We all know that USA Hockey advocates cross-training and playing multiple sports. We also know that there is still a huge majority of players who continue to play spring ice hockey but why not add Roller Hockey to your training program as well? Roller hockey will absolutely make you a better ice hockey player…period!
Roller Hockey is played 4 v 4 with no off-sides and no icing. This type of game encourages puck control, puck support and finding open space. While most people understand this, many fail to realize how good it is for 1-1 battles. There is nowhere to hide in roller. With no off-sides and no icing, all the players are exposed. You are forced to talk, to pick up an open man and to win those 1-1 battles. There is a HUGE compete element to the game!
If you need proof or validation of the game, look no further than the 3 v 3 overtime that the NHL is using! Everyone is in awe of the speed, the skills, the odd man rushes and back and forth play. The truth is that people like to see talent showcased. They like watching players score goals! Hello, Roller Hockey!
If you have not seen the top youth and adult players play roller hockey, you need to go to a NARCh, State Wars, or TORHS event. It is unreal. You will be impressed…and discover that many of the top players are AAA ice kids, NAHL, USHL, College D1 and even pro ice players!
Then there is always the big debate if roller hockey hurts your stride and skating. Many skeptics will tell you it’s bad for their form. Roller players do circles and not stops and starts. NEWS FLASH…kids not stopping and starting has nothing to do with roller. It has to do with lazy players.
So with all that being said, get your wheels ready and come join us! You will fall in love with the game and learn from some of the best! Hockey is Hockey!
Snipers on the Ice (Click Here)
-Thanks to Peter Dale from Farm Tough Hockey (Wisconsin) for some of the info above.
