Hockey is a fast-paced, exciting game that entails many terms and slang that are unique to the sport. Players, coaches and fans all use hockey lingo in their conversations about the game. They may not use the term “natural hat-trick” like other sports, but they will talk about how they had “hatty” or ask if they have enough “biscuits” (pucks) to practice.
The rink is divided into three zones – the offensive zone, the defensive zone and the neutral zone or center ice. The blue lines divide these three zones, and each line is also used as a goal line. The two short sides of the ice are called the attack and defensive lines, while the longer side is the back line.
There are several rules that govern the ice and how it is played, but one of the most important is the rule that a player is not allowed to shoot from the top of the crease if they are on the power play. A power play is when a team has the puck on the ice and has the option of taking a penalty or allowing the other team to take a penalty.
A sweep check is when a player uses the entire length of their stick in a sweeping motion to dislodge an opponent’s puck from the ice. A sweep check can be a very effective way for teams to control the puck and keep it from getting out of hand.
Grinder: A player who populates the lower lines of a team, but has a physical, hard-working nature that usually makes them well liked by the rest of the team. They can be a good asset on the power play or on special teams, but they can also make a bad impact in other ways.
Grocery Stick: This is a player who spends most of his time on the bench between forwards and defense, acting like a separator. He’s also known as a duster and maybe a bender.
Bender: A player who has weak ankles that hinder their ability to skate at high speeds. This is often a derogatory term that other players will use to degrade a player who bends their ankles while skating.
Barn burner: A game that is high scoring and fast paced, but also very exciting to watch. It has an intense rivalry among the teams.
Gong show: A crazy situation that is out of control and usually involves fights, penalties and lots of goals. It is a common slang term for the game of hockey when it gets really out of hand.
A beauty: This is a hockey player who has impressive talent both on the ice and off, is beloved by their teammates, and is a popular figure at their team’s games. A beauty is a very talented player who can also be pretty beautiful.
Top Cheese/Top Cheddar: A shot that goes into the top part of the net, either off or just below the crossbar. This is a very difficult shot to hit, as it requires very good footwork and vision to pull off.