Ice hockey news: What do players do during the off-season?

The ice hockey season has just finished, meaning players finally get the chance to take a break and have some fun, but what do they actually do during their downtime?

Here, Sports News Blitz writer Madison Stoneman explains what happens during the off-season and takes a look at how players enjoy their freedom from the sport.

Resting after a gruelling campaign

The most important aspect of the off-season is that it gives players the chance to recover from any injuries they may have developed over the course of an intense campaign.

For example, the Nottingham Panthers’ Otto Nieminen missed out on a few games towards the end of the season due to lower body injuries, so he must now use this time to fully heal in preparation for pre-season in August.

A resting period, it must be said, is important in every sport as it allows athletes to avoid burnout, prevent injuries, and improve future performance via having more energy.

However, it is particularly necessary when it comes to ice hockey, because it is a sport well-known for its violence and the associated damage to the body.

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Training for the next season

Although there is an emphasis on rest during the off-season, players should also keep on top of their fitness.

Occasional strength and endurance training is key, especially if a player has spent significant time on the sidelines due to injury.

It is also useful to help players reach peak performance, in what is a fast-paced sport, relatively quickly when returning to the rink after summer.

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Developing hobbies outside of hockey

Most ice hockey players take up golf during the off-season.

That isn’t a surprise as it involves good hand-eye coordination in a manner similar to hockey, but golf further allows players to train in a way that is fun, varied, and social.

Developing hobbies is moreover crucial because it affords players a way to unwind and relax – while still being mindful and learning new skills – after the stress of the season.

Interestingly, many hockey players also use music as a creative outlet to calm down and express themselves.

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Volunteering and charity work

Giving back to the community is a core value within ice hockey.

As a result, players not only get involved with charities such as the Make-A-Wish Foundation but establish their own.

For example, Detroit Red Wings captain Henrik Zetterberg set up the Zetterberg Foundation, which supports charities relating to youth sports programmes and environmental conservation.

Players might also take time to volunteer within their local communities at food banks or homeless shelters.

Helping those less fortunate thus becomes a rewarding way to spend their break from sport.

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Going on holiday with family

Lastly, many ice hockey players use the off-season to go on holiday.

Canada is the most common destination, with players either returning home or making a pilgrimage to the heart and soul of the sport.

Some players even turn out for smaller teams while there so as to keep up their fitness.

Another popular spot is the Caribbean, where players volunteer and do charity work or just simply enjoy the weather and beaches.

Ultimately, until preparations for the new season start in August, there are many ways to keep busy, both on and off the rink, and it is up to the individual to decide what is best for them.

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