Hockey players have a unique way of communicating on the ice, and one of the most intriguing pieces of hockey slang is the term “apple.” While most people associate apples with healthy eating or autumn traditions, in the hockey world, they have an entirely different meaning.
So, what do hockey players mean when they talk about apples? The answer might surprise you. In essence, an “apple” is another term for an assist, which is a crucial statistic in hockey that keeps track of the players who helped set up a goal. However, there’s much more to the story than that, and understanding the history and significance of apples in hockey can give you a new appreciation for the game.
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The History of Hockey Slang
Hockey slang is a unique and fascinating aspect of the sport that adds depth and richness to the game. The origins of many of these slang terms are rooted in the sport’s long and storied history, and they serve as a testament to the passion and creativity of the players, coaches, and fans who have helped to shape the game over the years.
One of the earliest examples of hockey slang can be traced back to the late 19th century, when players first began referring to the goalies as “netminders” or “goal keepers.” Over time, the lexicon of hockey slang grew to include a wide range of terms and phrases, from “dangling” (referring to a player who can skillfully handle the puck) to “barn” (a slang term for the arena where a game is played).
The Top Hockey Slang Terms
- Biscuit: This term refers to the puck, and it’s believed to have originated from the phrase “hard as a biscuit.”
- Chirping: When players engage in playful or insulting banter on the ice, it’s called “chirping.”
- Five Hole: The area between a goalie’s legs is referred to as the “five hole,” and it’s a popular target for shooters trying to score a goal.
The Evolution of Hockey Slang
While many of the most popular hockey slang terms have been around for decades, the lexicon of the sport continues to evolve and grow. Some of the newest terms to gain popularity in recent years include “celly” (a shortened version of the word “celebration,” used to describe a player’s post-goal celebration) and “saucy” (a term used to describe a pass that has a lot of height and spin on it).
Today, hockey slang is an integral part of the sport, and it’s not uncommon to hear players, coaches, and fans using these terms both on and off the ice. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a newcomer to the game, learning the ins and outs of hockey slang can help you better understand and appreciate the unique culture and history of this beloved sport.
The Origin of “Apple” in Hockey
Hockey is known for its unique slang that is often used both on and off the ice. One of the most popular terms used in the sport is the word “apple.” It is often used by players and fans alike, but where did this term come from? Let’s explore the origins of “apple” in hockey.
One theory is that the term “apple” is a shortened version of the word “applesauce,” which was a popular slang term for a pass in the early days of hockey. This theory suggests that “applesauce” was eventually shortened to just “apple,” which has become a widely used term in the sport today.
The Evolution of “Apple” in Hockey
As hockey became more popular in the 20th century, the term “apple” began to take on a different meaning. It became a way for players to acknowledge their teammates for making a pass that led to a goal. Today, when a player scores a goal, they may credit their teammate with an “apple” or an “assist.”
The Legacy of “Apple” in Hockey
- The term “apple” has become a beloved part of hockey slang and is now commonly used both on and off the ice.
- Some players have even made a tradition of collecting the game pucks that they receive for scoring goals and assists, often referred to as “apples,” to commemorate their achievements.
- The use of “apple” in hockey shows the strong camaraderie and team spirit that is at the heart of the sport.
So there you have it, the origins and evolution of the term “apple” in hockey. From its early days as “applesauce” to its current use as a way to recognize a teammate’s contribution to a goal, “apple” has become a staple of hockey slang and a symbol of the teamwork that is so essential to the sport.
How Assists Became Known as Apples
In the world of ice hockey, it’s common to hear players referred to as “apples.” This term is used to describe a player who has recorded an assist during the game. But how did assists become known as apples?
The origin of the term “apple” for an assist in hockey is not entirely clear, but there are a few theories that might shed some light on the subject.
Theories About the Origin of Apples in Hockey
One theory suggests that the term “apple” came from the way that early hockey scorekeepers used to keep track of goals and assists. In the early days of the sport, a goal was marked on the scoresheet with a circle, while an assist was marked with an “A.” As time went on, the “A” came to be replaced by the image of an apple, as it was easier to draw and more visually appealing than a simple letter.
Another theory suggests that the term “apple” came from a custom in which fans would throw apples onto the ice to celebrate a goal. As time went on, the tradition evolved to include throwing apples for assists as well, which eventually led to the term “apple” becoming synonymous with assists.
The Popularity of Apples in Hockey Culture
Regardless of its origin, the term “apple” has become an entrenched part of hockey culture. Fans and players alike use it to refer to assists, and it’s not uncommon to hear announcers use the term during games. In fact, it has become so popular that some teams even use apple imagery in their logos and merchandise.
The Significance of Receiving an Apple
Receiving an apple in hockey has a special significance that has been a tradition for many years. The tradition began in the early 1900s when coaches and players recognized the importance of acknowledging the player who helped set up the scoring play by providing an assist. In the early days, players received actual apples, but over time the tradition evolved, and today players are awarded a ceremonial or replica apple.
The apple has become a symbol of recognition and appreciation for players who work hard to create scoring opportunities for their teammates. The act of receiving an apple is a sign of respect and admiration from one’s peers and is seen as an acknowledgment of the value of teamwork in achieving success.
Why is it Called an Apple?
There are several theories about why assists in hockey became known as apples. One theory is that the term is derived from the phrase “apple sauce,” which was slang in the early 1900s for a pass that was smooth and easy to handle. Another theory is that it is a shortened form of “assists” with the “s” dropped, leaving only “ist” and then adding “apple” as a whimsical touch.
The Legacy of the Apple Tradition
- The tradition of giving an apple has become a deeply ingrained part of the hockey culture and is seen as a symbol of recognition and appreciation for a job well done.
- Players who receive the apple often keep it as a memento of the game and the hard work they put into it.
- Many NHL teams have their own unique twist on the apple tradition, such as awarding the apple to the hardest-working player or presenting a game-winning apple to the player who scored the winning goal.
The significance of receiving an apple in hockey goes beyond the recognition of an individual player’s contributions to the game. It is a symbol of teamwork, respect, and the understanding that no player can succeed alone. The tradition of the apple is one that will continue to be passed down from generation to generation, and it will continue to be a source of pride and inspiration for players at all levels of the game.
Controversies and Misconceptions About Apples
Apples are one of the most beloved and popular fruits in the world, but like any other fruit, they have their share of controversies and misconceptions. One common misconception is that apples are not as healthy as other fruits. In reality, apples are an excellent source of fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, making them a healthy choice for anyone. Another common misconception is that apple seeds are poisonous. While apple seeds do contain a small amount of cyanide, it would take a very large amount to cause harm to a human.
There are also some controversies surrounding apples, such as the use of pesticides in apple farming. While it is true that some pesticides can be harmful, the majority of apple farmers use safe and effective pesticides to protect their crops. In fact, many apple farmers are moving towards more sustainable and eco-friendly farming practices to reduce their environmental impact.
The Myth of the Red Delicious Apple
One of the biggest controversies surrounding apples is the reputation of the Red Delicious apple. Many people consider it to be the quintessential apple, but in reality, it is one of the least flavorful and most mealy apples on the market. Despite this, it remains one of the most widely grown apples in the United States. Some apple enthusiasts are calling for a shift away from the Red Delicious and towards more flavorful and interesting varieties.
Organic vs Conventional Apples
- There is a debate among apple lovers about whether organic or conventional apples are better. While organic apples are grown without the use of synthetic pesticides, some studies have found that they are not necessarily healthier than conventional apples. This is because the level of pesticides found on conventional apples is already very low, and washing the apples can remove most of the residue.
- That being said, there are many good reasons to choose organic apples, such as supporting sustainable farming practices and reducing your exposure to potentially harmful pesticides. Ultimately, the choice between organic and conventional apples is a personal one that depends on your priorities and values.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does “apple” mean in hockey?
In hockey, “apple” is a slang term for an assist, which is a credited contribution to a goal scored by a teammate. The term originated in the early 1900s, when newspaper reporters used to use the symbol of an apple to indicate an assist in their game recaps. Since then, the term has become a popular part of hockey lingo.
Who holds the record for most apples in a single NHL season?
Wayne Gretzky holds the record for most assists in a single NHL season, with 163 “apples” during the 1985-86 season. Gretzky, who is widely considered one of the greatest hockey players of all time, holds numerous other NHL records as well.
Do apples count towards a player’s point total?
Yes, an “apple” or assist does count towards a player’s point total. In hockey, a player earns a point for each goal they score and for each assist they earn on a goal scored by a teammate. So, a player who scores a goal and earns an assist on a goal would earn two points towards their season total.
What’s the difference between a primary and a secondary apple?
A primary apple refers to the first assist on a goal, while a secondary apple refers to the second assist. In some cases, if there are only two assists on a goal, both assists can be considered primary, but if there are three or more assists, the first and second assists are considered primary, while any additional assists are considered secondary.
Can a player receive more than one apple on a single goal?
No, only two assists are credited on each goal, meaning that only two players can receive an “apple” on a goal. However, in rare cases, a goal may be reviewed and changed after the fact, resulting in additional assists being credited to other players.
What’s the significance of the term “apple” in hockey culture?
The term “apple” has become a beloved part of hockey culture, and is often used as a term of endearment or respect among players and fans alike. It’s also commonly used in fantasy hockey leagues and other hockey-related discussions, and has even been featured in popular hockey-themed movies and TV shows.