Canada’s Beloved Sport Ice hockey holds the esteemed position of being Canada’s most cherished sport and pastime, serving as a unifying force among the diverse population of this nation. With its roots dating back to the 19th century, hockey’s popularity has skyrocketed to the point where it is now recognized as an Olympic sport. Similar to any sport, it harbors intriguing facts that may leave you astounded. Let’s delve into them.
- The square shape of the first hockey puck
One of the most iconic elements of this sport is the puck used in the game. If asked to describe it, most people would assume it to be round. However, historical records of early ice hockey matches note that the pucks were actually square-shaped and occasionally crafted from wood. - Hockey is a modernized version of Bandy
During the mid-19th century, English soldiers who resided in this territory partook in a game called Bandy, which gradually evolved into the sport we now know as ice hockey. The word ‘hockey’ stems from the French term ‘hocket,’ meaning ‘stick.’ Although the puck had been substituted with a ball during that era, the original rules were eventually reinstated. - Dental care
In the realm of sports, athletes often sustain dental injuries due to the physical nature of competitions. Ice hockey is no exception and used to be regarded as one of the most perilous sports in this regard. However, significant advancements have been made in dental protection for players. Presently, ice hockey boasts one of the lowest incident rates, ranking below sports such as rugby and basketball. - The first ice hockey team in history: McGill University Hockey Club
In 1877, a group of students from McGill University formulated the first set of ice hockey rules. These students were also responsible for reintroducing the use of the puck in 1879, which had been replaced by a ball. With the establishment of these rules, the McGill University Hockey Club was founded, marking the inception of the first ice hockey team in history. - Teddy bears during the game
The tradition of tossing teddy bears onto the ice serves a charitable cause. During December games, ice hockey fans hurl teddy bears onto the rink when the first goal is scored. This act not only serves as a form of celebration but also benefits others, as each of these gifts is presented as a Christmas present to hospitals or charitable institutions. This practice is so widespread that there have been instances where the record for the number of teddy bears thrown has been broken.
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