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Hockey has a respect. This respect comes from coaches and parents. This is an
honorable game and should be played as such.
 
I concur with the concept of respect and honor. However, right now the game
is taught to include cheap play and winning at all costs. This is just as
true at the youth level. Good behavioral examples in regard to "fair play"
and sportsmanship should come from the coaches and parents. Sadly this isn't
the case very often; too often it's the parents who fight in the stands over
a call or a hit. That's not role-modeling.
 
More respect for each other and less concern with winning at all costs would
make all that equipment a moot point. Will that happen? The logistics of the
playing arena (boards, glass), the increased skill and speed of the game, and
poor officiating contribute to injuries.
 
One of the questions asked at a behavioral study of youth hockey players in a
MN tournament: would they intentionally hurt an opposing player to win they
answered...
 
Yes.
 
 
Vicki Price
Concussion Free Zone
at violentcontact.net
 
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