Next to the Ice is an intimate exploration into hockey communities and culture in Canada. With six well-written essays on timely themes, it provides readers with keen insights into key areas of elite and professional hockey including: fan culture, franchise drama, the rise of the hockey enforcer, and the off-ice politics of hockey parents.

Three university educators, parents and ex-players bring the reader inside the world of ‘rink rats’, hockey families, and hard-core fans and collectors of Canada’s favourite professional sport.

Next to the Ice is a must-have book for hockey enthusiasts, fans, academics, or anyone interested in developing a better understanding of Canada in general.