Hockey

Hockey is a family of sports in which two teams play against each other by trying to maneuver a ball or puck into the opponent's goal using a stick. There are several variations of hockey, the most well-known of which are ice hockey and field hockey.

Ice Hockey:

Ice hockey is a fast-paced, physical team sport played on an ice rink. Two teams of six players (typically) compete to score by shooting a vulcanized rubber disc, called a puck, into the opposing team's net. Players wear protective equipment, including helmets, pads, and skates. The game is divided into three periods, and the team with the most goals at the end of regulation time wins. Ice hockey is particularly popular in North America, Canada, Russia, and Scandinavia. It is known for its speed, skill, and physicality. Penalties are assessed for various infractions, leading to power plays for the non-offending team.

Field Hockey:

Field hockey is an outdoor team sport played on a grass or artificial turf field. Two teams of eleven players compete to score by hitting a hard, spherical ball into the opposing team's goal using a hockey stick. Unlike ice hockey, players cannot use their feet or any other part of their body to play the ball. Field hockey is a popular sport worldwide, particularly in Europe, Australia, and parts of Asia. The game emphasizes teamwork, strategy, and stick-handling skills.

Other Variations:

Besides ice hockey and field hockey, other variations exist, including:

• Roller Hockey: Played on roller skates (quad or inline).
• Sledge Hockey: Adapted for athletes with disabilities, played on sledges with blades.
• Street Hockey: A less formalized version of ice hockey played on foot, often on asphalt or concrete.
• Underwater Hockey: Played in a swimming pool.

Governing Bodies:

• Ice Hockey: The International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF) is the governing body for international ice hockey competitions.
• Field Hockey: The International Hockey Federation (FIH) is the governing body for international field hockey competitions.

Common Elements:

Despite their differences, all forms of hockey share the common goal of scoring by propelling a ball or puck into the opposing team's net using a stick. They also emphasize teamwork, strategy, and physical fitness.