There’s nothing quite like beer league hockey.
Sure, it doesn’t entail the same kind of compete as more serious (and expensive) leagues, but it is an opportunity to kick it with your buds and not worry too much about the end result. With that in mind, there are a set of unwritten rules that one must follow if he/she hopes to thrive in both the dressing room and on the playing surface. Here are five that all hockey players should be aware of.
DON’T BE A TRY-HARD
This isn’t to say you shouldn’t give any effort, just don’t be that player who goes 110% in a meaningless games. Most players should keep their pace at about 80%, but feel free to crank it up a few notches come playoff time. You can expect a chirp or two your way otherwise.
DON’T CHIRP ANYONE FOR WEARING A CAGE
This one isn’t as much of an unwritten rule, but I’m including it with the hopes of gradually making it one. Listen, I’m looking to keep my jibs in my mouth and there’s nothing more annoying than being on the ice and listening to the low-blow comment “nice bird cage bud”. Relax, wearing a cage is a more-than-fine choice and a player shouldn’t be given a tough time for wearing one.
KEEP YOUR CLAPPERS LOW
There are those who wear a cage and then there’s the majority that doesn’t. Be mindful of them and keep your slap-shots down! There’s nothing worse than seeing a teammate hit the deck after taking a clapper right to the face, even if they were rocking a visor.
DON’T BE TOO EARLY
You likely grew accustomed to showing up a good hour and a half early when you were younger, but those days are over. Make sure you show up at the MOST 30 minutes before your game. Otherwise you might come across as that n00b who cares too much.
BRING THE BEVIES
You won’t have to supply them every game, but once in a while you’ve got to step up and bring the goods! It can be anything really, just make sure your teammates are hydrated after that hard skate.
If you’re a veteran beer league player, these five unwritten rules probably aren’t new to you. But if you’re looking to take it up for the first time this year, they’re definitely something you should keep in mind.
