Racing down the edge of the ice at breakneck speed and crashing into opposing players is part of the physical abuse bodies take playing hockey. It becomes even more telling on the bodies of men ages 35 to 45 who play in the amateur leagues and pickup games each week at the Sun Blades Ice Skating Center in Pinellas County.
Skaters gather in the arena two and sometimes three nights a week to play hockey.
Some play in competitive leagues that travel to other counties to challenge for prestige and trophies. His pains, numerous because he is 5 feet 4, weighs 150 pounds and challenges all opponents, may not be felt for a couple of days. But by Sunday night, I am ready to get back on the ice. I stay in shape, though, and I know the sport. Hockey has been part of my lifestyle since I can remember.