To help promote staying physically active and utilizing the outdoors during the winter months I decided to offer broomball for an intramural unit. Even though I don't have an ice rink l have discovered that you can successfully play the game on tennis courts (nets removed) without changing the rules too drastically. Although you have a lot more traction on the tennis courts, it provides an acceptable alternative by having wall boundaries (fence and nets) to act as boards.

The game is very similar to hockey with the major exceptions of no contact, wearing sneakers rather than skates, using brooms (real or broomball-specific) to hit a ball (similar to a very small soccer ball), and you can kick the ball to advance it (within reason). I use the rules from the St. Lawrence University (N.Y.) intramural league that I adapted to my situation (safety and facilities).

This setup also allows me to introduce students to the rules which they could take, adapt, and begin to play on a frozen pond or outdoor rink in their neighborhoods. All you need are brooms, a ball, and two goals. The game is great for cardiovascular endurance because the students are constantly on the move with several bursts of high intensity activity just as in hockey.

Also, because of the equipment, rules, and slower pace of play compared to hockey, the game is very safe and allows students who are just developing their stick work to be successful. Also, the ability to use your feet if need be helps make the game developmentally appropriate for all ages. Overall, I believe that the students who have played broomball have found it to be fun, a great workout, and an excellent alternative to staying inside to exercise or watch television.