Ice Hockey is a unique sport that has fans from every part of the world. Yet, it is way more popular in North America compared to other countries. Some of the most passionate hockey fans like to bet on their favorite team, which is why nearly every online bookmaker (apart from those focused on eSports) has this sport in its portfolio.
There are a few different hockey competitions, but if you want to bet on this sport, you will most likely be interested in the NHL. The National Hockey League is home to the best teams in the world, but before you choose one of them, let’s check out a few intriguing facts about this sport.
- The live betting markets here are spectacular
One of the primary reasons why even people who are not hockey fans like to bet on this sport is the numerous live markets. After you visit silentbet.com/bwin/, you will see that one of the oldest and most reputable betting platforms in the world has unique alternatives that you won’t find on other sports.
Even though the pre-match ones are great, you will be more than happy with the markets and their odds once you start betting on live events. Of course, you should read at least some information about the sport before you start betting. After all, ice hockey is entirely different from any other sport you will find inside the sportsbook.
- Some sources claim the sport was created back in 1700
We know that some sports are really old, but there is an ongoing debate when it comes down to ice hockey. Some people claim the sport was first played by the French and Irish back in the 1700s, whereas others believe ice hockey was invented around 100 years later by Canadians.
The NHL was created in 1917, which makes it one of the oldest leagues in the U.S.
- The white towel-waving tradition began in 1982
One of the things that make ice hockey unique is a tradition where fans wave white towels during playoff games. The person who created this “trend” was Roger Neilson, who used to be the coach of the Vancouver Canucks in 1982.
- The hockey puck is made out of rubber
In case you didn’t know, today’s hockey puck is made from hard rubber, and it weighs around 6 ounces. However, before each match begins, the puck has to be frozen in order to prevent any random bouncing.
Some sources claim that the first pucks were made out of fecal matter. Luckily, this changed once the rubber became widely-available.
- Hockey is a full-contact sport
Even though it might not seem that hard, ice hockey is actually one of the most physically-demanding sports in the world. Besides the puck that moves really fast and can hit you at any points (which can often result in broken teeth or even bones), players often get involved in conflicts which result in throws and punches.
