A hockey teams is made up of six players: five skaters plus one goalie on the ice at a time. While each player has a specific job to do throughout the course of the game, they must also work together to form a solid team. Here’s a rundown on the different positions:
GOALIE — The goalie is responsible for keeping the puck out of the net. Many think this is the most difficult position on a hockey team. Some famous goalies are Patrick Roy, Glenn Hall, Dominick Hašek, and Kyle Dryden.
DEFENSEMEN — There are two defensemen in a hockey game, one for the left side and one for the right side. The main goal of this position is to stop the opposing team from taking shots on the goal. Some of hockey’s most famous defensemen are Chris Chelios, Scott Stevens, Nicklas Lindstrom, and Bobby Orr.
WINGS — There are two wings in a game, the right and left wing. These players are the other two forwards on the ice. They focus on the outside of the ice, near the side boards. Wings are typically physical players who are good along the boards and in the corners. Some famous wings are Brett Hull, Guy Lafleur, and Gordie Howe, who is often called “Mr. Hockey” and thought to be one of the greatest hockey players of all time.
CENTER — The center is one of three forwards on the ice, making this an offensive position. This player focuses on the center of the ice, away from the side boards. The center must be a strong skater and able to do face-offs. A center is a creative player who focuses on passing to the wingmen. Some of the most famous centers of all time are Steve Yzerman, Mario Lemieux, Eric Lindros, and Wayne Gretzky, who is often called “The Great One.”