What major feature was established during the organizational phase of hockey in the 1880s?

The major feature established during the organizational phase of hockey in the 1880s was the creation of official rules. This development was crucial as it helped standardize the gameplay, providing structure and consistency to the sport. Before the establishment of formal rules, matches could vary greatly in how they were played, leading to confusion and inconsistencies across different regions and teams. The introduction of a standardized set of rules enabled teams to compete fairly against one another and laid the groundwork for the development of various leagues and competitions.

While team uniforms, referees, and alliances with schools did emerge in the evolution of hockey, they were not as foundational to the sport’s initial organization as the establishment of official rules. Uniforms became important for team identity and organization, referees were crucial for maintaining order during games, and alliances with schools helped promote the sport among students, but none of these elements defined the early structure of hockey as significantly as the formalization of its rules.