The official version of street or ball hockey is a relatively young sport, with a very short modern history, but its roots can be traced back to similar games played with a ball and stick. The first documented history of such a game, called hurling, dates back to the second millennium BC when it was played in Ireland. The word hockey derives from a similar game played by the Native Indians in North America, first observed in 1572.
To many, ball hockey is street hockey. However, ball hockey is much more than just street hockey. For most people, our first experience with ball hockey is in a driveway, on a street, or in gym class. It involved a group of friends, big or small, a relatively flat playing surface, and a net from Canadian Tire or even objects used as goal posts. Countless hours have been played outside reliving some of the greatest moments in ice hockey history or creating our own Stanley Cup Finals memories.
While street hockey is a form of ball hockey, not all ball hockey is played on the streets. Organized ball hockey is played on hockey rinks without ice. Ball hockey breaks down many of the barriers that prevent people from being able to play ice hockey. There is no ice, no skates, and no huge bag of equipment required (unless you're a goalie). The result is a much more cost-effective way to play our Nation's sport.
Organized ball hockey under the International Street and Ball Hockey Federation provides avenues for players to play recreational and competitive ball hockey. Players of all ages have the opportunity to compete at Provincials, Nationals, and World Championships. When playing competitive ball hockey, players have the opportunity to play with and against some of the best ice hockey players out there.
