Are you new to the exciting world of youth ice hockey? As parents, understanding the unique lingo of the game can help you support your little athlete better. Here’s a breakdown of some essential terms you’ll come across:
Attacking Zone: Where the Action Happens
The attacking zone is where the magic unfolds – it’s the area where the opponent’s goal is located, and where your young player will showcase their skills in offense!
Back Check: Defending in Style
Back checking is a defensive move where a player skates backward towards their own goal to stop an opponent’s advance – a key skill for well-rounded players.
Boards: Where the Game Bounces
Boards are the walls surrounding the rink that keep the puck in play. They also add an element of strategy for players in controlling the puck effectively.
Goal Cage: Where Dreams are Scored
The goal cage, also known simply as the goal, is the net that players aim to shoot the puck into to score points and celebrate their achievements.
Hat Trick: Three Times the Glory
A hat trick is when a player scores three goals in a single game – a rare feat that showcases exceptional talent and precision.
Puck: The Star of the Show
The puck is the hard rubber disk maneuvered by players with precision to shoot past the goalie and into the goal – the ultimate objective of the game.
Rink: The Icy Battlefield
The rink is the playing surface made of ice where all the action takes place, providing the stage for young athletes to showcase their speed and agility.
Save: The Goalie’s Heroics
A save is when the goalie blocks a shot, preventing the puck from entering the net – a crucial moment that can turn the tide of the game.
Defensive Zone: Guarding the Fort
The defensive zone is the area closest to a team’s goal, where players focus on protecting their territory and preventing the opposing team from scoring.
Face Off: A Puck-Dropping Start
A face-off is the official way to start or resume play, where a puck is dropped between players from each team to kick off the action.
Checking: Playing it Safe
Checking involves using body contact to impede an opponent’s progress on the ice, ensuring fair play and strategic positioning.
Center Ice & Blue Lines: Zones of Importance
The center ice is the neutral area between the blue lines which divide the rink into key zones for attacking, defending, and the mid-point.
Penalty Box: Learning from Mistakes
Penalties like major penalties (five minutes) and minor penalties (three minutes) are consequences for rule violations, teaching young players valuable lessons in sportsmanship.
With these ice hockey terms in your arsenal, you’ll be cheering on your budding athlete with confidence and understanding. Let the games begin!