Sewer ball in hockey: NHL players and their pre-game obsession

The Importance of Sewer Ball: A Pre-Game Ritual in the NHL

Before the biggest moments of their sporting lives, the Edmonton Oilers engage in a game of sewer ball. This popular pre-game ritual, played with a soccer ball, is a way for players to stay loose and bond before hitting the ice for a crucial showdown. Cheers, cat calls, and friendly banter fill the air as teammates compete against each other in a circle, trying to keep the ball in play with only two touches allowed.

While some may question the risk of injury, with players like Colorado Avalanche’s Nathan MacKinnon mentioning rolled ankles, the competitive nature of sewer ball is undeniable. Players form alliances, strategize, and even keep leaderboards to track their performance in this intense game. It’s a way to get the heart rate up, bond with teammates, and get into a competitive mindset before the game.

Despite differing opinions on its effectiveness, sewer ball remains a cherished tradition in NHL locker rooms. Players like New Jersey Devils’ Jack Hughes may be skeptical, but for many, including Nashville Predators’ Filip Forsberg and Ottawa Senators’ Shane Pinto, it’s a beloved part of their pre-game routine. Even as careers progress and bodies require more attention, the camaraderie and fun of sewer ball continue to draw players in.

Ultimately, sewer ball serves as a way for hockey players to come together, let loose, and prepare for the intensity of the game ahead. Whether it’s a desperate lunge for the ball or a strategic play to eliminate a rival, this pre-game ritual remains a constant in the ever-changing world of professional hockey.

So, next time you see NHL players kicking around a soccer ball in the hallway before a game, remember that it’s not just a game of sewer ball – it’s a tradition that brings teams closer together and prepares them for the battles that lie ahead on the ice.

This article was inspired by a report from The Canadian Press, originally published on Dec. 18, 2024.