WHAT TO EXPECT AT YOUR FIRST ICE HOCKEY GAME

LEEDS KNIGHTS: Your first ice hockey game, what to expect
Ice hockey is growing in popularity in the UK, and according to the Elite Ice Hockey League, it is one of the most-watched indoor sports in Britain. But if you’re just getting into the sport, what should you expect from your first game?

What to expect from your first ice hockey game
Let’s start with the basics. Only six players from each team can be on the ice at the same time. That consists of five skaters and a goalie. The aim of the game is for the skaters to try and get the puck and score a goal against the opposite team.

Players can be swapped as often as needed, and the puck is out of play if it goes over the glass. The referees help to keep order, with each game consisting of 3 x 20 minutes with a clock counting down.

As soon as the game starts you’ll realise that ice hockey is great fun to watch. The players are all brilliant skaters who zoom up and down at incredible speeds. However, you will be grateful for the perspex barrier separating you from the players; make sure you watch out for flying pucks!

The sport is family-friendly though you may encounter the occasional ice hockey brawl! Physical contact is allowed in ice hockey between players contesting the puck, and this includes rough contact.

You’ll want to wrap up warm – sitting beside the ice rink can make you cold, so be sure to bring your coat, scarf and gloves along!

Watch ice hockey in Leeds
If you want to watch ice hockey in Leeds, then book your ticket for the next Leeds Knights game. Also known as “The Knights”, we currently play in the National League or second tier (NIHL) of ice hockey in the UK, just below the Elite Ice Hockey League. We play our home games at the Planet Ice arena and a strong fan base that wear their Knights jersey with pride.

Our players usually wear Blue and Yellow!

Meet the players and get a fist-bump before each period, or visit the first-floor concourse after the game for the player signings! If you become a fan of the Knights you can even sponsor and support your favourite player over the season.