I have been reading this long thread with some disinterest until I read
Adam Wodon's comment:
 
>I just want to know when slashing became a form of stickchecking and
>backchecking ... it started happening in the mid to late 80s.
 
This really rung true.  There was a time in the past where the game was
different.  I had forgotten that slashing or hooking on the backcheck used
to be a penalty.  The game has evolved and not always for the better.  I
appreciate the improvements in speed, power, and skill.  I do not like the
increases in slashing, hooking and interference.  I do not blame face masks
for any negative changes in the game.
 
Steve
 
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