Finding the Origin of Hockey: An Ancient Sport That Has Triumphed Through Years of Fine Tuning

The story of hockey goes back to the times of early civilizations. Research has found clues of the sport's origins as early as 4,000 years ago. This sport commonly referred to as "ball and stick" has been played in the ancient civilizations of Rome, Egypt, and Scotland under various names. The general play of the game was similar in between each civilization. Irish people named the game "Hockie." This term has made its way into the present day and is now the most popular name given to this historical game. Back in these times it was not played on ice but instead in an area. Modern day hockey rules and game play originated from Canada with the help of JG Creighton. His particular game rules were used in the very first ice hockey game which was played in 1875. Two stones frozen into both ends of the ice were used in the early times of hockey as goals. In 1879, official rules were instituted for hockey. It wasn't until 1893 that hockey became a well known and played sport in the United States. During the 1900's hockey grew in popularity throughout Europe.

The most extensive hockey playing resided in Canada along with other countries until the early 1900's. Montreal, Canada is actually the true parent of modern day ice hockey. This is when the very first actual organized play began in the history of hockey. The very first official season in the NHL started between 1917 and 1918 in Montreal. Only five teams were in the league at first. One had to stop because of their ice rink getting burned down. Obstacles were many at the development phase of the NHL and slowed down the advancement of this great sport that so many people love today. The O'Brien trophy was the initial league championship trophy awarded for the championship game. When the game's popularity increased so did the number of teams within the league.

Professional hockey originated in around the twentieth century. The Western Pennsylvania Hockey League began paying players openly for the sport. This particular league joined together with Michigan and Ontario teams to form the very first professional international league around 1904. Many players were openly paid from this league which actually broke up in 1907. By now, many major hockey leagues were up and running in Canada. The nation's Hockey Association or NHA was formed around 1910 in Montreal, Canada and was then followed by a 1917 re-organization that came up with National Hockey League (NHL). Expansion with the league to the USA began in 1924. Numerous rules were installed during this period including twenty minute periods as well as other penalties.

Today, professional hockey is played in various countries around the world. It's the defining sport of Canada as well as a renowned game in the USA along with other countries. Fans love the ruggedness of the sport. They gather within the stands every season to view their favorite team battle for that ultimate win and the very famous Stanley Cup. This championship trophy has been a symbol of hard work and perseverance for a long time and is the desired finale of every season.

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