How different is hockey from ice hockey? | Nicholas Kyrkostas

 It is common for games to have several varieties, for example- football and Gaelic football, Rugby league and rugby union, etc. But most of the sports share similarities. And people often get confused between hockey and ice hockey. Even in some places, ice hockey is referred to as merely ‘hockey,’ such as in the North American area. 

Plenty of aspects can divide these two sports, such as where they are played, what their equipment is and the clothing, etc. Read on to understand the difference between the two.

Playing fields

They are played on different types of terrain. Field hockey is a sport that is played on a water-based astroturf. In contrast, the other one is played on an ice rink. Though both are very fast-paced, field hockey is played on a much larger field of play. Players need good stamina to play field hockey as they have to cover long distances. On the other hand, ice hockey sports require players to maintain excellent balance while on skates.

Equipment

Both of them use shaped sticks, but what the player hits (i.e., ball) differ in each sport. For example, in field hockey, players use a small plastic ball with a center made of cork to add some weight. But in ice hockey, players use vulcanized and rubber pucks.

Clothing

Players wear different clothing in these sports. Field hockey players wear standard-sized team-colored shirts and shorts or skirts. And ice hockey players wear protective covers from head to toe. Their clothing includes a helmet, shoulder pads, chest protector, elbow pads, mouth guard, protective gloves, etc.

These are only a few listed differences. But the differences in these sports don't interfere with people’s choices. Many people or celebrities like to play ice hockey, and Nicholas Kyrkostas is a good example who loves to play ice hockey!