The game of ice hockey – as we currently know it, was completely different when it started thousands of years ago. Historical records show that a primitive form of the game was played around 4000 years ago in Egypt and around 1000 BC in Ethiopia. Of course, these ancient replicas were not hockey but resembled the sport in many ways.
Today, the National Hockey League boasts over 2 million spectators and dedicated fans. Some of the best hockey players in the world play in the league, and many sports bettors around the world bet on NHL odds. According to a study by Nielsen Sports in 2018, NHL betting revenue from legal and regulated sports betting may increase by $216 million annually. It shows how much the game has grown since its inception.
Today, the most prominent forms of hockey are played in America and Canada, which have led to several debates and rivalries in recent times. There have been questions like, where did modern hockey start? What are the major differences between Canadian and American hockey? This article will answer some of these questions.
Where Did Ice Hockey Start?
While the origin of hockey is dated back to the archaic period, the history of modern hockey is contemporary.
The modern game was introduced not that long ago. Many Canadian cities like Windsor and Nova have contested for recognition of the first hockey game being played in their cities. However, the first hockey game was played in 1875 in Montreal, Quebec. The officials established the first published rules in 1877.
Ice hockey has drastically evolved since its introduction in 1875. It’s now one of the most popular sports in the world.
Are There Any Differences Between American and Canadian Hockey?
Since the inclusion of the American Boston Bruins into the then Canadian teams’ constituted NHL in 1924, hockey has been widely accepted in America.
However, there are rivalry and conflicts regarding which country has the best hockey players and which variant is better. While both countries play the same sport, there are some differences between Canadian and American Hockey. Some of the most notable differences include:
1. Playing Hockey is More Expensive in America
Most American hockey players come from the elite and privileged class. That’s because of the game’s expensive set-ups. The average cost for basic hockey equipment in the US is approximately $585. Aside from the need for travel costs, tuition fees, food, knock-on-wood, injury fees, and many other expenses, these run into thousands of dollars. A helmet alone could cost up to $110, and shoulder and elbow pads could cost about $80 each.
However, in Canada, the story is different. The New York Times reports that purchasing hockey equipment costs between 500 to 1,000 Canadian dollars for a season. That’s about 380 to 760 USD. Hockey is an expensive sport, and many lower-income players cannot afford to get the necessary equipment. However, while it’s also costly in Canada, it’s more affordable.
2. Canadians Seem to be More Passionate About the Sport
It’s no news that hockey is a Canadian game. Most Canadian citizens grew up watching and breathing the game. They grew up seeing the likes of Mark Messier, Gordie Howe, Marcel Dionne, and even the stunning 1961-born athlete Wayne Gretzky, who often featured on Hockey Night in Canada.
Apart from being the national sport, it’s also integrated into their daily lives like school sports and games. Canadian players and spectators play and watch hockey with unwavering intensity and loyalty.
However, in the United States, the mainstream sports are American football, basketball, and baseball, while hockey and golf come last in the order of preference. In addition to this, the Bleacher Report article revealed that many Americans don’t watch hockey. Unlike their Canadian counterparts, Americans are not as passionate about hockey.
3. Limitations
While hockey is a game for everyone in Canada, it’s more of a regional sport in America because of its restriction to the upper class in the United States. The fact that hockey is expensive contributes to its popularity in rich states and affluent families.
North American and European Hockey
While there is not much difference in playing styles of North American neighbors, American and Canadian hockey, there is a huge difference between North American and European hockey in that regard.
For example, North American hockey allows fighting. It’s considered an official way of playing the game. Fighting appeals to fans and heightens the tension in the game and the value of entertainment. It’s now a traditional code in North American hockey. Rule 46 of the NHL allows referees to give the proper punishment and penalties after a fight.
In European hockey, it’s strictly prohibited. Any form of violence during the game results in a red card. The player is ushered out of the rink.
Conclusion
Hockey is like any other sport that connects and entertains people. While both the Canadian and American versions of the sport fulfill the primary goals, some disparities exist.
However, most of these differences are mainly in the playing cultures and fans’ acceptance. Essentially, both countries play the same kind of hockey in terms of the rules of the game.
