Reference data by player position for an ice hockey-specific complex test

Abstract

The aim of this study was to investigate position-specific (forwards, defenders) reference data for a scientifically evaluated (validity, reliability) ice hockey-specific complex test (IHCT). One hundred and four 3rd league professional ice hockey field players (mean ± standard deviations (SD); age: 26.4 ± 5.62 years) volunteered for the investigation. Players were categorized as forwards (n = 64) and defenders (n = 40). Data from the IHCT were collected over six seasons from three 3rd league teams. The IHCT included parameters for load (e.g., 10 m and 30 m skate times, transition and weave agility times with and without a puck, slap and wrist shots on goal) and stress (e.g., lactate, heart rate). The only significant (p < 0.002) difference between forwards and defenders for performance were found for weave agility with puck (p < 0.001). Forwards showed a higher average performance in this parameter than defenders. Differences were also found in weave agility without a puck (p = 0.008), 30 m backward sprinting without puck (p = 0.012) and goals after test (p = 0.030). This study provides position-specific reference data for a valid and reliable ice hockey-specific complex test for the 3rd league. These results may be used by coaches to judge player performance based on position (forwards vs. defenders). Moreover, coaches may use these data to evaluate the effectiveness of the most recent training period. Further research should extend this database to 1st and 2nd league players in order to enhance the scope of the test.