Hockey leagues: how the complex world of ice hockey is organised

Ball hockey is a dynamic and exciting winter sport that combines elements of ice hockey and football. The game is played on the ice by two teams of 11 players, whose aim is to score as many goals as possible into the opponent’s goal. In this article, we will look at the rules of ball hockey in detail.

The basic rules of ball hockey

The format, also known as ‘bendi’, originated more than a century ago in Scandinavia and Russia. The current set of rules developed as early as the 19th century, when the game on frozen rivers and lakes became increasingly popular. Initially, the rules of ball hockey were very different – there were no clear field boundaries and the number of players could vary depending on the mood of the participants and the size of the lake. At the beginning of the 20th century, it was decided to standardise the rules in order to make the game more organised and entertaining.

One of the most important changes in the history of ball hockey was the introduction of a limit of 11 players per team and the establishment of clear rules for the order of throw-ins and penalties. Today, the rules dictate specific pitch sizes, the use of sticks and the application of penalties and free kicks, creating a balance between speed and strategy.

Pitch sizes and equipment – where and with what to play

Ball hockey requires a specially equipped ice rink, which according to the rules is 90-110 metres long and 45-65 metres wide. This huge surface allows athletes to develop very high speed and outwit their opponents with strategic manoeuvres. The hockey pitch is divided into several zones: The centre line divides the pitch into two halves, while the goal is a semi-circular area with a radius of 17 metres, where the most exciting moments take place.

The equipment is another important component. The hockey stick in Bendi is different from the usual hockey stick. It has a curved end, which helps to control the ball better. The stick is made of light but strong wood, which makes it easy to manoeuvre. The ball itself weighs around 60 grams and is made of luminous plastic so that it is easy to see on the ice.

Referees and penalties – how to referee a game correctly

When it comes to refereeing, every detail counts, as the game is played at breakneck speed and any mistake can cost a team victory.

Refereeing rules for ball hockey

The work of the referee requires the utmost attention and a high reaction speed. The rules in ball hockey include several important points such as enforcing the rules in the goal area, monitoring fouls and awarding penalties and free kicks. The game is officiated by three referees, the head referee and two assistant referees, who each have their own duties and areas of control on the pitch:

• Offside control;
• Awarding of free kicks;
• Time control;
• counting fouls;
• Maintaining order in the goal area;
• Deciding controversial situations.

The head referee monitors the overall dynamics of the game, while the side referees help to control offside positions and offences on the flanks. This division of duties keeps the pace of hockey high while ensuring fairness and compliance with the rules.

Penalty kicks and free kicks: Rules and technique

Penalty kicks in ball hockey are awarded in situations where a team has infringed the rules in its defence zone. The player taking the penalty kick is 12 metres from the goal and only the goalkeeper can attempt to stop the ball. The execution technique requires clarity and strength – the ball must be steered as close as possible to the corner of the goal so that the goalkeeper has no time to react.

Free kicks in ball hockey are taken when the offence has been committed in another part of the pitch. The players of the team awarded the free kick are close to the ball, while the defenders must be no closer than 5 metres away. The technique involves three important steps:

1. The stick should be at a 45-degree angle to the ice to ensure optimal contact with the ball and to be able to control it even at high speeds. The correct angle helps to reduce vibrations and maintain balance on impact, which is particularly important in tense moments of the game.
2. Aiming – the player carefully assesses the formation of the defenders, analyses their possible actions and chooses the best direction for a pass or a shot to minimise the risk of being intercepted. It is important to consider not only the opponent’s current position, but also their speed and direction of movement in order to anticipate where a space will open up.
3. Powerful and accurate shooting – it is not only important to shoot the ball, but also to direct it in a way that creates a favourable position for the team, whether to continue the attack or to create a potentially dangerous moment. The shot should be taken with all players in position to maximise the chances of a successful moment and allow for a subsequent pass or direct approach to goal.

Tactics and strategy: How to win?

Winning in ball hockey is not just about luck, it is also about hard work, strategy, adherence to the rules and the ability to see the field one step ahead. Every hockey player, every pass, every manoeuvre is important here.

Basic tactics in ball hockey

Depending on the strength of the opponent and the style of play, teams use different strategies. One of the most popular is the ‘counter-attacking style’, in which the athletes focus on defence and then quickly switch to attack in order to exploit the opponent’s mistakes. This tactic makes it possible to optimise the use of space on the hockey pitch and change the pace of play quickly.

Another effective strategy is ‘attacking from the wings’. Players on the edges of the field often have more freedom of action and can create dangerous moments for the opponent. The Russian team Yenisei Krasnoyarsk, for example, has repeatedly demonstrated its mastery of this tactic, giving it a numerical advantage in attack.

Conclusion

Ball hockey is very interesting, also due to well thought-out rules. Study the peculiarities of the sport discipline in more depth if you want to learn to play well.

The long-awaited Channel One Ice Hockey Cup 2024 opened on 12 December. The ice hockey tournament opened with a colourful match between Russia and Sweden, which offered spectators a real ice battle. The encounter ended in a thrilling battle that showed that this competition will once again become an epicentre of fierce competition and sporting excitement. For ice hockey fans, the event was not just a game, but a celebration where every minute was full of drama, emotion and brilliant play.

History of the first Channel Cup

The history of the tournament dates back to 1967, when it was first held under the name ‘Priz Izvestia’. Since then, the competition has changed its name and format several times, but has always remained an important part of the international hockey calendar. In recent decades, the tournament has evolved from a modest competition to a prestigious event that attracts the attention of millions of fans.

Originally, the competition was designed to popularise ice hockey and test the strength of national teams before major international championships. Winners in various years have included hockey giants such as the USSR, Russia, the Czech Republic, Sweden and Finland.

The most colourful moments in the history of the Channel One Cup were the victories of the Soviet team, which dominated the tournament in the 70s and 80s. The legendary players Vladislav Tretiak, Valeri Kharlamov and Vyacheslav Fetisov became symbols of an entire era. The tournament served and still serves as a platform for the development of tactics and the identification of new stars of world hockey.

Comparison with other ice hockey tournaments

The Channel One Ice Hockey Cup 2024 occupies a unique position among international competitions. In contrast to the World Championships and the Olympic Games, where the tension is high due to the large number of matches and the long preparation time, this tournament is characterised by its compactness and fast-paced dynamics. Here, every match is an opportunity to prove yourself at the highest level in a short space of time.

The special nature of the format allows the teams to experiment with tactics and line-ups and test new player combinations. At the same time, the competitive spirit remains as strong as at major world championships. Star careers are often born here and combinations are practised that then lead to victories at the World Championships.

The participants of the Channel One Ice Hockey Cup 2024

The strongest teams from Europe and the world take part in the tournament. Teams from Russia, Sweden, Finland, the Czech Republic and other countries that regularly belong to the world elite of ice hockey take part in this sporting competition.

The Russian national team is traditionally regarded as the favourite of the tournament. The support of the home stands, strong players from the Kontinental Hockey League (KHL) and experienced coaches create a solid foundation for victories. In the Russian team, special attention is paid to the young talents who want to prove their readiness for international challenges.

Sweden is known for its discipline and defensive capabilities. Players from this team often move to the NHL and become key players for top clubs. The Finnish team is known for its aggressive tactics and fast play, which makes their encounters exciting and unpredictable.

The Channel One Hockey Cup 2024 will be an arena where different ice hockey schools, traditions and styles of play will clash. These games will give the best hockey players in the world the opportunity to showcase their skills and team spirit.

Schedule of the Channel One Hockey Cup 2024

The broadcast schedule includes several matches that will take place from 12 to 17 December 2024. The matches will be spread across different arenas so that fans can enjoy the hockey festivities in different Russian cities:

1. 12 December is the opening match of the tournament. Match between the national teams of Russia and Sweden.
2. 14 December – match between the national teams of Finland and the Czech Republic.
3. 16 December – match between the Russian national team and the Finnish national team.
4. 17 December – the final match and the award ceremony.

Each match promises to be spectacular and exciting, and the outcome of the games is difficult to predict. The teams will fight for every centimetre of ice, demonstrating strength, speed and strategic thinking.

Where will the games be broadcast?

Fans will be able to watch the Channel One Hockey Cup 2024 matches thanks to live broadcasts on leading Russian TV channels and online platforms. The main broadcasts will be available on Channel One as well as on sports and streaming services.

For those who prefer to watch the matches online, the broadcasts will be available on the official websites and mobile applications. This will allow you to follow the tournament from anywhere in the world and watch your favourite teams’ matches in real time.

Special features of the New Year’s Eve tournament

The Channel One Hockey Cup 2024 occupies a special place among ice hockey tournaments due to its unique New Year’s Eve atmosphere. This tournament is not only a test of strength for the national teams, but also a sporting celebration for the fans. The fact that the games are played in mid-December sets a special rhythm and creates a festive atmosphere.

The ice hockey stadiums in Russia are transformed into real centres of joy and excitement at this time of year. Families, friends and colleagues come together to support their favourite teams and enjoy first-class ice hockey. The uniqueness of the New Year’s Eve tournament lies in its emotional component. The players give their best because they know that their victories will bring joy to thousands of fans on New Year’s Eve.

The sports tournament also plays an important role in preparing the national teams for the World Cup and other major competitions. The coaches use it to test new tactical concepts and combinations of play. The players have the opportunity to play together, improve their understanding and work on combinations that will be used in the future.

In addition to the sporting component, the Channel One Cup 2024 also cultivates the traditions of Russian ice hockey. Both experienced stars and young talents who have had the chance to prove themselves on the international stage take part in the games. This format makes it possible to maintain the continuity of generations and further develop the domestic sport at a high level.

Conclusion

The Channel One Ice Hockey Cup 2024 is an event that combines the best ice hockey traditions, vivid emotions and exciting matches. The tournament offers a unique opportunity to see the strongest national teams compete against each other, evaluate the players’ skills and enjoy spectacular matches on the eve of the New Year holidays.