Can You Play Hockey as a Girl? Breaking the Myths and Barriers

Hockey – an intense, fast-paced sport that requires strength, agility, and mental toughness. But is it a sport that girls can play too? I’m sure you’ve asked yourself this question, or maybe someone else has asked you. The short answer is absolutely yes! In fact, women’s hockey is thriving, but let’s dive deeper into the topic to break some myths and explore the possibilities.

Women’s Hockey: A Growing Force

Yes, you can play hockey as a girl. And not just play, but thrive. Women’s hockey has grown significantly over the years, with national and international competitions getting more recognition. It’s no longer just a male-dominated sport, and the growth of women’s leagues is proof that there’s plenty of space for girls who want to play.

The Rise of Women’s Hockey

Take a look at the 2018 Winter Olympics, where women’s hockey was a standout. Team USA claimed the gold medal in a thrilling final, showing the world that women can compete at the highest level in hockey. And then, just a few months ago, the NWHL (National Women's Hockey League) made strides with major sponsorships and television deals.

But, I get it – you may still be wondering, “Is there really a place for me, or am I just trying to fit into a space that’s not really for girls?” Trust me, I’ve had this conversation with my friend Lisa, who’s a massive hockey fan. She told me, "When I started playing, I felt like I was the only girl on the ice, and it was tough at first. But now, there’s more support for women, and the sport feels so much more inclusive." And you know what? She’s right!

Can You Play on Men’s Teams?

This is where things get a bit tricky, but don’t worry, it’s not impossible. In many countries, girls and women can play hockey on men’s teams, especially in the lower leagues or youth leagues. However, as you get older, some leagues may have restrictions based on gender, but these rules are slowly changing.

Girls on Boys’ Teams: The Real Deal

When I was talking to my cousin Sarah, who grew up playing hockey in a small town, she mentioned how she was the only girl on her boys’ team until she was 14. “It wasn’t easy, but I loved the game too much to care about what anyone thought,” she said. She made a valid point. Hockey isn’t just about gender—it’s about passion for the game.

It’s true that many girls, especially in youth leagues, play on boys' teams due to a lack of girls’ teams. But as you grow older, there are more opportunities for girls to join women’s leagues. It’s not about gender; it’s about the love for the sport.

The Challenges Girls Face in Hockey

We’ve established that you can play hockey as a girl, but let’s be real – it’s not always easy. The reality is that women’s sports, in general, still don’t get the same recognition as men’s. You may face some challenges along the way, especially if you’re playing in environments where hockey is heavily male-dominated.

Overcoming Gender Stereotypes in Hockey

You’ve probably heard people say, “Hockey’s too rough for girls,” or “Girls don’t belong on the ice.” I’ve heard those kinds of comments before, and they’re frustrating, to say the least. But guess what? Hockey, just like any other sport, is about skill, determination, and teamwork—not about gender.

I had a conversation with my friend Jenny, who played hockey in high school. She said, “There were times when I felt like I had to prove myself over and over again, just because I was a girl. But I learned to ignore the negativity and just focus on the game.” It’s that kind of mindset that will help you push through those barriers.

Physical Demands and Gear

You might also be wondering if you need special gear or if the physical demands of the sport are different for girls. The truth is, the physicality of the game remains the same. Hockey requires endurance, strength, and mental focus, regardless of gender. Women’s teams wear the same protective gear as men’s teams, so no worries there!

If you’re considering starting hockey, don’t let the physical side intimidate you. Yes, it’s tough and fast, but that’s also what makes it exciting. Trust me, once you get on the ice, you'll forget about all those initial doubts.

Where to Start: Finding Opportunities for Girls in Hockey

So, you’ve decided you want to give it a shot! But where do you start? Whether you're just a beginner or an experienced skater, there are many ways to dive into the world of hockey.

Local Leagues and Teams for Girls

Look for local women’s teams or girls' hockey leagues in your area. Many towns and cities have developed leagues specifically for girls, and joining one is a fantastic way to get involved. The best part? You’ll be surrounded by like-minded individuals who share your passion for the game.

Training and Development

Whether you’re starting from scratch or honing your skills, training is key. There are plenty of programs and training camps designed specifically for girls, which focus on improving skills, teamwork, and confidence on the ice. Check out some local hockey rinks or sports centers to find out about such programs.

Conclusion: The Future is Bright for Girls in Hockey

So, can you play hockey as a girl? Yes, absolutely! Whether it’s on a boys’ team or a dedicated women’s team, there’s a place for you in the sport. The barriers are being broken down, and women are proving every day that they can dominate on the ice just like the guys. Sure, there will be challenges, but with the right mindset and determination, you can absolutely make your mark in the world of hockey.

If hockey is your passion, don’t let anything stop you. The future of women’s hockey is looking bright, and you could be part of that growing movement. Get out there, put on your gear, and show the world what you’ve got!

Is 165 cm normal for a 15 year old?

The predicted height for a female, based on your parents heights, is 155 to 165cm. Most 15 year old girls are nearly done growing. I was too. It's a very normal height for a girl.

Is 160 cm too tall for a 12 year old?

How Tall Should a 12 Year Old Be? We can only speak to national average heights here in North America, whereby, a 12 year old girl would be between 137 cm to 162 cm tall (4-1/2 to 5-1/3 feet). A 12 year old boy should be between 137 cm to 160 cm tall (4-1/2 to 5-1/4 feet).

How tall is a average 15 year old?

Average Height to Weight for Teenage Boys - 13 to 20 Years

How to get taller at 18?

Staying physically active is even more essential from childhood to grow and improve overall health. But taking it up even in adulthood can help you add a few inches to your height. Strength-building exercises, yoga, jumping rope, and biking all can help to increase your flexibility and grow a few inches taller.

Is 5.7 a good height for a 15 year old boy?

Generally speaking, the average height for 15 year olds girls is 62.9 inches (or 159.7 cm). On the other hand, teen boys at the age of 15 have a much higher average height, which is 67.0 inches (or 170.1 cm).

Can you grow between 16 and 18?

Most girls stop growing taller by age 14 or 15. However, after their early teenage growth spurt, boys continue gaining height at a gradual pace until around 18. Note that some kids will stop growing earlier and others may keep growing a year or two more.

Can you grow 1 cm after 17?

Even with a healthy diet, most people's height won't increase after age 18 to 20. The graph below shows the rate of growth from birth to age 20. As you can see, the growth lines fall to zero between ages 18 and 20 ( 7 , 8 ). The reason why your height stops increasing is your bones, specifically your growth plates.