1. It's Electric
The sport of power hockey is designed for people in electric wheelchairs. All players must have a physical disability that requires them to use a wheelchair. Players cannot have any cognitive disabilities, as all players must be able to understand and follow complex rules and strategies to participate. There is no assistance from able-bodied players in power hockey.
2. Importance of Equipment
Power hockey follows all the same rules and regulations are regular hockey, with a few minor adaptations. Hockey sticks made from a lightweight plastic are required. The puck is substituted for a light plastic ball. The hockey stick can be taped to the wheelchair, but this is the only allowed adaptation. Nothing can be added to the undercarriage of the wheelchair to stop the ball from rolling. Most sports adapted for the disabled are modified significantly to allow for full participation. This is not the case for power hockey.
3. Tournament Play
In the United States, the Electric Wheelchair Hockey Association is the main governing body of the sport. They are responsible for organizing tournaments, establishing a rule book and interacting with other wheelchair hockey associations in the world. Power Hockey Cup tournaments occur every year, rotating through the different locations with an active power hockey association. The rules of tournament play are exactly the same as in professional hockey. There is a schedule of elimination games and play continues until the two top teams playoff and a winner is determined.
4. Preparing the Rink
Power hockey is played in a standard hockey rink. However, certain adjustments to the area result in less interruptions to play and a more enjoyable experience. The panels are made from high density foam panels. They are covered in a specially designed vinyl that is tear resistant. The panel come with Velcro straps and specially reinforced corners. They are lightweight and easy to set up. The base of the panels are slightly wider to improve stability and remain in place even if kicked during play.
5. Strategy and Rules
To prepare for participation in the sport, the wheelchair athlete must be familiar with all the rules of hockey. As with most games, success is more about strategy and teamwork than muscular skills and power. Wheelchair athlete teams spend a great deal of time on the game playbook and practicing complex strategy for both defense and offense. As a result, the power hockey games are very exciting to watch for everyone, especially true fans of hockey. Of all the sports for the disabled, power hockey is one of the most exciting to watch.
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