The team now practices at Hot Shots Sports Arena in Mt. Pleasant, and also travels
to Alpha Ice in Harmarville, Robert Morris University’s Island Sports Center and
the Bridgeville Roller Rink for games. The season begins in August with weekly
practices. Games begin in September, and the season culminates with playoffs in
March.
While the fundamentals of the game are similar, inline hockey and ice hockey
have significant differences, according to Chris Reccelle, the club’s vice president.
“The game is faster because there is no ‘off sides’ or ‘icing,’ which keeps the game
flow moving,” he explains. “There is no contact or checking, and the padding for
protection is lighter.”
Inline hockey is played four-on-four, unlike ice hockey, which is five-on-five, not
counting the goalie, and pucks are made of plastic, not rubber.
Players can join by registering through the website or in person at one of the
club’s open houses. Tryouts are not required, but coaches do evaluate player skills
to ensure they’re placed on the appropriate team. There are four skill levels per
division at the elementary, middle and high school levels. The club also has plenty
of opportunities for parents to become involved as board members, coaches and
volunteers.
The club has achieved great success in recent years; the Elementary Division Team
1 won first place in their division during the 2015-2016 season, and the High School
Division 3 Team won first place in their division during the 2016-2017 season.
“The kids are the best part of the sport, watching them grow and develop
friendships through the season,” says Reccelle.
“We are the most proud of the determination and teamwork the players exhibit
both on and off the rink,” adds Pam Gracan, fundraising coordinator. “There is a real
sense of family within NIHC.”
For more information or to register, visit norwininlinehockey.com. ■
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