Ice Hockey: Key Terms And Definitions

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Ice hockey is a fast-paced and exciting sport, but understanding its terminology can be challenging for newcomers. This guide breaks down essential ice hockey terms, helping you follow the game with confidence.

Basic Ice Hockey Terms

  • Assist: Awarded to a player who passes the puck to a teammate who scores a goal.
  • Backhand: A shot or pass made with the back of the blade.
  • Body Check: Using the body to separate an opponent from the puck (legal within specific rules).
  • Crease: The semi-circular area in front of the net where opposing players cannot obstruct the goalie.
  • Face-off: The method used to begin play, where two opposing players face each other and try to gain control of the puck after it is dropped by the referee.
  • Penalty Box: The area where a player sits to serve a penalty.
  • Power Play: When one team has a player advantage due to an opponent's penalty.
  • Slap Shot: A powerful shot where the player swings the stick back and brings it down hard on the ice before hitting the puck.

Offensive Terms

  • Breakaway: When a player has possession of the puck and a clear path to the opposing team's net with no defenders to pass.
  • Deke: A fake move used to fool an opponent.
  • One-timer: Shooting the puck directly off a pass without stopping it.
  • Rebound: A shot that bounces off the goalie or the net, creating another scoring opportunity.

Defensive Terms

  • Clearing the Puck: Getting the puck out of the defensive zone.
  • Forecheck: Applying pressure to the opposing team in their defensive zone to regain possession of the puck.
  • Man-on-Man Marking: Each player is assigned to defend a specific opponent.
  • Neutral Zone Trap: A defensive strategy used to slow down the opposing team's attack in the neutral zone.

Goaltending Terms

  • Blocker: A rectangular pad worn on the goalie's hand to block shots.
  • Glove Save: Catching the puck with the goalie's glove.
  • Pads: Protective leg coverings worn by goalies.
  • Save Percentage: The percentage of shots a goalie saves.

Penalties

  • High-Sticking: Hitting an opponent with the stick above the shoulder.
  • Holding: Impeding an opponent by holding them.
  • Interference: Illegally impeding an opponent who does not have the puck.
  • Tripping: Causing an opponent to fall by using the stick or body.

Understanding these terms will significantly enhance your enjoyment and comprehension of ice hockey. Whether you're a new fan or looking to brush up on your knowledge, this glossary provides a solid foundation for following the game. For more in-depth rules and strategies, consider checking out official NHL resources or other hockey websites. Enjoy the game!