Street Hockey – Play Anywhere, Anytime
Street hockey is just ice hockey without the ice. All you need is a flat surface, a few sticks, a ball or a puck, and a couple of friends. It’s perfect for parks, driveways, or schoolyards, and it lets you practice skills while having a blast. Below we’ll cover what you need to get started, the basic rules, and some drills to keep the game fresh.
Getting Started: Gear and Rules
The gear list is short. A lightweight stick (often a “street stick” made of composite or wood), a rubber ball or a street‑puck, and a pair of sturdy shoes are enough. Some players wear shin guards for extra safety, but they’re optional if you play on a smooth surface. A mouthguard is a good idea, especially for kids, because the ball can fly fast.
Rules are loose but follow the same ideas as ice hockey. Two teams line up on opposite ends of the play area. The goal is to get the ball into the opponent’s net or marked area. No offsides, and you can play with three to five players per side, depending on space. Keep the game moving—no checking, and only stick handling and passing are allowed. If the ball goes out of bounds, the team that didn’t touch it last gets a quick restart.
Skills, Drills, and Finding a Game
To improve quickly, work on three core skills: stick handling, shooting, and positioning. A simple drill is “cone weave”: set up a line of cones and practice dribbling the ball through them at speed. For shooting, line up a target on the wall or a small net and try to hit it from different angles. Positioning is about staying aware of teammates and opponents—play a quick “keep‑away” game to sharpen that sense.
Finding people to play is easier than you think. Post a short message on the club’s Facebook group or community board saying you’re looking for a street hockey session. Local schools often have after‑school groups that welcome newcomers. If you’re near a park, walk around during the evenings; you’ll often see informal games and can ask to join.
Remember safety: stay hydrated, wear eye protection if you’re using a hard ball, and check the playing surface for cracks or debris. A quick warm‑up—jogging in place, arm circles, and a few light sticks swings—reduces the risk of strains.
Street hockey is a low‑cost way to keep your hockey skills sharp while having fun with friends. Grab a stick, gather a few mates, and turn any flat area into a mini arena. The game is fast, social, and adaptable, so you’ll never run out of ways to play.
Got questions about equipment or want to organize a club‑wide street hockey night? Drop us a line at Lipson Lions Hockey Club. We love helping players of all ages find new ways to enjoy the sport.
