I think we've just proved that hockey can truly be defined as a religion -- at least in Canada.
Now, as to its "ritualness." Is hockey played "in accordance with social custom or normal protocol?" That would be the question our friend Merriam-Webster would ask in order to define hockey as a ritual (Merriam-Webster Online Dictionary).
My question would be how could anyone look at the game of hockey and not see that there are social customs and normal protocols involved with it? Those customs might include ramming the opposing player into the glass, slashing him with the hockey stick, high-lowing the opposition in order to put him out of the game but hopefully not in the hospital, generously standing directly in front of the opposing goalie "to protect him" from those mean, onrushing players with the big sticks, swearing, and just general fighting. Now, those are some social customs! I'm not sure about the players protecting the opposing goalie. I may be wrong there.
That brings us to "normal protocol." Does hockey involve protocol or "a code prescribing strict adherence to correct etiquette and precedence?" As our friend Merriam describes the term protocol (Merriam-Webster Online Dictionary).
Well, duh! How about, wait until the player's back is turned then crush him into the boards? Or how about a player using the middle finger to signify his comaraderie with opposing players?
Maybe you think of the bench-clearing gatherings on the field of play to enjoy one another's...
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