Opening 1:

Violence creates safety. This idea can be seen throughout various sectors of society, but it is clearly evident in the game of hockey. An unwritten set of rules that are dictated by the players ensures your actions will be met with violence. These rules are a check, a calculated sacrifice for your teammate’s safety. Whether it be police breaking up a riot or dropping the gloves on the ice, a few seconds of brutality leads to a safer environment.

Opening 2:

Referees are not needed to keep players safe. Hockey is a violent game that allows players to drop their gloves and fight on the ice at any time. Injuries are common and the toughness of the players cannot be overstated. The officials, or referees, are there to enforce the written rules of the game. However, their role in player safety is not as important as one would think. The best way to promote player safety in hockey is to encourage fighting.