Ice Hockey Slang: A New Glossary for the Providence College Rink

Rev. Thomas More Garrett, O.P., executive vice president and chief operating officer at Providence College, released a new glossary of terms for the men's ice hockey team. The document, published by PC News, defines specific slang used by players and coaches to describe on-ice actions and player performance. Garrett serves as the chaplain for the men's ice hockey team and teaches management in the School of Business at the institution.

The glossary categorizes player behaviors using bird metaphors. A 'pigeon' is defined as a player who cannot create scoring opportunities and relies on teammates to feed pucks. The term is described as pejorative, indicating a player who lacks direction or speed. A 'flamingo' is a player who lifts a leg to avoid a shot, signaling timidity. According to the text, flamingos are considered inferior to pigeons and are likely to become 'dusters,' a term for players who receive little playing time.

The document also details equipment and game states. A 'bucket' refers to a helmet, while 'pillows' are leg pads. The term 'egg' describes a score of zero to zero. 'Clapper' is the specific word used for a slapshot. Defenders are called 'blueliners,' and goalies who allow many goals are termed 'sieves.' Offensive maneuvers have their own labels, with 'apple' defined as an assist and 'gino' as a goal.

Garrett outlines a preferred sequence of play: apple, biscuit, gino. A 'biscuit' is the puck. The glossary notes that skilled puck handling is called a 'dangle.' If a player executes a dangle incorrectly, they may end up in the 'sin bin,' which is the penalty box. The text warns that staying in 'pigeon-mode' during a shift can lead to a 'yard sale,' a scenario where a player is hit hard enough to leave equipment on the ice.

The publication includes a section on game conditions and social outcomes. A 'gong show' is a chaotic, out-of-control game. 'Celly' is the celebration following a goal. 'Dusters' may be invited to a celly but are kept away from gong shows. Even after a celly, a duster remains a 'hoser,' a term for an unskilled or losing player. The glossary serves as a reference for the specific vernacular used in the Providence College men's ice hockey program.