How Many Americans Play Hockey? Stick Around and Find Out!


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Ice hockey is a sport that has been played in North America for over a century. It’s widely known as Canada’s national pastime, but you might be surprised to learn just how many Americans play hockey too.

In 2019, USA Hockey reported that there were almost 567, 000 registered players in the United States. This number includes players of all ages and skill levels, from kids just learning to skate to professional athletes competing in the National Hockey League (NHL).

“Hockey gives young people in rural communities something to do beyond school and work.” – T. J. Oshie

Hockey is especially popular in colder parts of the country where outdoor rinks are common. According to NHL. com, Minnesota produces more NHL players per capita than any other state, with Massachusetts and Michigan close behind.

If you’re interested in learning more about the history of ice hockey or want to discover some fun facts about your favorite teams and players, stick around! We’ve got plenty of fascinating information to share with you.

Not Many Americans Play Hockey

Hockey, while popular in some countries, is not as widely played or followed in the United States. When compared to sports like football and basketball, hockey has a relatively small following in America.

Largely due to its geographic location, Canada is one of the biggest homes for hockey enthusiasts. It’s said that “in Canada, you’re born into skates rather than shoes”, giving a hint at the immense love Canadians have for their national sport.

“You can’t be Canadian without loving hockey.”
-Eric Stonestreet

America’s climate doesn’t lend itself well to ice rinks and skating; after all, it’s much easier to play outdoors when there isn’t any snow on the ground. Without proper facilities available and limited exposure, it makes sense why fewer people are interested in playing or watching hockey.

In terms of youth participation rates, USA Hockey stated they had over 115 thousand registered players under 18 years old across the country during the 2019-20 season. While this number may seem impressive at first glance, it amounts to less than half of what Little League Baseball boasted in terms of total participants combined with boys AND girls (approximately 2. 5 million) back in 2018.

This lack of popularity amongst younger generations leads analysts and experts alike wondering if American-born talent will ever rival that being produced by other countries such as Sweden or Russia where kids learn how to skate before they can even walk.

“Son come home more from work smiling because he plays puck often against former KHL player but I would never stand behind bench with whistle”
-Ovechkin Dad

The reality is that while not many Americans play hockey regularly, those that do have a deep passion for the sport. Whether playing in amateur leagues, following professional teams or attending games, hockey aficionados are a tight-knit community that cherishes every moment they get to spend on and around the ice.

Why the sport is not so popular in the US

Hockey has always been a beloved sport for me personally, but many Americans do not share this sentiment. According to recent statistics, only about 500, 000 people play ice hockey in the United States.

The reasons for hockeyโ€™s lack of popularity are widespread and complex. Firstly, many areas in America simply donโ€™t have access to rinks or arenas necessary to play or watch games regularly. This causes interest from potential fans to dwindle as they may see it as inaccessible or unapproachable due to logistical difficulties.

“Hockey takes up such a large space that I can appreciate why some cities don’t want an NHL team.” – Wayne Gretzky

Furthermore, other more well-known sports like basketball and football tend to overshadow hockey both in media coverage and recruitment efforts. With regards to getting kids involved through their schools, there tends to be more emphasis placed on these highly recognized sports because they bring prestige (and money) to academic institutions while also drawing bigger crowds from alumni students & staff members alike which becomes transformed into traditions over time whereas hockey struggles against rivalries developed by decades-long franchises across geographies alongside other storied legends within that fanbase ecosystem; leading ardent followers towards venerating certain players who help nurture those narratives which serve them best at given moments during seasons held captive under its spellbinding action sequences peppered with fights between tough guys we all love somewhere deep down inside ourselves just waiting: ready set go! The thrill of victory after overcoming adversity creates instant legends even without quite reaching championship heights over multiple years of perseverance like Sidney Crosby did a decade ago exemplifying his importance icons emerging annually demonstrating greatness one game at time in hopes their legacies will stand test eternity.

In addition, the high cost associated with playing hockey acts as another barrier to entry for younger players and their families. With equipment, rinks rental fees, and coaching costs adding up quickly, hockey has become known as one of the more expensive sports to pursue in America.

While these reasons may impact the popularity of hockey in the US negatively, many hardcore fans like myself agree that itโ€™s really a shame more people don’t appreciate this incredible sport with its fast-paced action, exciting turns, thrilling goals & fights between scuffed-up enforcers earning cult-like followings within our beloved game’s fervent following we all join every time we strap on those skates or tune into the highlights afterwards which stir vivid memories long after final whistle blows leaving us waiting: hungry for another round soon coming back again!

Hockey is a Canadian Sport, Eh?

When it comes to hockey, there’s no question that Canadians are known for being passionate fans and players of the sport. However, just how many Americans play hockey?

According to statistics from USA Hockey, as of 2020-21 season nearly 566, 000 people actively played ice hockey in the United States.

“It really does start with getting kids started at young ages. It starts in youth leagues behind closed doors where you’re not trying to win championships but each kid gets his opportunity.” – Terry Jones

This number may seem small compared to Canada’s estimated two million registered hockey players, but it’s still a significant amount considering the differences in population sizes between the two countries.

The popularity of hockey has increased over recent years. The National Womenโ€™s Hockey League (NWHL) was formed in 2015 and since then contact womenโ€™s college programs has grown by about 166% according to NCAA data; showing steady growth throughout American society.

“Hockey isn’t hard if you know what your doing. . It requires intelligence and skill. But saying its easy is like poking an angry grizzly bear with a short stick surrounded by fresh salmon” – Keith Tkachuk

In fact, thanks to initiatives such as “Hockey Weekend Across America” which takes place annually during February celebrating one weekend dedicated solely toward recognizing their love for Hockey reminds us why they’re called Icemen!

So while it may be true that hockey will always be synonymous with Canadian culture โ€“ due both to our countryโ€™s long winters and border-line obsessive love affair with all things NHL-relatedโ€“ we canโ€™t forget that this sport holds plenty of appeal across North America too!

How Canadians feel about Americans playing hockey

Hockey is a sport that is near and dear to the hearts of many Canadians. It’s more than just a game, it’s a way of life. So it’s no surprise that when Americans started taking an interest in this great Canadian pastime, some Canadians were less than thrilled.

Of course, not all Canadians are opposed to Americans playing hockey. In fact, many see it as a positive thing for the growth and expansion of the sport.

“I think itโ€™s awesome anytime someone gets into sports or fitness, regardless of where theyโ€™re from.” – Haley Wickenheiser

The legendary Canadian women’s ice hockey player knows what it takes to achieve greatness on the ice. And she recognizes that anyone who wants to play should be welcome, whether they’re from Canada or America.

But there are still some Canadians who feel protective over their sport. They worry that too much American influence could change the game in ways they don’t like.

“You can never trust anybody in hockey except Bobby Orr and God Almighty” – Ted Lindsay

This sentiment isn’t necessarily meant to exclude Americans specifically but rather is more rooted in a general sense of suspicion towards outsiders trying to change things within the sport itself.

In terms of actual numbers, while hockey may not be as popular south of the border as other sports like football and basketball, there are still plenty of Americans playing at various levels across the country. According to USA Hockey, approximately 561, 721 players participated in organized youth leagues during the 2018-19 season alone.

Hockey has been growing steadily throughout America since we first began building rinks back in the late sixties.” – Phil Esposito

America’s growing love of hockey is undeniable, and while some Canadians may be hesitant to embrace it fully, it’s clear that the sport will continue to find new fans on both sides of the border.

Why Americans should stick to baseball and football

Hockey is a sport that requires extreme skill, precision, and athleticism. While it may not be as popular in America as it is in other parts of the world such as Canada or Russia, hockey still has a devoted following in the United States.

However, when compared to sports like baseball and football, hockey just doesn’t have the same level of widespread appeal. In fact, according to recent statistics from USA Hockey, there are only about 600, 000 registered ice hockey players in the entire country.

“I know everyone says it’s a great game and all that, ” said former NHL player Bobby Holik.”But if you listen closely what they’re really saying is ‘it’s a small group of people who enjoy it. ‘”

The relative lack of popularity for hockey can also be seen on TV. While major networks heavily feature baseball and football games throughout their schedule, finding a televised NHL match outside of regional sports channels can sometimes feel like searching for buried treasure.

Despite its limited reach among American audiences, there’s no denying that hockey can be an incredibly exciting spectator sport. With lightning-fast skating skills combined with physical contact that puts boxing matches to shame, attending an NHL game in person offers one-of-a-kind thrills.

“Sure there aren’t as many fans compared to other US sports, โ€ remarked Olympic gold medalist Julie Chu. โ€œBut Iโ€™ve always believed quality over quantity.”

All this being said though, for those looking for mainstream entertainment stateside might want to stick with more well-established pastimes like baseballโ€™s iconic crackle of bat-on-ball sounds while tailgating under summer sun or howling crowds filling up chilly autumn arenas roaring on multi-million dollar quarterbacks dodging trailblazing pass-rushers touchdowning the ball.

Itโ€™s not that hockey doesn’t have its merits, but for those who crave excitement and entertainment without having to search far and wide, sports like baseball and football are sure bet.

Where Can You Learn to Play Hockey?

If you’re looking to get into the world of ice hockey, there are a variety of resources available for both children and adults alike. Depending on your skill level and interests, there are different options that may be best suited for you.

For beginners with little to no experience, many communities offer hockey clinics or classes that can teach skating basics, stickhandling, and other fundamental skills. These often take place at local rinks or indoor arenas and may be offered through youth sports programs or adult recreational leagues. Joining a team is also an option if you feel confident in your abilities – even if you don’t have much playing time under your belt yet!

“Playing ice hockey has been one of the most challenging experiences of my life, but also the most rewarding.”

– Amanda Kessel

If you’re more experienced or looking to hone specific aspects of your game, private coaching is another avenue to explore. Many former professional players offer consultancy sessions where they work one-on-one with clients to improve their technique and build confidence on the ice. Online instructional videos (often free!) from NHL players can also be helpful in learning advanced skills such as deking and shooting.

Hockey camps are another option for those looking to immerse themselves in the sport and learn alongside fellow enthusiasts. These can range from weekend-long intensives held at nearby facilities to residential camps lasting several weeks during summer months.

“I was once told ‘There’s nothing better than scoring goals, ‘ I disagree. . . It’s seeing kids smile when we give them a chance to play this amazing game!”

– Ben Lovejoy

In addition to traditional training methods, investing in quality equipment is essential when learning how to play hockey. Skates should fit comfortably without being too loose or tight, and sticks should be the appropriate length for your height. Many sporting goods stores offer equipment rentals or trial periods so you can test out gear before committing to a purchase.

While it’s difficult to estimate an exact number of Americans who play hockey, USA Hockey reports that approximately 567, 908 individuals registered with their organization during the 2019-2020 season. The popularity of ice hockey has grown significantly in recent years, thanks in part to increased exposure through professional leagues like the NHL as well as greater outreach efforts from youth sports organizations and community programs.

“Playing hockey taught me what it meant to compete.”

– Wayne Gretzky

Whether you’re just starting out on the ice or have been playing for years, there are countless ways to continue developing your skills and finding enjoyment in this fast-paced sport. With dedication and practice, anyone can become a skilled player – and potentially even join one of America’s many amateur recreational leagues.

Top places in the US to learn the sport

If you’re interested in learning hockey, America has some of the best academies and training grounds where you can hone your skills. While there’s no official count on how many Americans play hockey, it is safe to say that the popularity of this fast-paced game continues to grow.

One great place to start would be with USA Hockey’s Learn To Play Program. This eight-week program will give you a solid foundation in basic skating and playing techniques, preparing you for further improvement. Many NHL teams also have their own programs such as The Los Angeles Kings’ Little Kings Developmental Program or Minnesota Wildโ€™s Adult Beginner Clinic that provides lessons from professional coaches and players.

“The facilities here are world-class; theyโ€™ve got everything you need.” – Carson Lee (Former student at St Cloud State University)

The United States is also home to several top-notch college ice hockey programs across multiple divisions like NCAA Men’s Division I Ice Hockey teams such as Boston College Eagles and Michigan Wolverines Womenโ€™s D1 NCAA powerhouse Wisconsin Badgers who offer excellent development opportunities for talented players. Additionally, numerous universities offer scholarships based on athlete performance which could help make school more affordable if playing hockey regularly remains a serious goal.

For those seeking intensive instructional courses specifically designed towards player improvements including elite-level prospects then private schools like Shattuck-St. Mary School in Minnesota is known for churning out future NHL stars which includes Sidney Crosby.

“Hockey teaches us not only about teamwork but sportsmanship too.”- Dray Crawford (NHL Right Wing forward).

Apart from coaching facilities and clubs, North America is filled with arenas offering year-round public skating hours during non-game times allowing skaters adequate practice time without having weekly commitments while increasing stamina in an exhilarating environment. Places like the Ice at Canalside in Buffalo, NY provide Open skate sessions for people of all ages hereby promoting ice sports to both adults and children.

Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced player, there are numerous opportunities across America that can help take your hockey game up a notch. So go ahead and lace-up those skates!

Why Hockey is More Dangerous Than Football

Hockey and football are two popular sports in America. Both of them require physical strength, speed, and agility. However, hockey tends to be more dangerous than football due to multiple reasons.

One of the main factors that contribute to the higher risk of injuries in hockey is the nature of the game. In hockey, players use sticks to move a hard puck across the ice while wearing sharp blades on their feet for balance. This combination can lead to various types of injuries such as concussions, broken bones, cuts, and bruises.

“Hockey is a sport that generates unique risks from body contact with opponents and rigid surrounding walls, ” says Dr. Paul Echlin, president-elect of the Ontario Medical Association.

In contrast, football is played mainly with hands and feet without any sharp instruments involved (except for cleats). Although there are still some levels of bodily contact in football, it’s generally less violent compared to hockey. Additionally, modern-day football has introduced several safety measures like helmets and pads designed specifically for absorbing collisions.

Another factor that adds up to the danger level of hockey is the skating rink itself; It’s made out of solid materials instead of grass or artificial turf like most other fields where outdoor sports are practiced – making falls even worse when they happen.

“Falls onto an unforgiving surface can create severe injuries which could cause long-term disabilities, ” warns Chris Nowinski founder & CEO at Concussion Legacy Foundation.

Last but not least: numbers show clearly how few people actually play this sport in America raising concerns over training programs provided by local clubs or organizations:

“While millions play soccer or basketball around our country annually โ€“ 13 million kids play community baseball โ€“ just 1% try ice hockey with no growth over the last decade, ” points out MassHSHockey. com

In conclusion, although both hockey and football have their own risks of injuries, it’s safe to say that hockey is more dangerous than football due to factors like equipment used, nature of the game, playing surface which makes it more prone to injuries. However, as long as safety measures are taken into consideration and proper training programs are provided – players can enjoy these sports without putting themselves in harm’s way.

Comparing the injury rates of both sports

Hockey and football are two of the most popular contact sports in America. Both these sports require a lot of physical endurance, strength, and agility. But with all that action also comes risk to players’ health and safety.

Injuries occur frequently in hockey, football due to the high-intensity nature of gameplay. However, when comparing data from both sports, it’s interesting to note that there is a significant difference between their respective injury rates.

“Injury rate for ice hockey-related injuries (per 1000 participant games) was approximately 11 times greater than for American college football, ” according to information compiled by Delaney + Keffner Sports Media Inc.

This statistic highlights an important fact: Hockey has a higher injury rate compared to Football. The question remains Why? Well, when you think about it –Hockey involves more on-ice collisions while Football requires quick movements such as tackles, jumps or sprints which carries equal risk as well.

Besides this statistical comparison though one cannot ignore the importance of preventative measures being taken. NHL has taken charge recently by enhancing player safety through stricter enforcement of rules targeting hits to the head, (slashing/cross-checking)and more regulated protective equipment. Football organizations have been doing similarly by implementing new training programs aimed at identifying and reducing concussive impacts during play.

All said and done though, Natural wear and tear will catch up-and hence rest, recovery, and sufficient nutrition go hand-in-hand towards helping extremities mechanisms combat better against any form(stress, inflammation etc. )of trauma. Impact happens in today’s game but its mitigation that matters!

How to Make Hockey More Popular in the US

Hockey is one of the most popular sports in Canada, but it has yet to fully catch on with Americans. According to recent surveys, only about 1% of Americans play hockey. This number could increase if we take a few steps toward making hockey more approachable and accessible for people across the country.

To start, we need to ensure that there are suitable facilities for hockey nearby. By building new ice rinks or converting existing ones into dual-purpose arenas, more people will have access to a place where they can practice their skills or join a team. Investing both time and money in public infrastructure would allow us to expand opportunities for young athletes who want to pursue ice-based sports.

Another way of increasing interest might be through media campaigns directed at American audiences by broadcasting games live through major networks such as NBC Sports Network or Fox Sports One. The NHL needs more national coverage on prime-time TV slots so that interested spectators can watch matches consistently without having to sign up for an expensive premium cable package.

“Hockey is like no other sport; it demands speed, endurance, agility, exceptional hand-eye coordination, incredible strength and power.” – Cammi Granato

We should also focus on marketing campaigns aimed towards women’s involvement because this demographic often gets overlooked due to male-dominated narratives surrounding North American culture. Female players should be part of any strategy attempting to diversify hockey fandoms.

The implementation of community outreach programs would help promote grass-root initiatives which highlight underutilized areas around towns and cities throughout America where outdoor skating could quickly meet growing demand amongst fans eagerly waiting for winter seasons when entire lakes freeze over temporarily turning them into informal rinks.

“We know what happens after we win an Olympic gold medal; kids go from playing basketball, soccer or baseball straight to wanting to play hockey.” – Angela Ruggiero

Lastly, creating a culture of inclusivity could positively impact the sport and encourage enthusiastic participation. Promoting an environment that doesn’t discriminate by race, gender, background or level of athletic ability can open up opportunities for ice-loving individuals who may have felt previously excluded from representative teams.

In conclusion, the answer lies in promoting better public investment in facilities and enforcing more significant media coverage. Marketing campaigns should focus on being inclusive and diverse which will attract untapped demographics while community outreach programs would enable enthusiasts to enjoy skating without costly entrance fees levied by commercial rinks.

Why the NHL needs to do more to promote the sport

Hockey is one of the most thrilling sports in the world. It’s fast-paced, skillful and high-intensity, but unfortunately, it hasn’t quite captured American audiences like baseball or football have. One reason for this may be that there simply aren’t as many people playing hockey in America!

In fact, according to a study by USA Hockey, there were only around 562, 145 registered ice hockey players in America during the 2019-2020 season. That’s compared to over 1 million soccer players and almost 6 million basketball players.

“Fewer Americans play ice-hockey than curling, ” says John Affleck from Penn State University.

This lack of participation is clearly having an impact on spectator engagement with professional games too. Only around 40% of American households follow ice hockey regularly, whereas other major sports see much higher numbers.

The National Hockey League (NHL) has recognized this issue and taken steps to try and increase interest in the sport over recent years. However, while their efforts are commendable, there is still so much work left to do before they can compete with baseball or football when it comes to general popularity among US audiences.

One potential solution could be using social media platforms more effectively. With a younger generation growing up glued to Instagram feeds and TikTok accounts, leveraging these channels could help make hockey feel more accessible and engaging.

“Social Media provides access points both within youth culture where kids decide how they want to invest energy into sport, ” explains Sam Graham-Felsen from Harvard Graduate School of Education.

Another way could be investing further into grassroots programs that aim at introducing young children โ€” particularly those outside traditional ice-hockey territoriesโ€”to the game early on encouraging participation, and possibly future spectatorship.

The important takeaway is that hockey needs to be promoted in new, innovative ways if it’s ever going to reach mass popularity. It may never rival football or baseball, but with the right approach, there is certainly room for growth โ€” We know people like their sports quick, loud and aggressive; what could be more fitting than ice-hockey?!

Why more NHL teams should be located in the US

Hockey is a beloved sport in North America, and while Canada has a deep-rooted passion for the game, there is still plenty of love to go around south of the border. In fact, hockey is growing at a rapid pace within the United States, and it only makes sense that the National Hockey League (NHL) reflects this by increasing its number of American-based teams.

The numbers tell an interesting story about how many Americans play or enjoy watching hockey. While Canadians typically outnumber Americans when it comes to professional players in the NHL, USA Hockey reports steady growth over the last decade with nearly 600, 000 registered players. Moreover, NBC Sports Group noted that during one weekend alone earlier this year, viewership numbers showed significant increases across all age groups and demographics.

“Hockey is not just a Canadian game anymore.” – Sal Barry

Sal Barry is the founder and editor of The Puck Junk Blog who spoke these words recently. And he’s right: from youth leagues on up through college-level play and beyond, ice hockey continues to capture people’s hearts everywhere – even states where temperatures are traditionally much warmer than what might be associated with winter sports. In Florida for instance; five out-of-state NHL franchises currently hold afiliate bases due to how bright talents were discovered there among relatively warm conditions.

All told, perhaps no other team embodies “Americana” quite like regional stalwarts such as Boston Bruins/NY Rangers/Capitals/Detroit Red Wings/ San Jose Sharks etc. , reflecting their city well onto their ice performance which sometimes shows humoristic shade picked up by commentators (“from sea level to almost top-deck height!”). More cities deserve representatives like them however despite cultural differences between each state could provide additional flavor as fans show various levels of support to you may never expect a Philly fanatic in Minnesota.

The potential for growth further cements these arguments suggesting that locations outside the current NHL footprint could also provide fresh geographic, energy and cultural perspectives throughout both America and Canada. Surely as technology advances allows media access anywhere, preferences towards local teams oftentimes becomes more emphasized especially marking off those who have falling out of love with their native clubs due to relocation/mismanagement/etc.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many Americans actively participate in hockey?

According to USA Hockey, approximately 567, 908 Americans participated in ice hockey during the 2019-2020 season. This includes players of all ages and skill levels, from beginners to professionals. The number of participants has been steadily increasing over the years, with a 46% growth rate from the previous season. Hockey has become a popular sport across the country, with many communities offering programs for both youth and adults. With the growth of hockey, there are more opportunities than ever for Americans to get involved in this exciting and dynamic sport.

What is the percentage of Americans who watch hockey games?

While hockey is a popular sport in America, it still falls behind other major sports in terms of viewership. According to a 2020 survey by Statista, only 7% of Americans consider hockey to be their favorite sport to watch. However, this number has been on the rise in recent years, with the Stanley Cup Finals consistently drawing in over 3 million viewers. Additionally, regional hockey broadcasts have loyal followings in areas with successful NHL teams, such as the Boston Bruins, Detroit Red Wings, and Chicago Blackhawks.

How many American children are enrolled in youth hockey programs?

Youth hockey is a growing sport in America, with many children getting involved in organized programs at a young age. According to USA Hockey, there were approximately 117, 000 boys and girls registered in youth hockey programs during the 2019-2020 season. This includes players at all levels, from beginner to advanced, and from ages 6 to 1Many communities across the country offer youth hockey programs, which provide children with the opportunity to learn the game, develop new skills, and build lasting friendships.

What is the growth rate of hockey in America in the past decade?

Hockey has been experiencing steady growth in America over the past decade. According to USA Hockey, the number of registered players has increased by 26% since the 2010-2011 season. In addition to the growth in participation, the sport has also seen an increase in the number of rinks being built across the country. This has helped to make hockey more accessible to communities that previously did not have access to the sport. Additionally, the growth of hockey at the professional level has helped to increase interest in the sport and attract new fans.

How many schools in America offer hockey programs?

While hockey is not as widely available in schools as other sports, there are still many schools across the country that offer hockey programs. According to a survey by the National Federation of State High School Associations, there were 2, 810 high schools in America that offered ice hockey programs during the 2018-2019 school year. This is a significant increase from the previous decade, when only a few hundred high schools offered hockey programs. Additionally, many colleges and universities across the country have competitive hockey teams, providing opportunities for student-athletes to continue playing the sport at a higher level.

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