Hockey is so much more than a sport! Ask a hockey player (or fan!) about it and they’ll probably talk about much more than goals and penalties. Hockey has its own language, traditions, rituals, and sense of humor. Some of these traditions have been around for generations, while others are simply things that teammates do because… well, that’s just what hockey players do. Understanding the culture is part of understanding the sport.
History
Modern ice hockey developed in Canada during the 19th century, evolving from earlier stick-and-ball games played on ice. The sport eventually spread throughout North America and internationally, becoming one of the world's most popular winter sports. Today, hockey is played at every level, from youth and recreational leagues to professional and Olympic competition.
Traditions
Hat tricks
A hat trick happens when a player scores three goals in a single game. When a hat trick is scored, fans traditionally throw their hats onto the ice to celebrate. Some arenas collect the hats and donate them, while others let fans take part in the chaos after the celebration.
Handshake lines
After a playoff series or tournament, teams often line up and skate past each other, shaking hands and congratulating their opponents. The handshake line is a show of sportsmanship and respect, especially after a competitive series.
Taping sticks
Many hockey players tape the blades and handles of their sticks before a game. Taping the blade can improve grip and puck control, while taping the handle gives players a better grip on the stick. How a player tapes their stick can become a personal routine, and some players are very particular about doing it the same way every time.
The Stanley Cup
The Stanley Cup is the championship trophy awarded to the NHL's playoff winner. Unlike most professional sports trophies, the Cup itself is passed from champion to champion, meaning every winning team literally adds its name to the same trophy.
Fighting
Fighting is one of the most recognizable—and controversial—aspects of hockey culture. Unlike most major sports, hockey has historically allowed players to fight under a specific set of rules, although fighting still results in penalties and can carry additional consequences depending on the league. While fights have traditionally been viewed as part of hockey's physical culture, the practice has become increasingly debated as the sport places greater emphasis on player safety.
Chirping
Chirping is hockey's version of trash talk. Players use jokes, insults, and ridiculous observations to distract opponents or get inside their heads. Good chirping is usually clever rather than genuinely malicious, and sometimes the funniest part is watching teammates try not to laugh. The best chirps require creativity, timing, and absolutely no fear of getting one thrown back at you.
Team Rituals
Every team develops its own routines, inside jokes, and traditions. Some are carefully planned, while others happen so often that they eventually become tradition without anyone realizing it.
- Pre-game music
- Locker room routines
- Team meals
- Warmups
- Pregame speeches
- Superstitions
- Post-game celebrations
- Road-trip traditions
Hockey Slang
It's like a whole new langauge sometimes, and even the most seasoned players hear something new all the time!
Intro Glossary
- Chirp - Trash talk
- Celly - Goal celebration
- Deke - A deceptive puck move
- Five-hole - Space between the goalie's legs
- Hat trick - Three goals by one player
- Top shelf - Upper part of the net
- Bucket - Helmet
- Mitts - Gloves
- Barn - Hockey rink
- Sauce - A lifted pass
- Dangle - A skillful puck move
- Sin bin - Penalty box
Translation example:
He went top shelf after a filthy dangle and the whole barn went crazy = He scored a really nice goal after getting around a defender, and everyone in the rink got excited
Fans
Chants and cheers
Fans use chants, cheers, and songs to support their team and get inside the opponent's head. College student sections are especially known for being loud.
Goal horns and music
When the home team scores, goal horns, music, and flashing lights can turn a goal into a full celebration. Many teams even have a signature goal song.
Jerseys and team colors
Fans show their team spirit by wearing jerseys, hats, and team colors. On big game days, the stands can become a sea of team gear.
Signs and banners
Fans bring signs ranging from supportive messages to jokes aimed at the opposing team. Rivalry games usually bring out the funniest ones.
Rivalries
Hockey rivalries can make an ordinary game feel like a major event. The competition—and trash talk—often extends from the ice into the stands.
Hockey parents
Hockey parents deserve their own category of fan. Between early-morning practices, freezing rinks, and endless equipment, they put in almost as much work as the players.
Women's Hockey
Women's hockey has grown tremendously at the youth, college, professional, and international levels. Women have been playing the sport for more than a century, and today the game continues to expand with more opportunities for players to compete at every level. From college hockey to the Olympics and professional leagues, women are helping shape the future of the sport. Hockey isn't just a men's game anymore! There's a place for everyone on the ice.