I still remember when I first watched a hockey game and wondered about the timing with sports like basketball and football split into quarters, I figured hockey would be the same.
But then, I discovered that hockey actually uses periods, not quarters. Each hockey game, whether it’s in the NHL or a local rink match, typically has three periods. This setup keeps the game fast and thrilling, with time for players to rest and strategize between periods.

Understanding Hockey Periods
Hockey games are divided into three periods, each lasting 20 minutes. This is different from sports that use quarters. Periods help maintain game flow and strategy.
Why Hockey Doesn’t Use Quarters
Most sports rely on a quarter structure, but hockey’s history plays a big role in its three-period setup. Originally, hockey games were played on outdoor rinks where ice quality was a concern. Resurfacing the ice every 20 minutes helped keep the game running smoothly and prevented damage.
The period structure is still followed today in leagues worldwide, from youth hockey to professional leagues like the NHL. It’s part of what makes hockey unique and keeps the game’s pace up.
Comparison with Other Sports
Unlike basketball and football, which use quarters, hockey uses periods. This period system originates from outdoor frozen pond games and suits the fast pace of hockey.
Periods and Game Flow
Three periods keep hockey engaging. Between periods, teams rest and strategize, and the ice is resurfaced. This structure ensures a smooth and dynamic game.
Breaking Down the Periods
Here’s how a typical hockey game works:
- First Period: The action kicks off with players fresh and energized. Teams focus on setting the tone and testing their opponents.
- Second Period: Strategies shift, and gameplay intensifies. This middle period often determines momentum going into the final stretch.
- Third Period: the final period of the game. Pressure are high, especially when the score is near, and teams work hard to win.
The game enters overtime if there is a tie at the end of the third period. Overtime rules differ each league, but they are an additional source of excitement.
What About Field Hockey?
If you’re asking about field hockey, the answer changes. Each of the four quarters of a field hockey game lasts 15 minutes. In order conform to international standards and provide additional periods for coaching and plan updates, this format was used in 2019.
Intermissions and Breaks
Intermissions allow players to rest and the ice to be resurfaced. This keeps the game fast and helps prevent injuries. The resurfacing process is crucial for game quality.
Special Conditions and Overtime
If a game ends in a tie, overtime periods are used. In the NHL, if the game is still tied after overtime, a shootout determines the winner. This adds excitement and ensures a definitive outcome.
High School and College Hockey
High school and college hockey follow the same format as professional leagues: three periods of 20 minutes each. The rules and level of play might differ slightly.
International and Olympic Hockey
International and Olympic hockey also use three periods. This consistency allows for fair play and easy comparison across different levels and leagues.
Why Hockey Periods Work So Well
I’ve come to realize the three-period structure adds to the game’s intensity. Players know they have three chances to give their all, and each period break offers a moment to reset.
This setup allows for brief pauses in the game without disrupting its momentum, keeping fans engaged. I’ve noticed that this method has worked well over the years, solidifying hockey’s reputation as an exhilarating, fast-paced sport.
FAQs
Hockey uses periods due to its origins and the sport’s nature. Periods are better suited to the game’s flow.
Each period lasts 20 minutes, consistent across most levels of play.
Intermissions allow for team rest and ice resurfacing, ensuring a quality playing surface.
Yes, each team can take one timeout per game during any stoppage.
In professional leagues, ties are resolved with overtime and shootouts.
If tied after overtime, a shootout determines the winner.
Teams can substitute players at any time, following league rules.
Conclusion
Hockey games are structured into three periods, not quarters. This format helps maintain the game’s rhythm and strategy. Understanding this structure enhances the appreciation of hockey.
Next time you’re at a game or watching on TV, you’ll understand why those three periods make all the difference on the ice.