Broomball is a thrilling ice game that shares similarities with hockey but with its own unique rules and equipment. Understanding the structure of broomball games is essential for players, coaches, and spectators. This article delves into the division of games into periods, the duration of each period, breaks between periods, and the possibility of overtime and shootouts to determine a winner.

Periods in Broomball

Broomball games are typically divided into two or three periods, depending on the league or tournament rules. Each period allows teams to compete and showcase their skills within a structured timeframe. The number of periods ensures that the game progresses in a fair and organized manner, providing equal opportunities for both teams to succeed.

Duration of Each Period

The duration of each period in broomball typically ranges from 15 to 20 minutes. The specific length may vary depending on the league, tournament, or level of play. The set time for each period ensures that games have a consistent length and helps maintain a sense of fairness and uniformity across different matches.

Breaks Between Periods

Between each period, there is a break that serves multiple purposes. Teams utilize this break to rest, recover, and strategize for the upcoming period. The length of the break can vary depending on the specific league or tournament rules. It provides players with an opportunity to regroup, discuss tactics, and make any necessary adjustments to their game plan. These breaks are crucial for maintaining player stamina and ensuring an optimal level of performance throughout the game.

Overtime and Shootouts

In certain situations where the scores are tied at the end of regular time, additional periods may be played to determine a winner. This is commonly known as overtime. During overtime, six players, three from each team, continue to play for a specified duration without a goalie. The absence of a goalie creates an exciting and high-scoring environment, as both teams strive to secure a decisive victory.

If no winner is determined in the first overtime period, a second overtime period may be played. This process can continue until a winner is determined or until the league or tournament rules specify otherwise. The inclusion of multiple overtime periods ensures a fair and conclusive outcome for the game.

In some instances, a shootout period may be implemented to determine the winner. A shootout involves individual players taking penalty shots against the opposing team’s goalie. During a shootout, the shooter has the choice to have the ball placed a specified distance from the net or play the ball from center ice. This thrilling aspect of the game adds an element of suspense and showcases the skill and precision of individual players.

Conclusion

Understanding the structure of broomball games is crucial for players, coaches, and spectators. The division of games into periods, the duration of each period, and breaks between periods ensure a fair and organized gameplay experience. Overtime and shootouts provide exciting opportunities to determine a winner in cases of tied scores. By comprehending the structure of broomball games, participants and observers can fully appreciate the strategic and competitive nature of this thrilling ice sport.

Sources:

“Broomball.” Wikipedia. [Online]. Available: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Broomball.
“Broomball Rules.” Campus Recreation | UMass Lowell. [Online]. Available: https://www.uml.edu/campusrecreation/programs/intramurals/sports-rules/broomball-rules.aspx.
“Broomball.” Yale Intramurals. [Online]. Available: https://intramurals.yale.edu/broomball.

FAQs

The Structure of Broomball Games: Periods and Breaks

How many periods are typically in a broomball game?

Broomball games are typically divided into two or three periods, depending on the league or tournament rules.

What is the duration of each period in broomball?

The duration of each period in broomball usually ranges from 15 to 20 minutes, though it may vary based on the league, tournament, or level of play.

Are there breaks between periods in broomball?

Yes, there are breaks between each period in broomball. These breaks allow teams to rest, recover, and strategize for the upcoming period.

How long are the breaks between periods?

The length of the breaks between periods can vary depending on the specific league or tournament rules.

What happens if the scores are tied after regular time in broomball?

If the scores are tied after regular time, additional periods, known as overtime, may be played to determine a winner.

How does overtime work in broomball?

During overtime in broomball, six players, three from each team, continue to play for a specified duration without a goalie. The absence of a goalie creates an exciting and high-scoring environment.

What happens if no winner is determined in the first overtime period?

Is there a shootout in broomball games?

Yes, in some instances, a shootout may be implemented to determine the winner in broomball games. Shootouts involve individual players taking penalty shots against the opposing team’s goalie.