[james_gsx]

Hockey was the only sport I never played as a kid, but I really wish I did play. There is a ton of teamwork that I don't think people give enough credit too. I hate the Detroit Red Wings but I simply cannot deny their skill or ability to handle the puck. Their passing is precise and they always know where everyone is and what's going on. Aside from Soccer I believe hockey is one of the best sports for anyone to learn solid team work and leadership skills.

The sport is rough, but it has toned down a lot. Do a quick youtube search of Avs vs Red Wings and nothing but nasty fights will come up. Theres a reason those were called the glory days, because it doesn't happen anymore. A lot of fans (including myself) used to enjoy watching for the fights. But since the NHL has toned down a lot I now find myself watching because I do think it's a great sport. Personally I like the hitting, and I would give and take hits if I played. There are ways to give and take hits as well so you can prevent injury, and that's something most people don't know about. The NHL is doing a lot to tone down on unnecessary hits, like a player that isn't playing the puck and just goes for the hit will most likely get a penalty.

A lot of young players typically come in looking for a fight or big hits. But if you watch enough games you'll see them be put in their place and they tone down a lot. There is a lot of skill and teamwork in the sport, and I really enjoy it for that.

Hopefully the next generation of hockey will be even better. There will be less fights and better teamwork, more purity I guess is the word. But it is starting now with the NHL, and they have to be role models to the kids playing today. If the NHL allows for unnecessary brawls and foul play then the kids will do it. But if the NHL continues to take steps to prevent that then it won't be such an issue. There will always be fights though, and I'm okay with that.