👉 Hockey, like many contact sports, carries the risk of infection, particularly due to close physical proximity and the potential for contaminated surfaces or equipment. Hockey players can contract infections through direct contact with infected individuals, shared equipment like sticks and skates, or contaminated ice and surfaces. Common infections include upper respiratory tract infections, strep throat, and even more serious conditions like meningitis, especially in cases involving close contact during play. To mitigate these risks, players are encouraged to practice good hygiene, such as frequent hand washing and using sanitizers, and teams often follow strict protocols for cleaning and disinfecting equipment and facilities.