So what if fighting is up 56% over last year? Who doesn’t love to watch grown men do this? (Warning: contains blood and gore!)
I’m telling you, hockey can be a difficult sport to watch, especially in a close game. But fights just rule. In no other team sport can you just throw down in the middle of a game with someone that is pissing you off (except for maybe Tag Team Wrestling). Did he cheap shot you earlier? Fight him. Did he steal the puck from you? Fight him. Did he say something unsavory about your mother? Fight him. Did he look at you funny? Fight him.
I’d love to see a hockey player write a book called “The Strategy of Fighting.” I’ve got to believe that there is some kind of strategy in it. Or maybe I’m just being optimistic that someone with a role titled “enforcer” has a higher purpose than sitting in the penalty box. Perhaps I’m just a fool. But at least I’m not the one spattering blood across the ice.
It’s a special kind of wing nut that can stand toe to toe with a 6′5″ 250lb goon and go shot for shot while hanging on to his jersey, balancing on skates and trying not to break his knuckles on his opponents helmet/face.
its a beautiful game.
Keith
October 27th, 2007