We use a ring and a straight stick
The ring is empty and it is rubber. Sticks are not recycled hockey sticks. Many companies produce ringette sticks that have tapered ends with steel, aluminum or plastic tips. There are different types, weight and flexibility.
We play 5 on 5, plus goalkeepers
In general, teams consist of 11 to 17 players, six of whom are on the ice at the same time, namely a goalkeeper, two defenders, a center and two fronts.
We must pass the ring between each blue line
Players can not carry the ring beyond a blue line, either in one direction or the other. To cross the blue line, the player must make a pass to a teammate. The latter has the right to skate ahead of the ring carrier and to be beyond the blue line before the ring crosses.
We never enter the goaltenders’ area
If the ring comes to rest on the perimeter of this zone or inside it, the only player who has the right to touch it is the goalkeeper. In general, the goalkeeper picks up the ring and throws it at a teammate. The goalkeeper has five seconds to get the ring out of his area.
We have 30 seconds to make a shot
Once she has taken possession of the ring, a team has 30 seconds to make a shot on goal. If this time expires, a siren sounds and the ring is assigned to the other team.
We play 3 against 3 in the offensive zones
You will notice that free play lines (small red lines at the top of the circles) are drawn on the ice rink. Between this line and the end of the rink, the game is played 3 against 3. Players can switch in and out of free play areas, which produces a lot of movement and generates creativity.
We wear protective gear
Players must wear a neck protector, elbow and knee pads, shin guards, and protective equipment for hips and tailbones. Wearing the helmet with full face protector is mandatory. These face protectors must have triangular or horizontal bars that prevent the stick from entering.
There is no intentional check
In terms of physical contact, ringette advocates the absence of body contact. Players who cause excessive bodily contact with another player, who hit the opponent's stick too high, tripping their opponent, hitting him or causing obstruction, receive a penalty.
Why play ringette?
- Ringette promotes team spirit over individual feats.
- Any deliberate contact is forbidden.
- Ringette offers competition at all technical levels: in recreational leagues, elite leagues, at university, in the National Ringette League and at international competitions.
- Ringette strongly promotes the learning principles of long-term athlete development.
- Ringette aims to develop each individual to their maximum potential as an athlete and as a person.
Who plays ringette?
EVERYONE - girls and boys, men and women, from preschoolers to seniors!
Where can I play ringette?
EVERYWHERE there is an arena - or a gym.
What equipment do I need?
What does the play surface look like?
The game is played on a hockey rink, but additional markings are required. Most rinks have these markings.
