Top 10 ice hockey teams: the best in ice hockey history

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.

Today, Russian ice hockey players are real stars who are known all over the world. Every country has its own heroes on the ice, but Russian athletes stand out for their inimitable technique, charisma and incredible efficiency. From legendary NHL games to triumphant victories at World Championships, they confidently continue the traditions of the great masters of the stick and puck.

It is impossible not to mention that in recent years hockey players from Russia have become one of the most discussed in the world community. Why? Largely because of their ability to play the game at a high level, professionalism and talent.

Alexander Ovechkin: the emperor of the goal-scoring style

Alexander Ovechkin is not just a legend of Russian hockey. He is a man who breaks all possible and impossible records. Since his NHL debut, he has consistently shown his amazing goal-scoring style. Just imagine: one of the top goal scorers in hockey history, a player whose shots no one wants to face on the ice. The achievements of Russian hockey players in world hockey would not be so impressive without the presence of Ovechkin:

1. He was recognised as the best forward in the NHL.
2. Won the Rocket Richard Trophy nine times.
3. Leader on the list of the best NHL snipers of all time.

Victories that inspire a new generation

The rising stars of Russian hockey look to Ovechkin as an inspiration. He has become an example of how to overcome any obstacles on the road to success. From childhood, Alexander worked on his physical form: he trained for several hours every day, honing his technique and punching power. The desire to win and unwavering belief in himself were the factors that led the athlete to a record number of goals scored. Ovechkin, who has won many individual and team honours, serves as an example for young hockey players.

How he became a hockey icon

From the very beginning of his NHL career, Ovechkin has shown a relentless desire to win, working on every aspect of his game, from powerful shots to constantly improving his physicality. He is one of the players that have made Russian hockey players in the NHL associated with a relentless will to win and true skill. Ovechkin is characterised by his unique ability to lead a team, which was especially evident in the 2017-2018 season, when he led the Washington Capitals to the first Stanley Cup in their history. Spurrier won the Conn Smythe Trophy as the playoffs’ Most Valuable Player.

Evgeni Malkin: maestro of assists and highlights

If Ovechkin is power and sniper precision, then Evgeni Malkin is a true genius of Russian hockey. Evgeni knows how to create incredible momentum on the ice and lead the team forward in the most tense situations. He is a centre-forward who is not afraid to take responsibility and lead the team to victory.

1. Stanley Cup winner three times.
2. Winner of the Art Ross Trophy and Conn Smythe Trophy.

Path to the top of world hockey

Russian hockey player Malkin has travelled a difficult path from junior teams to the top hockey leagues. He began his career with Metallurg Magnitogorsk, where coaches noticed his exceptional talent and work ethic as early as his junior years. Throughout his career, Malkin not only worked on his skating and puck-handling technique, but also paid special attention to physical preparation: this allowed him to cope with the physical demands of the NHL.

Thanks to his efforts, the athlete became one of those who is respected not only by the Russian hockey team, but also by the international community. His efforts and ability to prove himself in critical moments have helped the Pittsburgh Penguins more than once in key playoff moments, especially in the 2008-2009 and 2015-2016 seasons when the team won the Stanley Cup.

A game that commands respect

In the Stanley Cup Finals, Evgeni repeatedly demonstrated his ability to make lightning-fast decisions that led to important goals. His passes, decisions and incredible feel for the game are unique. Rankings of the best Russian hockey players in history are sure to include Malkin on their list, as he is an integral part of the success of both the Pittsburgh Penguins and the entire Russian national team, being a key player in important international tournaments.

Nikita Kucherov: an offensive genius

Nikita Kucherov is the talk of the town not only in Russia, but also abroad. He is a true star of Russian hockey, and his style of play is unique. Nikita is one of the most technical players in the NHL, and his dribbling is something incredible.

1. Two-time Stanley Cup winner.
2. The leader in points for the 2019 NHL season.

Team spirit and strength of character

Kucherov always emphasises the importance of teamwork. His development as a player began at CSKA Moscow, where coaches noticed the athlete’s desire to work for the team, not just his personal statistics. It is thanks to this approach that Russian hockey clubs can be proud of their pupils, and Kucherov has become a great example of how the ability to work in a team brings not only personal, but also team success.

In the 2018/19 season, Nikita became the NHL’s leader in points, and this result was possible thanks to working closely with his Tampa Bay Lightning teammates. He continues to show that only cohesive team play can lead to incredible results.

Playing at the highest level

Kucherov isn’t just the best Russian hockey player in the NHL, he’s one of the most productive players because of his high speed, excellent field vision and goal-scoring prowess. His play with the Tampa Bay Lightning has earned the club two Stanley Cups. A contract worth $76 million over 8 years shows tremendous value to the team. It is technique and intelligence on the ice that has been Kucherov’s main weapon in achieving success.

Artemi Panarin: the “bread everyone loves”

Artemi Panarin is one of those hockey players from Russia who is loved not only by the domestic public, but also by foreign fans. His NHL game is mesmerising, and his simplicity and openness make him even more attractive.

1. New York Rangers team leader.
2. Calder Trophy winner in his debut season.

How he overcomes all the challenges

Panarin’s path to great sport was not an easy one. Since childhood, Artemi Panarin trained in modest conditions, as his family could not afford expensive equipment and training. He began to show his first successes in Chelyabinsk Traktor, and then continued to develop in the WHL and KHL.

Hard work, discipline and unique technique attracted the attention of NHL scouts. In 2015, Panarin signed with the Chicago Blackhawks and already in his debut season won the Calder Trophy as the league’s best rookie. Such a path proves that even the most humble beginnings can lead to grandiose heights. The future of Russian hockey looks brighter when there are such examples – athletes who can inspire despite any obstacles.

Andrei Vasilevskiy: a wall on goal

Andrei Vasilevskiy is a goalie that everyone knows about. While earlier records of Russian hockey players were more often associated with forwards, today Vasilevskiy shatters this stereotype. He is the owner of an incredible reflex, capable of saving the team in the most difficult moments.

1. “Conn Smythe Trophy in 2021.
2. Two-time Stanley Cup winner.

From juniors to the best in the world

Like many other Russian hockey players in history, Andrei Vasilevskiy started his career with the junior league and through hard work, discipline and talent he achieved incredible success. He trained under renowned coaches such as Sergei Baushev, who nurtured his strong character and love for the game from a young age.

Already at an early age, Vasilevsky stood out for his incredible reflexes and confidence on goal. His success is the result of regular intensive training, relentless work on himself and a desire to be the best at every stage of his career.

Vasilevskiy as an inspiration for youngsters

Andrei is an inspiration not only to his colleagues, but also to young goalies around the world. His career began with training at Salavat Yulaev, where coaches noted his outstanding reactions and confidence on the ice. Vasilevskiy is an example of how everyday work and the desire to be the best lead to great victories, and his story shows that success is impossible without perseverance and dedication.

Take an example from the best Russian hockey players

The path of Russian hockey players to the top was not an easy one, and each of them is unique in their own way. From Ovechkin’s powerful attacks to Vasilevskiy’s incredible saves, they have all left their mark on the history of hockey and continue to inspire new generations. Their successes are the pride of the entire country. The future of Russian hockey is in good hands, and looking at these masters, we can say with confidence that new victories and records await us. And one more thing: their perseverance is worth learning from for anyone who sets serious goals for themselves in sport or any other field.