Get Ready for the Ice With These Hockey Training Programs and Exercises

By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Karen_S_Musselman]Karen S Musselman
If you're really into hockey, you should definitely be using some hockey training programs not only to improve your skills, but to keep your body in the best shape for this sport, which is very fast and furious and very demanding. Playing hockey well requires players to be in good aerobic shape as well being strong and agile.
Aerobics really improves a player's endurance and the effort needed to stay out on the ice and in the game for what could be some grueling play! And while a lot of the aerobic and cardio training, and especially the strength training and weight lifting, in some hockey training programs are done off the ice, the best training programs will definitely incorporate a good bit of on-ice training as well.
Virtual training, which you can do with online programs or DVD courses can help with some of the initial training as well. There are some good hockey training programs on video today that provide some excellent virtual training off the ice.
You can actually get some pretty good information plus learn basic stick and puck handling moves, different ways to make shots, and even some skating maneuvers.
These types of programs are really popular for players who know many of the basics already and have hectic schedules requiring them to schedule their hockey training programs around full time job or school schedules.
Some of the following types of training can be done either from home using a DVD or online program, or by going to your local gym. And of course, your team coach should definitely be adding this type of training to the team schedule along with regular practice.
1) Hockey Strength and Weight Training
You use a lot of muscles when you play hockey. Hockey is probably one of the hardest sports on your body when it comes to wear and tear. You'll be training not only for strength and flexibility, but you'll also obviously be training for speed. So while you might think that hockey is all about your legs and knees, think again.
Sure, the strength of your legs is key enabling the ultimate in puck control, balance and fast skating while preventing any serious injuries. And since you need to keep your legs strong and flexible, and because hockey players take such long strides out on the ice, leg exercises should include moves that will work the groin area too.
But just as important are other muscles you'll use extensively during the game, which include your lower back, adductors, abductors, abs, glutes, hip flexors and extensors.
2) Hockey Cardio Training
If you've never done any serious cardio training, you want to start slow and as much as possible, reduce any type of exercise that's going to create stress on your joints, like running and jumping, especially right before the season starts. You can get excellent cardio and aerobic training without pounding the heck out of your joints.
Using a stepper or an elliptical machine will really build you aerobically and help build the endurance you'll need on the ice, but without wearing out your knees before the season even starts.
In addition to aerobic conditioning, you'll also need to increase your anaerobic level higher to withstand the anaerobic shifts out on the ice during the game. So make sure the hockey training programs you're using have you working out anaerobically for 45-second shifts during your aerobic training and you'll get yourself in the shape you need for the season.
3) Plyometric Training for Hockey Players
Hockey is a sport that requires some really fast movements like stopping short and changing direction in rapid speed, jumping over players and dropped hockey sticks, running fast, then turning quickly on the ice.
What Plyometric exercises do is trains your muscles, connective tissues and your nervous system so you can successfully make these fast motion moves on the ice. Doing Plyometrics will seriously help you with rapid direction changes, your overall agility and it will help increase your shooting power during your game.
The bottom line, however you decide to train for the season, overall hockey training programs should definitely include all of the above in addition to any other training or drills you'll be doing. A good rounded program will get you in the best shape and keep you in the best shape so you're always playing your best.
About the Author: [http://cheap-hockey-sticks.com]Cheap-Hockey-Sticks.com has articles and other free information for getting the best deals for all of your inline and ice hockey gear, including [http://cheap-hockey-sticks.com/ice-hockey-drills.html/]ice hockey drills to add to your training programs.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Get-Ready-for-the-Ice-With-These-Hockey-Training-Programs-and-Exercises&id=6470280] Get Ready for the Ice With These Hockey Training Programs and Exercises

Rick Rypien - Depression Is Tough in the NHL

By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=James_D._Silver]James D. Silver
Sports fans are jealous people. We are people who envy professional athletes. Some of us need vicarious competition in a dull life, so we gravitate to athletes. Others wish they were athletes themselves, and live vicariously through the athletes as individuals. Some like the perceived fame and glory (and girls) that go with being a famous person and others just wish they had the money.
Sorry to shock the average sports fan, but pro athletes have all the traits of regular people and are not much different from your best friend or perhaps the guy you hate who lives across the street. Some are criminals and loathsome creatures. Some are that guy at church who seems to do everything perfectly. Some are mean, some are decent, some are family friendly, and some are annoyingly over-competitive.
And some have mental health issues. Of course, since athletes are macho men who focus on a body and mind that function at a physical optimum, it's tough to accept the fact that, notwithstanding all these attributes, one can still have mental health issues. We see it in athletes who act like spoiled brats, who seem to think everyone is persecuting them, or who are overtly angry. But, while sportswriters are willing to conjecture about physical injuries, they never conjecture about the mental health of an athlete. Is it because they are afraid of being sued? I doubt it.
Think of recent highly publicized athletes - how about the college quarterback with the "I am privileged attitude" who takes no consideration of coach or team. Or, what about the athlete who was into animal fighting? Or,how about the athlete who threw a football as far as he could in anger, making a ball boy chase after it? Look at the depths of these characters, and it is easy to see a mental health issue being critical in defining the individual. In all of these cases, the potential mental health issues surrounding the player should be discussed in detail, rather than burying them under the carpet.
This brings us to Rick Rypien, an NHL player for the Vancouver Canucks who battled depression for a decade. Can you imagine a pro athlete, making all that money, having all that fame and not being happy about it? What gives? How does this affect our dream world of athletes being different? This guy suffered from depression - a real disease which can bring anyone down. Winston Churchill suffered from it, as have many others. Today we have medication, but it isn't always effective, and yet we still don't talk about it.
Can you imagine the NHL game announcer for the Vancouver Canucks: "Sorry, fans, but Center Ryan Kesler won't be on the ice tonight because of a sprained ankle, and enforcer Rick Rypien is day to day due to a bout of depression that has taken a turn for the worse."
But we should consider this as an option. Perhaps if Rick Rypien and other athletes who suffer from this illness went public with it, then it would be easier for them to cope with it. There is a lot of stress involved in a public person hiding something from the public, although it is clear that Winnepeg Jets Assistant GM Craig Heisinger was aware of Rick Rypien's illness. The good news is that it was being treated. The bad news is that the treatment didn't succeed.
It would be easy to talk superficially about the boxer's son who was an   rel=nofollow [http://sportadore.com/NHL]NHL enforcer. (Would we use the word "goon" if he were still alive?) It would be easy to say he had an anger inside that couldn't be dealt with.
So, let's get it out on the table. Let's talk about athletes who suffer from mental issues just as we talk about their MCL's and elbow strains. http://sportadore.com - where the world speaks of sports.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Rick-Rypien---Depression-Is-Tough-in-the-NHL&id=6518769] Rick Rypien - Depression Is Tough in the NHL

Is a Selke in Darren Helm's Future?

By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Jordan_M_Reis]Jordan M Reis
The name Darren Helm may not ring a bell to a majority of hockey fans, but in Detroit it's becoming iconic. In only two full seasons Helm has become the heir apparent to the new generation of the Grind Line along with teammates Justin Abdelkader and Patrick Eaves.
With blazing speed, a top-notch forechecking ability, and incredible work ethic Helm has defined himself as one of the best defensive forwards in the game all while largely staying under the radar.
Helm joined the Wings at the end of the 2007-08 season, emerging in the playoffs centering the fourth line scoring two goals and two assists en route to the Stanley Cup. Though he showcased his speed and penalty killing ability, Helm would return to the Griffins for the 2008-09 season again returning to the big club for the playoffs. The 2009 Western Conference Finals against the Chicago Blackhawks is where Helm would solidify his spot on the roster with his one man penalty kill and eventual series clinching goal. He would go on to score a total six playoff goals before ever notching one in the regular season.
The 2009-10 season would be his first full season with the Wings scoring 11 goals and 13 assists for 24 points, including 3 shorthanded goals, two of which came in one game against the Colorado Avalanche. Helm was described by coach Mike Babcock as "probably our best player from start to finish." earning himself a 2-year contract extension.
In the 2010-11 season Helm would improve his scoring totals to 12 goals and 20 assists for 32 points all while developing his defensive game even further. Coach Babcock called Helm "an elite player, probably not a fourth-line player" during the Wings playoff run.
The one knock on Helm is his ability to finish. Teammates have encourage him to be patient with the puck and survey his chances. As the season went on it was evident that Helm was gaining confidence while improving his scoring touch. He has become one of the most consistent, defensively responsible forwards on the team along with Zetterberg and Datsyuk.
The 2011-12 season should see Helm's ice time increase while centering the teams 3rd line. At 24 he is quickly becoming a name that the 29 other teams should take note of. Now that his mentor Draper has retired look for Helm to take a more active role in the leadership department, with an increase in his confidence level and continued development on his ability to finish off his scoring chances, Helm could be on the verge of a major breakout season. Soon we should be hearing Helm's name in the same conversation as the Ryan Kesler's, Mike Richards', and Pavel Datsyuk's.
Jordan Reis
Detroit Hockey Report http://detroithockeyreport.com
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Is-a-Selke-in-Darren-Helms-Future?&id=6519865] Is a Selke in Darren Helm's Future?

5 Kitchener Rangers in the Hockey Hall of Fame

By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Tom_Samworth]Tom Samworth
The Kitchener Rangers have been a mainstay in the Ontario Hockey League since they were moved from Guelph for the start of the 1963-64 season. The Max Kaminsky Trophy has been awarded to the OHL's top defenseman since 1969-70. The Rangers have had only one winner of the Kaminsky in all those years, yet the team has produced four Hockey Hall of Fame defensemen.
Of the five Kitchener Rangers grads that are enshrined in the Hockey Hall of Fame, only Bill Barber was not a defenseman. Barber was among the top ten point-getters in the league in each of the three seasons he played for the Rangers, 1969-70 to 1971-72. In his final two seasons with Kitchener, he surpassed the 100 point plateau and finished sixth in his final season.
Barber was a seventh round pick of the Philadelphia Flyers in the 1972 NHL Amateur Draft. Bill played his entire career in a Flyers uniform (1972-73 to 1983-84) winning two Stanley Cups with the team and finishing fourth in league scoring in 1975-76 with 112 points. Barber was the first Rangers grad to be inducted into the Hall, entering in 1990.
Larry Robinson was teammates with Barber on the 1970-71 Rangers. Despite Barber's offensive output and Robinson's defensive abilities, the team didn't have much else going for it. The Rangers finished 6thout of ten teams that season with a lackluster 26-32-4 record.
1970-71 was the only year Robinson played in the OHA. He was taken by the Montreal Canadiens in the second round of the 1972 NHL Amateur Draft, 20thoverall and spent the next year and a half with the Nova Scotia Voyageurs of the AHL.
Larry's NHL career spanned form 1972-73 until 1991-92, mostly spent with the Canadiens with his final three years played in a Los Angeles Kings jersey. Robinson won six Stanley Cups with Montreal and was named the Conn Smythe winner as playoff MVP in 1977-78. He won the Norris Trophy twice as the NHL's top defenseman and was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1995.
By the time Paul Coffey got around to playing for the   rel=nofollow [http://www.ohlalumnicentral.com/kitchener-rangers/]Kitchener Rangers, he was on his third OHA team. His career started with the Kingston Canadians in 1977-78. He played the full 1978-79 season with the Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds. He started the next season, his last in junior, with the Greyhounds but after 23 games was shipped to Kitchener. Interestingly, despite a 68 game schedule that season, Coffey played 75 between the two teams.
Coffey was a sixth overall pick of the Edmonton Oilers in the 1980 NHL Entry Draft. He played in the NHL from 1980-81 to 2000-01 with the Oilers, Pittsburgh Penguins, Los Angeles Kings, Detroit Red Wings, Hartford Whalers, Philadelphia Flyers, Chicago Blackhawks, Carolina Hurricanes and Boston Bruins. He played on three Stanley Cup winning teams with Edmonton and one with Pittsburgh. Coffey won the Norris Trophy three times, twice with Edmonton and once with Detroit. He was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 2004.
Scott Stevens and Al MacInnis were teammates on the 1981-82 Kitchener Rangers team that won the Robertson Cup as OHL playoff champions and the Memorial Cup as Canadian major junior champs. Fittingly, both were inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame together in 2007.
MacInnis played three seasons with the Rangers from 1980-81 to 1982-83. In his final season, he tied Bobby Orr's OHL record for most goals by a defenseman (later broken by Bryan Fogerty of the Niagara Falls Thunder) with 38, en route to becoming the only Kitchener Ranger to date to win the Max Kaminsky Trophy.
Al was a fifteenth overall pick of the Calgary Flames in the 1981 NHL Entry Draft. He played in the NHL from 1983-84 to 2003-04 with the Flames and the St. Louis Blues. He won the Conn Smythe in 1988-89 when the Flames won their lone Stanley Cup. A decade later, MacInnis won his only Norris Trophy as a member of the Blues. In 1990-91, he accomplished the rare feat for a defenseman by surpassing the 100 point plateau.
For Stevens, 1981-82 was his only full season with Kitchener. The hometown boy played just one game in 1980-81. Scott was a fifth overall pick of the Washington Capitals in the 1982 NHL Entry Draft. He played in the NHL from 1982-83 to 2003-04 with the Capitals, Blues and New Jersey Devils. Like MacInnis and Robinson, Scott's name is engraved on the Conn Smythe Trophy, winning in 1999-00 with the Devils.
Tom is the author of http://www.ohlalumnicentral.com/ (OHL Alumni Central). OHL Alumni Central is a daily updated blog featuring graduates of the Ontario Hockey League and their careers in professional hockey after leaving the OHL.
The centrepiece of ohlalumnicentral.com is the OHL Alumni Big List. The Big List is an on-going database of the whereabouts of all the active OHL grads.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?5-Kitchener-Rangers-in-the-Hockey-Hall-of-Fame&id=6523861] 5 Kitchener Rangers in the Hockey Hall of Fame

Ice Hockey Drills for the Ultimate in Speed and Power

By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Karen_S_Musselman]Karen S Musselman
Ice hockey drills don't have to be practiced strictly on the ice. There are a lot of off-ice drills you can practice as well that focus primarily on fitness training and secondarily on skill training.
Sprint and Shoot
This is a great on-ice drill that will give coaches a good feel for which of his players has the strongest skating skills and those who could use more practice.
Begin with players on the boards in the corner and have them sprint one by one to the second of two cones, pivot and skate backwards to the first cone, do a cross-over turn, sprint to second cone, make a cross-over turn, pick-up the puck on the blue line and shoot no deeper than top of the circle. Follow-up the shot for the rebound. After five minutes, move the line to the other side of the cone and repeat drill.
The drill starts with the players positioned on the corner boards and cones are set up at the other end of the ice. From the boards each player sprints down the ice to the second cone, pivots and skates backwards to the first cone.
The player does a cross-over turn and sprints to the second cone, does another cross-over turn, picks up the puck on the blue line, shoots to the top of the circle and follows up with a rebound shot.
The Forehand Wrist Shot
One of the most important shots in ice hockey is the forehand wrist shot where weight transfer plays a crucial role. The skill needed to complete this type of shot depends on how you transfer the weight as you move the puck forward. Certain wrist action along with the height of the follow through will determine how high the puck goes.
The Backhand Wrist Shot
Although this technique is similar to the forehand wrist shot, most times the puck is too far out in front of the player when they go to make the shot. If the puck is too far out in front, you lose a lot of power in the shot. When you're doing ice hockey drills, this is a technique that needs to be practiced so the puck is in the right position so there's no loss of power in the shot.
The Slap Shot
This is one impressive looking shot - the slap shot. It doesn't have a fast release but since it's a good skill during power plays, it's a good technique to practice.
The Snap Shot
This shot uses a quick-release technique and it's great for scoring from a corner where the goalie might be hugging the opposite post of the net.
Ice Hockey Drills For Goalies
Your team's last line of defense is your goalie. And the fast moves they have to make on the ice require special skills and training in physical agility and speed before taking their position in front of the net.
Speed, power, agility, physical fitness and endurance skills should be built into all types of hockey training programs that need to be practiced consistently to make sure that every player is at their best when the season kicks off and the players take the ice. So it's best that all ice hockey drills incorporate techniques both off the ice and on the ice.
About the Author: [http://cheap-hockey-sticks.com]Cheap-Hockey-Sticks.com is managed by Karen Musselman for her son, an avid inline and ice hockey player for more than 15 years. Stop by their website for more information on getting the best deals on used hockey skates, hockey skate blades, and [http://cheap-hockey-sticks.com/hockey-training-programs.html]hockey training programs.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Ice-Hockey-Drills-for-the-Ultimate-in-Speed-and-Power&id=6527364] Ice Hockey Drills for the Ultimate in Speed and Power

The NHL Needs to Create a New Wayne Gretzky

By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=James_D._Silver]James D. Silver
Mary Shelly taunted us when she wrote Frankenstein. She left a hint that it would be possible to create a man. Of course, she used live body parts. We're not that far from it (50 years?) but we'll use biomechanics, not parts from other people.
This brings me to the NHL and the fact that a new Wayne Gretzky is needed, as is a Bobby Hull and a Gordie Howe. These people are needed because they can express the personality of the sport, be ambassadors for the sport, and give people some pretty darn good entertainment.
Most recently, a video game was announced where the current players would play against the old time players. This is, of course, is only a first step.
To take it one step further, the NHL should hire Dr. Frankenstein, or the Son of Frankenstein, or someone from the MIT robotics lab to focus on the creation of a new Wayne Gretzky. He wouldn't be named Wayne and he wouldn't look like the Great One, but he would be the perfect skater, perfect stick person, perfect goal scorer, and perfect person. He would of course have the same "oh, gosh" personality that Gretzky has.
Then, when Wayne Gretzky II is on the ice and successful, the NHL needs to promote and promote and promote. Also, they need to change the rules of defense so Mr. Gretzky II could thrill the fans. We can't have Mr. II getting all jumbled up when low performing defensemen simply get in his way.
Yes, there are good things happening in the NHL. An original-six team holds the Stanley Cup. Thank you Boston Bruins. The Winnipeg Jets are back. But more is needed. We need Florida teams to move north to Canada. We need a team in Edmonton. We need a team in London, Ontario, and we need a team in Quebec. And how about one in Nova Scotia?
We also need Russian and Euro players to change their names to be more Canadian friendly. Alexander Ovechkin of the Washington Capitals needs to legally change his name to Jimmy Iceangel.
Yes, we need a Wayne Gretzky II, a messiah of sorts who comes from the hinterland like a bolt of lightning, and carries a hockey stick made from a tree that was struck by lightning. (Or perhaps a laminated or composite tree that was struck by lightning - one that already had tape around it.) In any event, our neo-Frankenstein can build him way out in the northeast corner of British Columbia.
Then again, it would be a heck of a lot easier, and much less expensive, for the NHL to start promoting   rel=nofollow [http://sportadore.com/NHL/AtlanticDivision/Pittsburgh-Penguins/Tweets]Pittsburgh Penguin captain Sidney Crosby. The Kid is here, let's let some marginal hockey fans know about him, and maybe we don't have to hire Dr. Frankenstein after all. [http://sportadore.com/NHL/]NHL news and videos on sportadore.com - where the world speaks of sports.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?The-NHL-Needs-to-Create-a-New-Wayne-Gretzky&id=6518804] The NHL Needs to Create a New Wayne Gretzky

Top 3 Teams to Watch Out for in NHL 2011

By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Dominic_Choudhury]Dominic Choudhury
With the wind on our backs and the beginning of a new exciting season in front of us, it's time to give props to the 3 most promising NHL teams of this season, strictly on the basis of their talent. It's time to separate the men from the boys and take an objective view of which teams are deprived of talent and which teams are most likely to soar ahead and pull off devastating victories. While we are being objective about it, it is important to consider that a lot of different circumstances come into play when you are evaluating the performance of a team. These circumstances can affect the performance of the team, including the talent level which could take a major blow. We have seen several instances where some of the top prospects have been traded in order to be numero uno in the league.
While determining the total number of prospects for each team, we have taken into account both signed and unsigned players, as well as draft lists and players on the bench who are still to make it into the NHL roster. Although the total number of prospects may be higher on a particular team, it is the quality and not the quantity of prospects that matters the most while ranking them in the hierarchy shown below.
The Florida Panthers - The Panthers are back with a vengeance and are bound to pull off some upsets with their lynchpin Jonathan Huberdeau leading the list. Coming in third overall earlier in the season, Jonathan is a gifted player who is currently in full form, ready to slice and dice his team to victory. Endowed with a knack for making big plays, Jonathan is the man to watch out for this season. Then there is Eric Gudbranson who came in third overall in 2010 and is all set to make the transition from juniors to the NHL. Quinton Howden who came in 25th overall in 2010 is hot on his heels, followed by another amazing talent by the name of Nick Bjugstad who made it at 19th overall in 2010.
The Edmonton Oilers - This team is no stranger to talent. Having stocked up on some of the best picks year after year, the Oilers are all set to cash in their chips this season. If you are wondering who to look out for this season, your search stops with Taylor Hall who came in first overall in 2010, followed by Magnus Paajarvi and Jordan Eberle who came in at 10th and 22nd overall in 2010. However, the fans have set their sights and hopes on Ryan Nugent Hopkins who was the prime pick earlier this year. His evasiveness on the ice combined with his talent makes him a force to reckon with.
Ottawa Senators - The Senators seem to be set for NHL dominion with their talented defenseman Erik Karlsson already getting the Senators off at a blazing start. The team has other exceptional talent with the likes of David Runblad who was originally the 17th pick of St.Louis has a very good chance of making the team and will rub shoulders with defenseman Jared Cowen. Mika Zibanejad is another man to watch out for this season. The Swedes' exceptional skating and riveting two way game will set the ice ablaze this season.
Dominic Choudhury is a Social Media Expert, entrepreneur and a prolific blogger. He has authored numerous articles on social media, finance, marketing as well as an array of topics related to home improvement and the health and medical field.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Top-3-Teams-to-Watch-Out-for-in-NHL-2011&id=6536906] Top 3 Teams to Watch Out for in NHL 2011

Women's Ice Hockey World Championships

By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Keane_Yandow]Keane Yandow
Women's World Championships Come to Vermont
There's nothing like a good hockey game. It doesn't matter if it's a high scoring affair between a group of local Squirts or a 2-2 Stanley Cup finals game headed to overtime, they're just fun to watch. Both my 12 and 10-year-old daughters play hockey and their games are no exception. Last year, Emma, my 12-year-old, played for our local U12 team which earned a trip to the New England Regional tournament. Although the girls came within a game of playing in the Nationals, the most memorable part for me was the feeling that despite the young age of our girls, it felt like watching big time hockey. The fans were on the edge of their seats and every rush down the ice was filled with either excitement or fear, depending on which team controlled the puck. While the girls fell short of their ultimate goal, last year's accomplishments made us all very excited about the upcoming year of hockey. When the site of the 2012 International Ice Hockey Federation Women's World Championships were announced, there became another reason to get excited!
Little old Vermont, home of the Green Mountains and Lake Champlain, has been chosen to host the prestigious IIHF Women's Championships starting in April. It is, for the thousands of hockey fans in our state, a very big deal. Many of us have had our children play at the rink where Slovakia and Sweden open the tournament on April 7th. Slovakia and Sweden? Here? Playing at Cairns Arena? No Way!................Way!
You want more? How about the mighty U.S. Women's National Team playing their Canadian rivals from the north later that same day at our cherished   rel=nofollow [http://www.uvm.edu/campus/gutterson/gutterson.html]Gutterson Field House. These are the same teams that battle in the Olympics. These are the same women my kids have seen play on television. These are the same women that our kids look up to and want to be like, and they're playing right here! I'm sure that come January, when the new calendars come out, my daughter Lizzie will start crossing out the days in anticipation of that day in April.
While the USA and Canada are clearly the headliners of the tournament, there are a host of other teams that have a legitimate shot at winning it all. Finland and Russia join the two North American teams in the "A" bracket, while Sweden, Switzerland, Slovakia, and Germany make up the competitors in the "B" bracket. It's gonna be wild!
Personally, I can't wait either. Like I said, I love watching good hockey and this is going to be the best women's hockey anywhere in the world. Oh, I'll be watching alright, but out of the corner of my eye I'll be watching my girls as they see firsthand the women that they aspire to be like. It's going to be very, very special.
Keane has always been passionate about hockey. He currently helps run a website where they sell [http://www.hockeyhelmetspro.com]hockey helmets and all varieties of hockey equipment.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Womens-Ice-Hockey-World-Championships&id=6546513] Women's Ice Hockey World Championships

What To Look for When Shopping For Inline Hockey Pants

By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Karen_S_Musselman]Karen S Musselman
Inline hockey pants are a lot different than ice hockey pants. They're longer and they don't have to fit over a lot of the gear that ice hockey players have to wear. Inline hockey players have different things to think about when shopping for a pair of pants so you really can't just grab a pair off the rack because they look cool.
You have to watch the length, the waistband and make sure they'll fit well over protective girdle and shin guards. They also have to durable and comfortable so you're not losing your concentration because your hockey pants aren't fitting right and uncomfortable.
Key Features
Here are some of the features that you can look for that are pretty much standard on just about any style of hockey pants, from top to bottom:

 Elastic waistband
 Adjustable belt at the waistband
 Reinforced material at the knees
 Mesh ventilation for breathability
 Shin straps

Inline hockey pants will fit differently depending on who made them. So even if you plan to save the most money by buying them online, it's highly recommended that you go shopping locally first and try on a few pair to see which brand and style will fit you best. Then look for the best deal on those brands and styles online.
Your game pants need to be loose fitting because you should be wearing a protective hockey girdle and shin pads underneath but you also don't want them falling down while you're playing. So trying some different styles and brands on first will ensure you get the pants you need.
Get the Proper Fit
It's always advisable to wear a protection under inline hockey pants because the pants alone won't give you any more protection during the game than your jersey. So when you go to try on some pants, bring your protective gear wit
h you and wear them when you try on the pants.
Take your waist measurement first and get your weight and height measurements then start with pants that are the size of your waist measurement and go up from there, especially if the pants feel tight and restrict your movement while wearing your protective gear.
It's also a good idea to wear your hockey skates when you try on your pants so you're making sure to buy the right length. You don't want them too short but you don't want them so long that they'll get caught in the wheels of your skates either.
Other Options to Think About When Shopping for Inline Hockey Pants
There are some features or options that are available on some styles or manufacturers pants that aren't available on others, even though the base construction is the same.
About the Author: [http://cheap-hockey-sticks.com]Cheap-Hockey-Sticks.com is managed by Karen Musselman for her son, an avid inline and ice hockey player for more than 15 years. Stop by their website for more information on shopping for [http://cheap-hockey-sticks.com/inline-hockey-pants.html]inline hockey pants and other hockey gear.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?What-To-Look-for-When-Shopping-For-Inline-Hockey-Pants&id=6560611] What To Look for When Shopping For Inline Hockey Pants

Wooden Versus Composite Hockey Sticks and Finding Your Perfect Match

By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Karen_S_Musselman]Karen S Musselman
The right hockey equipment is crucial to playing every game, whether you're playing ice or inline hockey, and the right composite hockey sticks can make or break the way you handle the puck and even help or hurt when you're trying to score. So you can't run out and buy just any hockey stick, especially with all the different models available.
Hockey sticks used to be made only out of wood but now you're most likely to see more composites made from materials like Kevlar, fiberglass, aluminum or carbon fiber. And with manufacturers like Bauer, Easton and CCM making some high quality sticks with improved flexibility, you really have a lot to choose from today.
Two-Piece Sticks
These are probably one of most cost-effective types of models to get today, since you can replace the blade without replacing the entire shaft. Or you can replace just the shaft to a good blade without replacing the entire stick.
Another good feature of this model is that you can change out different blade patterns with the same shaft so you can get a feel for what's going to work best for you.
These are really great features for any player, and although you may pay more initially by buying the pieces separately, it's going to save you money in the long run when you need to replace only one or the other.
One-Piece Composite Hockey Sticks
These models are made from a combination of materials and they're the ultimate in lightweight advanced sticks. They're also one of the most expensive types you can buy today, unless you're buying them used or wholesale.
One of the key features of composites is the design of the kick point, which perfectly positioned. Composites are most often used by more experienced players who can appreciate the differences in the modern technology and won't have much difficulty transitioning from a wooden or two-piece stick. They're also used by players who can afford to purchase them and replace the whole stick when the blades get worn.
But for those who aren't too concerned about the price and don't want to go through the adjustment of moving from a heavier wooden stick to a composite, a lot of first-time players choose to start off learning with composites to begin with.
So with all these different choices, how do you know what's right for you? The best suggestion is to buy used cheap hockey sticks when you're first starting out, which you can find by looking online. And then when you know which one is going to work for you the best, head online or to a local sports shop and check out some new wooden or composite hockey sticks.
You'll end up playing your best when all of your equipment is purchased to your specifications and you'll be a better player in the long run too.
About the Author: Karen writes hockey articles for [http://cheap-hockey-sticks.com]Cheap-Hockey-Sticks.com using tips from her son, an avid inline and ice hockey player for more than 15 years. You can read more information about inline and ice hockey wooden and [http://cheap-hockey-sticks.com/composite-hockey-sticks.html]composite hockey sticks on their website.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Wooden-Versus-Composite-Hockey-Sticks-and-Finding-Your-Perfect-Match&id=6560663] Wooden Versus Composite Hockey Sticks and Finding Your Perfect Match

3 Quick Tricks To Get More From Your Hockey Dryland Training

By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Denis_Claude]Denis Claude
Getting together a good hockey dryland training program is vital for success with improving your performance on the ice. Hockey dryland training will help to increase your muscle strength, enhance your agility, and ensure that you are fast on your feet and able to react to anything that comes your way.
In order to make the most of your hockey dryland training, the following tips can quickly be implemented so that all the effort you put in really pays off in the end.
While you don't necessarily have to use all three tricks at once, try and alternate between them as time goes on for best overall results.
Supersets
The very first technique to add to your weight training for hockey workout routine is the superset. With this technique you're going to move from one exercise immediately to the next, not resting until both exercises have been completed.
This technique is going to be beneficial because it'll help to increase the total fatigue your muscles are able to handle over time, thus ensuring that you don't tire out on the ice as quickly either.
You can either pair together upper and lower body exercises for your superset training or if you wish, pair together opposing muscle groups such as biceps and triceps or quads and hamstrings.
If you really want to up the intensity, try two exercises for the same muscle group.
Drop Sets
The second technique to consider adding to your hockey dryland training is the drop set. With this workout set-up you're simply going to perform the first set of an exercise at your usual weight level and then once that's completed, immediately drop the weight by about five pounds and then perform a second set.
Once that set is complete, drop the weight a second time and then proceed to do a third. This is another good way to boost your fatigue tolerance and is also perfect for helping to push past strength plateaus.
Tempo Focused Sets
Finally, the last technique that you should consider doing once in a while with your hockey dryland training is tempo focused sets.
With this technique you're going to be focusing on how fast you're moving through the exercise, speeding up the initial portion of the exercise while slowing down the second portion.
This really helps to improve your speed capabilities as you'll be able to quickly generate a large degree of force while also still maintaining your higher strength level.
Note that you will find you often get more sore from doing these tempo adjusted sets, so make sure that you include some thorough stretching after doing this technique in your hockey dryland training.
So there you have three quick and easy methods to implement that will help you take your training up a notch.
Always shocking your body with something new that it has to adjust and accommodate to is one of the best ways that you can ensure that you keep progressing along, so definitely a must-do in your hockey dryland training.
Denis is passionate about hockey and helping people improve their training and nutrition to gain that extra edge they need to get ahead. http://www.hockeydrylandtraining.com/ http://www.hockeydrylandtraining.com/3-quick-tricks-to-get-more-from-your-hockey-dryland-training/
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?3-Quick-Tricks-To-Get-More-From-Your-Hockey-Dryland-Training&id=6556401] 3 Quick Tricks To Get More From Your Hockey Dryland Training

A Red Wings Fan In Enemy Territory

By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Ian_Fleming_Dunham]Ian Fleming Dunham
The two cities I have called home since I left Michigan three years ago, are not filled with Red Wings sympathizers. Quite to the contrary. They are filled with the most poisonous of Wings haters. I hung my hat in The Windy City for two, very long years, and listening to the opinions of uninformed, and rather bitter Hawks fans, not only tried my patience (which is not one of my virtues), but also probably took a few years off my life. It was beyond a stressful experience. A welcomed twist of then fate pointed me in Denver's direction, which is where I reside today. A move to San Jose would complete this "Axis of Wings-Hate", but I don't see that happening. Let me tell you a bit what it's like to be a Wings fanatic behind enemy lines.
Chicago has a rich hockey history, both recent and distant, and few people there seem to know or care much about it. The local dive bar I frequented there was home base to a bit of an older crowd. I became a regular and quite friendly with both the staff and the patrons. Living just down the street from Wrigley Field, I was constantly inundated with Cubs chatter. Being that baseball is my LEAST favorite sport, I jumped at every opportunity to change the subject to hockey. A pleasant, rather lonely seeming older man, enjoyed imparting the stories of his life to me on a regular basis, oblivious to whether I was interested or not (I was not). When the talk turned to hockey, he gave me his Bobby Hull story. "Ok, this guy has been a fan for a while. Maybe he knows his stuff." This thought quickly vanished when his next statement hit my ears: "I've never been able to understand the offsides rule." Chicago is a gorgeous, intoxicating place. It's filled with with millions of very busy people with very busy lives. It is a magnet for young professionals, a category I don't care to be put in. I've heard it said about tempers that a man is only as big as the things he gets angry over. I've also heard it said, that a temper is a guys way of showing his intolerance for what he finds intolerable. I'm butchering both of these quotes, but you get the picture. Point being, Hawks fans made me absolutely furious. Chants of "Detroit Sucks" and that seizure inducing goal song that is played at their home games, are two things I will not miss, to put it mildly. Am I being childish and petty, or a stalwart and courageous? You can decide. I did not think it could get worse in terms of Wings hatred until I moved to Denver.
Now Denver, is obviously very different than Chicago. It's a smaller, quieter town, filled with some very interesting characters who seem to be more experience driven than career driven, as opposed to the Chicago crowd. The friends I have here, most of them fellow Michiganders, made it very clear to me that Avalanche fans still have great animus towards the winged wheel. "Still? Don't they know this rivalry ended almost ten years ago?" No, they don't. They still hate us passionately. Now of course, I understand why we are hated, and I point this out to my antagonists whenever the debate begins. "You hate us because we have been crushing you, along with every other team, with relative ease for a long time. We are the best." As you can guess, the other side does not like hearing this. But facts can be irritating things, and I feel it is my role as a fan, to defend my team against these attacks. The laid back attitude that is prevalent in Denver, completely disappears when the Wings are mentioned, and is replaced with a deep seeded aggression and hostility. It's actually a rather fascinating transformation to watch happen in real time. So, my friends, know that there is a Wings fanatic, fighting the good fight, and doing it deep inside enemy territory. I also quite like it here in The Mile High City, so rest assured, the fight will go on and as always, we will win.
For more Red Wings analysis and opinion, please visit http://octopusthrower.com/author/iandunham13/
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?A-Red-Wings-Fan-In-Enemy-Territory&id=6559160] A Red Wings Fan In Enemy Territory

Mitchell Callahan: Future Favorite

By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Jordan_M_Reis]Jordan M Reis
One name that might not be on your prospect radar for the Detroit Red Wings is Mitchell Callahan. The Whittier California native was drafted by the Wings in the 6th round (180th overall) of the 2009 NHL entry draft. The 5'11" and 175 lbs forward will step into the pro ranks this season with Grand Rapids.
The reason Callahan who does not come from a hockey hotbed, and is undersized by most NHL standards is so intriguing is the fact that the Wings haven't had a player of his mold for quite some time. He's not an offensive juggernaut, though he's very capable of potting a goal when needed. He does however have a knack for getting under the opponents skin.
He is an agitator, and a very effective one at that.
Scouting Report Via Red Wings Central
SCOUT COMMENTS
"He's a high-energy, high-impact player. He finishes all of his checks, he's fearless and he'll take on anybody. You hope he's going to be one of those guys who gets in on the forecheck and who causes havoc on defensemen." - Red Wings assistant general manager Jim Nill (June 2009)
"Daniel Carcillo in Philly is the kind of guy this guy is. He's after you all the time, under everybody's skin, he's yappin' at you and he's doing all the things that bother everybody. He's an agitator." - Kelowna Rockets general manager Bruce Hamilton (June 2009)
"He's something we don't have. We're not a tough, robust team, and he brings in that agitator. He's in your face, he's going to fight anybody, one of those fan favorite type of players." - Nill (July 2010, DetroitRedWings.com).
STRENGTHS
Plays a robust, tenacious physical game... Yaps at everyone, fights anyone, hits everything... Generates energy for his team every shift... Hard hitter who scares defensemen with his hustle on the forecheck... Has shown he has the hands to chip in with timely goals... Stands up for his teammates in a heartbeat and is a "pound-for-pound" good fighter... Fan favorite and a treat to watch... Learned quickly to be responsible in his own end with Kelowna.
WEAKNESSES
The big question is if Callahan has the hands to be more than a minor-leaguer... Average skater, and needs particular improvement on his first couple of steps to get to the next level... Can he survive at the next level with his style of play and below-average size?
PROJECTION
The Red Wings rarely draft players of Callahan's ilk, but they liked his potential, particularly in the sixth round. He has NHL upside as a third- or fourth-line agitating right-winger and his progress in his final two seasons of junior, particularly on the offensive side of things, have shown he's well on his way. Expect him to win an AHL job with Grand Rapids in 2011-12.
Now with all that goodness warming your heart let me tell you why Callahan is special. First lets start with the fact that he made the Kelowna Rockets as a walk on in 2008, that right there shows you the determination and work ethic he had as a 17-year-old, he impressed the Wings so much in '09 that they drafted him without being on the central scouting lists, and in the 10-11 season he won a bronze medal with USA at the World Junior Championships.
The Wings have so much confidence in the 20-year-old winger that they signed him to a 3-year deal one year before they had to. Known for being a pest on the ice, Callahan will do or say anything to get his opponents focused on him and off their game. He is also not afraid to drop the gloves no matter the size, in 3 seasons with Kelowna he's had 48 fighting majors and 440 penalty minutes.
But don't let his reputation of being a pest and tough guy lead you to think that Callahan is another locker room cancer like Sean Avery, in fact Callahan is the exact opposite. Off the ice he is the guy that gets the room loose, telling jokes and making people smile. Brendan Smith was even quoted saying "You wouldn't know he's a real tough guy because he's kind of a little sweetheart. Every team has that one guy who's kind of charismatic and cracks jokes."
So what player does Callahan best resemble? Well, that's not so easy. He has so many aspects to his game that you can't quite pigeon hold him to one player. He has parts to his game compared to Dallas Drake, Dan Carcillo, Bob Probert, Dino Ciccarelli, Darren McCarty and Darcy Tucker.
Prediction for the future, Callahan will be an instant fan favorite. His jersey will be worn by Red Wings fans in the same fashion as Draper and McCarty's were. Though he wont be an offensive superstar, he will be a glue guy to our future. A player that championships aren't won without.
Follow Callahan on Twitter @emcy2four
Jordan Reis
Detroit Hockey Report http://detroithockeyreport.com
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Mitchell-Callahan:-Future-Favorite&id=6561540] Mitchell Callahan: Future Favorite

Wearing the Right Hockey Mask for Maximum Protection

By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Karen_S_Musselman]Karen S Musselman
Since hockey is a very physical sport, whether you're playing inline or ice, it's pretty normal that some fighting is going to happen. One player's going to check another player into the wall in a no-check game, someone's going to get tripped up by a hockey stick that's in the wrong place at the wrong time - on purpose or not. It's just the nature of the sport, and a good hockey mask is an essential piece of gear.
And then there's the hockey puck. Hard and heavy, hockey pucks are super fast moving objects and most often it's the goalie's body that stops the puck in mid-motion, making a good mask even more important to the players on the ice, especially for the goalie.
With speeds reaching up to 160 kilometers an hour, a hard fast shot on goal can be really dangerous to the goalie, which is why this protection is a requirement with younger hockey players. And you'll always see every goalie wearing a full face hockey mask.
The Goalie's Mask
A goalie's mask today is actually a full-face helmet made from a variety of composite materials like Kevlar, carbon fiber and fiberglass. The front of the helmet has a large opening cut out in the front and covered by a titanium cage. Depending on the design the goalie wants, the hockey mask of today can actually be scarier than the one that Jason wore in Friday the 13th!
Face Cages
Face masks or face cages worn by the other players can be permanently attached to their helmets or detachable so they can be removed if they're practicing.
Since the hockey mask is either part of the helmet or attached to the helmet, the design of the helmet is just as important to the players as the face mask. Helmets today are also made of a variety of lightweight composite materials so they're easier to wear for longer periods of time and can withstand the grueling punishment they take protecting the players during game time.
Open Front Cage Design
The open front with the cage overlay makes it easier for the players to see each other, follow the puck and be aware of other obstacles - like falling players or broken hockey sticks - that will inevitably get in the way and possibly some injuries which could likely be more severe without the right protective gear.
The open cage design also allows for much better air circulation than the old closed-up design that only had eye and nose cutouts. The new designs can also hold up against the full force of a fast-moving puck hitting a player it the face, thereby saving their teeth and avoiding broken noses in the process.
As much fun as hockey is to play, especially ice hockey, unfortunately this high impact physical sport also comes with some injuries to the head and limbs that could be fatal if the proper protective gear isn't worn. And this is even more critical for the goalie, which is why the improvements have been made to the hockey mask of today.
About the Author: Karen writes about inline and ice hockey for [http://cheap-hockey-sticks.com]Cheap-Hockey-Sticks.com using tips from her son, an avid inline and ice hockey player for more than 15 years. You can read more information about different player and goalie [http://cheap-hockey-sticks.com/hockey-mask.html]hockey masks on their website.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Wearing-the-Right-Hockey-Mask-for-Maximum-Protection&id=6560737] Wearing the Right Hockey Mask for Maximum Protection

Player and Goalie Hockey Gloves for Ultimate Hand Protection

By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Karen_S_Musselman]Karen S Musselman
Because of the sport itself, the speed and hardness of the hockey puck, the sharpness of skate blades, getting rolled over by inline skate wheels, or the impact of a hockey stick, both inline and ice hockey gloves have to be made of special materials and designed in a way that the players' hands and wrists are completely protected while still being flexible enough so the players maintain the ability to grip and maneuver their hockey sticks.
To do this, generally the hockey gloves are designed from a thin layer of material the palm and palm-side of the fingers, allowing maximum mobility and flexibility to grip the stick and keep a hold of it during play.
The backside of the hand obviously needs a lot more padding since this the part of the hand that's exposed to the greatest danger of being injured by flying hockey pucks, sticks, skate blades, you name it. The main point of this type of protection is that a player can get hit with just about anything and they're not going to really feel it, much less incur a serious injury.
The thumb area on the gloves have extra reinforcement to make sure that the highest protection is there against the thumb possible bending backwards, which obviously could cause a serious sprain or break and put you out of the game.
Those are the player gloves. The goalie's hockey gloves are significantly different because of the position the goalie plays and the amount of times the goalie is likely to get hammered with hard, fast-moving pucks.
The goalie actually needs two gloves. While one will be similar in design to the players' gloves because the goalie still needs to grip a hockey stick, the other glove is used to deflect shots on goal. The goalie can grab pucks with this glove and toss them back in the game, or grab and hold the puck.
Because of the goalie needing to perform these most often amazing feats in action, these particular goalie hockey gloves are designed almost like a baseball glove since they serve the same purpose, but with much greater protection because of the hardness and speed of a hockey puck as compared to a baseball or softball.
The pocket area where the puck is caught is netted and designed to make it easy for the goalie to wing it back into play or toss it to the ref or another player without having to use his other hand to remove the puck from the glove.
Regardless of whether you're playing inline or ice, your hockey gloves are going to protect you from bruises and cuts on your hands and wrists from the pucks or tripping and landing in front of another player's skates. Especially on ice, those sharp blades can be really dangerous to unprotected hands!
About the Author: Karen Musselman writes inline and ice hockey articles for [http://cheap-hockey-sticks.com]Cheap-Hockey-Sticks.com using tips from her son, an avid inline and ice hockey player for more than 15 years. Visit Karen's website for some tips on how to find your perfect pair of [http://cheap-hockey-sticks.com/hockey-gloves.html]hockey gloves for your next season.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Player-and-Goalie-Hockey-Gloves-for-Ultimate-Hand-Protection&id=6560759] Player and Goalie Hockey Gloves for Ultimate Hand Protection

NHL Vs Twitter and Facebook - Good Move!

By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=James_D._Silver]James D. Silver
The average American watches 41/2 hours of TV per day. This has been declining since the turn of the millennium thanks to the internet. Interestingly though, the average daily involvement with Facebook is only 7 minutes and Twitter, about 4 seconds. While Facebook and Twitter continue to trend higher in unique views per month, it is still important to see how far they are behind TV.
This means that it is not the Twitter or Facebook message itself that is getting through to the public. It is the reporting on TV and radio about the Twitter or Facebook messages that gets them into the broad public domain. Chad Ochocinco of the New England Patriots has 2.5 million Twitter followers. I'm not one of them. When he says something, I and about 50 million sports fans who aren't his followers, learn of it through TV or radio.
What is fascinating is the wiliness of the TV and radio outlets to support billion dollar businesses like Facebook and Twitter, when they could be using the same basic technology to feed their own media brand. A company called Comet has a technology that allows ESPN, Clear Channel, Yahoo Sports, and other media outlets the ability to have all the messages they want without having to promote other people's billion dollar brands for free.
Now, enter the NHL. On the surface, their limitation of Facebook and Twitter messages before and after games may seem petty. But, the TV and radio networks who pay to broadcast their games need this time to generate advertising revenues; hence, they all have pre-game and post-game shows. Players tweeting and updating Facebook during these time periods compete with the pre- and post- games shows, which must have the latest breaking news to be viable.
Good for the NHL! This will certainly begin a trend where sports leagues will start supporting their own brand and not giving it away for free to Twitter and Facebook.
Any league, team, or sports media outlet can have the same capability as twitter or Facebook without violating any patents or copyrights. Why hasn't anyone done it in the past? The reason is that the amount of news and publicity the stations were getting from the Twitter and Facebook phenomena offset the fact that their own brand value was being compromised. Now, as the leagues and media outlets see diminishing increased value, they are recognizing that the downside is a loss of their brand value, which is no significant. The NHL was the first to recognize this, and they should get kudos for their ability to look into the future.
The next logical extension for the NHL naturally will be to have their own messaging services concurrently placed on their teams' websites and the websites of TV and radio media who broadcast their games. The pre- and post- game shows can include their own version of messages within the context of their own brand. Thus, in the long run, the league and the fans will have it all. The league will enhance brand value and the fans will get instantaneous messages from favorite players and coaches.
Get on the bandwagon NFL, MLB and NBA! The NHL is on the right track! http://sportadore.com - where the world speaks of Sports!
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?NHL-Vs-Twitter-and-Facebook---Good-Move!&id=6565235] NHL Vs Twitter and Facebook - Good Move!

Who Will Make the NHL Playoffs in the West in 2012?

By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=James_D._Silver]James D. Silver
It's that time of the year for NHL predictions, and here are our picks for the top 8 spots in the West:
1. Vancouver Canucks: Happily for the fans in Vancouver, the Canucks have reached the point where they will do very well during the season and most likely will win their conference. But the fans want more. They've gone to the 7th game of the Stanley Cup, and nothing will be satisfying until they win it. We expect the Canucks to have the best record in the West this year, and maybe even have home team advantage throughout the playoffs.
2. Detroit Red Wings: There is a value in bringing back the same players from the previous year, and the Red Wings will have the advantage of consistency and experience. Henrik Zetterberg and Pavel Daysuk are top-notch players who may be able to carry the team. We expect Detroit to win the Central Division. They may not be deep, but their stars should be able to make the difference.
3. Los Angeles Kings: We just have a feeling the Kings will do well this year. We can't explain why. We just figure they'll be third.
4. Anaheim Ducks: We think it's great to have a regional rivalry between the Kings and the Ducks, and we expect both to be fighting it out throughout the season. Let's hope it generates some sparks, some drama and some fan interest in Southern California. A high level of competition between the two is predicated on goalie Jonas Hiller recovering and returning to his former self. Otherwise, they will slip a few places in our expectations.
5. Chicago Blackhawks. Sorry. We're not on the Blackhawk wagon. If they gel, we could be wrong, but for time being, we think they will disappoint the Chicago fans who expect them to seriously get back in the Stanley Cup hunt this year.
6. St. Louis Blues. We expect them to make the playoffs, but wouldn't be shocked if everything came together and they finished in the top 4 in the West
7. San Jose Sharks. We just don't like the new players, who all are in the minus category on goals while they are on the ice. A number of improvements at other teams will yield more competition and lower expectations on where they finish in the Pacific Division. Goalie Steve Mason is the kind of guy who can get hot, so even if the Sharks just squeeze into the playoffs, if he starts throwing shutouts, they could make it deep into the playoffs
8.   rel=nofollow [http://sportadore.com/NHL/CentralDivision/Columbus-Blue-Jackets/Tweets]Columbus Blue Jackets. The 8th spot is up for grabs, and I'm going to make the choice as a homer - the Bluethings will make the playoffs. They had a great start last year, and I am hoping they can start strong this year, but finish strong as well. If I'm wrong, they could drop 5 spots or so.
I should really add the Calgary Flames, as if I were really objective and rational, I'd pick them against the Columbus Bluewhatevers. But I am not objective and rational, so I've made my picks accordingly.
Get the last [http://sportadore.com/NHL]NHL rumours and tweets on Sportadore.com
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Who-Will-Make-the-NHL-Playoffs-in-the-West-in-2012?&id=6580920] Who Will Make the NHL Playoffs in the West in 2012?

Who Will Make the NHL Playoffs From the East in 2012?

By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=James_D._Silver]James D. Silver
Having talked about the Playoff Ins and Playoff Outs in the NHL West in the last two articles, today we are making our predictions of who will make the playoffs from the East.
1. Washington Capitals: Sure, they'll win the Southeast. That's easy. But can Alexander Ovechkin and company have the best record in the East? We think so. They'll have easy pickings in their own division, and we expect them to hold their own with everyone else.
2. Pittsburgh Penguins: Sid Crosby will be back, which of course increases their chances to win the East. Plus, they have a solid team and good goaltending. We look for the Penguins to be a major force, no matter where they end up in the regular season.
3. Montreal Canadiens: It's so good to see the Canadiens as a force in the NHL. They are improved over last year, but we feel that were over-performing, as indicated by their exit from the playoffs. So, we look for a more realistic finish for Andrei Markov and his cohorts this year.
4. Buffalo Sabres: Goaltending is important. Ryan Miller is very good. But, we don't think the Sabres have it to make it to the top during the regular season. Yet we do think they will make the playoffs, based our observations of their relatively steady, if unexciting, play.
5. Boston Bruins: Stanley Cup Champs! How can we pick the Sabres above them? We look for the excitement and energy to be at a lower level this year for the Boston team, and we won't be surprised if the Bruins lose in their first playoff series. We're going against the flow here, as some Las Vegas odds makers have the Bruins as 3rd or 4th in the NHL this year.
6. New York Rangers: Most feel the Rangers will improve over last year, when they had difficulty with consistency and difficulty in the locker room. Henrik Lundvist and his crew should show some improvement, but it is hard to pick them in the top 4 of the East.
7. Philadelphia Flyers: The Flyers are a hard read. They could end up a top 4 team if they gel with all the additions. Jaromir Jagr is a wild card, and how he plays will be quite meaningful for their final positioning. They will definitely make the playoffs, but it is tough to place them, so we're basically throwing darts on this one.
8.   rel=nofollow [http://sportadore.com/NHL/SoutheastDivision/Tampa-Bay-Lightning/Tweets]Tampa Bay Lightning: What happened to Steven Samkos in the second half last year? We hope whatever it was is now behind him. If he gets back to form, we expect the team to make the playoffs.
Next up: Our predictions on who won't make the playoffs from the NHL East.
Get the latest [http://sportadore.com/NHL]NHL rumours and tweets on Sportadore.com
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Who-Will-Make-the-NHL-Playoffs-From-the-East-in-2012?&id=6580936] Who Will Make the NHL Playoffs From the East in 2012?

Johnny Bower and the Rookie Card Class of the 1954-55 Parkhurst Series

By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Tom_Samworth]Tom Samworth
The 1954-55 Parkhurst series consisted of 100 hockey cards and currently a full set is valued at up to $4000. A common card is the series is currently worth up to $25, according to Beckett Hockey Monthly. 1954-55 marked the first year that Parkhurst shared the cardboard glory with Topps, a yearly duo that would last until the 1963-64 season.
Four rookie cards were included in the 1954-55 Parkhurst series that are of significance. Gordie Howe might have the highest valued card at $600 but the rookie card of goaltender Johnny Bower is not far behind at $400.
The number 65 card of Johnny Bower is an uncorrected error, with his name spelled Bowers. Bower played all 70 games for the New York Rangers in his rookie season, 1953-54. However, Johnny played just five games in 1954-55 and two more in 1956-57. It wasn't until 1958-59, after shifting to the Toronto Maple Leafs organization that Bower became a regular for good. Bower played for Toronto until retiring after playing just one game in 1969-70.
Johnny Bower was a two-time Vezina Trophy winner with Toronto. Johnny was a huge part of the Leafs winning four Stanley Cups during the 1960's. In 1976, he was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame.
The second most valuable of the rookie   rel=nofollow [http://www.vintagehockeycardsreport.com/]hockey cards from the 1954-55 set is somewhat of an oddity. Fred Sasakamoose played just 11 games during the 1953-54 season with the Chicago Black Hawks and never played another NHL game again. The 1954-55 Parkhurst number 82 is the only hockey card of Sasakamoose. What is the significance? Fred is the first Aboriginal to play in the NHL.
The other two significant rookie cards belong to two players that had somewhat parallel hockey careers. The 57 of Doug Mohns and the 74 of Dean Prentice are both valued at $40. Each played junior hockey in the Ontario Hockey Association during the 1951-52 and 1952-53 season. However, Prentice moved up to the NHL during that season, whereas Mohns didn't begin his pro career until 1953-54. Each played 22 seasons in the NHL with Mohns playing 1390 games to Prentice's 1378.
After two Memorial Cup championship seasons with the Barrie Flyers of the OHA, Doug Mohns went straight to the NHL as a regular with the Boston Bruins. Mohns played in the NHL until the end of the 1974-75 season with the Bruins, Chicago Black Hawks, Minnesota North Stars, Atlanta Flames and Washington Capitals.
Interestingly, Mohns is the only one of the four mentioned here that also had a card in the 1954-55 Topps series. The number 18 card in the Topps set is also considered a rookie card and is worth considerably more than the Parkhurst card at $125.
Dean Prentice played his OHA hockey with the Guelph Biltmores. He started the 1952-53 season with Guelph but finished up with 55 games with the New York Rangers. Prentice played until 1973-74 with the Rangers, Boston Bruins, Detroit Red Wings, Pittsburgh Penguins and Minnesota North Stars.
Tom is the author of http://www.vintagehockeycardsreport.com (Vintage Hockey Cards Report). Vintage Hockey Cards Report provides information on a wide range of vintage hockey cards and the players that appear on them. One focus is to provide a real eBay pricing guide based on the winning bids of vintage hockey cards on eBay auctions.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Johnny-Bower-and-the-Rookie-Card-Class-of-the-1954-55-Parkhurst-Series&id=6595519] Johnny Bower and the Rookie Card Class of the 1954-55 Parkhurst Series

Who Will Miss the NHL Playoffs From the West in 2012?

By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=James_D._Silver]James D. Silver
Yesterday, I predicted the top eight teams in the West, with a caveat that, while picking the Columbus Blue Jackets for the last playoff spot, it is more than likely that Calgary will be there instead. So, I have no choice but leading with the Flames on the list of teams that we think won't make the playoffs.
1. Calgary Flames: If I were completely objective and rational, I'd put Calgary into the playoffs, based on the way they finished last season. If they keep that rate up, they can do even better than eighth. They lost defenseman Robgyn Regehr over the summer, and they didn't add much, so there is a good chance they won't play as well as they did late in the last season. Who knows? This is a big guess anyway.
2. Phoenix Coyotes: The loss of Ilya Bryzgalov in goal will be devastating. So will be the departure of Vewrnon Fiddler, Ed Jovanovski, and Eric Belanger. It's hard to see how the offseason additions will make up for the offseason losses. Having said that, though, if things click, the Coyotes still could make the playoffs.
3. Minnesota Wild: Defense seems to be a challenge this year. Plus, it looks like a front office "tear it down before we build it back up" situation. So, why then, are we picking the Wild at 11th rather than lower? We think they'll play reasonable solid hockey for the talent level that they have in place.
4.   rel=nofollow [http://sportadore.com/NHL/CentralDivision/Nashville-Predators/Tweets]Nashville Predators: A lot of people think Nashville, coming off a playoff win last year, will improve this year. In fact, it would be easy to pick them for the last playoff spot. But, it just seems that things just aren't right. They lost a lot of people in the summer, and I'm not sure really good players like Shea Weber can make enough of a difference.
5. Edmonton Oilers: We love Edmonton fans. We think they need a moral victory, if not the first choice in the NFL draft. So, we're not picking them last. We're picking them two spots from last. We can't see the Oilers making the playoffs, but we can see them dropping below 13th.
6. Colorado Avalanche: The Avalanche are in a deep amount of hurt. But maybe not. Maybe the will squeeze into the playoffs. Maybe we are out of our minds to pick them this low. New goaltenders are always scary. Look for a tough year in Denver.
7. Dallas Stars: We may be the only people who pick Dallas last. The ownership issues make things tough. They won't make the playoffs. Quite simply, they need to rebuild, and that's what they will do. Look for them to get a very high draft pick.
Get the latest [http://sportadore.com/NHL]NHL rumours and tweets on Sportadore.com
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Who-Will-Miss-the-NHL-Playoffs-From-the-West-in-2012?&id=6580928] Who Will Miss the NHL Playoffs From the West in 2012?

Finding the Best Ice Hockey Drills Online

By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Sean_Skinner]Sean Skinner
Ice hockey is a fantastic energy-filled game, and that really captures the interest of many boys as young as eight years of age. The key to success in ice hockey lies in developing overall body strength, honing skating techniques, and improving stick-ball coordination techniques. As such, a wide variety of hockey drills are needed for practice and training purposes to bolster the performance of the aspiring players. Some of the most renowned hockey drills include running the scrimmage, shootout, passing horseshoe, British bulldog, pig in the middle, triangle drill, preparations station drill, loose ball scramble, pressing drills, 3v2 drill with counter attack, and so forth.
The aforementioned hockey drills are what every player, and by extension the team, aspires and strives to perfect on. This also means that different teams will naturally work on the same skills sets and therefore most teams will more or less be on the same level. However, it is common knowledge that to become better you need to adopt new sets of skills or different approaches - which other players and coaches have no clue about. Nowadays, developing new tactics and skills involves plenty of scientific research and working with actual data to discover improved body movements that are needed to enable players to become more versatile, quicker and more powerful, just like the many hall of famers of this fantastic game.
Modern ice hockey drills are based on programs that are geared at developing skills, systems, conditioning, sense, strengths, tactics, positioning, and dry-land training. The earlier (especially in early teen-hood) the hockey player is introduced to these skills the better positioned he or she becomes with regards to breaking into college and professional ice hockey leagues. This research is also geared at studying and bringing together techniques used by different ice hockey playing nations and clubs. The material is then presented in the form of DVDs and symposiums, and even during practical hockey sessions with these professionals - after all they have to practice what they preach.
Many hockey teams are finding these new techniques of training helpful because if the professional demonstrates and applies a new technique successfully, then it instills a sense of "I can do it" in the budding players. Sometimes it is all about actually seeing someone doing something differently that pulls the playing-better trigger. Some of the hockey drills covered in these materials include stick-handling instructions and hockey skating skills, and with regards to some recent developments the skills sets include the variable goals training model and material making reference to productive breakaways, shootouts and penalty shots. You can also find professional coaches for hire online who offer specialty mini clinics and weeklong training sessions that include one-on-one training with individual players as well as overall team training.
For more information about hockey drills please visit to http://www.skinnerhockey.com/
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Finding-the-Best-Ice-Hockey-Drills-Online&id=6597522] Finding the Best Ice Hockey Drills Online

New and More Efficient Hockey Training Equipment

By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Sean_Skinner]Sean Skinner
Success in any crowded field (with reference to sports) often comes by aiming to do things differently or with the help of better resources. The sentiments are quite true in the case of ice hockey; using the same old hockey training equipment will not get you very far in terms of developing new skills or achieving improved results. Luckily, ongoing research that involves manufacturers working in conjunction with players to develop new and better equipment has yielded some credible results. Let us examine a few of them.
The puck has for years been the centre of interest with researchers looking to develop designs that will enable players to push it faster, and handle and strike it better. This initiative has seen people practice with heavier pucks and even golf balls. However, the best ball with regards to developing versatile and quick hands is the Swedish Stickhandling ball, a wooden ball that is mostly used in dry land training environments. It is ideal for pre warm up sessions whereby it helps to stimulate the neurological motors in the hands thus developing quicker responsive patterns. This is possible because the ball basically is lighter and as such it moves faster on ice as compared to the puck. Heavier balls cannot develop quick hands as they offer more friction and therefore players can instead use them for resistance training which is geared at developing strength. Unlike the golf ball, the Swedish ball does not bounce and hence it fully mimics the motions of the puck.
The shooting bungie (bungee) cord is another addition to the modern hockey training equipment. This cord is used to improve a player's shooting strength and speed. It is basically an elasticized rope with two O-rings, one at either end and with one bigger than the other. One end is attached to a non-movable wall fixture while the other is attached to the hockey stick. The elastic cord provides some resistance to the stick's motion and hence you develop greater strength as you practice snap shots, backhand shots and wrist shots. Following a training regimen based on 2 to 3 sets of 20 to 30 reps for two months, players have reported speed increments of up to 10mph. This piece of equipment fully mimics the shot motion under pressure thus helping the player to develop the right range of motion.

Yet another product aimed at improving shot power is the SkinnerShooter. This equipment brings to shooting a unique tracking concept - a quality that sets it apart from other tubing products in the market. This is so because it is made of resistance bands and a pulley system that allows for the tracking of the travel of the stick while keeping the load on the blade of the stick constant. In shooting motions the wrists must make a turn in what is referred to as "Lock and Load", and as the shot is taken the wrists must turn again, implying that the hands work in opposites. The essence of this hockey training equipment is therefore to strengthen the muscles involved in the shooting action so as to improve the power of the shot.
For more information about hockey training equipment please visit to http://www.skinnerhockey.com/
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?New-and-More-Efficient-Hockey-Training-Equipment&id=6597526] New and More Efficient Hockey Training Equipment

Who Won't Make the Playoffs From the NHL East in 2012?

By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=James_D._Silver]James D. Silver
It is possible that the New Jersey Devils could squeeze in, but we're not willing to take that as a solid position. Some are even predicting that the Charlotte Whalers will make the playoffs, but we don't see that.
Here is how we expect the rest of East to finish this year. As with any predictions of who doesn't make the playoffs, there is lo's of room for error.
1. New Jersey Devils: Will Ilya Kovalchuk be average? Is Martin Brodeur too old? It's a tough call, as everything depends on the contributions of just a few of the top performers on the team. If the top guys don't deliver, the Devils could be looking at a lot worse positioning than 9th.
2. Carolina Hurricanes: We like Eric Staal. We like Cam Ward. We are still upset that the Whalers are no longer in Hartford, so our picks always understate where we expect the Hurricanes to end up. Hockey in Charlotte. Ugh. Don't get us going.
3. Toronto Maple Leafs: We love the city of Toronto, just like we love Montreal and Quebec, but in a different sort of way. We really, really want the Toronto Maple Leafs to win, because we want the nice people in Toronto to have a sense of what it is like to be a winner in the NHL. But, we really, really don't think it is this year. Sorry.
4. Winnipeg Jets: There will be lots of energy in Winnipeg with the return of the Jets. So, we won't be surprised if they over-perform. It would be great for the city of Winnipeg if they squeezed into the playoffs, but we just don't see it. There is lots of room for optimism on defense, but it will be tough to get enough offense to pull it off.
5. Ottawa Senators: Everyone expects Ottawa to finish last. Since we don't want to be like everyone, we are predicting that they will finish third from last. Basically, the kids need to do well just so they can feel good about the future. Then, who knows, maybe getting a number one draft pick is in the cards!
6. Florida Panthers. Let's give the Panthers credit for a number of key signings over the summer. But, we don't see them as doing anything but fighting for a top draft choice
7. New York Islanders: So, what good can we say about the Islanders? Ah. Um. Hmm. Goaltending - Nope. Defense - Nope. Offense - Nope. Oh, wait, I have it. They are young, and someday they may be good!! Unfortunately, not today.
Get the latest [http://sportadore.com/NHL]NHL news and tweets on Sportadore.com
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Who-Wont-Make-the-Playoffs-From-the-NHL-East-in-2012?&id=6603533] Who Won't Make the Playoffs From the NHL East in 2012?

Who Will Win the Stanley Cup in 2012?

By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=James_D._Silver]James D. Silver
Let's start with who we expect to get through the first round of the playoffs:
� Vancouver
� Detroit
� Los Angeles
� Chicago
� Washington
� Pittsburgh
� Boston
� Montreal
We wouldn't be surprised if the Buffalo Sabres and St. Louis Blues break through the first round, and we know there are always upsets in the first round. But, this year, we figure there will be enough of a difference between the top and bottom four teams in each division, that we expect the top teams to come out of the first round relatively unscathed. With this said, we'll stick with the above, which includes a couple of first round upsets from where we expect teams will finish in the regular season.
The Vancouver Canucks are on a mission and the Detroit Red Wings just seems to be headed in the right direction, so we're picking them to win the second round in the West. Chicago could make to the second round as could the Kings. Heck, even Anaheim could make it, but no matter how things go, we expect Vancouver will have the top seed throughout the West playoffs, and we expect them to win in the first two rounds.
In the East, we're picking the Washington Capitals and Pittsburgh Penguins to make it through the second round. Sidney Crosby's return will make a big difference for the Penguins, and as with the Canucks, we think the Capitals will be on a mission this year.
It's awfully hard to repeat a Stanley Cup win nowadays, and the Boston Bruins are just not a team that separates itself from the other 5 or 6 top teams, so we see them bowing out in the playoffs, maybe in the first round, but more than likely in the second round. Montreal could make it to the Final-Two in the East, which would make for a really exciting series, but they would need to get really hot, something that they may not be up to this year.
As for our Stanley Cup matchup, we're pegging the Washington Capitals and Vancouver Canucks - two teams that have won conferences and played well in recent regular seasons, but haven't come away with the big prize. Fans of both teams expect them to be in the finals, and anything other than a Stanley Cup from either team will be a disappoint for their respective fans.
Washington is a bit older and will soon begin regressing in quality to slip back into the pack, so we expect their players will have the most motivation and drive to win now. So, we're predicting that the Washington Capitals will win the Stanley Cup in 2012. But, just so it's clear where we think things are trending, we have no problem in predicting that the   rel=nofollow [http://sportadore.com/NHL/NorthwestDivision/Vancouver-Canucks/Tweets]Vancouver Canucks will win it all in 2013!
Get the latest [http://sportadore.com/NHL]NHL news and tweets on Sportadore.com
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Who-Will-Win-the-Stanley-Cup-in-2012?&id=6603539] Who Will Win the Stanley Cup in 2012?

2011-2012 Wingers To Look Out For

By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Ian_Mawdsley]Ian Mawdsley
Having completed four Yahoo custom league drafts already this September, it has been interesting to see where guys have gone draft by draft. Of course, not every draft is the same, with many varying in stat categories or by league type (H2H, Rotisserie, etc) or by the number of teams drafting. With that in mind, some guys will be better depending on if you have SOG, Hits & Blocks in your scoring settings, rather than just the regular G, A, PPP, etc. Be sure to do your research and mock drafts!!
Let's get started! There might be some players that are rated highly, but that doesn't mean that they are rated where they should be!
C Ryan Getzlaf (Yahoo Rank=34)
As far as I'm concerned, Getzlaf should be rated much higher than he is, so consider him a steal in the 3rd or 4th round. He is on a top line with last year's 50 goal scorer and has Bobby Ryan to his left. His stats weren't that bad, they just weren't amazing last year. Expect this to increase back to the 80 point range, along with great PPP, a solid +/- and if you're lucky, he may even return to his expected 80+ PIM. If your league has hits, you just got yourself a multi-threat, 80 point talent. Don't be afraid to grab him earlier than his rank would say. Although if you miss him, do not fret as there are plenty of Centers available that will put up good numbers later on.
C Jason Spezza (YR=94)
It was only two years ago that Jason Spezza was averaging 80-90 points a season. A few injuries later and sub par seasons later, people are seriously discounting this guy's ability. Yes, he lost Heatley, but Alfie is back now and with some new young talent, Spezza is sure to put up 65-70 points this year. His PPP will be great, but look out for that +/- if they can't figure defence out.
C Mikko Koivu (YR=124)
Koivu has consistently put up 60-70 points in MINNESOTA... and now he has a pure goal scorer in Dany Heatley on his wing and is primed to get at least 70 points assuming they can mesh. Tell me how many other 70 point players are available at 124. Not very many! Great PPP, decent PIM and good SOG, although that might go down with Heatley in town.
RW David Backes (YR=60)
If your league takes into account Hits, SOG, FW, G, A, +/- & PIM or some variation there of, Backes is worth much more than a rating of 60. The newly minted captain will put up great numbers this year and is as close to an all around player as they come. St. Louis is primed for a good season and possible playoff run with their young squad starting to hit their prime and Backes will be leading them all the way... and in every category.
RW Marian Hossa (YR=113)
Why a 30 goal scorer on a top offensive team like Chicago is rated at 113 is beyond me. He is not first line, but on a good second line, with ample opportunity on the top powerplay unit. If he can play a full season, look for a 70 point season from him and good PPP numbers, good shot totals and a good +/-.
RW Nathan Horton (YR=165)
Last season almost had a 30-30-30 year. Yet he rates at 165. Better for you if you can get him late. He did get destroyed in the finals of the playoffs last season and was out with a concussion, but he is back now and there is no reason why he can't put similar numbers. Do take that with a grain of salt, as there have been many not to come back well from a concussion.
LW Jamie Benn (YR=160)
LWs are thin this year as they are most years, but I have found there are few LWs in the middle of the draft and many good LWs available late in the draft. Benn is one such LW. Entering his third campaign, Benn improved last year and shows signs that he is ready to breakout. It helps that he will most likely get chances on the top line this year with Ribeiro and Eriksson. He gives added bonus for hits and expect PPP to increase with more playing time on the top unit.
LW Simon Gagne (YR=269)
This pick is assuming he can play at least 70 games. It's a risky pick, but that's what the last three rounds of the draft are for right? He is reunited with Mike Richards in L.A. and when he is healthy, he is a point per game player. Injury is always a scare, but his point totals should increase to 55-65 and have good PPP and have good SOG.
LW Antoine Vermette (YR=205)
Let me start by saying that this pick is more for leagues with Hits, SOG and FW. Vermette is solid in each of those three stat categories and has potential to get back up to a 60 point season. Having some other centers in the way on the depth chart hurts, but his LW capability helps make him more valuable as a positional player. Again, if you don't track Hits, SOG or FW, he is probably not the player for you.
Other Wingers To Look Out For
C David Krejci
C Tim Connolly
C Derek Roy
RW Ales Hemsky
RW Kyle Okposo
RW Daniel Alfredsson
LW Andy McDonald
LW Patrik Elias
LW James Neal.
Ian is an avid hockey and fantasy hockey fan. In his spare time, he likes to poke fun at Maple Leaf Nation. He is a strong supporter of the Colorado Avalanche. Go Avs!
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?2011-2012-Wingers-To-Look-Out-For&id=6602357] 2011-2012 Wingers To Look Out For

Tour Cobalt Q Inline Hockey Skates Review

By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Paul_A_Buchanan]Paul A Buchanan
The Tour Cobalt Q Inline Hockey Skates offer top-level performance for serious hockey players. There are a few reasons why this skate stands out from the competition. Tour built these skates using the Labeda Hum'er II frames. Made from aluminum, these lightweight frames offer a single axle design (no more lost screws!) and are currently the only frame able to hold four 80mm wheels. Tour's DPS technology allows the front two wheels to sit inside a cavity at the front of the boot causing the skater to have a lower center of gravity with increased speed and improved turning and stopping ability. The boot includes Tour's Pro-level Coratec™ quarter panels reinforced with Ultra-lite Pro stiffener. In other words, a puck to the foot will feel like a minor bump. To top it all off, Labeda has thrown their Dynasty II 80mm wheels on this already sick skate! These are top rated wheels used by the highest caliber players due to their incredible grip and stopping qualities.
The Tour Cobalt Q Inline Hockey Skate does have its problems. While Tour had the right idea: protection, they fell short when placing this idea into the skate's design. The tongue of the skate offers a protective foam piece which actually digs into the player's shin. This remains uncomfortable until the skates are worn in. The reinforced ankle protection provides a similar discomfort; be prepared to have blisters for the first few skating sessions. The Titanium ABEC 9 688 Micro bearings do offer a lighter weight than the regular 608 bearings; however, the 688's aren't as durable. Expect to be changing these bearings after a couple months (Tour does include a free set of bearings with the skate).
Overall the Tour Cobalt Q Roller Hockey skates offer great protection, they are lightweight, fast, and offer features that go above and beyond its competitors. Tour has lowered their pricing on these skates making them more affordable so you can stay on top of your game.
Reading reviews on different skates is always a good idea before making an online purchase for hockey equipment. Reviews help make purchasing easier by answering questions about a product that you may have otherwise asked if you were looking at the skate in person. For the sake of avoiding disgruntled purchases and wasted time, it is important to know what you are buying before you decide on any hockey skate!
What do you think about the [http://www.hockeyrelated.com/hockey/equipment]Tour Cobalt Q Skate?
Learn about more products by reading [http://www.hockeyrelated.com]hockey reviews.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Tour-Cobalt-Q-Inline-Hockey-Skates-Review&id=6605899] Tour Cobalt Q Inline Hockey Skates Review

Drills to Improve Your Speed on the Ice in Hockey

By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Anthony_Cortellessa]Anthony Cortellessa
There are various drills to improve your speed on the ice in hockey. Be sure to put in the time and effort in order for you to improve your game.
Believe it or not, the most successful drills to improve your speed on the ice are done off the ice. Off ice hockey training is a huge factor in today's competitive game. The game is all about speed and doing the proper drills will make you faster and an overall better player.
By targeting muscle groups that are used while skating through off ice training, you can develop more power in your legs. This power will translate to your stride, and allow you to skate significantly faster. These drills are done by numerous NHL players because they want to improve their game... and it works!
Front squat - this targets your hamstrings, glutes and quadriceps, all of which are used while skating.
Dead lift - targets your hamstrings, glutes and lower back.
Sled pushes - Often overlooked in off ice hockey training, it is one of the most important exercises you can do. This works your hamstrings, glutes and quadriceps at a very high and powerful intensity. Do sets of 25 yard pushes.
Sled pulls - similar to sled pushes, it works all of your leg muscles very well. Also increases your speed on the ice. Do sets of 25 yard pulls.
Do 3 sets of 6 reps for weightlifting exercises. This develops the most power in your muscles. This is exactly what is going to increase your speed on the ice!
Plyometrics are also very important to develop power. Do 3 sets of 10 reps for maximum results:
Squat Jumps
Lunge Jumps
One legged squat jumps
Later jumps
Box jumps
Tuck Jumps
Lastly, agility is crucial when it comes to speed on the ice. The number one thing you can do to increase your speed, is use an agility ladder. You can use it before practices or games to warmup as well. It greatly improves your foot speed and coordination. This increased foot speed will greatly increase your speed on the ice. I
Every NHL team uses an agility ladder for this reason, you should to!
You should not do every exercise I have listed above in one workout. You can always use the agility ladder at the beginning of your workout to warmup. Then focus on different exercises every time:
Monday: Agility ladder, front squat, dead lift, 4 plyometric exercises
Wednesday: Agility ladder, sled pushes, sled pulls, 3 plyometric exercises
Obviously, it is important that you have the proper training equipment to improve your skating speed on the ice in hockey. You will need a barbell and weights, agility ladder and a training sled.
I highly recommend the agility ladder and training sleds. The agility ladder improves your foot speed immensely. The training sleds target the muscle groups in your legs that are used to skate. The power you will generate by doing sled pulls and sled pushes will be crucial to improving your speed on the ice. That is why they are used by so many NHL players!
At http://www.bestofficehockeytraining.com there is much more information regarding products and everything you need for your off ice hockey training program.
Be sure to put in the required time and effort by doing the proper off ice hockey training exercises to skate faster on the ice! You will not be disappointed with your results. Take your game to the next level with off ice hockey training!
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Drills-to-Improve-Your-Speed-on-the-Ice-in-Hockey&id=6622605] Drills to Improve Your Speed on the Ice in Hockey

To Realign Or Not to Realign?

By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Matthew_T_Jablonski]Matthew T Jablonski
How would you change the look of the NHL's division format?
The league has made it obvious that the Winnipeg Jets will no longer be playing in the East next year and will be moving out west, most likely into the now central division. This opening in the East has caused quite the stir out West with teams such as Columbus, Nashville and Detroit desperately attempting to get their foot into the Eastern timezone. There has been rumours of the league just doing a straight swap with Winnipeg and Detroit just exchanging places. This makes for the least amount of change but a lot of teams would be left complaining.
Dallas and Minnesota both want out of their current divisions, while Detroit just wouldn't quite fit in a division with the Florida's and Tampa Bay's. There's an opportunity for drastic change in the league that could be beneficial long term, one quite similar to what Bob McKenzie mentioned as the leagues "Plan G".
Here's what we think: because there are just too many Eastern timezone teams in a league of 30, a 4 division format would work best. Group the teams by timezone as best you can, as follows:
Pacific: Colorado, Los Angeles, Anaheim, San Jose, Vancouver, Calgary, Edmonton, Phoenix.
Central: Winnipeg, Dallas, Minnesota, St. Louis, Columbus, Nashville, Chicago.
Northeast: Montreal, Toronto, Buffalo, Carolina, Boston, Detroit, Ottawa.
Atlantic/Southeast: NY Rangers, NY Islanders, New Jersey, Pittsburgh, Philadelphia, Washington, Tampa Bay, Florida.
Games would be primarily based within the division so the league would have to go back to the old playoff format of having the 1st seed in each division play the 4th and 2nd play the 3rd in the first round of the playoffs. One of the leagues strongest marketing angles is the great rivalries they have so a divisional format for the first two rounds of the playoffs can't hurt. People will be quick to point out that having only 7 teams in some divisions would be unfair as only 3 teams would miss the playoffs compared to 4 in the 8 team divisions, but there could be a crossover option of sorts where if the 5th place team from the 8 team division has more points than the 4th place team in the 7 team division they would be able to compete in the playoffs eliminating that 4th place team.
A lot of options are on the table, and no one option seems to work for everybody so what do you think? How should the league change their divisional format for the 2012-13 season? http://www.ugehockey.com
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?To-Realign-Or-Not-to-Realign?&id=6629568] To Realign Or Not to Realign?