How Long In Between Periods In Hockey
Answer:
In hockey, the duration of intermissions between periods can vary depending on the league and level of play. However, there are some general guidelines that can be followed. Here are 5 supporting facts:
1. NHL: In the National Hockey League (NHL), intermissions between periods are typically 17 minutes long. This allows the players to regroup, rest, and receive any necessary medical attention.
2. IIHF: The International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF) follows a slightly different rule. During IIHF tournaments, such as the Olympics or World Championships, the intermissions are usually 15 minutes long.
3. NCAA: In college hockey, intermissions between periods are typically 15 minutes long, similar to the IIHF rule. This allows time for the players to rest, receive coaching instructions, and prepare for the next period.
4. Youth Leagues: At lower levels of play, such as youth leagues or recreational hockey, the intermissions are often shorter. They can range from 10 to 15 minutes, depending on the league’s rules and regulations.
5. Factors Affecting Intermissions: Lengthy intermissions give players ample time to recuperate, but shorter intermissions may be necessary to keep the game flowing smoothly and maintain interest among spectators. Factors like television timeouts, ice resurfacing, and other logistical considerations can also influence the duration of intermissions.
FAQs:
1. Why are intermissions necessary in hockey?
Intermissions provide players with a break to rest, recover, and strategize. The ice is also resurfaced during the intermission, ensuring optimal playing conditions for the next period.
2. What happens during intermissions?
Players retreat to their locker rooms to rest, hydrate, receive medical attention if needed, and discuss tactics with coaches. Spectators may grab refreshments or take a break as well.
3. Are intermissions the same length in all hockey leagues?
No, the duration of intermissions varies depending on the league and level of play. The NHL typically has 17-minute intermissions, while college hockey and IIHF tournaments have 15-minute intermissions. Youth leagues may have shorter intermissions.
4. Why is there a difference in intermission lengths between leagues?
Different leagues have their own rules and regulations regarding game management. Factors like television broadcasting requirements, player recovery, and ice resurfacing logistics can all contribute to varying intermission lengths.
5. Are intermissions shorter during televised games?
Yes, in televised games, there are often additional commercial breaks called “television timeouts” that occur during the intermissions. These timeouts allow broadcasters to show advertisements and extend the overall duration of the intermission.
6. Can players leave the ice during intermissions?
Once the period ends, players usually exit the ice and go to their respective locker rooms. They are not allowed to remain on the ice during intermissions unless there are special circumstances, such as participating in an on-ice ceremony.
7. What can spectators do during intermissions?
During intermissions, spectators can use the break to buy refreshments, visit the restroom, or stretch their legs. Some arenas may have entertainment or activities planned for the intermission to keep the audience engaged.
BOTTOM LINE:
Intermissions between periods in hockey can vary in duration depending on the league and level of play. The NHL typically has 17-minute intermissions, but college hockey, IIHF tournaments, and youth leagues may have shorter intermissions. The break allows players to rest, receive coaching instructions, and ensures the ice is resurfaced. Factors like television timeouts and ice resurfacing logistics can influence the length of intermissions.
