about 40 seconds before returning to the bench. The time may vary but during a 60 minute game, players are on the ice for an average of 20 minutes. NHL teams carry four lines of players while the CHL (Central Hockey League) teams have three lines.
How do face-offs work? Each player must stand outside the circle in the designated area. The visiting team’s player must put his stick on the ice first. Once the home team player’s stick touches the ice, the puck is dropped. If a player crosses into the circle, he is kicked out and replaced by another player. There is a lot of strategy being employed in the instant that the puck drops
What does the coach do during the game? Most of the coach’s work is done before the game and between periods when strategy and systems for the game are set up. Teams for penalty killing and power plays are set and lines are adjusted. They are not as involved during the game as a football coach, for example, but they are always breaking down good and bad plays and making notes of adjustments that need to be made. Like all athletic coaches, they constantly work to keep the players confident and mentally focused on the game.
Finally, what’s with the beards in hockey? Playoff beards started with the NY Islanders in the 80’s when the team chose not to shave until they lost a playoff series. Instead, they won four straight Stanley Cup titles. The tradition has caught on with many teams as a show of camaraderie and determination when the layoffs come around.
The Allen Americans currently hold first place in their division and play the second place Wichita Thunder tonight (Thursday) at 7:05 at the Allen Event Center.
No comments:
Post a Comment