You've heard of ice hockey, field hockey, and street hockey, but there's another type of hockey that is played by millions and has a healthy number of players right here in South Jersey.

DekHockey is similar to street hockey but instead of asphalt or cement, it's played on a hard plastic-like surface.  The size of the rink can vary.  3 on 3 games are generally played on 100'x50' rinks, while 4 on 4 games use 120'x60' rinks.

The equipment that players use is much like other types of hockey.  Players use sticks with plastic blades or regular hockey sticks.  Helmets, gloves, and shin guards are standard protection for players, although since there's no physical contact, you won't see pads as you would in ice hockey.

Nicole Franklin
Nicole Franklin
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Players wear sneakers instead of skates, and they use an orange ball that's filled with a liquid, that prevents the ball from bouncing.

Locally, there are many leagues in the area.  The game is primarily played by girls, and the ages range from 5 years old, all the way up to high school freshmen.  Competitive teams are active and compete against each other in Mays Landing, EHT, Linwood, and Somers Point.

One of these competitors is 12-year-old, Autmn Sonnie.  Autumn, an athletic young lady, started playing 3 years ago.  She took to it quickly and was immediately recognized for her skills and was recommended for defensive player of the year with only one year of experience.

Nicole Franklin
Nicole Franklin
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Most recently, Autumn was invited to be a part of a team that will be traveling to Austria to take part in the United World Games, the largest youth sports event in Europe.

Autumn's mom Nicole proudly talks about her daughter's accomplishments.  She calls her "a natural team leader, who is very much team-oriented."

Nicole Franklin
Nicole Franklin
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If you'd like information on how you can sponsor Autumn and her teammates, you can the USDHF has a Facebook page with all you need to know.  Also, if you'd like to find out more about this great sport, or if your child might be interested in playing, the USDHF is a good place to start.

What is Dek Hockey? (Rules and Equipment Explained) (hockeyhow.com)

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