ODR (another term for Outdoor Rink) is one of the most popular and enjoyable ways to play hockey. When the Winter season rolls around, eager players grab their skates on hop onto the ice to enjoy some ODR.
THE RULES
While playing ODR may sound straightforward enough, there are a few important things to remember for any new players looking to change from playing indoor to outdoor hockey.
NO TRYHARDS
As satisfying as it may be to pull off killer moves and feel like the king of the rink, most people playing ODR are just having fun and not trying to win the Stanley Cup. ODR play usually involves players lining up and giving up everyone a chance to take a shot on net.
It’s also important to remember that this extends to retrieving your puck before your next shot. This allows everyone to have a turn and avoid any possible accidents.
IF YOU SHOOT IT OUT, YOU RETRIEVE IT
Speaking of pucks, if you do happen to shoot the puck out of the rink, its your responsibility to go get it! In the world of ODR hockey, this is a widely adopted rule.
Either plan ahead and bring multiple pucks or take a few moments to leave the rink and retrieve it. It’s no fun stealing someone else’s puck!
LET BEGINNERS IN ON THE FUN
As mentioned, ODR hockey is meant to be fun, and this applies to both experienced players and novices alike. If you happen to be a seasoned hockey player and notice some beginners stepping onto the ice, slow things down.
They’re likely nervous or not that skilled on skates just yet. Use the more casual ODR atmosphere to encourage them, show them some moves and have a good time.
LET KIDS HAVE TIME TO SHINE
On the subject of novice players, if there are especially young kids playing ODR, give them their space. Do not take the puck away from them as if they are an adult, and just let them have fun and learn at their own pace.
Obviously, skate with them and let them feel like they are part of the group but dial it back a bit to allow them time grow and improve their own abilities.
TAKE CHARGE OF CLEANUP
If you happen to be part of the last group of players enjoying ODR for the day, you need to shovel the ice. With so much skating all day, pieces of shredded ice will be scattered all over the rink.
This makes things easier for the next group of players and especially the volunteers who have to come in and flood the rink to ensure there’s fresh ice for the next day’s ODR games.
KEY TAKEAWAY
All in all, ODR is an easy way to enjoy hockey for both pros and casual players alike. There are just a few simple rules to remember when stepping onto the ice, with the most important one of all being to have fun!
