Who's played hockey? Who hasn't?
by Chris meet Alex on Oct 13, 2009 2:43 PM EDT
138 comments
Lot of smart hockey people here... makes me curious, is this mostly a hockey playing (played) crowd, or just a collection of smart fans that has no correlation to organized hockey?
This is clearly not the case for other sports, say Football, where many of us love the game but have never played... does that translate to hockey or do the many factors that limit its exposure and popularity in the U.S. mean it's mostly those who have played that are the passionate fans?
If this FanPost is written by someone other than one of the blog's authors, the opinions expressed in it do not necessarily reflect those of this blog or SB Nation.
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I grew up in an area with no real nearby rinks, so while I’ve always been fascinated by the sport and wanted to learn how to play when I was younger, my parents weren’t willing to drive me an hour(+) each way to get me to the ice either. (I’m sure if i really wanted to they would have…just sayin the opportunities weren’t really there).
I’ve learned how to skate, and even had some of my college friends attempt to show me some of the basics, but I’ve never actually played hockey, no.
by PaintDrinkingPete on Oct 13, 2009 3:00 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Nope, never played. I do want to get into it, despite getting older.
Also you left out an option for Never played and not a smart hockey fan
:-)
by snowburnt on Oct 13, 2009 3:04 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
I recommend picking it up no matter what age. I’m trying to get a couple of my friends to start playing now.
If you're after gettin' the honey, then you don't go killin' all them bees.
by Fehr and Balanced on Oct 13, 2009 3:12 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
Rec’d that. I have never had more fun in any sport and lots of people I know are lovin having picked it up later in live.
My parents wouldn’t drive me to an organized rink as a kid either. Sucks.
God kills a kitten every time Sidney whines.
by Chris meet Alex on Oct 13, 2009 3:19 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Not shying away from it, I just some time to learn to skate and then learn to play. Time is my greatest nemesis at this point
by snowburnt on Oct 13, 2009 3:22 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I certainly understand that aspect. I’m just saying it’s well worth it. My dad started playing after my 3 brothers and I played through our youth. He’s no good but he loves playing and that’s all that matters.
If you're after gettin' the honey, then you don't go killin' all them bees.
by Fehr and Balanced on Oct 13, 2009 3:27 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah, my dad used to teach an adult novice program at Piney Orchard. Not sure if anybody is still running those, but it might be worth a look for those that are interested.
Maybe play with an edge, be a little more physical -- maybe be more of a prick out there.
by jordanDC on Oct 13, 2009 3:42 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
They have a novice league at Fairfax that is a practice followed by a game, coaches, the whole nine yards. It would be a good spot to start if its within your beltway reach.
by Sct112 on Oct 13, 2009 9:49 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I recommend picking it up no matter what age.
I’m going to try to, personally. Now that there’s a Kettler about 20 min. from my house, I’m trying to skate regularly and acquire some basic skills. I didn’t learn to skate until I was in college (15 years ago), and never could do more than go forward without falling down. Now, my goal is to get good enough that I can play in a rec league.
Which means, as you might guess, I never played any hockey more organized than street hockey on the school tennis courts.
"Camaraderie, that's what the Washington Capitals are all about."
by CapitalCentre on Oct 13, 2009 6:17 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Had a game last night, been playing since age 5 (though there was a looong gap in there where I didn’t live anywhere near a rink and so didn’t play).
Maybe play with an edge, be a little more physical -- maybe be more of a prick out there.
by jordanDC on Oct 13, 2009 3:18 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Never played, I just fell for hockey as a spectator. And then I went to a tiny college where the only thing to do all winter was trek down to the rink and watch our craptacular team do their best to not give up 20 goals a game. (perhaps you’ve heard of us. Our goalie once made 95 saves in a single game. And still lost.)
Anyways…..I just love hockey. Never played, probably never will.
by RedBirdie on Oct 13, 2009 3:18 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
There’s always time for the little birds.
If you're after gettin' the honey, then you don't go killin' all them bees.
by Fehr and Balanced on Oct 13, 2009 3:29 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
ha! no little birds for us! I might give skating a try after I get my knee re-done and go from there. But I’ve never played a team or contact sport in my life!
by RedBirdie on Oct 13, 2009 3:30 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Well at this point the level of hockey you’d be allowed to play is going to be no contact so you don’t have to worry about getting drilled. You did gymnastics so I imagine you can take a fall.
If you're after gettin' the honey, then you don't go killin' all them bees.
by Fehr and Balanced on Oct 13, 2009 3:39 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
One of the great things about hockey is how low-impact it is on your joints, particularly your knees… far better than running sports. Most of my teammates who’ve hurt their ankles and knees have done so playing softball.
God kills a kitten every time Sidney whines.
by Chris meet Alex on Oct 13, 2009 3:42 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Just gotta be careful not to jack up your groin.
Maybe play with an edge, be a little more physical -- maybe be more of a prick out there.
by jordanDC on Oct 13, 2009 3:42 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
My back is what kills me.
If you're after gettin' the honey, then you don't go killin' all them bees.
by Fehr and Balanced on Oct 13, 2009 3:46 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Gotta strengthen those core muscles! Or something, I don’t know what the fuck I’m talking about.
Maybe play with an edge, be a little more physical -- maybe be more of a prick out there.
by jordanDC on Oct 13, 2009 3:54 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Squatting saved my back, knees, and hips. I was getting to the point that I could barely walk after tournaments and that saved me.
One guy just drove his semi as a float. I guess semis are cool.
by zephyr on Oct 13, 2009 3:58 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
As in doing squats? I don’t know if I’ve got it in me anymore. Can’t really afford to give up 3 days of walking.
If you're after gettin' the honey, then you don't go killin' all them bees.
by Fehr and Balanced on Oct 13, 2009 4:02 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I’ve always had pretty strong legs because I’m just a big dude. Cardiovascular conditioning is what drags me down.
Maybe play with an edge, be a little more physical -- maybe be more of a prick out there.
by jordanDC on Oct 13, 2009 4:06 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Have you tried HIIT? It’s the only cardio I can do that I find remotely interesting.
by David M. Getz on Oct 13, 2009 4:23 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Seconding that. It mimics player like shift times very well…probably more applicable to hockey than any other sport.
One guy just drove his semi as a float. I guess semis are cool.
by zephyr on Oct 13, 2009 4:25 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I will look into this some more and give it a whirl. It’s really lack of time more than anything that keeps me from hitting the treadmill and stuff. Thanks, bro.
Maybe play with an edge, be a little more physical -- maybe be more of a prick out there.
by jordanDC on Oct 13, 2009 4:29 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Thirding this – I broke my ankle over the summer and I can’t run yet, but HIIT-type exercises on a high resistance bike or stair-climber is waaaaaaaaay better than slow and steady.
The other thing I’ve been doing is complexes. Do those right and you’ll be drenched and just about seeing spots in 10 minutes.
by Knee high to a duck on Oct 13, 2009 5:16 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Googling complexes comes up with a lot of generic stuff, got a specific link?
God kills a kitten every time Sidney whines.
by Chris meet Alex on Oct 13, 2009 5:23 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
A complex is group of exercises done without letting the weight hit the floor and no rest period between movements. For example, I’ve been doing:
6x Deadlift into
6x Romanian Deadlift into
6x Bentover Row into
6x Power Clean into
6x Front Squat into
6x Shoulder Press into
6x Back Squat into
6x Goodmornings.
Add a 60 second rest period and repeat 3 times. I’m using 85lbs to do this right now, an O-bar with a pair of tens on each side.
I saw a guy at the gym doing this, asked him what it was about and he told it was for boosting metabolism and increasing anaerobic endurance, as well as getting a pretty decent fat-burn.
Nick Tuminello has a pretty good complex with a plate, let me see if I can dig it up.
by Knee high to a duck on Oct 13, 2009 5:51 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
By the way, no shame in not making it all the way through 4 sets the first time or starting with a lighter weight. These are brutal.
by Knee high to a duck on Oct 13, 2009 5:53 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Just do ass to floor squats once a week or something with a manageable weight. You don’t need to be doing max lifts. That might make you sore the first few times but after that you’ll just feel a lot stronger.
Make sure you are doing real free squats too, not on a smith machine, if possible.
One guy just drove his semi as a float. I guess semis are cool.
by zephyr on Oct 13, 2009 4:18 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Make sure you are doing real free squats too, not on a smith machine, if possible.
Yes. Fuck Smith machines. For real.
by David M. Getz on Oct 13, 2009 4:24 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
I heart Smith machines, but not for squats.
by bigmac1124 on Oct 13, 2009 4:25 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Do you like them for doing chin-ups or something? They are probably one of the worst pieces of equipment in any modern gym.
They rob people of stabilizing muscles and you always have that 175lb guy with 500lbs racked doing a 1ft squat convinced he’s doing an Olympic lift.
They also stress the muscles and ligaments that they actually do work in an unnatural way by forcing every exercise to be done on a forced plane.
One guy just drove his semi as a float. I guess semis are cool.
by zephyr on Oct 13, 2009 4:29 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I like them for shrugs and decline. I don’t think they’re bad for shoulder presses either. They add variety. IMO they just add more variety which is the key to avoiding stagnation.
by bigmac1124 on Oct 13, 2009 4:31 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
My bad, they aren’t bad for calf raises either.
by bigmac1124 on Oct 13, 2009 4:33 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Squats are by far the most commonly avoidable exercises and it easily is the best for your body as it works everything below your pecs at once.
Another tip… for a big top half and big arms… work your back and triceps not chest and bi’s.
by MetalCap on Oct 13, 2009 6:46 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Can I just put my books in my backpack and do it?
If you're after gettin' the honey, then you don't go killin' all them bees.
by Fehr and Balanced on Oct 13, 2009 4:33 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
That’s going to be really awkward. You’ll probably want to hang to back pack in front to help with balance since it won’t be resting on your shoulders like it would with a bar. It’s going to be a lot more stressful on you and your weight will be pretty limited. You’d probably be better off doing 100 bodyweight squats with a broom and really focusing on form.
One guy just drove his semi as a float. I guess semis are cool.
by zephyr on Oct 13, 2009 4:57 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Crossfit, baby. I’ve gulped the kool-aid.
by Cluster on Oct 13, 2009 9:07 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Anything that even mentions burpees must be evil.
If you're after gettin' the honey, then you don't go killin' all them bees.
by Fehr and Balanced on Oct 14, 2009 1:19 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
My issue is flexibility, or maybe bodyshape. I can’t go all the way ass-to-floor in a free squat. Hacksquats yes, free squats no.
Any lifting program is going to make you sore for the first 3 or 4 times you do it, but then it gets much less bad if you do it with any kind of regularity. I don’t even get sore anymore unless I’m adding a new movement to my workout.
by Knee high to a duck on Oct 13, 2009 5:18 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
squatting huh… like F&B my back bugs me after games, mostly because I have a lousy skating posture (never properly taught, I know a powerskating class would probably do me good). One thing that surprised me what that my back “ache” was really just tightness and that stetching wasn’t the solution but actually loosening up in the morning was the real trick.
God kills a kitten every time Sidney whines.
by Chris meet Alex on Oct 13, 2009 4:10 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Explain. What do you mean? I’ve been stretching the hell out of myself and I’m more flexible now than I’ve been since High School but my lower back is still always sore for a couple days after I skate (meaning basically all week because I play twice a week).
If you're after gettin' the honey, then you don't go killin' all them bees.
by Fehr and Balanced on Oct 13, 2009 4:18 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
That’s exactly where I was, I was flexible from yoga and still with back “aches” in the morning. I just started to do some light exercise where I move my lower back relatively freely and through several directions. I do the touch toes/ reach for sky with my hands on my waist for better support, then sit down on my knees and slowly rotate my upper body around my waist side to side (go a little quicker when I start to relax and loosen up), lie on my back and with 3lb hand weights alternately reach across my body to warm up my obliques, etc. Little back rotations and bends that warm up my back the next morning much better than stretching was.
God kills a kitten every time Sidney whines.
by Chris meet Alex on Oct 13, 2009 4:40 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
You guys might just need to work on strengthening your back muscles. The same stuff was happening to me when I started playing again a few years ago, and it just went away the more that I played and skated and developed those muscles. I’m sure there’s probably some off-ice stuff you could do for it, but I’ve never been much for off-ice exercise and training. haha
Maybe play with an edge, be a little more physical -- maybe be more of a prick out there.
by jordanDC on Oct 13, 2009 4:43 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I used to have a lot of back pain. They’re goofy but Superman Exercises fixed it up pretty good.
by David M. Getz on Oct 13, 2009 4:55 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
big fan on the superman & banana combo flip thing.
by ns on Oct 14, 2009 10:15 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I found that too. Squats use the same muscle skating does. Makes those longs shifts a bit easier.
by hockeyman33 on Oct 14, 2009 8:36 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Sans goalie.
One guy just drove his semi as a float. I guess semis are cool.
by zephyr on Oct 13, 2009 3:54 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
For real. Years of playing in goal is destroying my knees. I don’t even want to think about what they will be like when I get older.
Of all our iniquities ignorance may be the worst
by Killer_Carlson on Oct 13, 2009 4:22 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Started skating at 4, playing hockey at 5. Massachussetts and Connecticut teams through HS. We won a lot, so I must be good, right? Division I freshman hockey, even in the lowly ECAC, disabused me of that notion.
Course, I’m an excellent fan….
by redlineblue on Oct 13, 2009 3:48 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
When did you graduate? Were you there with Vesce?
If you're after gettin' the honey, then you don't go killin' all them bees.
by Fehr and Balanced on Oct 13, 2009 6:00 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
‘89—Nieuwendyk graduated from the visitors’ bench my freshman year, after four years of torturing my bulldog.
by redlineblue on Oct 13, 2009 8:07 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
So you like Chris Higgins? You’re not all bad.
If you're after gettin' the honey, then you don't go killin' all them bees.
by Fehr and Balanced on Oct 13, 2009 8:39 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Liked him much better in a Habs uni, but sure. I saw all the considerable college hockey exploits of Bobby Brooke, who went on to a cup of coffee NYR/?late north stars?.
Nieuwendyk killed us as a soph or so, ECAC semi in Boston, 2OT. Bob Logan with the Tikkanen for the Elis, not that I’m bitter.
What rink hosts your alumni game?
by redlineblue on Oct 13, 2009 9:16 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Starr Rink. It was in Slapshot. Just like BB. So it’s awesome.
If you're after gettin' the honey, then you don't go killin' all them bees.
by Fehr and Balanced on Oct 14, 2009 1:15 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
higgins played my junior and senior years, and i was privileged to catch 4 or 5 of his games at the whale.
joe callahan and former hershey bear ryan steeves were drafted the same year as chris. the team never won the ECAC during higgins’ time, but i know they were a regular in the top 25 those years.
by Natty Bumppo on Oct 14, 2009 1:11 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah, to be honest I was shocked how freaking good he got. He left LI right at the start of HS and his game really took off. He came home bigger and way better (though he was definitely always good) and just blew everyone away.
If you're after gettin' the honey, then you don't go killin' all them bees.
by Fehr and Balanced on Oct 14, 2009 1:17 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Never been to Starr: any time I’m up that way it’s for Watkins Glen.
My folks had season tickets at Ingalls from 72-91. I recall three brother acts on the varsity: 2 Balzhisers, 2 Baseggios (one was drafted), and in between…some Carlsson brothers! Anders and Mats. No tinfoil, alas.
by redlineblue on Oct 14, 2009 9:25 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
15 years and counting. The youth hockey left me a little jaded though. Don’t mind playing a game once a week and drinking a few beers, but that’s about it.
by bigmac1124 on Oct 13, 2009 4:10 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
been playing since I was 5. Stopped playing during college since JMU doesn’t have a rink. Picked it back up a little after school, but want to start playing more often
by _stevo on Oct 13, 2009 4:27 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Yeah same here, technically I didn’t play during my college years, wasn’t worth it in my opinion.
by bigmac1124 on Oct 13, 2009 4:29 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I’m not being a smartass when I ask this:
We played street hockey in my cul-de-sac since I was 4. From ages 13-18 we played on rollerblades. Blind leading the blind. I tried to get into a pickup rollerhockey game once, but I hardly got into the game at all because everyone realized I had no real idea what I was doing. I’ve never played on ice.
How should I answer the poll?
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Oct 13, 2009 4:41 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
I would say that you didn’t play organized hockey, which is what the poll asks.
Nothing wrong with that, by the way. I just joined a team for the first time since I was 14 a few weeks ago. Played nothing but pickup and informal stick/puck time in the time between.
Maybe play with an edge, be a little more physical -- maybe be more of a prick out there.
by jordanDC on Oct 13, 2009 4:45 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah, you’re history is sorta between the poll options, and I was going for organized meaning a league of some sort whether that’s in youth or via a beer league like myself.
God kills a kitten every time Sidney whines.
by Chris meet Alex on Oct 13, 2009 4:48 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I wouldn’t have felt right voting yes. I do wish I’d learned team hockey at some point, but I was also a pretty late bloomer so I would have had my ass handed to me anytime until I was about 19.
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Oct 13, 2009 4:57 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Best part about “stick and shoot” times, all you need is gloves and a helmet (a stick would be helpful too) and you can learn on the ice with other people learning; all levels welcome. Since I started playing pickup roller hockey on the beach in Santa Monica, I’d be remiss if I didn’t say that was an option as well.
God kills a kitten every time Sidney whines.
by Chris meet Alex on Oct 13, 2009 5:03 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Full equipment at Kettler now, but I agree that stick and shoot is a great place to just pick one aspect of your game and work it out (provided it’s something you can do on your own).
Maybe play with an edge, be a little more physical -- maybe be more of a prick out there.
by jordanDC on Oct 14, 2009 8:31 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
You’re a hockey player! =]
One guy just drove his semi as a float. I guess semis are cool.
by zephyr on Oct 13, 2009 4:59 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
yeah, but its amazing how different each game of hockey is. Ice hockey is completely different than roller and street. Like a whole new sport.
by hockeyman33 on Oct 14, 2009 8:39 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I’d like to get back into playing, but I’m so out of shape. If I could get back into shape, I’d totally play again.
I'm so sick and tired of the refs explaining the calls like this is the NFL.
by Whiter Mage on Oct 13, 2009 4:48 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Get back into shape by playing. I shaved off an alarming amount of weight by playing pickup 4 times a week for a summer (granted, I had a lot of free time and a flexible work schedule).
Maybe play with an edge, be a little more physical -- maybe be more of a prick out there.
by jordanDC on Oct 13, 2009 4:51 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Financing’s a problem too, though. I don’t exactly have pads that fit anymore. But yeah, I’d love to do that if I could.
I'm so sick and tired of the refs explaining the calls like this is the NFL.
by Whiter Mage on Oct 13, 2009 4:54 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
http://www.hockeymonkey.com/clearance.html
Pretty good deals. Go get fitted in a store for skates, though.
Maybe play with an edge, be a little more physical -- maybe be more of a prick out there.
by jordanDC on Oct 13, 2009 4:57 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I’ve got a nice set of goalie skates. I’d want to play keeper again, to be quite honest. Skates were hard as HELL to find because I have 15 feet that are extremely wide. Maybe this gets me back into it.
I'm so sick and tired of the refs explaining the calls like this is the NFL.
by Whiter Mage on Oct 13, 2009 5:01 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I have 15 feet that are extremely wide.
Must suck having to buy 8 pairs of skates when you only need 7.5 pairs.
One guy just drove his semi as a float. I guess semis are cool.
by zephyr on Oct 13, 2009 5:08 PM EDT up reply actions 3 recs
lol. I meant size 15.
I'm so sick and tired of the refs explaining the calls like this is the NFL.
by Whiter Mage on Oct 13, 2009 5:22 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Just do it. I got my old equipment out of storage a few years ago and it sat in the closet for months before I started actually playing.. immediately I thought, “how the hell did I not do this for so long?”
Maybe play with an edge, be a little more physical -- maybe be more of a prick out there.
by jordanDC on Oct 14, 2009 8:32 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Mike’s in Waldorf does great work. Gotten all my ice stakes there, even if it only has been 2 pairs.
by hockeyman33 on Oct 14, 2009 8:40 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I can barely skate (not that I’ve tried much)
"Baseball is drama with an endless run and an ever-changing cast." - Joe Garagiola
Chowdah Chatter - an outlet for my random thoughts and such.
by crabchowdah on Oct 13, 2009 5:37 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
I’ve played organized hockey in high school and college but started too late to play any better than club. The work happened and I barely play 5 times a season. I’ll tell you what tho. Being all stressed, tired, exhausted and taking just two glides on a sheet of ice makes everything just melt away.
by MetalCap on Oct 13, 2009 6:51 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Started playing when I was 11, still playing (or will be again in January when I get the OK from the doc) in Laurel pretty much year round.
Because now I can justify browsing and commenting during the work day with the argument that I am promoting my business.
by Sombrero Guy on Oct 14, 2009 12:16 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
as much as i’d love to learn, i’ve come to realize that i pretty much massively suck at every sport (or game for that matter, i lost 6 straight games of air hockey at espn zone the other day, as well as wac-a-mole at six flags last night)… so i’m happy with watching :)
"No Brooks Laich, no win. Know Brooks Laich, know win."
by kellobellow on Oct 14, 2009 9:08 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
I always imagine what it would be like to have no skill at anything and be a really competitive person by nature. I guess there are some people that get through on things by just working really hard to make up for the difference but most people are pretty discouraged when they are semi-decent at something off that bat.
Sorry you lost at whack-a-mole =[
One guy just drove his semi as a float. I guess semis are cool.
by zephyr on Oct 14, 2009 9:34 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
when they aren’t
One guy just drove his semi as a float. I guess semis are cool.
by zephyr on Oct 14, 2009 9:34 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I always imagine what it would be like to have no skill at anything and be a really competitive person by nature.
It sucks, but you keep plugging away and you eventually outwork your competition. It allows you to be successful up to a point, like lower college athletics. In mid-to0high D-I and beyond, there’s a winnowing for a kind of physical genius and control that most people simply don’t have.
I had no talent for wrestling, I went 0-10 my first year out on the JV team, worked hard all summer and fall and went to states my junior year. I got a little bit of recruiting attention from D-II, D-III schools and could have walked on to a D-I program with no chance of ever starting, but that’s as far as I could have ever gone. Without a certain level of reflex and an ability to make full-speed adjustments in inches in tenths of a second, you can’t really go any further.
It’s very satisfying to beat more talented people by virtue of outworking or outsmarting them. It’s also horrendously frustrating when those same talented competitors don’t work to max their potential.
by Knee high to a duck on Oct 14, 2009 3:04 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
haha but at least losing whack-a-mole meant i got a stuffed lizard!
and the good news is – i’m not competitive at all, at least for things that i’m directly involved in. i guess it comes with the territory :)
"No Brooks Laich, no win. Know Brooks Laich, know win."
by kellobellow on Oct 15, 2009 12:19 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
High School in NY
I played back in high school in NY for a school club team. I wasn’t too good, but we all made the team because we had only 16-17 guys every year.
In college I tried out for the club team there (again no varsity) and didn’t make the team as freshman. By my sophomore year, I didn’t have time and was chest deep in books, tests, lab work, etc…
Let's go Caps!
by MikeL-Caps on Oct 14, 2009 9:18 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
From the LoHud in New York, moved to Fairfax County. Started playing inline in high school, played for the GMU team. Played ice for a while in house league, currently back to inline, just prefer the league and the people to the ice league. So, at this point I’ve basically got about 10 years experience under my belt.
I don’t work out at all.. which is awful, but I simply don’t have the free time to go anywhere and I don’t have any equipment at home.
Winterion Game Studios
Visit us online at : http://winterion.com
by winterion on Oct 14, 2009 12:28 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
What happened to the ’Rink pick up game?
One guy just drove his semi as a float. I guess semis are cool.
by zephyr on Oct 14, 2009 12:31 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
I’ve been thinking the same thing.
If you're after gettin' the honey, then you don't go killin' all them bees.
by Fehr and Balanced on Oct 14, 2009 12:34 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I didn’t think that many people played since we had like maybe 10 people and 3 goalies speak up.
Maybe everyone is scared. =]
One guy just drove his semi as a float. I guess semis are cool.
by zephyr on Oct 14, 2009 12:53 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
You should all be afraid! Just kidding.
I think the main problem is probably that Kerry Frasier’s Hairspray is busy with work or some other bullshit. He hasn’t been around much lately and the last I remember hearing from him he mentioned something about being swamped.
If you're after gettin' the honey, then you don't go killin' all them bees.
by Fehr and Balanced on Oct 14, 2009 1:05 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah, scheduled day/time is an issue for me, but I’ll find a way to get out there and play.
Winterion Game Studios
Visit us online at : http://winterion.com
by winterion on Oct 14, 2009 1:42 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
With 45 votes (and rising) of those who actively play, you would think a pickup should be pretty easy to get rollin, provided its convenient and everyone’s okay with the likely wide range of talent (like those of us who’ve picked up the game in our 20’s).
I’m guessing Kettler would be the most convenient for the most number of people?
God kills a kitten every time Sidney whines.
by Chris meet Alex on Oct 15, 2009 1:01 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
For real, we have enough people to start a league.
I don’t think any one place is most convenient for everyone though. I bet some people that voted aren’t even in the DC area =]
One guy just drove his semi as a float. I guess semis are cool.
by zephyr on Oct 15, 2009 1:20 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I’d love to play. Can we make a fanpost or something to organize?
If it’s at Kettler, we’ll have to all show up early and wait in line to sign in.. otherwise half of us wouldn’t get to play probably.
The other way to go is ice rental somewhere.. probably like $300. Not too bad if you split it like 15 ways.
Maybe play with an edge, be a little more physical -- maybe be more of a prick out there.
by jordanDC on Oct 15, 2009 2:27 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Doing a Kettler pick up is a bad idea. They oversell those things as is and if we bring a big group it will be nightmare. We should rent ice. We tried a fan post about it a while back but the organizer has gone missing.
If you're after gettin' the honey, then you don't go killin' all them bees.
by Fehr and Balanced on Oct 15, 2009 3:03 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
You seem like an organized guy. Take over!
Mt. Vernon is probably cheaper ice to rent if we’re going that way. Not terribly farther away either.
Maybe play with an edge, be a little more physical -- maybe be more of a prick out there.
by jordanDC on Oct 15, 2009 3:14 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Hahaha. Organization is not my thing. I’m going away for the weekend but I’ll make some calls when I get back.
If you're after gettin' the honey, then you don't go killin' all them bees.
by Fehr and Balanced on Oct 15, 2009 4:16 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Looks like you’re back. Start callin’.
Maybe play with an edge, be a little more physical -- maybe be more of a prick out there.
by jordanDC on Oct 19, 2009 1:49 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Haha. No patience at all.
If you're after gettin' the honey, then you don't go killin' all them bees.
by Fehr and Balanced on Oct 19, 2009 1:58 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Good correction, I was actually meaning renting the ice when I was suggesting pickup for the reasons you state (i.e. a “private pickup”).
God kills a kitten every time Sidney whines.
by Chris meet Alex on Oct 16, 2009 12:32 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
We have a bunch (at least 2) of people dumb enough to play goalie right?
by Sct112 on Oct 16, 2009 12:42 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I’m sure we can manage that, and I can bring a couple goalies even if we can’t
God kills a kitten every time Sidney whines.
by Chris meet Alex on Oct 16, 2009 1:08 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Awesome. Playing with no goalies is pretty lame because the hustle level just plummets.
Maybe play with an edge, be a little more physical -- maybe be more of a prick out there.
by jordanDC on Oct 16, 2009 2:48 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
We have a few, one of them being me.
One guy just drove his semi as a float. I guess semis are cool.
by zephyr on Oct 16, 2009 4:23 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah, F&B is supposed to organize it already. Mustachioed slacker.
Maybe play with an edge, be a little more physical -- maybe be more of a prick out there.
by jordanDC on Oct 22, 2009 1:49 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Hey now. I wasn’t the original guy in charge. I’m taking the baton from the original slacker and doing my very slackiest to uphold the tradition.
If consequences dictate the course of action, then it doesn't matter what's right, it's only wrong if you get caught. If consequences dictate the course of action, then I should play God...
by Fehr and Balanced on Oct 22, 2009 3:07 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Wheaton Blue Devils
From 1975 or so to 1986. Jeff Halpern was age group down from me but I think we scrimmaged a couple of times.
Your favorite meme is dead
by Edanger6 on Oct 14, 2009 6:58 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
I’m still playing in a high school league. We’re pretty good, no thanks to me.
by hockeyman33 on Oct 14, 2009 8:42 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Nope, never. I’m just a smart (ass) hockey fan.
by TFG on Oct 15, 2009 1:46 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Oh, and to answer the question, I never played Hockey.
by Knee high to a duck on Oct 15, 2009 6:35 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
I'll play forever
If you live in wintery mountain climes as I do, it’s a near must to skate and/or ski, and I’m fortunate to have both a willing crew and a 3/4 acre lagoon that freezes solid every December—March to shinny on. There’s nothing better than a sheet of frozen pond smoothed out by sunshine.
from the house that Red Jesus built
by bigonetimer on Oct 17, 2009 10:09 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Yeah, I miss a great frozen pond to skate on…
God kills a kitten every time Sidney whines.
by Chris meet Alex on Oct 19, 2009 1:22 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I’ve never been able to play real pond hockey. I’d love to some day.
One guy just drove his semi as a float. I guess semis are cool.
by zephyr on Oct 19, 2009 2:25 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Warning
It fucks your skates up. If you ever skate on a pond you need to sharpen your skates before skating on an ice rink.
If you're after gettin' the honey, then you don't go killin' all them bees.
by Fehr and Balanced on Oct 19, 2009 11:51 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
true… the nostalgia is hell on your edges. Good thing the closest I’ve come to skating on a pond round here is when I skated on the 1" thick layer of ice over the snow in my front yard two winters back…
God kills a kitten every time Sidney whines.
by Chris meet Alex on Oct 19, 2009 4:25 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I grew up in Washington State playing hockey in the neighborhood and at school. Unfortunately it was too expensive at the time for my family to afford rec league. We moved to Annapolis after i finished 8th grade and the high school didn’t have a team until the year after i graduated so screwed once again! Playing in a great adult league in Laurel now for 3 teams.
And i must say.. being a player who understands how the game is played, it is rather annoying going to the Phone Booth and listening to other “fans” be so negative towards our caps. Sure they may not always play perfect hockey, but if you know how to coach/play better…. why are you in the seats and not on the ice?
Sorry for the Rant. Had to get that off my chest..
by highslot84 on Oct 20, 2009 1:27 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
You mean you don’t start yelling at Ovie to shoot the puck 12 seconds into a power play?
Maybe play with an edge, be a little more physical -- maybe be more of a prick out there.
by jordanDC on Oct 20, 2009 2:36 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
That’s the first thing I thought of too.
by David M. Getz on Oct 20, 2009 5:20 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Also, somebody doesn’t jump 20 feet in the air to keep in a puck at the blue line:
“What the fuck are you doing, Green! Keep it in!” Have another beer, jerkface.
Maybe play with an edge, be a little more physical -- maybe be more of a prick out there.
by jordanDC on Oct 20, 2009 7:36 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
Obviously you don’t just jump. You jump and swat your stick at the puck. That way if you manage to somehow knock it down you get a whistle so more PP time doesn’t run off while you chase the puck.
If consequences dictate the course of action, then it doesn't matter what's right, it's only wrong if you get caught. If consequences dictate the course of action, then I should play God...
by Fehr and Balanced on Oct 20, 2009 7:48 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Ohhh.
Maybe play with an edge, be a little more physical -- maybe be more of a prick out there.
by jordanDC on Oct 20, 2009 8:49 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Update
I have the rental rates for Rockville, Ashburn, Cabin John, Fairfax, Piney Orchard, Laurel, and Bowie.
Waiting on rates for KCI, Reston, Fort Dupont, and Mount Vernon.
I haven’t played at most of these places so if any of them are so terrible that they shouldn’t be considered let me know.
When I have all the rates I’ll Fanshot it so we can narrow it down to 2-3 rinks and start looking at availability.
If consequences dictate the course of action, then it doesn't matter what's right, it's only wrong if you get caught. If consequences dictate the course of action, then I should play God...
by Fehr and Balanced on Oct 22, 2009 4:04 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
As a suggestion…Wheaton and Wells in Greenbelt are outdoor rinks so rental rates are generally less. You may have to dress in layers however…
by panic13 on Oct 22, 2009 5:13 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I didn’t think outdoor rinks would be frozen yet so I didn’t bother calling.
If consequences dictate the course of action, then it doesn't matter what's right, it's only wrong if you get caught. If consequences dictate the course of action, then I should play God...
by Fehr and Balanced on Oct 22, 2009 6:23 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I’ve heard bad things about Cabin John and Fort Dupont. Both are pretty old rinks with questionable upkeep.
Look into Tucker Road. They have amazingly hard and fast ice, and I don’t think many teams play there, so they should have crazy good availability.
Maybe play with an edge, be a little more physical -- maybe be more of a prick out there.
by jordanDC on Oct 22, 2009 10:36 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Mt Vernon Rate
According to the web site, it’s 320 per hour or 290 if we can get somebody who lives in Fairfax County to handle the transaction. Not bad if we can get like 15-20 dudes.
Maybe play with an edge, be a little more physical -- maybe be more of a prick out there.
by jordanDC on Oct 22, 2009 10:50 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
For a pickup game if we want any pace we need at least 20. 15 leaves only 2.5 reserves per team. It’s going to get slow and sloppy quick.
If consequences dictate the course of action, then it doesn't matter what's right, it's only wrong if you get caught. If consequences dictate the course of action, then I should play God...
by Fehr and Balanced on Oct 22, 2009 11:39 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Agreed.
Which rink is the front runner in terms of price so far?
Maybe play with an edge, be a little more physical -- maybe be more of a prick out there.
by jordanDC on Oct 23, 2009 8:42 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Cabin John by a mile, then Bowie.
If consequences dictate the course of action, then it doesn't matter what's right, it's only wrong if you get caught. If consequences dictate the course of action, then I should play God...
by Fehr and Balanced on Oct 23, 2009 9:23 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I live in FFXCO.
Winterion Game Studios
Visit us online at : http://winterion.com
by winterion on Oct 23, 2009 3:32 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Uh oh, we’re off the sidebar.
Maybe play with an edge, be a little more physical -- maybe be more of a prick out there.
by jordanDC on Oct 23, 2009 1:47 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
I’m keeping an eye on suggestions here. I’ll put up another fanshot hopefully early next week.
If consequences dictate the course of action, then it doesn't matter what's right, it's only wrong if you get caught. If consequences dictate the course of action, then I should play God...
by Fehr and Balanced on Oct 23, 2009 4:54 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
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Southeast Standings
| GP | W | L | OTL | PT | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Washington
|
21 | 13 | 4 | 4 | 30 |
|
Tampa Bay
|
19 | 8 | 4 | 7 | 23 |
|
Atlanta
|
18 | 10 | 6 | 2 | 22 |
|
Florida
|
19 | 8 | 9 | 2 | 18 |
|
Carolina
|
21 | 4 | 12 | 5 | 13 |
(updated 11.20.2009 at 9:16 AM EST)
Certain photos copyright © 2009 by Associated Press or Getty Images. Any commercial use or distribution without the express written consent of Associated Press and Getty Images is strictly prohibited.
