pond hockey

An unofficial game of hockey played on either an outdoor man-made rink or a frozen body of natural water such as a pond or lake. Pond hockey differs from an official game of hockey in the sense that it is much more free-flowing with few game stoppages. Rules and style of play differ on many scales from regional differences to simple pre-game rule setting. Rules such as off-side and icing are often thrown out. The most unique aspect, however, is pond hockey is possible without the employment of a goaltender. Many alternate scoring methods are used instead such as hitting posts and the crossbar to score goals. Also called "shinny" in some areas.