National In-Line Hockey Association

The information in this page was provied by Tamara McKernan who is the Women's Coordinator for the National In-Line Hockey Association (NIHA) (email: nihacan@freenet.edmonton.ab.ca or nihacan@supernet.ab.ca).

Women's In-line Hockey

Chances are, you own a pair or are considering the purchase of in-line skates. For many, skates on wheels is new, however history shows that in-line and roller skating has been around for a surprisingly long time. The origin of in-lines go as far back as the Netherlands in the 1700's. Later in the 1800's, the transfer from ice skating to wheels took place. The first pair of in-line skates were designed in 1823. At that time the skates were composed of metal wheels and no brakes. This combination proved to be hazardous to one's health, many a broken bone or window were the result of a brave participant. Due to these obvious shortcomings, the skate was continually improved upon until today's skate was developed.

The in-line skates are still evolving. If you are just now looking into purchasing a pair of skates you most likely will be overwhelmed by the selection. You will find ventilated boots with torsional stabilizers, ballistic nylon/leather boots, two-pieced polypropylene boots, glass-reinforced nylon frames, carbon composite frames, aluminum eccentric spacers and more. Technology has replaced the metal wheel with urethane and varying measurements of diameter and durometer (size and hardness). Do not be intimidated by the techno-terminology. The most important part is how they feel on your feet. Take the time to try on a large selection of skates and choose the ones that feel the best on your feet. Whether you enjoy speed or figure skating and hockey or ringette in the winter, you can find an in-line skate that meets your offseason needs.

Once you have comfortable skates, you may want to do more than trail or street skating. This is where I come in as the Women's Coordinator for the National In-Line Hockey Association (NIHA). My job is to create accessible and equitable opportunities for YOU to get out and enjoy the excitement of in-line hockey.

Over the course of this spring and summer, there were a number of leagues and events that held specific opportunities for both co-ed and women only divisions (over 65% of the NIHA leagues in Canada are co-ed). This response shows that there is a need to put an effort into this untapped group of female in-line hockey players and fans.

Examples of female oriented events include the NIHA Regionals series in various centres across Canada and the upcoming Nationals in October 19-22, 1995 in Las Vegas, Nevada. The National In-Line Hockey Championship will be the largest gathering of women's in-line hockey. We have cut off the registration at 16 teams but we have begun an alternate list, (which is growing quickly and may also have to be cut off). If your team is interested contact either of the Women's Coordinators below.

Other events which held female divisions include the Regional In-Line Hockey League's Women's tournament to be held this August in Ottawa, ON. The Triple Crown Sports Street Hockey Festival which comprised of 11 events in 7 provinces in Canada and even more across the States. There were the NARCh (North American Roller Hockey Championship) qualifiers in Ontario and Manitoba as well as throughout the States which advertised women's divisions. The NHL is bringing us the 9 city North American tour; "Break Out '95" which also had female and co-ed divisions. The "Pro-Beach Roller Hockey Tour" began last month and will travel into September. This tour is using it's final stop to hi-light the best women's in-line hockey players from across North America! Look for it September 9-10 in Los Angeles.

At this time, the most important task is exposure. Making women aware that these opportunities and more exist. It must also be made clear that each event is for women of any skill level. Our sport, right now, is specifically attracting the better female athletes. We need to ensure that any and all players are given the opportunity to come out and try. If you are interested, don't think twice - get out and play.

Want more information?  Use the contacts below.
                Let's make some noise!!

P.S. Women and in-line hockey made the front cover of the
August '95 "Roller Hockey" magazine.  Check it out!

NIHA Women's Coordinators
        Canada                          U.S.
        Tamara McKernan                 Stacey Griffith
        (800)668-6442                    (714)955-4929

NHL Break Out '96                       Triple Crown Sports
        (214)991-2670                    USA     (303)224-2502

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