Inline Hockey

The inline hockey scene hit its peak in the 90’s. Making it’s way to ESPN with its incredibly unique banked end wall, to the two point arc, the roller skating/blading craze made its way into the hearts of many who also enjoyed gloves and sticks in hand as well. Over time it became less popular but pockets of America still show a strong support for the game. Western New York, Missouri, California, Florida, and our very own Michigan is where you typically find the top players playing in leagues across the country.

With new technologies in design and application, inline hockey skates are now just essentially the same ice skate boot with a different holder on them. Even the inline runners have come a long way. New companies such as Marsblades have revolutionized how an inline skate has been designed to create a feel almost identical to what you get on an ice skate while on ice. This not only creates a comfortable transition from one sport to the other, it also make cross-training a whole lot more practical. Wheel and floor technology is also evolving giving more bite when you need it, and a little more slide when you want it.

Roller hockey is also played 4v4 with no body checking, allowing players to use a bit more creativity by supplying a bit more time and space. Many of the best inline players in the world have stick and edgework skills that rival those you see on ESPN every night. It is this kind of creativity we would love to see at our lineup of ice hockey tournament events for 2023. Come show us your stuff!