Utah is enjoying the first National Hockey League action season in several decades. Whether you’re a long-time Colorado Avalanche fan who swung a stick as a kid and are now a die-hard supporter gearing up for the next big match or just curious about the buzz surrounding the game, we’re sharing some tips to turn you into a hockey-savvy viewer. From understanding the fundamentals of the sport to tips on how to best enjoy a game, we’re putting you in the know.
The Basics of Hockey
At its core, hockey is a fast-paced game played on ice where two teams compete to score goals by hitting a puck into the opposing team’s net. Ice hockey is played with six players per team on the ice (five skaters and one goalie). Matches are typically divided into three periods, each lasting 20 minutes of gameplay.
Key Terms to Know
- Faceoff: A method to begin play where the referee drops the puck between two opposing players.
- Offside: Occurs when a player crosses the opponent’s blue line before the puck does.
- Icing: When a player shoots the puck across the center red line and the opposing team’s goal line without it being touched.
- Power Play: When one team has a numerical advantage on the ice due to the opposing team taking a penalty.
- Penalty Box: A designated area where players sit due to committing penalties. Time in the penalty box depends on the severity of the infraction.
The Players and Their Roles
Every player on the ice has a specific role to fulfill, here’s a quick rundown:
- Forwards (center and wingers): Primarily responsible for scoring goals and assisting plays.
- Defensemen: Their job is to stop the opposing team from scoring while supporting their forwards.
- Goalie (goaltender): The last line of defense, tasked with stopping the puck from entering the net.
Equipment
Hockey players are equipped to handle high-speed collisions, puck impacts, and falls with gear including helmets, gloves, shin pads, shoulder pads, skates, and a stick. While fans might enjoy a good fistfight on the ice now and then, safety is a priority in the game.
Learning the Flow of Hockey
Hockey has its own rhythm, and once you understand the flow, you’ll want to pay close attention to transitions, the fight for puck possession, and the power plays that can make or break the game.
If you’re new to watching hockey, start by focusing on the puck, then gradually watch how the players position themselves and strategize around it. You’ll quickly realize that the excitement in hockey often builds up around key moments like power plays, shots on goal, or penalty kills. Learn how to spot these moments by understanding the rules—you’ll recognize when it’s time to lean in and cheer louder.
Get Into the Spirit of the Game
Part of the fun of hockey is picking a team to support. Whether you choose based on where you live, family traditions, or simply who has the coolest mascot, having “your team” transforms the experience into an action-packed event every game.
If you don’t have a favorite team in mind, stop by your neighborhood Bout Time—you’ll find plenty of regulars cheering on their teams since hockey has some of the most passionate fans in sports. The sense of camaraderie is infectious, and Bout Time is the perfect place to catch a game with friends and share a slice and a beer.
Since hockey is a sensory experience, you’ll find that excellent food only enhances it. Match the nonstop action with scratch-made food options, paired with local beers on tap or plenty of cocktails to take your game night up a notch.
Hockey is for Everyone
Hockey is a thrilling, skillful, and sometimes nail-biting sport that captivates fans. With the basics understood, you’re ready to immerse yourself in the action. So, stop in and enjoy a live game with great food and company. We’ve got more TVs than tables, delicious snacks, and the best spot waiting for you—so get your game on!
