How To Play Street Hockey For Kids? Puck Yeah, We Got This!


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Looking for an exciting outdoor activity that your kids will love? Look no further than street hockey! Street hockey is a fun, fast-paced game that can be played by children of all ages and skill levels. And the best part? All you need to get started is a stick, a ball or puck, and some friends.

Before diving into the rules of street hockey, it’s important to note that safety should always come first. Make sure your child has on appropriate protective gear such as gloves, shin guards, and a helmet with a face cage or visor before playing any version of this sport.

To begin play, players are divided into two teams. The size of each team can vary depending upon how many people want to join in but usually ranges between 2 – 6 players per side. Players then take positions around the playing area (which can be anything from an actual street where traffic wonโ€™t interfere), with one player starting as the goalie.

You don’t have to follow official ice-hockey field layout when defining boundaries!

The objective for both teams is simple: score more goals than the other team! This is accomplished by shooting the puck or ball past the opposing teamโ€™s goal line. Don’t worry if you don’t have a real net; simply use something like bins instead to ensure fair strike zones

Ready to lace up those skates (optional) and hit the pavement? Read on for tips on how to make your next neighborhood pick-up game even more enjoyable!

Gear Up

Playing street hockey can be a fun and exciting way for kids to get active outdoors. However, before they hit the pavement with their sticks, it’s important that they gear up properly to ensure safety and prevent injuries.

Hockey Stick:

The first thing your child will need is a proper hockey stick. It should come up no higher than their waist when standing on skates or footwear – if itโ€™s too long then you may want to consider cutting it down because controlling the puck becomes more difficult.

Puck/Ball:

A plastic ball or a PVC pipe made into a cylinder about 3 inches in length and 1 inch in diameter are used as pucks during casual plays since these materials slide well over smooth surfaces. Youโ€™ll also find softer foam balls that wonโ€™t hurt little legs so much on errant shots!

Clothing:

Your kid doesn’t have to wear ice hockey protective equipment but getting some sort of padding where possible such as shin guards from sports stores would be great! It’ll protect them against scrapes, bruises or even fractures due to rough play

. Footwear:

Your child needs appropriate shoes โ€“ sneakers suffice here unless thereโ€™s snow/ice outside (then regular boots will work).

When equipping my son daughter for street hockey games I always remind them of wearing long socks beneath their playing shorts!” – Curtis Joseph
Bicycle/Paintball Helmet:

Last but not least the most essential item; helmets!! A bicycle helmet works just fine and make sure its fastened tightly around the chin strap.”

By taking care while selecting each piece of necessary gear mentioned above your children can enjoy themselves safely without any worries throughout winter months given suitable clearings/right-of-ways.

Helmet, Gloves, and Knee Pads, Safety First!

If your child is about to start playing street hockey for the first time, there are a few things you need to know about safety. While it’s an exciting game and great exercise for kids of all ages, there are certain precautions that should be taken in order to prevent injury.

The most important thing to emphasize with your child is that proper gear must always be worn during gameplay. This means helmets and gloves at a minimum, but knee pads can also provide added protection.

“One of the best ways parents can ensure their childrenโ€™s safety on wheels or blades is by providing them with appropriate protective equipment such as bike helmet, ” said Dr. Benjamin Hoffman.

A well-fitting helmet will help protect against head injuries if falls occur during games. It is essential that the chin strap is securely fastened so that the helmet stays in place while playing. Gloves offer padding against hand injuries from players’ sticks or pucks being hit accidentally. Street hockey-specific gloves typically have extra cushioning around the fingers and palm areas where impact is most likely. Lastly, knee pads provide additional support for falls onto hard surfaces like concrete or asphalt. They serve as leg protection without hindering mobility like some other forms of lower body gear might.

All players should wear closed-toe shoes, preferably athletic ones with good traction rates when stepping on pavement.
“Always look both ways before crossing any streets, ” advises Chief Frank Arthur Brown Jr., President-Elect of International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC).

Playing carefully because accidents happen quickly; may lessen chances coming across hazards which could result from this fun game causing harm unintentionally

. Overall, encouraging safe play ensures kid athletes gain skills safelyโ€”boosts confidenceโ€”and looks after long-term wellness by eliminating preventable injuries. Betting on the protective options ensures our young street hockey pros stay safe while enjoying an exciting, engaging and thrilling game.

Make a Goal

Playing street hockey is a fun way for kids to get outside, exercise, and develop their teamwork skills. One of the key aspects of this popular sport is setting goals.

Determine Objectives:

“You have to set goals that are almost out of reach. If you set a goal that is attainable without much work or thought, you are stuck with something below your true talent and potential.” -Steve Garvey

In order to make progress in street hockey, kids need clear objectives in mind. Setting measurable targets will help them remain motivated and focused throughout the game.

Prioritizing specific objectives based on importance can keep players engaged during long games such as scoring 5 points or hitting opponents with sticks.

Create A Strategy:

“A good hockey player plays where the puck is. A great hocky player plays where it’s going to be.” -Wayne Gretzky

The best way for children playing street hockey to achieve their defined objectives amid stiff competition from opposing teams is establishing smart strategies before starting the game. For example, positioning themselves strategically inside playing zones allows players quick access to incoming balls while attempting shots at an opponent’s goal post. Planning does not only involve developing winning tactics but also keeping possession of the ball through passing it between team members alternately making open spaces for better movement towards striking opportunities. By implementing effective strategies aligned with predefined goals, children can take considerable strides toward mastering fundamental techniques vital when learning how to play street hockey.

Trash Cans and Cardboard Boxes, Get Creative!

If you’re looking for an inexpensive way to introduce your kids to the game of street hockey, all you need are some old trash cans and cardboard boxes. With a little creativity, these items can easily be transformed into makeshift goals that will provide hours of fun.

“You don’t always have to spend a lot of money on equipment, ” says former NHL player Martin Biron. “Sometimes it’s just about using what you have.”

“Street hockey teaches kids how to think creatively and improvise with whatever resources they have available.”

To get started, find two large trash cans or recycling bins that can serve as goals. Place them at opposite ends of a paved surface such as a driveway or parking lot. For younger children, make the target area smaller by placing cardboard boxes behind each goal post.

You’ll also need sticks and pucks – you can use basic wooden sticks or plastic ones if they’re easier for your child to handle. A tennis ball or street hockey puck is ideal due its ability to bounce off surfaces without causing damage.

Tips:
  • Helmets should always be worn during play
  • Teach proper stickhandling techniques before playing so players learn control
  • Create teams (even numbers work best) so everyone has someone else to pass/shoot the ball with

With limited space and no formal rink in sight yet wanting their love for this sports Mom Allysha Feliciano took matters in her own hands: โ€œWe would sit outside our building where there was concrete pavement- I’d put cones up and give my son balls made from rolled up socks. That’s all we needed to pass the time, and it kept him active too.” Theres always an alternative way of doing things using what you have available during trying times like lockdowns.

The game of street hockey not only improves hand-eye coordination but is also a great workout as children run around chasing after the ball or puck on foot. Plus playing outdoors allows them enjoy some fresh air and sunshine while learning new skills – they can play solo or with family depending on individual preference too

In conclusion, Street hockey isn’t just about having fun, it can help develop fundamental life skills in creativity, problem-solving among others that may come in handy later. With a little out-of-the-box thinking (trash cans and cardboard boxes), kids’ imagination can make their own rules creating their unique approach at winning the ‘game’.

Pro Tip: Make Sure The Goal Is Wide Enough, We Don’t Want Any Goalie Interference!

If you are looking to play street hockey with your kids, it’s imperative that you set up the goal in a way so as to avoid any goalie interference.

The size of the goal is one of the most important factors while setting up a street hockey game for children. It should be wide enough and tall enough to allow for maximum target area without being too difficult to hit.

To avoid goalie interference when playing street hockey with kids, ensure that there is plenty of room behind and around the net. You don’t want any obstructions like trees or lampposts impacting the flow of gameplay either; this could lead to many accidents! Set up the field in an open space where all players can move around freely.

“The best way I have found to keep my little ones engaged during a game of street hockey is by making sure that each player has ample opportunities at scoring.” – John W

The perfect width of a kidโ€™s street hockey goal would depend on their age group but generally speaking; aim for something between 4-6 feet wide at least. Anything smaller than that limits their range and may discourage them from playing further.

Make use of cones or chalk lines if needed to help new players understand what areas they need t shoot into when attacking opposite goals โ€“ this will not only add structure but also make gameplay more engaging for younger children especially those who are still developing fine motor skills.

In conclusion, Street Hockey can be an extremely fun and safe sport played among peers once safety measures involving protected gear (shins pads & helmets)and efficient setup such as large/accessible nets have been taken care of properly. Follow these tips mentioned above while setting up the field for playing street hockey with kids, and watch your little ones enjoy hours of wholesome fun!

Choose Your Stick Wisely

When it comes to playing street hockey, choosing the right stick for your child is crucial. The stick can affect their performance and overall experience while they are out on the streets.

The size of the stick: It’s important to get a stick that matches your child’s height. A stick that is too long or too short can be uncomfortable to use and may cause them to miss opportunities during play.

“My son struggled with his game until we got him a proper-sized stick – once he had it, he was able to improve his form and control.” – Mr. Smith

The weight of the stick: A heavy stick will tire out young players quicker than lighter sticks. Choosing a lightweight option can help kids keep up their energy levels throughout an active street hockey session.

“My daughter loves her light-weighted one-piece composite street-hockey-stick! Since starting using it she seems more confident moving around with extra quickness.” – Mrs.Brown

The material used:Picking between wooden or composite models depends on what type of player your child is.-A Wooden Hockey-Stick gives good feel and response when shooting but lacks durability.-Composite Street-Hockey Sticks tend being stronger having better flex properties yet are less accurate than wood.

“I bought two types for my boys since both have different interests in mind โ€“ the elder plays defensively go-to defender hence prefers brands like Winwell whereas younger attacks more so Bauer & Reebok fits perfect in this case as ideal attackers need responsive blades such as these brands provide” -Ms.Lee

In summary, getting your kid comfortable with holding onto appropriate sized hockey-stick for performing perfectly during street ball games is key. Just keep these tips in mind and choose an option that can let your child perform to the best of their abilities.

Wood or Plastic? Flexibility or Durability?

When it comes to choosing a street hockey stick, there are two main options: wood and plastic. Each material has its benefits and drawbacks.

Wood:

A traditional choice for many players, wooden sticks offer flexibility without sacrificing power. They’re also the cheaper option, making them more accessible for families on a budget. However, they can be heavier than modern alternatives and may not last as long if exposed to damp conditions.

Plastic:

Newer variations made from plastics are highly durable, lightweight and come in fancier hues that kids love flaunting! Polycarbonate is one of the most popular materials used to make these types of sticks because it’s sturdy while remaining light enough for fast play – perfect for growing children who have just taken up the sport!

“The best part about playing with plastic sticks is how quick & easy it is to choose one that matches your style”
Flexibility or Durability?

If youโ€™re unsure what type of hockey stick will better suit your childโ€™s needs- consider their experience level first

  • The beginner player -who often struggles with controlling the ball might benefit from going after a more flexible option like a wooden/plastic-fiberglass composite hybrid stick.
  • Middle schoolers/junior high students , especially those into weekly games-the anticipation being brutal-might opt for durability over anything else since frequent practice/games put higher focus on getting maximum performance outta equipment all season long!
  • “I prefer my polycarbonate pink racket since it helps me zip past defenders easier!”
Variation based on position played-

Depending on which position they play ( center, left-wing, right wing, defense or goalie) your child might prefer one type of stick over the other. For example, a goalkeeper needs to have maximum durability due to the need for stopping hard shots while having attackers constantly trying to poke away at the ball – unlike a forward who can rely on speed and agility.

“If you are a goalie like me – my wooden sticks with big blades that allow rebound control & more improved stability work wonders!”

In conclusion,

The choice between wood and plastic hockey sticks depends entirely upon each individualโ€™s preference along with player’s playing style & position. Knowing what kind of material has produced optimal results in practice environments will better equip parents when choosing equipment for their children!

Pick Your Teams

Street hockey is a fun and exciting game for kids of all ages, but before you start playing, it’s important to pick your teams.

The first step in picking your team is deciding how many players will be on each side. Generally, street hockey games are played 3-on-3 or 4-on-4, but it really depends on the number of people who want to play.

Once you’ve decided how many players per team, take turns choosing teammates. To make things fair, consider using a randomizer like drawing names out of a hat or flipping a coin to determine which team chooses first.

“Picking teams is an important part of street hockey because it determines who you’ll be working with throughout the game, ” says former youth league coach Mike Kessler. “It’s also crucial to ensure that both teams have an equal number of players.”

When selecting your teammates, try to choose athletes who complement one another’s skills. For example, if one player is particularly fast and skilled at handling the puck while moving at high speeds down court (known as “flying”), they may be paired with someone more defensive-minded who can help protect their goal from opponents.

If possible, avoid choosing friends over abilityโ€”it can lead to hurt feelings and ultimately ruin the experience for everyone involved. A few more tips for picking your street hockey team:

  • Create balanced teams: If one team has too many good players compared to the other squad; there won’t much competition in game
  • Mix up skill levels: Make sure every player gets an opportunity chance during gameplay so nobody feels left out;
  • Safety First :No roughhousing, aggressive tackling or fighting is allowed during the game as it can end up painful.

If you follow these tips and take your time when picking teams, everyone will have a great experience playing street hockey. So lace-up those skates and hit the pavement!

Shirts Vs Skins, Classic Style!

If you’re playing street hockey with a group of friends or your kids, one classic way to divide up teams is by using the shirts vs skins method. Here’s how it works:

“There’s just something about splitting into shirts and skins that amps up the fun factor for street hockey.”

First, choose two captains. Then each captain selects their team members; one at a time until all players are chosen.

The next step is to decide which team will be shirts and which will be skins. In most cases, this decision can come down to a coin toss or rock-paper-scissors match between the two captains.

In case you’re wondering why the distinction? The idea behind “shirts versus skins” is pretty straightforward: One team wears t-shirts or jerseys while the other plays without them (thus playing in their skin). This setup makes things easier because itโ€™s an easy solution for telling teams apart but also provides another layer of competition as both teams provide opportunities for making names or logos.

TIP: It might be useful when gathering equipment like pinnies and/or bright-colored sports bras if need alight colored shirt for visuals along with darker clothes used often

Sometimes your game may fall during colder months where going shirtless isnโ€™t really practical outdoors. If heat rash becomes prevalent among players from wearing too many layers in hot weather remove regulation clothing articles such long sleeves instead opting sleeveless top play outside enough below 60 degrees F enlist indoor space make provisions availablefor protection against elements better suited including extra gear none leave warmth defenses wide open much as possible!

Mixing it up on different games from basketball soccer flag football Shirts vs Skins usually adds some ferocity to the mix as everyone realizes there is no padding. But with street hockey, a softer ball is used and paddings can afford our players extra protection.

“Playing shirts vs skins helps build camaraderie among teammates while developing competition-based skills and strategies”

Overall, Shirts vs Skins has stood the test of time for being an easy way to divide up teams quickly while adding another layer of fun in your street hockey games!

Pro Tip: Make Sure To Mix Up The Teams, So It’s Not Always The Same Winners!

If you want kids to enjoy playing street hockey, then it’s important to mix up the teams frequently. If two kids are always winning and others losing all the time, then it can be frustrating for everyone involved!

Mixing up the teams should be done randomly or by picking names out of a hat. Randomizing the team selections will keep it fair and make sure that each kid gets a chance to win.

It’s essential to shuffle players so that nobody feels excluded, ” says veteran ice hockey coach Jeff Serowik. “Playing with different teammates is an excellent way to improve communication skills.”

The main goal in street hockey is teamwork- passing, helping one another move down towards getting goals together as opposed individual play counts. Changing who plays on whose side every couple games results in more interactions between everyone while strengthening bonds among teammates overall.

A Shift System Helps

You should create some kind of shift system where children take a break from playing after 10-15 minutes max at any given time because they get tired quickly over short periods due to their young ages (i.e., five years old). A break allows them enough recovery before diving back into action again. One positive thing about having breaks along with shorter game times is most minor injuries won’t have room inflicted during play-like small cuts or scrapes people might obtain without even noticing โ€“ this makes things far less concerning than if anybody had played prolonged stretches at once!

“Mixing it up provides diversity when strategic planning your next move” – Alex Ovechkin NHL Player quotes.”

In conclusion, mixing up the teams helps ensure fairness and makes sure no child experiences frustration. Additionally, a shift system can prevent injury while giving players time to recharge.

Practice Your Moves

The benefits of street hockey for kids are numerous, as it is a great way to get them outside, work on their teamwork and sportsmanship skills, while also improving their physical fitness. But how do they pick up the sport quickly? One word: practice.

Practice makes perfect, and this couldnโ€™t be truer when learning how to play street hockey. The more familiar children become with the equipment and rules of the game, the easier it will be for them to excel in playing.

“Repetition is key! Encourage your child to practice stickhandling every day.”
Tina Charles – professional basketball player

It all starts with basics such as properly holding the stick. When starting out ensure that kids develop good habits by placing both hands comfortably onto their hockey sticks held across body height. Itโ€™s important not only for control but also so they don’t start developing any undesirable technique that may hinder progress later on down into future competitions or casual games played between peers at recess time.

To build strength in carrying a ball or puck across longer stretches (which are common during gameplay), running becomes an essential part of training routines. This can include anything from weather permitting outdoor laps around neighbourhood blocks/courts after school hours end until darkness falls; mimicking rapid-fire full-force strides indoors via treadmill workouts inside one’s own home gym setup located somewhere convenient like basement spaces โ€“ anything works!

“Practicing passing drills with friends has always been my favourite pastime growing up.”
Dylan Strome – professional ice hockey player

In addition to basic movements and exercises honing these abilities empowers young players involved in contests leading eventually towards championships by practicing various techniques among multiple competitors reinforcing skills repeatedly advancing familiarity with actions remembering all rules throughout events combined helping to build self-confidence laying down a necessary foundation for future occupational endeavors among the sports industry.

In conclusion, practicing makes perfect. The more kids practice their moves, the better they will become at street hockey. Encourage them to stickhandle every day and create passing drills with friends as it can be an excellent way of improving their skills.. With enough dedication and repetition, children are sure to hit milestones in no time!

Behind The Back Passes, Trick Shots, And Puck Juggling!

To make street hockey fun and exciting for kids, there are several tricks that they can learn. Behind the back passes are one of them.

“A behind-the-back pass is a slick way to keep control over the puck while simultaneously tricking your opponent”

This move requires quick reflexes and excellent hand-eye coordination. To perform it correctly, hold your stick with both hands before rotating your torso 180 degrees in either direction. While doing this motion, swing your top hand around towards your opposite hip as fast as you can. This movement should fling the ball/puck from behind into open space -hopefully to another teammate or onto goal.

Trick shot moves will also add excitement and drama to any game on the streets:

“As some South Side fans might remember; Denis Savard had his signature spin-o-rama move heโ€™d break out when necessary.”

The most popular trick shots include dekes (faking an opponent), spins/turns (to throw off enemy players), and flips/flicks (using wrist skills alone). Kids must practice these techniques frequently by themselves until they perfect them so they won’t feel awkward using them during games later.

Punk juggling seems effortless but takes good timing/touch:

“Picking a bouncing ball up on their sticks comes quite naturally for experienced players too!”

To do this properly: Start practicing how low/high balls bounce based on how much force is applied…then try working different angles/sides!!! From there, combine soccer-style kicks with softer touches/knocks to elevate/off-balance defenders who often find themselves fooled by creative puck handlers at all skill levels.

Have Fun!

Now that youโ€™ve learned the basics of playing street hockey, itโ€™s time to have fun! Make sure to follow these important tips:

  1. Safety first: Remember to wear all necessary protective gear such as a helmet, elbow pads and shin guards. Also make sure the area where youโ€™re playing is free from any obstacles or debris.
  2. Rules of the game: Agree upon rules before beginning play such as no high sticking or physical contact. This will help prevent any arguments during gameplay.
  3. Gather your team: Form teams with friends and family members for some friendly competition. You can even invite other kids in your neighborhood who enjoy playing too!
  4. Mix it up: Try different positions on the court like defense or goalie to keep things interesting.
“Street hockey is a great way for kids to learn teamwork and sportsmanship while having fun outdoors!” – Coach Smith

You can also change up the type of ball used depending on skill level. A softer ball may be easier for beginners while a harder one may be more challenging for advanced players.

If you want an extra challenge, try setting up cones or markers around the court as targets to shoot at. Or set specific goals each round like โ€œfirst team to score three points wins.โ€ This adds additional excitement and variety while improving hand-eye coordination. Remember that there is no right or wrong way to play street hockey; just focus on having fun with teammates! Whether you win or lose doesn’t matter as long as everyone had a great time together outdoors getting exercise and fresh air. So get outside, grab your stick and puck, gather some friends, and start enjoying street hockey! You’ll be glad you did.”

Remember, It’s Just A Game! So Enjoy The Fresh Air And Have A Blast!

If you’re looking for a fun and active way to get your kids moving, street hockey could be a great option. Not only is it a chance to spend time outdoors and soak up some fresh air, but it also helps develop skills like coordination, teamwork, and communication.

Here are some tips on how to play street hockey with your kids:

Street hockey encourages children of all ages to work together towards the same goal.”

Gather Your Gear

The first step in playing street hockey is ensuring that everyone has the necessary gear. This includes sticks (appropriate size based on height), gloves or mittens, shin guards (soccer shin guards can be used) and helmets. Make sure each personโ€™s equipment fits well so they will be comfortable while playing.

Find Your Spot

You don’t need an official rink or court to enjoy this game – any flat surface with minimal traffic should do the trick! You can use cones as goals or simply create makeshift ones using jackets or bags placed at either end of the playing space. Be sure there’s enough room for players to move around safely without worry about running into one another.

Pick Some Teams

To add excitement and competition, divide your group into two teams โ€“ jerseys not required!. Once again: safety must always come first- keep team sizes manageable based on age/skill level.. If there are fewer than four players available just have those few rotate positions occasionally until more people join in.. Team captains choose which side they’ll defend during each period and referees take turns calling out infractions/picking puck after breakaways etc if needed–but honestly over-refereeing ruins most games anyway.

Get to Playing

The game begins with a face-off at center ice. Encourage players to move the puck around and work together towards score goals by passing back and forth or making plays using their body. No player is allowed inside of the goal crease, except for goaltenders when they are attempting to make a save.. If someone does get hit in those areas though (especially if it’s accidental), stop play immediately let him/her regain composure before continuing on Remember that this is just a fun activity meant to encourage physical activity, teamwork, communication โ€“donโ€™t stress about being perfect!

“Street hockey provides an opportunity for kids develop skills like coordination, teamwork and good sportsmanship while getting exercise.”

In summary: Grab your gear- sticks gloves shin guards!! Find an safe spots outside Letโ€™s pick some teams! Work together & Have Fun!!! Safe Play always Wins!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Frequently Asked Questions

What equipment do kids need to play street hockey?

Kids will need some basic equipment to get started with street hockey. A stick, a ball or puck and some form of protective gear like helmets, shin guards, elbow pads and gloves are essential. It’s also important for players to wear comfortable clothes and shoes suitable for playing on pavement. There are options available for every budget that meet different levels of skill development.

How do you choose a safe and suitable location for street hockey?

The ideal location for street hockey is typically flat asphalt or concrete without any potholes or significant cracks. Neighborhood basketball courts, empty parking lots or quiet cul-de-sacs might be suitable choices if they’re not too cramped. Avoid busy roads with high-speed traffic as well as areas where property damage from wayward shots could be an issue. Good lighting is essential if your children plan to play during the evening hours but it’s never recommended to let them unsupervised outside after dark.

What are the basic rules of street hockey that kids need to know?

Knowing key elements such as how many players are on each team (usually 4-6), what constitutes offside penalties, legal contact criteria along with other fundamental aspects would ensure their safety while enjoying the game. Street Hockey follows most general ice-hockey regulations however there may be fewer restrictions depending upon local accustomed ruling

What are some fun drills and activities to teach kids street hockey skills?

To improve skating mechanics among young beginners useful fundamentals include simple obstacle courses using cones alongwith stance holding techniques should help in better pucking dexterity control

How can kids practice street hockey safely and effectively at home?

Several forms of exercises may be useful, such as practicing proper hand grip through using pucks to develop better shooting accuracy. Using two targets will improve how fast a player sees the net for a shot on goal which helps in developing quick reaction times

What are some modifications or adaptations that can be made for children with disabilities to play street hockey?

If any child needs special accommodations, there are numerous ways that they could participate comfortably For instance larger balls/pucked size alongside padded equipment rests upon safety yet encourages participation even amongst physically challenged opponents.

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