If you’ve ever watched a hockey game, you might’ve noticed that teams switch sides at the start of the second period and then switch back for the third.
This might seem puzzling, especially since the game is played indoors with uniform ice conditions. So, what’s the reason behind this practice?
The tradition of switching sides has historical roots dating back to when hockey was played outdoors. Today, this switch isn’t just for nostalgia. It creates a “long change” for the teams in the second period, increasing the distance players have to skate to reach their benches.
This often leads to more scoring opportunities and a more exciting game.