The fast-paced action of floor hockey makes it appealing to many people, as it provides good exercise and builds camaraderie with other players. You should know, however, that the sport features many differences from the version of hockey played on ice, as safety becomes more of a concern in recreational sports. Learning a little bit more about floor hockey makes it easier to understand what occurs over the course of a game.
Sticks
You cannot raise your stick above your waist while standing within 1 foot of an opposing player. If your stick goes above your waist in this position, you receive an automatic minor penalty, even if you do not make contact with the player. This rule includes the windup and follow-through of your shooting motion, so you must exercise caution and keep your stick at the appropriate level throughout the game.
Stay on Your Feet
To keep the games safe, you cannot touch the ball with your stick or a body part unless you remain on your feet. This includes diving in front of the ball to block it, since this can lead to injury. If you fall to your knees during a game, you must avoid touching the ball until you stand back up. If you touch the ball without your feet on the ground, the referee can call a penalty.
Non-Contact
Unlike regular hockey, floor hockey games do not involve contact. You cannot make body contact with another player during a floor hockey game, as this could cause personal injury. Any contact deemed excessive will result in a penalty. When playing defense, you can only play the ball, rather than the man. While this goes against what most ice hockey players learn growing up, it keeps the game safe and fun for all involved. Body checking leads to a penalty or, in more severe cases, ejection from the game.
Equipment Facts
The differences between floor hockey and ice hockey mean that you cannot wear ice hockey equipment during a game. Hockey padding like helmets, shoulder pads and elbow pads could make the game more dangerous because of their hard plastic construction. Organizers also have the right to prevent you from wearing other dangerous items like jewelry. Goaltenders, however, must wear a helmet with a face mask. Goalies do not have to wear any other equipment, although most organizers highly recommend it. However, a floor hockey puck is light and filled with air, making it less likely to cause injury. You can also use a no-bounce ball instead of a puck.
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