Hockey 101 - Player Positions

Welcome to Hockey 101. In case you're unsure about some of the aspects of the game - we've got you covered.

First, we'll describe the different positions. Let's start with the forwards.

Forwards include left wings, right wings, and centers. Centers go in the middle of the two wings. These three are the guys that play offensively and try to score. They also battle for the puck when the referee drops it, known as a "face off." The forwards don't always stay in the left, center, right formation, however. Since play is quick, they tend to spread out or skate to wherever is necessary in order to execute a play.

Defensemen are next. There are two defensemen on the ice behind the three forwards. These guys try to keep the puck away from their own goalie. If their team is in the offensive end, they try to keep the puck in that end.

And last, the goalie. The goalie protects the net. Plain, simple, and somewhat self-explanatory.

To sum it up, six players from each team are on the ice (including the goalie.) This is the formation they will be in when they take a face off at center ice.

(Picture)

Now that you understand the basic positions, following the Jacksonville Icemen games will be much easier.