Evolution of Hockey: Introduction

Since the beginning modern hockey has been a fast paced, high energy sport that continues to captivate its crowd with every passionate game. Although it may seem that ice hockey is a relatively young sport, it actually has roots dating back about 4000 years. Drawings found in ancient Egyptian tombs depict a game similar to field hockey that the Egyptians may have played. Although much has changed since the era of modern ice hockey, the game still resembles the way the ancients may have played.

Modern hockey's beginning is marked by the first recorded organized game in 1875. This game led the way to the first hockey club with the first official seven hockey rules. This club, The McGill University Hockey Club, also was the first to win the "Carnival Cup", which was the predecessor to today's Stanley Cup. The teams that competed in the "Carnival Cup" games would soon form the Amateur Hockey Association of Canada. Although ice hockey has spread to all parts of the modern world, Its roots still stand in Canada as well as the northern United States.

Since the beginning of hockey, the sport has changed a great amount. From rules to equipment, hockey has advanced a great deal to reach what hockey is defined as today. Although the basic concepts of the game remain the same, three major advancements in the game of ice hockey can be noted; Advancements in hockey sticks, advancements in protective equipment, and advancements in the hockey rink.