In ice hockey, what does "checking" refer to?

In ice hockey, "checking" specifically refers to the act of making physical contact with an opponent to disrupt their play. This can involve hitting the player to prevent them from moving the puck or gaining an advantage on the ice. The primary purpose of checking is to remove the opponent's puck possession or to limit their ability to maneuver effectively, thereby creating opportunities for the player’s own team.

This play is a fundamental aspect of the game, allowing players to assert physical dominance and control over their opponents. Various forms of checking exist, including body checks and stick checks, which can be employed depending on the situation in the game. Understanding the strategic use of checking is crucial for players, as it contributes to both defense and offense during play.

Other options, although related to the game, do not accurately capture the definition of checking. Swapping positions between teammates and passing the puck back to the goalie focus on teamwork and puck management rather than physical engagement with opponents. Blocking a puck with a player’s body pertains more to defensive techniques rather than the act of checking itself, which is primarily about contact with the opponent.