Lindsay Hofford

How science and technology are making ice hockey look different

Published on : 01-02-2023
It's time to start looking at how science and technology are changing ice hockey. Hockey is an exhilarating sport, and technology is helping to make it even more exciting in several ways. For example, sensors and carbon composite sticks are helping to make the game safer, and rinks are being built to handle the rough play of professional hockey.
Hockey sticks were made of wood until about ten years ago. Most of the time, those sticks of wood would break or crack. Players would keep extra posts on the bench because of this. Manufacturers made composite bats in the end.
A hockey stick made of carbon fiber is called a "composite stick." It weighs less and bends better. These hockey sticks are also more robust and last longer than the ones before them.
In the process of making something, the materials are pressed together and heated in a mold. Carbon fibers can handle heat well, and fiberglass makes things more robust. They can be mixed with other materials like Aramid, a thermoplastic that helps protect the stick from wear and tear.
Even though carbon composite sticks are relatively new, they have already started to change the sport. Some goalies have already started using them, like Sergei Bobrovsky. This season, 24 goalies in the NHL changed to composites.
Thanks to sensors, ice hockey is about to enter a new era. With this technology, coaches and athletes can get more stats and information. It will also help the right people make the right decisions.
The NHL uses wearable technology to make players safer and improve their training. They are putting sensors in pucks, helmets, and skates to measure how players move on the ice and how their bodies work.
Infrared cameras also keep track of the players, pucks, and jerseys. You can change these cameras so that they can find movement and measure distance.
A new hockey goal is being made that uses technology to determine how fast and where a puck or disc is going. This intelligent goal can be changed to work differently and uses different sensors to figure out the phase.
The Shockbox is a helmet sensor that sends the number of hits to a smartphone. It is another piece of technology that is new and useful. This technology can be used without getting in the way, and teams can run it.
It takes work to make a rink that can handle the roughness of professional hockey. There are a lot of things to remember. You will need to be ready for the job, from the proper lighting to the right amount of snow.
The best way to do this is to use water repeatedly. This saves more than a million gallons of water every year. In the long run, it also saves money.
Making a rink for professional hockey is one of the most impressive engineering feats. If you use water, transparent layers, and suitable materials, you can make a rink that is good for the sport. Most professional hockey arenas are also used by basketball teams, which is a good thing.
The NHL uses rinks that are 85 feet wide and 200 feet long. It is four centimeters thick. It has a layer of clear water on top that is one inch thick.
The National Ice Hockey Association says that over 20,000 people get hurt in the United States yearly because of impacts. Some of these are dislocations of the kneecap, tears in the meniscus, and tears in the PCL or LCL.
Several studies have examined how often US adult ice hockey players get hurt. Some of the studies have been about head injuries. In hockey, concussions, and severe brain injuries, happen often. Most of the time, they occur when a player falls and hits his head on a hard surface. To avoid a concussion, you must wear a helmet that fits well.
In another study, a group of NHL enforcers was examined to see how often they got concussions. They said that 15% of their injuries were caused by being hit in the head. Trauma can cause headaches, light sensitivity, sickness, and throwing up.
The study also found a significant rise in impact-related injuries in men between the ages of 26 and 35. Statistically, the increase was not as substantial as in younger age groups.

Market Development for Ice Hockey Gloves 2022-2029

Published on : 12-07-2022

The Ice Hockey Gloves Market is expected to increase by 7.9% CAGR from US$2.17 billion in 2012 to US$2.84 billion in 2022. The rise in hockey players and the demand for ice hockey equipment explains this.

The Jetspeed FT4 hockey gloves from CCM's newest collection offer all the benefits of the previous generation in a lighter, more comfortable design. The Pro-Clarino palm and Pro-Flex thumb offer a superior grip for improved control, while the redesigned back roll design allows for improved mobility. These gloves also have a laminated PU cushion foam lining for maximum comfort. The pre-angled cuff allows for better wrist movement. They also have a Hygiene treatment to keep the gloves fresh and odor-free.

Additionally, these gloves have two-piece Pro-Flex thumbs for outstanding grip. For a seamless transition from palm to cuff, the Pro-ClarinoClarino palm is additionally reinforced. The Hygiene treatment inhibits the growth of bacteria and odor-causing odors, while the laminated PU cushion foam offers a comfortable, airy feel.

The Warrior Alpha LX Pro ice hockey glove, created with the player in mind, has some improvements, including a new breathable liner, a dual-finger, a two-piece thumb, and an anatomical fit. Thanks to these upgrades, any player will benefit from a better fit, feel, and protection. Other noteworthy additions to the Warrior Alpha LX include the Pro-Palm, a premium VN, and HD IXPE foam, providing players with the highest stick control. Additionally, this glove has an embossed grip, a gray digital base, and a strong construction.

The WarTech FNC lining is only one of the innovative new features in the Warrior Alpha LX Pro ice glove. This liner, created from a substance called Polygiene, keeps the hand dry while preventing odor-causing bacteria. The Pro-Cuff, another characteristic of this glove, is a modest but effective device meant to increase the player's range of motion while shielding his wrists from dangerous slashes.

Additionally, the Vapor 2X features a full-overlay backhand. A molded Shocklite plate on the backhand increases impact protection by 25%. Additionally, the glove has a tough, Connekt palm material that increases its lifespan in high-wear areas. It also has a cable mesh wrap in the pro fashion. Additionally, it has a modern tapered cuff style that is lightweight and great for handling pucks. A significant addition to the Vapor 2X glove is its HYPERSENSE comfort liner. It's also important to note that the 24-mm EPP foam design is a feature of the authentic X-core hockey glove.

The ultrasonic ice hockey gloves market is anticipated to grow at a CAGR of% between 2021 and 2028. By the end of 2028, the market will be worth USD million. The market has been segmented according to the product name, type, and Region. The research analyzes important players, growth potential, obstacles, and future development prospects. The research also thoroughly analyzes the main product and development trends. Businesspeople, investors, manufacturers, and other stakeholders will gain from the paper.

The competitive landscape of the market for ice hockey gloves worldwide is thoroughly examined in the study. It aids readers in making knowledgeable business decisions by assisting them in understanding market competitiveness.

You can create your company plan by solidly understanding the competitive environment of the ice hockey gloves market growth from 2022-2029. Additionally, it will assist you in identifying each market participant's product line and category. The study identifies the top products and services and focuses on important market categories. In addition, it provides thorough market analysis and covers important industry developments. To offer insights into the developments in the global market, the study also focuses on end users.

Many individuals enjoy the sport of ice hockey. Ice skates, safety clothing, hockey sticks, and other equipment are necessary. Additionally, some tournaments are held annually to boost the sport's popularity. Kids that participate in these competitions grow to love the sport.

5 Major Issues With Youth Sports in the United States

Published On: 11/18/2022


Having participated in various sports as a player and a coach, I've discovered five key issues with young sports in the United States. Among the issues is a lack of access to sports, a high-pressure environment, and a lack of character development.

Throughout their essay, Arinze and McGarry emphasize the role of social work in youth sports and issue a call to action to use sports platforms to address young people's social-emotional needs. The authors, in particular, propose innovative research methodologies, advocate for new measurement tools, and emphasize the importance of youth sports as an evidence-based intervention for socially vulnerable kids.

The use of a social work lens is one novel method to study. This method enables social workers to uncover evidence-based strategies that strengthen sports as a setting for belonging and learning and comprehend the intersection of structural elements that influence sports participation. It also allows youth to use sports to improve their lives, increase social equity, and seek justice from oppressive institutions.

A mixed methodologies approach is another research strategy. This method gives information about program implementation, staff training experiences, and the possible influence on club members.

Several studies have been undertaken in the United States to examine the extrinsic influences on youth sports. These elements, according to studies, influence child athletes' motivation to participate in sports. It is also crucial to recognize that not all athletes are intrinsically motivated. To optimum performance, a good balance of both is required.

Extrinsic motivation is based on incentives and punishments from outside sources. This motivation can be present in both professional and amateur athletes. It is vital to note, however, that it is not sustainable. Athletes motivated by extrinsic factors are more likely to become discouraged if their expectations are not met. Using extrinsic motivation to drive athletes may also harm their self-esteem.

The primary purpose of this study was to assess the numerous elements influencing the involvement motives of youth football players. Researchers polled 223 youth football athletes (YFAs) from ten New York City high schools. The study's breadth may have been constrained due to the tiny sample size. However, it supplied researchers with a wealth of information about health-related behaviours.

Despite the benefits of sports, players are frequently under pressure to perform at a high level. Athletes face pressure to succeed, whether from their parents, coaches, or other athletes.

Athletes confront internal and external expectations to perform, whether participating in a game, competition, or practice. When these pressures are not managed, athletes may feel like failures.

External pressures for certain athletes may include parents or coaches focusing on winning rather than performing their best. Others may have to deal with various internal stressors, such as injuries, overuse, or burnout. Parents can play an essential role in mitigating the detrimental effects of pressure on athletes in these situations.

According to one study, reducing the number of stressors that athletes confront is the greatest method to reduce stress. This can be accomplished by providing a safe sports atmosphere. Creating an environment free of harassment and prejudice can also help athletes cope with stress.

Sports have historically been heavily ingrained in the young culture. They have provided a foundation for self-esteem, personal responsibility, and emotional well-being. However, youth sports participation is falling. This drop is especially noticeable in minority communities. A lack of possibilities, higher prices, and time obligations contribute to the downturn.

The US made an effort to strengthen its youth sports system. The National Youth Sports Strategy was unveiled (NYSS). The plan outlines a common vision, action items, and possibilities. It advocates for various approaches to engaging youth, including a more professional approach.

Aside from the national approach, several local community sports organizations cooperate with national sports organizations to effect systemic change. These organizations are identifying strategies to ensure the viability of youth sports and providing youth with the resources they need to participate in sports.

The youth sports system in the United States is transitioning to a professional, hierarchical paradigm. It is becoming profit-driven, in addition to focusing on performance-related results. Tax benefits and investments fund the sports business.

NHL Week 24 Free Agent Picks

Published On: 10/19/2022

Fantasy hockey gamers are paying increased attention to one of the NHL's most undervalued players. Although he may not be the most obvious choice for your lineup, he is a very reliable contributor. In any league requiring a scoring threat, he is a top-ten selection.

William Karlsson is a talented player who can't go wrong. The veteran is still contributing to the scoring line and is a potential buy-low candidate. Vasili Podkolzin, an immigrant from the KHL, is an alternate alternative. If you're low on wingers, his plus-minus is fantastic, and he's a good choice.

Jesse Puljujarvi, a defenceman, is another top player on the waiver wire. In leagues with deep defensive units, he is a solid pickup. However, he may be a miniature version of Tom Wilson in the first line. Currently, he's paving the way for Matthews and Marner, but if he can maintain that role, he'll have huge fantasy value.

Carl Soderberg, a forward for the Boston Bruins, is a noteworthy waiver-wire addition. He is a reliable supplier of shots and points and is available in roughly two-thirds of ESPN leagues. He has scored three goals in the last six games and has done effectively in the first half of the season. Additionally, he plays more power-play minutes than many owners think, so he should continue to receive more opportunities to score.

Late in March, the top 10 waiver wire picks for fantasy hockey contain a mix of players that may be ignored or released. Nevertheless, the majority of these athletes have higher ceilings than their contemporaries. In addition to Alex Iafallo, Matt Boldy is another excellent free agent to target. Similarly to Alex Iafallo, he has the potential to alter the direction of your team's season. In addition, he may potentially be a contender for the Calder Trophy.

If you need a defenseman, many guys are available on the waiver wire. The Blues' depth chart is strong, including Justin Faulk and Alex Iafallo. While their numbers haven't been spectacular this season, they are decent options for those who need extra blue-line depth. The two rookies are not known for their goal-scoring prowess, but both have solid potential as mid-tier players and can contribute to the defenseman and goal-scoring categories.

Jared McCann is an additional value pick. Last season, as the top forward prospect for the Colorado Avalanche, he played in the NCAA, AHL, and NHL. His skating ability and puckhandling make him a solid choice for late-season or early-season waiver wire additions.

Calgary's Flames: Mikael Backlund has been unimpressive in the past, but he has recently improved. Despite the absence of offense, the second-line center receives power-play time with the second unit. Typically, he takes two or three shots and hits a few. Despite his inconsistency, he is currently a serviceable bench player with a good schedule against Los Angeles, Arizona, and Edmonton.