Inside the circle RSS

Cut-Protection: Modern Hockey's Game Changer
Stepping onto the ice without proper protection is like going into battle without armor. The game has evolved, and so have the risks. We're here to break down the revolution in hockey protection and why it matters for every player...
The Success of The Blade Evo Base Layer Short Sleeve
Innovation isn’t just about creating better gear – it’s about designing equipment that truly meets the needs of players at all levels. That’s exactly what we set out to do when we launched the Blade Evo Base Layer Short Sleeve....
The Role of Vision and Awareness in Hockey: Developing Hockey Sense
In the fast-paced world of ice hockey, where split-second decisions can make or break a game, the role of vision and awareness is paramount. Often referred to as "hockey sense," this intuitive understanding of the game goes beyond raw skill...
Are Hockey Neck Guard Shirts As Good As Traditional Neck Guards
Hockey neckguards are more in demand than ever with the protective garments flying off the racks all over the world (for example, the game-changing AYCANE Blade EVO Base Layer Long Sleeve is currently out of stock but available for pre-order...
On Thin Ice: Exploring the Financial Challenges Facing Minor League Hockey Teams
While the spotlight often shines brightest on the glitz and glamour of professional ice hockey leagues like the NHL, beneath the surface lies a complex ecosystem of minor league teams striving to carve out their place in the sport. These...
The Business of Ice Hockey: Sponsorships, Revenue Streams, and Economics
Ice hockey isn't just a sport; it's a multi-billion dollar industry that encompasses a wide range of economic activities. From sponsorships and merchandise sales to broadcasting rights and ticket revenues, the business of ice hockey is as diverse and dynamic...
Team Unity: Cultivating a Winning Mindset Together
In the fast-paced, high-stakes world of hockey, success isn't just about individual talent or skill—it's about the collective strength of the team. While individual players may possess incredible abilities, it's the synergy and unity among teammates that often make the...
The Evolution of Cut-Resistant Technology in Ice Hockey Gear
In the fast-paced, high-contact world of ice hockey, player safety has always been a top priority. From the earliest days of the sport, players and equipment manufacturers alike have sought ways to minimize the risk of injuries, particularly those caused...
Adapting Strategies: How Coaches and Teams Adjust Tactics to Counter Opponents' Strengths and Exploit Weaknesses
In the dynamic and competitive world of ice hockey, success often hinges on a team's ability to adapt and evolve its strategies in response to the ever-changing landscape of the game. Coaches and teams must be adept at identifying opponents'...
The Unsung Heroes: Celebrating the Role of Defensemen in Ice Hockey
In the world of ice hockey, much of the spotlight tends to shine on goal scorers, playmakers, and flashy goaltending saves. However, behind every successful team lies a group of unsung heroes—the defensemen. These players often operate in the shadows,...
Faceoff Mastery: Techniques and Plays to Gain Control of the Puck Off the Draw
Faceoffs are crucial moments in ice hockey that can determine possession, momentum, and ultimately, the outcome of the game. Winning faceoffs requires a combination of skill, strategy, and anticipation to gain control of the puck and initiate offensive opportunities. In...
Goaltender Strategy: Analyzing Positioning, Reads, and Reactions in the Crease
In the fast-paced and high-pressure world of ice hockey, goaltenders play a crucial role in determining the outcome of games. With split-second decisions and lightning-fast reactions, goaltenders are tasked with defending the net against some of the most skilled shooters...
Late-Game Tactics: Strategies for Protecting a Lead or Mounting a Comeback in Crucial Moments
Late-game situations in ice hockey often present teams with high-stakes scenarios where the outcome hangs in the balance. Whether protecting a lead or mounting a comeback, strategic decisions and tactical adjustments play a crucial role in determining the outcome of...
Neutral Zone Trap: Implementing and Executing Effective Defensive Strategies
In the game of ice hockey, effective defensive strategies are essential for stifling opponents' offensive attacks and controlling the flow of play. One such strategy that has been employed by teams at various levels of competition is the neutral zone...
Mastering the Breakout: Strategies for Efficiently Transitioning from Defense to Offense
Introduction: The breakout is a critical aspect of ice hockey, serving as the transition point between defense and offense. Mastering the breakout not only facilitates smooth transitions but also sets the stage for offensive opportunities and control of the game....
Do Neckguards Really Help Prevent Injuries in Hockey?
Since the tragic death of player Adam Johnson in October 2023, neckguards have been at the forefront of the worldwide hockey conversation. USA Hockey made neck guards mandatory for all players under age 18. Neck guards are now mandatory in...
The Anatomy of a Shutdown Defender: Qualities and Attributes of Elite Defensive Players
Introduction: In the fast-paced world of ice hockey, shutdown defenders serve as the backbone of a team's defensive unit, tasked with neutralizing opposing threats and protecting their own goal at all costs. These elite players possess a unique combination of...
Defensive IQ: Understanding the Mental Game of Defense in Ice Hockey
In the fast-paced and physically demanding sport of ice hockey, success on defense relies not only on physical skills but also on mental acuity and strategic awareness. A high defensive IQ, or understanding of the mental game of defense, is...
Locking Down the Blue Line: Essential Skills and Tactics for Defensemen
Defensemen play a critical role in ice hockey, serving as the last line of defense between the opposing team and their own goal. From breaking up plays to initiating offensive opportunities, defensemen must possess a unique set of skills and...
From Fear to Focus: Techniques for Channeling Nervous Energy into Positive Performance
In the high-stakes world of ice hockey, it's natural for players to experience nerves and anxiety before games and during key moments on the ice. However, learning to channel these feelings of fear into focused energy can transform them from...
Onslaught on Ice: How Aggressive Tactics Can Turn the Tide of the Game
Ice hockey is a sport defined by its intensity, physicality, and strategic battles on the ice. While finesse and skill play significant roles, there are moments in every game where aggressive tactics can shift the momentum and turn the tide...