Meaning: This quote by Brett Hull, a former professional ice hockey player, touches on the evolving nature of the sport of hockey and the changing physical requirements for players. In this quote, Hull emphasizes the importance of being pliable rather than big in the context of hockey. He also mentions the diminishing role of fighting in the game and how it has impacted the physical attributes of players.

Hockey has traditionally been associated with physicality and the presence of large, strong players who could both score goals and intimidate opponents with their physical prowess. However, as the sport has evolved, there has been a shift towards a more skill-based and fast-paced style of play. This change has led to a reevaluation of the physical attributes that are most valued in hockey players.

When Hull mentions that "you can't get big in hockey," he is likely referring to the fact that being overly bulky or heavily muscled may not be as advantageous in the modern game as it once was. In the past, larger players were often sought after for their ability to dominate physically on the ice, but with the game becoming faster and more skill-oriented, being pliable and agile has become increasingly important. Players now need to be able to move quickly, change directions rapidly, and possess a high level of overall mobility.

The reference to the removal of fighting from the game speaks to a broader shift within hockey culture. Historically, enforcers or "goons" were players whose primary role was to engage in physical altercations and protect their teammates through fighting. These players were often some of the largest and most physically imposing individuals on the ice. However, as the NHL and other hockey leagues have implemented stricter rules and penalties around fighting, the need for these "big huge guys who just fight" has diminished. This has opened up opportunities for smaller, more skillful players to thrive in the sport.

The changing dynamics of hockey have also influenced the way players train and condition themselves. While strength and physicality are still important, there is a greater emphasis on flexibility, agility, and overall athleticism. Players now focus on developing a well-rounded skill set that includes not only shooting and passing abilities but also the capacity to move fluidly and react quickly in the fast-paced, high-pressure environment of a hockey game.

In summary, Brett Hull's quote reflects the transformation of hockey from a sport that valued sheer physicality to one that increasingly emphasizes skill, speed, and adaptability. The evolving nature of the game has led to a reassessment of the ideal physical attributes for hockey players, with a greater emphasis on being pliable and versatile. Additionally, the diminishing role of fighting in the sport has contributed to a shift in the types of players who are most valued, opening up opportunities for a more diverse range of skill sets and body types to excel on the ice.