How to Play Roller Hockey
There are many National In-Line Hockey Association (NIHA) tournaments and leagues across the nation, but it's sometimes the most fun just to play with your friends. Playing the right way encourages a fair and safe game, as well as preparing you for leagues and tournaments.
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Things You'll Need
- Hockey Bags
- Hockey Elbow Pads
- Hockey Gloves
- Hockey Helmets
- Hockey Jerseys
- Hockey Pants
- Hockey Shoulder Pads
- Hockey Sticks
- In-line Skate Bearings
- In-line Skate Brakes
- In-line Skate Wheels
- In-line Skates
- In-line Skating Helmets
- Roller Hockey Goals
- Roller Hockey Pucks
- Hockey sticks
Instructions
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1
Locate a big, flat area of pavement that you can play on. Search your area for an actual rink, or find an empty parking lot, basketball court or tennis court that you can use.
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2
Sweep the area clear.
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3
Gather at least 10 people (four players and one goalie per team) all with their own equipment - see "Gear Up for Roller Hockey," under Related eHows.
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4
Bring two goals and two sets of goalie equipment.
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5
Use a roller hockey puck on a smooth surface and a small plastic ball on rougher surfaces, such as asphalt.
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6
Establish "house" rules for the court regarding boundaries and special situations - for example, if the puck goes into the bushes, teams will face off in the center.
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7
Review NIHA hockey rules with new players.
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8
Set time limits. Either two 15-minute stop-time halves, or if you don't have a referee, two 22-minute running-time halves.
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9
Switch sides at halftime.
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10
Start the game with a face-off in the center of the rink - see "Start a Roller Hockey Game," under Related eHows.
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11
Play hard, but have fun and don't allow competition to generate hostility.
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1
Tips & Warnings
Having someone volunteer to referee can quickly resolve all disputes. If each player contributes a few dollars, you can even pay your referee.
Bring a broom, water, extra gear, a timer, appropriate tools for putting up the goals, and a first aid kit.
Make sure all players wear proper gear when playing roller hockey.
Roller hockey is a physically demanding sport that could result in serious injury. We recommend that you seek proper training and equipment before attempting this activity.
