Pros And Cons Of Fighting In Hockey
Hockey is undoubtedly one of the most popular sports in North America, with a large number of passionate fans and players. However, as with any sport, there are some controversial aspects, and fighting in hockey is one of them. Some people believe that fighting is an essential part of the game, while others see it as a dangerous and unnecessary practice. In this article, we will explore the pros and cons of fighting in hockey and investigate whether it has a place in the sport.
Pros of Fighting in Hockey
There are some arguments in favor of fighting in hockey, and we will examine some of them below:
It is a way to police the game
One of the arguments in favor of fighting in hockey is that it serves as a way to police the game. Unlike other sports, hockey is fast-paced and physical, and it can be challenging for referees to see every infraction. Therefore, players must take responsibility for keeping the game under control. Fighting can be a way for players to send a message to their opponents that they will not tolerate dirty play or cheap shots. It can also help release tension and prevent more violent acts.
It can energize the crowd and the team
Fighting can be exciting for fans, and it can also energize the team. If a player fights to defend his team or retaliate after a dirty play, it can boost team morale and ignite a comeback. The crowd may also become more involved in the game and feel a renewed sense of excitement. It can also be a way for players to show their toughness, which can be an essential aspect of hockey culture.
It can be a form of self-defense
Hockey is a physical game, and players must protect themselves from injuries. Sometimes, players may resort to fighting to protect themselves or their teammates from dangerous hits or actions. It can be a way for players to take matters into their own hands and protect their safety on the ice.
Cons of Fighting in Hockey
While there are some benefits to fighting in hockey, there are also many reasons why it is a controversial and dangerous practice:
It can lead to injuries
The most significant argument against fighting in hockey is that it can lead to serious injuries. Hockey is a physically demanding sport, and players are already at risk of getting hurt from the fast-paced action. Adding fighting to the mix can increase the possibility of concussion, broken bones, and other injuries. It can also lead to long-term problems such as chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), which is a degenerative brain disease commonly found in athletes who have experienced repeated head injuries.
It can escalate violence
While fighting can be a way to prevent more violent acts, it can also escalate violence. If one player starts a fight, it can lead to retaliation from the opposing team, and the situation can quickly spiral out of control. In some cases, players may use equipment as weapons or engage in dangerous and illegal practices such as boarding or checking from behind. This can put players' safety at risk and ruin the spirit of the game.
It can degrade the sport
Fighting can be seen as a barbaric and outdated practice, and it can potentially degrade the sport. Some fans and critics may see fighting as a way to condone violence and aggression, which can be harmful to young players who look up to professional athletes. It can also take attention away from the skills and strategy of the game, which are much more important aspects of hockey.
Conclusion
While fighting in hockey has been a part of the game for decades, it is becoming a more controversial practice as people become more aware of the risks and dangers involved. While some believe that it is an essential aspect of the sport, others see it as a dangerous and outdated practice that should be banned. Ultimately, the decision to allow fighting in hockey should be based on player safety and the overall spirit of the game. Whatever decision is made, it is important to remember that hockey is first and foremost a sport that should celebrate skill, teamwork, and fair play.