Hockey has deep roots in both British and Canadian history and traditions. In Canada, similar to hockey, the sport was already popular among indigenous people. Also, it is easily accessible and perfectly fits the Canadian climate. As for the UK, the modern variation of hockey appeared approximately in the mid-18th century.
Further, it was quickly developed and popularized by public schools (for example, Eton). Along with visiting matches and watching them online, Canadians and British are highly involved in hockey betting. Modern online bookmakers allow you to choose from literally any local or world game and use a wide range of bet types. So, it is unsurprising that there is a growing trend in hockey popularity in both countries.
Historical Context
Although the initial variations of the game with a stick on the grass were popular both in England and Canada, the latter is considered the originator of this sport. The game was first mentioned in the context of the indigenous Mi’kmaq people, who played it with a ball and stick. Another milestone in Canadian hockey history was the first indoor game played in Montreal in 1875.
Subsequently, the International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF) adopted the Canadian rules as the official rules of ice hockey. As for Great Britain, this country is the cradle of more than 800 hockey clubs. However, the first mention of hockey here dates back to 1363 in a proclamation by King Edward III of England.
The modern hockey version arose in the 18th century when the first hockey club (Blackheath) was created in 1862. People liked to bet from the time they invented hockey, but there were primarily informal wagers (for example, among friends). Professional bookmakers appeared much later, in the 18th century in England.
The Canadian Betting Landscape
If you are 19 or over, you may bet legally on hockey in most Canadian provinces. There are 3 exceptions where you can start betting as soon as you reach 18 (Alberta, Manitoba, and Quebec). Sports betting has been officially allowed in Canada since 1985.
- Retail + Online: British Columbia, Saskatchewan, Alberta, Manitoba, Ontario, Quebec, Newfoundland and Labrador.
- Retail only: Yukon, Northern Territories, Nunavut.
Sports betting is regulated by Bill C-218, which allows every province to dictate its own betting rules and restrictions.
Among the top hockey events are the following: FIH Men’s Hockey World Cup, Olympic Winter Games, NHL (National Hockey League), Ice Hockey World Championship, and Champions Hockey League Final. Also, there are 40+ leagues in Canada, including CHL, WHL, NHL, ECHL, and more.
All these events and leagues are available to online bookmakers, which makes betting more accessible and comfortable. Now, you can deposit, choose among all existing bet types, and watch handy hockey live streams without leaving your home.
UK’s Foray into Hockey Betting
According to statistics, there is a strong trend in the growing popularity of this sport in England. Based on recent data, there are more than 13,100 people in the UK who play or regularly watch hockey games. In England, hockey (as well as other sports) betting is allowed according to the Gambling Licensing and Advertising Act (2014).
Individuals may start betting when they reach the age of 18. England may boast a wide selection of land-based and online bookmakers. Exactly online bookies impacted an increase in Gross Gambling Yield by 250 million British pounds at the start of 2022. In the UK, you may find both native sites and offshore bookies with a wide selection of betting options on local and world (including Canadian) events.
Notable Trends in Hockey Betting
Live betting is currently the most popular type of wagering. Bookies that support this option allow hockey fans to bet on their favorite team to play and watch live streams (if broadcasts are supported) from one place. This betting type is riskier but also offers higher odds. While waging live, you may also select among multiple prop bets, including the following:
- A Player to Score a Goal;
- Player vs Player;
- Over/Under;
- Grand Salami, and more.
Often, big season events like the Stanley Cup or EIHL change betting trends. The fact that they often attract a lot of fans, so online bookmakers start to offer more betting options. There may be multiple prop bets (related to individual player performance), live betting, futures, and more.
The Impact of Digital Platforms
Most bettors prefer to wager using online bookmakers compared to land-based bookies. Currently, there is a wide selection of gambling sites, so you may choose the one with the most tempting bonus offers that are described on WithCasinoBonus in all details, handy banking options, and coverage of hockey events you are interested in.
Often, such bookies are accessible from any type of smartphone or tablet so that you can enjoy pre-match live wagering on the go. Modern platforms offer perfectly optimized mobile versions of their site or (and) dedicated iOS/Android apps. The development of AI technologies is another feature that revolutionized hockey betting.
AI algorithms can analyze immense amounts of data, consider multiple patterns, and give exclusively accurate predictions. It helps make well-informed decisions and increases the chances of winning.
Potential Risks and Responsible Gambling
While sports betting may bring many fun and financial benefits, it is always associated with a risk of gambling addiction. So, it is crucial always to manage the bankroll, set deposit/time limits, and give you a periodical cool-off.
In case of gambling addiction signs, it is better to contact specialists and (or) enroll in a self-exclusion program. Depending on the bookmaker type, there may be a GamStop (UK-based bookies) or an internal self-exclusion program (offshore bookmakers).
Conclusion
The modern hockey betting industry in Canada and the UK faces the same trends. They are manifested in the growing popularity of online betting sites. Online bookies offer more freedom and opportunities for hockey fans to wager on pre-match and live events, use free or deposit bonuses, and enjoy betting from anywhere on the go.
AI is another feature to consider. Artificial Intelligence tools are widely used to create maximum precise predictions aimed at helping you make maximum informed decisions. This trend will only grow and is closely intertwined with VR/AR. To stay afloat in such a competitive market, bookmakers will try to offer a maximum immersive experience for any bettor, like he is present at the game or event.
