From Scott Leibowitz. Find Scott on Twitter @Lebodome. Email him at scott@borderstan.com. As some of you may know, I am adamant enthusiast when it comes to goofy non-serious DC sports leagues — whether its indoor bocce, shuffleboard, or this city's favorite, kickball. Of course, I am signed up for April; more to come. You may not realize it, but there is actually a pretty strong undercurrent of serious competitive sports too, ranging from the College Alumni Network leagues to the less well known ice hockey leagues. I am currently playing co-ed basketball and we have been having a good season so far.
Hockey in DC
Now, as DC is a city of out-of-towners, all the transients from cold places (Upper Midwest, New England, states that border Canada) are the backbone of the many competitive ice hockey leagues. Yes, the only rink in the city is where the Washington Capitals play, but outside the district there are a slew of leagues that you can play in. I warn, though, this is not for the average fan or ice skater, this is a real league with some serious competition. A good friend of mine, Kevin, plays in one such league and I asked him about his experiences over the last few years of playing. Some thoughts.... Lebodome: What are average players like? Age? Important or average Joes? Kevin: The people vary greatly. Some are married with kids, others recent college grads. For jobs, a lot in various business, a handful of criminal attorneys at the pickup games, construction, real estate, finance, government agencies, the works. Although I don't know if I've ever played with any Hill staffers... Lebodome: How physical is the game? I used to dominate driveway roller hockey, could I play? Kevin: Not normal-hockey-physical. Body checks will get you a penalty, more than one they may show you the door. Moderate pushing and shoving is common and expected. Only seen one fight in a little over a year. I think they'll suspend you, not positive. Some really good players, depending on the league. Top league has former D-1 players, mine has some former college club players who are real solid. There are about five leagues at Kettler organized by general skill level. Lebodome: A one-line description of your experience? Kevin: Serious and competitive on the ice, relaxed and slightly buzzed off the ice. If watching the Capitals (play poorly) has gotten you excited for some real hockey, there is a lot of choice out there. If you got the equipment and means to get to a rink outside the city, then this is the kind of league for you.What's Grinding my Gears
Sequester. I liked not knowing what this word meant. Now I hear it and just roll my eyes.Links! Links! Ice Cold Links!
- Washington Nationals cut a guy mid game during spring training. Ouch
- Bit long, but very cool. Video games themes, middle eastern musicians/instruments
- Best current U.S. diplomat; the best rebounder in the history of the NBA, Dennis Rodman.
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