Brief History
Ice hockey is derived from field hockey or bandy. It is believed that its separate identity dates from about 1860, when some hockey enthusiasts began to play on a frozen harbour in Canada, using a rubber disc (puck) instead of a ball.

Facilities and Equipment Required
The game is played on an ice rink between two teams armed with sticks, whose aim is to propel the puck into the opposing goal by means of their sticks. All players wear a lot of protective equipment to prevent injury. Because of the speed of the game, teams consist of up to 22 players, 6 of whom are on the ice at a time. The players are substituted frequently, usually after about one minute's play. Foul play is penalised by removing the offender from the ice for a period of time, making the team play short-handed.

In Great Britain special leagues exist for women and girls, although all the other leagues are open to them as well. Some under-10 games are played cross-ice on half the rink, so that two games can take place at once. Before needing to buy expensive equipment, most clubs offer "stick-and-gloves" introductory sessions to give beginners a taste for the sport.

Benefits of Participating
Ice hockey is a sport which develops high levels of skill, co-ordination and team-work. Above all, whether played in competitive leagues or for recreation, the aim is fun!