The hockey governing body in the Canadian province of Newfoundland and Labrador has recently made the decision to ban postgame handshakes in the minor leagues. Hockey NL took this action after a series of altercations that occurred following games, resulting in suspensions for both players and coaches. Instead of the traditional handshakes, teams will now be directed off the ice immediately after the game. The visiting team will skate by the home team’s bench and offer a glove tap or handshake before the game begins. This unexpected move has surprised players and staff at the world junior hockey championship currently taking place in Sweden.
The ban on postgame handshakes has been met with disappointment and criticism. Canada head coach Alan Letang, a former professional hockey player, expressed his dissatisfaction with the decision, stating, “There’s a respect and camaraderie in sports. You can go out and compete hard against someone, but at the end of the game, it’s ‘Great game, great job.’ Respect goes both ways. If I was coaching a team and stuff like that happened, you wouldn’t put up with it.”
Handshakes after games are a common practice in hockey, ranging from youth games to the professional level. It is seen as a gesture of respect and sportsmanship, regardless of the outcome of the game. The world juniors tournament, which features players 19 years of age and younger, has a longstanding tradition of postgame handshakes. However, the controversy surrounding this issue arose when Canada captain Barrett Hayton failed to remove his helmet during Russia’s national anthem following a 6-0 loss. Hayton later apologized, explaining that he was “lost in the moment” and meant no disrespect.
The surprise and disappointment from players and coaches at the world juniors tournament reflect the sentiment that removing postgame handshakes may have a negative impact on young players. Sweden coach Magnus Havelid expressed his disappointment, stating, “It’s important for coaches of young players to say, ‘What happens when you play those 60 minutes, that’s one thing. But after, it’s finished.'”
Postgame handshakes are seen as an opportunity for players to show respect for their opponents and acknowledge their efforts on the ice. It is a lesson in sportsmanship and humility that extends beyond the game itself. The ban on handshakes may prevent young players from learning these valuable life lessons and understanding the importance of respecting their opponents.
The decision by Hockey NL to ban postgame handshakes is part of a broader effort to address coach, parent, and player conduct in amateur hockey. Incidents of verbal and physical abuse towards referees and opposing players have garnered significant attention in recent years. One example is the case in Nova Scotia where a coach was charged with assaulting a referee during a game involving players as young as 9. To combat these issues, amateur hockey associations across Canada have introduced green armbands for teenage referees. The hope is that this visible symbol will discourage parents and coaches from engaging in abusive behavior.
Postgame handshakes have long been seen as a “cool, classy” part of hockey, as described by Canada captain Fraser Minten. It is a moment where players can set aside the intensity of the game and show respect for their opponents. As Owen Allard, another teammate, recalled, there have been disagreements in handshake lines even in the minor leagues. However, it is the responsibility of coaches and mentors to instill in young players the importance of competing hard while also displaying sportsmanship and humility.
The fact that Hockey NL felt compelled to implement such a drastic measure is a cause for concern. It suggests that something has changed or turned in the sporting culture, endangering the fundamental values of respect and camaraderie. It is crucial for the hockey community to reflect on the impact of this ban and consider alternative ways to address the conduct issues while still preserving the spirit of sportsmanship that postgame handshakes represent.
Leave a Reply