For any hockey fan, intermission is the perfect break time to grab a snack and catch your breath before diving back into the game. It’s an essential part of the hockey experience that offers some much-needed downtime for both players and fans.
But just how long is intermission in hockey? Well, the answer isn’t as straightforward as you might think. Depending on the level of play and the particular league or tournament rules, intermission can range anywhere from 10 minutes to 20 minutes or more.
In this blog post, we’re going to take a closer look at the duration of intermissions in various levels of hockey. We’ll explore why intermission is so important, what happens during it, and even offer some tips on how to make the most of your break time.
“Intermission is not only a chance to rest and recharge, but it’s also a key opportunity to analyze the first half of the game and strategize for the second.”
Whether you’re a seasoned hockey enthusiast or just getting into the sport, understanding the length of intermission is crucial to fully enjoying the game. So, let’s dive in and discover everything you need to know about the perfect break time in hockey.
Table of Contents
What is the standard length of intermission in hockey?
The basics of intermission in hockey
In hockey, intermissions are periods of time in between each period of gameplay where players have a break. Generally, there are two intermissions in a regular game – one after the first period and another after the second period.
During this time, both teams retreat to their respective locker rooms for rest and strategy planning. The ice may be resurfaced during this time as well, depending on the level of play.
Intermission length in different levels of hockey
The length of intermissions varies depending on the level of play. In the National Hockey League (NHL), intermissions last 18 minutes – ensuring that the three periods played within an hour-long television window.
In other leagues such as junior hockey or minor-league hockey, intermissions could range from 15-20 minutes. For recreational league games, the intermission could be only five to ten minutes long.
Importance of intermission in a hockey game
Intermission provides crucial downtime that allows players to refuel and rehydrate, make necessary adjustments, receive medical attention when needed, and get some real-time coaching. Refreshing the mind and body is important, especially when lacing up skates for high-intensity physical activity.
“The longer you go in-season without those mental breaks, the more fatigued your players will become. It’s also a good chance to review any problems with speciality situations.” – Scott Petersen, University of Manitoba head coach
Hockey equipment is bulky and heavy, and it can take players several minutes to suit up before a game. Intermission offers them an opportunity to remove all the gear and receive medical treatment or attention, if needed.
How players and coaches utilize intermission time
During intermissions, both head coaches strategize with their teams before play resumes. They discuss previous periods, give feedback to individual players, make necessary adjustments, and offer additional leadership roles beyond captains or assistant coaches.
To some extent coaching is like massage: nobody knows what you get in this half hour of seclusion but God himself.” – Anatoly Tarasov, former Soviet ice hockey coach
For a player, intermission serves as an opportunity to rest, rehydrate, refuel, and tend to injuries. Players also use this break to chat with each other about gameplay or devise strategies for how to carry out offensive or defensive plays more effectively when they return to the playing surface.
Intermissions are a vital part of any game of hockey, no matter how big or small. The standard length of intermission varies amongst levels of competition, but every team uses the precious downtime to rest, recover, recalibrate and prepare for the next portion of intense physical activity.
How long is intermission in professional hockey games?
Intermission length in NHL games
The National Hockey League (NHL) has a standard intermission length of 18 minutes. This gives players time to rest, recover and receive medical attention if needed.
During the first half of this intermission, teams have only five minutes to leave the ice, while the zamboni machine cleans the rink. Once the machine finishes, the remaining 13 minutes are used for player break and preparation for the second period.
“The purpose of an intermission is not only about giving some respite to the men on the ice but also keeping fans engaged in the game with entertainment, contests, and other activities.” -Mark Messier, Former NHL Player
Intermission length in AHL games
The American Hockey League (AHL), which serves as the primary developmental league for the NHL, has slightly different rules regarding intermissions. The AHL intermission length is usually between 15-20 minutes, with most teams opting for 17 minutes, similar to the NHL. However, during the playoffs, the duration can be extended up to 25 minutes in total.
Similar to the NHL’s protocol, the first part of the intermission allows teams only five minutes to get off the ice while the ice-cleaning machine gets to work. The remaining time is made available for the players to take their break, discuss tactics with their coaches and make adjustments for the next period.
“Even though the timeout after two periods seems to last forever, it’s crucial to use that time wisely and ensure you’re fresh out there for the last twenty. It could come down to just one goal.” -Zach Parise, Forward Minnesota Wild
Intermission length in ECHL games
The East Coast Hockey League (ECHL) also has a diverse set of intermission lengths. In the regular season, all teams are mandated to have an intermission of at least 15 minutes, but it can be extended up to 22-25 minutes on special occasions and holidays.
The first part of the ECHL’s intermission is used to clear the ice of shavings left by the skates before returning with cleaning machines such as the zamboni. After this process, players get ten minutes to rest or strategize for the next period.
“An intermission serves two purposes- giving players time to recharge their batteries, and keeping fans engaged in the game through entertainment.” -Mike Modano, Former Dallas Star Player
Intermissions serve a vital role in professional hockey games, offering players a chance to recover from any injuries that may unfold during the harsh exchange of blows and brutal physical contests. It keeps fans energized and enthusiastic about the game while allowing them to take a break as well. As each league varies with its standard protocol, NHL teams utilize an 18-minute intermission strategy, AHL’s 17-minutes system matches closely, and the ECHL often extends to cater various needs or holidays.
What happens during intermission in a hockey game?
Zamboni maintenance of the ice surface
During the intermission, one of the most important tasks is the maintenance of the ice surface. The Zamboni machine comes out to resurface the ice so that any rough patches or grooves are smoothed out.
The process usually takes around 15-20 minutes and involves both cleaning and shaving off an extremely thin layer of ice from the rink. The machine scrapes up the topmost layer using a horizontal blade before spraying hot water on the rink and then quickly vacuuming away the excess moisture.
“People just don’t understand how important it is to have good quality ice.” -Roger Bailey
This ensures the highest level of play possible for the players and allows them to maintain their balance and speed while playing the sport.
Player and coach meetings in the locker room
Intermissions also provide the perfect time for teams to regroup and discuss tactics. Coaches utilize this time to address their team’s successes, identify areas for improvement, and make strategic decisions about playing formations.
Players may use this time to refuel with snacks or drink fluids, as well as review video footage of previous periods with coaches to converge strategies moving forward.
“The key factors that determine how long the meeting lasts will depend upon the engagement and interest of each player or group involved”. -Maurice Cheeks
Sometimes, medical staff may examine players who require attention for injuries sustained during the earlier period.
When it comes to intermission between periods of a hockey game, crucial activities occur that are equally important to the players and fans who enjoy watching the matches. They not only ensure high-quality ice and equipment maintenance standards but also provide the ideal opportunity for coaches to adjust their tactics, players regroup and refuel as well as medical staff taking care of those injured during play.
How does the length of intermission change in playoffs?
Intermission length in NHL playoffs
In the National Hockey League (NHL), the standard length of an intermission during regular season games is 17 minutes, while playoff games allow for a slightly longer break of 18-20 minutes. This extended time gives players a chance to rest their bodies and recover from any injuries sustained during the game. Traditionally, this additional time has been seen as crucial to the success of teams competing in high-stakes playoff matches.
Intermission length in AHL playoffs
The American Hockey League (AHL) is considered a developmental league for the NHL, with its rules and regulations often closely mirroring those of the parent organization. In AHL playoff games, intermissions typically last for 18 minutes, providing an opportunity for players and coaches to discuss strategies and make adjustments based on what they’ve seen on the ice so far.
Intermission length in ECHL playoffs
The East Coast Hockey League (ECHL) is a minor professional hockey league that serves as a feeder system for both the AHL and NHL. During ECHL playoff games, intermissions usually last between 15-18 minutes, which is shorter than both the AHL and NHL intermission times. However, like in all levels of professional hockey, these breaks remain an important period for players and coaches alike.
Impact of intermission on playoff strategy
The extra time provided by a playoff intermission can have a significant impact on the outcome of a game. Teams will use this time to not only regroup and rehydrate but also to strategize and adjust their playing style if necessary. Coaches may choose to give their players specific feedback or remind them of key fundamentals that they need to keep top of mind.
According to Randy Carlyle, former NHL coach and player, “intermission provides coaches with an opportunity to identify the opposition’s strategies much more clearly than during a game when you’re just reacting. The intermissions are vital in the playoffs because it gives the coaches an opportunity to reinforce what was good and change what wasn’t working.”
In some cases, players may even receive medical attention for injuries sustained on the ice before returning to play. This can involve icing down swollen limbs or receiving treatment for lacerations or other physical injuries.
“Intermission provides players with time to catch their breath and refocus. It allows them to reassess their progress during the game and make any necessary offensive or defensive adjustments.” -Ed Olczyk, NHL analyst
Given the importance of these intermissions, teams will often plan out their strategy well in advance of each playoff matchup. Coaches will take into consideration factors such as the opposing team’s strengths and weaknesses, recent performance, and any injury concerns, all while keeping a close eye on their own team’s fatigue level throughout the course of the game. With so much riding on every match during postseason play, it is no wonder that intermissions remain such a crucial aspect of hockey at every level.
- To conclude:
- Intermissions – a critical component during post-season games – provide a chance for much-needed rest and recovery for both teams and individuals alike.
- The longer intermissions provided by the NHL and AHL enable better strategizing and offer players additional time for getting patched up by staff.
- Coaches typically use this break time to analyze gameplay data, identify opponents’ playing styles, give feedback, and adjust gameplay tactics if necessary.
- Despite shorter intermission times in lower-level leagues such as the ECHL, these rest periods contribute significantly to players’ success on the ice.
- Overall, hockey strategy will continue to evolve across all levels of play, with each team taking full advantage of the opportunities provided during the playoffs to help secure their place at the top of the heap.
Are there any differences in intermission length between NHL and college hockey?
In ice hockey, the game is divided into three periods. Each period consists of 20 minutes of running time with a 15-minute intermission in-between. The length of an intermission can vary depending on the level of play, from youth leagues to professional ice hockey games.
Intermission length in NCAA Division I games
In NCAA Division I games, the intermissions are typically 15 minutes long. This time is used by players to hydrate themselves and for coaches to strategize their team for the upcoming period.
According to Ryan MacDonald, Assistant Director of Communications at Hockey East Association: “In terms of our men’s schedule here in Hockey East, we have always had 6 pm or 7 pm puck drops. We give the referees enough time to get changed (usually arriving around 5), so that gives us about a 35-40 minute pregame window.”
Intermission length in NCAA Division III games
The intermission lengths in NCAA Division III games are similar to those in Division I. According to the conduction rules stated by the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Rulebook, the intermissions must not exceed 17 minutes between each period of play.
Note that these NCAA competition times may differ for non-conference matches and conference tournaments where organizational rules take precedent. But in general, both Divisions are consistent; also, it eliminates controversy as far as one team having more time than another.
Intermission length in Canadian university games
Canadian University games follow similar intermission lengths to American NCAA organization but offer generally longer breaks. In Canada West and Ontario University Athletics (OUA), “they’ll stretch their legs and have a full 20-minute intermission,” says University of British Columbia Associate Director, Sports Facilities Operations Jon Wagner.
Jon also adds: “It’s more popular for our (Canada West) games to happen here in the evening. But due to scheduling conflicts with basketball teams or other varsity sports event, earlier games are possible too.”
“The longer break ensures that the players have time to get adequate rest to play at an optimal level at every period.” – Jon Wagner
The length of an intermission in hockey can vary depending on the level of play and specific rules set by organizations overseeing these events. However, regardless of the duration, the intermissions serve as a much-needed break for both athletes and coaches to re-strategize and hydrate themselves before going into another grueling period of play.
What are some fun things to do during intermission at a hockey game?
Visit the team store for merchandise
If you’re a die-hard fan of your favorite hockey team, visiting the team store during intermission can be an exciting experience. Many team stores offer official merchandise like jerseys, hats, and t-shirts that fans can proudly wear to show support for their team.
The team store also provides fans with access to exclusive items that aren’t available elsewhere. Some stores even have limited edition products that collectors can add to their collections.
Visiting the team store is also an excellent opportunity to meet other fans and bond over your shared love for your team. It’s not uncommon for people to make friends while browsing merchandise or waiting in line together.
Enjoy food and drinks from concession stands
One of the most popular activities during intermission is grabbing some food and drinks from one of the many concession stands scattered around the arena. From classic stadium foods like hot dogs and popcorn to beer and mixed drinks, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Besides satisfying your hunger and thirst, eating and drinking during intermission can lead to more interactions with fellow fans. Whether it’s complimenting someone on their choice of beverage or starting up a conversation about your favorite snacks, sharing these experiences can help strengthen bonds between fans and create unforgettable memories.
Participate in on-ice intermission games and competitions
If you want to get directly involved in the action, participating in on-ice intermission games and competitions can be a thrilling experience. These events usually involve volunteers from the crowd who compete against each other in fun challenges like “shoot for a prize” or human vs. machine skeeball.
Winners of these intermission games can receive anything from branded merchandise to free tickets for future games. Even if you don’t win, participating in the competition can be a great source of entertainment and a way to interact with other fans.
Intermission games are also popular among young fans who dream of one day playing hockey professionally. Seeing someone their own age out on the ice, skating around and having fun, can inspire them to keep pursuing their goals and working hard towards achieving their dreams.
The best part of attending a live hockey game is feeling like you’re part of a community of passionate fans.” – Mark Messier
Intermission at a hockey game provides plenty of opportunities for entertainment and socialization. Whether it’s browsing through merchandise, grabbing some food and drinks, or participating in on-ice competitions, there’s something for everyone to enjoy during this brief break in the action.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the standard length of intermission in hockey?
The standard length of intermission in hockey is 15 minutes. This gives players time to rest, recover, and hydrate before returning to the ice for the next period of play.
Is the length of intermission different in professional and amateur hockey?
No, the length of intermission is the same in both professional and amateur hockey. This ensures consistency and fairness in the game.
Are there any circumstances under which the length of intermission may be extended or shortened?
Yes, the length of intermission may be extended or shortened in certain circumstances, such as during televised games or if the ice needs to be repaired. However, any changes to the length of intermission must be agreed upon by both teams and the league.
What do players and coaches typically do during intermission?
During intermission, players and coaches typically review game footage, discuss strategy, and make adjustments to their game plan. They also hydrate, rest, and stretch to prepare for the next period of play.
How do referees and officials use intermission to prepare for the next period of play?
Referees and officials use intermission to review any rule changes or updates, discuss any issues that may have arisen during the game, and prepare for the next period of play. They also take a break to rest and hydrate.
What impact does intermission have on the overall flow and momentum of a hockey game?
Intermission can have both positive and negative impacts on the overall flow and momentum of a hockey game. It allows players to rest and recover, but it can also disrupt the rhythm of the game. Teams that use intermission effectively can gain an advantage over their opponents.