For those of you who are new to hockey or just want a freshen up on your hockey knowledge the following are the general rules, descriptions of positions and common terms you will hear around a hockey game.
THE POSITIONS IN HOCKEY
To play hockey you mush have 12 players in the game at any given time (six per team). The positions are three forwards, two defensemen and one goalie. Three forwards comprise one line consisting of a center (C), right wing (RW) and left wing (LW).
Center
The center is typically the team’s quarterback. The center usually directs play in both the offensive and defensive zones. The center also sets up plays for his teammates to score goals in the opposing zone and takes most of the face-offs. The center leads the attack by carrying the puck on offense. He exchanges passes with his wings to steer the play toward the opposing goal. On defense, he tries to disrupt a play before it gets on his team’s side of the ice.
Right/Left Wings
The wings or wingers play on the right or left side of the center. They cover their areas as the forward line enters and plays in the opposing zone. The wings team with the center on the attack to set up shots on goal. Defensively, they attempt to break up plays by their counterparts and upset the shot attempts.
Defensemen
The defenders usually play behind the forward line. This allows them to keep the puck in play in the opposing zone and keeps them in position to more easily defend their own goal when the play returns to their zone. There are two defensive positions, right defense and left defense. These players try to stop the incoming play at their own blue line. They try to break up passes, block shots, cover opposing forwards and clear the puck from in front of their own goal. Offensively, they get the puck to their forwards and follow the play into the attacking zone, positioning themselves just inside their opponent’s blue line at the “points.”
Goalie
The goalie’s job is to stay in or near his goal area, which can be called the crease, and stop the other team from scoring. A goalie’s responsibility is to prevent the puck from entering the goal. He can kick it, catch it, grab it or bat it out of the way – just don’t let it go past the goal line. The goalie usually plays the entire game and rarely moves away from his crease. The goalie’s primary task is simple, keep the puck out of his own net. Offensively, he may start his team down the ice with a pass, but seldom does he leave the net he guards.
THE LINGO
Just like any other sport, hockey has its own terminology. Some words and phrases you may know or recognize. Others you might not. Here are just a few to help you get better acquainted with the game.
Assist
An assist is awarded to the players that take part in the play immediately preceding the goal. For example, often times when a player scores a goal they receive help from their teammates in the form of a pass. As many as two players can get credit with an assist of a goal.
Body Check
Using the hip or shoulder to impede the progress of a player who has the puck.
Changing on the Fly
When players from the bench substitute for players on the ice without a stoppage of play.
Crease
The semi-circular blue area in front of each goal that protects the goalies from interference by attacking players.
Enforcer
The enforcer is an intimidating presence on the ice. His job is to protect his teammates from harm and make opponents think twice about taking cheap shots at any of his teammates. Generally the most penalized player on the team, the enforcer is never afraid to pick a fight.
