GEAR

The Shield

The shield is the Viking's main tool for blocking Runners' shots. It should have a relatively flat structure to maximize the surface area necessary to guard the goal. In standard play, the shield should be 30 inches in diameter, although if both teams wish to alter the size of the shield, this is permissible so long as both teams have identical equipment. Advanced players might opt to use smaller shields or smaller goals.

The AVL is currently using prototypes of the shield and hammer while developing more permanent gear. The shield is comprised of three primary parts: the plane, the boss, and the handle. The plane is the largest part of the shield. The boss is the small bowl on the front of the plane that protects the Viking's shield hand. The handle is attached to the backside of the plane, aligned with the boss. To build a prototype shield you will need the following materials:

• foamcore board, 30 inches square, .5 inch thick (plane)
• plastic or aluminum lipped bowl, 6–7 inch diameter, 2–4 inches deep (boss)
• dowel rod, 12 inches long, 1 inch diameter (handle)
• metal brackets, 1 inch diameter
• nuts and bolts, 1.25 or 1.5 inches long
• duct tape
• extra-strength glue

Cut the foamcore into a 30-inch circle to form the shield plane. Cut a 6–7 inch diameter hole at the center; this is the space necessary to give your hand room to move while holding the shield. This hole should be at least one inch smaller than the diameter of the boss you intend to use. Wrap front and back of the plane in duct tape to seal it without covering over the center hole (the duct tape adds durability to the foamcore, and it allows the user to easily repair surface damage). Wrap boss in duct tape; bolt onto the plane directly over the center hole. Semicircular electrical brackets are typically used to attach the handle to the backside of the plane. To help stabilize the handle, glue the dowel rod to the brackets, making sure the brackets are far enough from the center hole to allow room to securely attach the brackets to the plane. After the glue is completely dry, bolt the brackets to the plane. Frustrate opposing Runners all day long.

The Hammer

The Viking uses the hammer to help block the goal, hit the ball towards allied Runners, and hit opposing Runners to score points. The hammer is comprised of two primary parts: the head and the handle. To build a prototype hammer you will need the following materials:

• high-density foam, 9x4x4 inches (head)
• dowel rod, 36 inches long, 1 inch diameter (handle)
• duct tape
• extra-strength glue
• heavy-duty wire (optional)

On the long side of the foam, cut a narrow slit that almost extends through to the other side. Add glue to the dowel rod before inserting it into the foam to create the handle. Wrap entire hammer in duct tape. To ensure the head remains attached to the handle, you can also drill a small hole in the dowel rod just above where it enters the foam; run heavy-duty wire through the hole and wrap around the foam before duct-taping the entire hammer. Aim for the opponents' weak points.

The Goal

In standard play the aperture of the goal should be 5 feet square, although if both teams wish to alter the size of the goal, this is permissible so long as both teams have identical equipment. Advanced players might opt to use smaller shields or smaller goals.

The Stick

Runners can use any type of street or ice hockey stick.

The Ball

Standard play uses any type of street hockey ball.

The Insurance

Players are advised to wear sports goggles, helmets, mouth guards, support cups, full leg and knee guards, chest protectors, or some type of bulletproof bodysuit with a functioning life-support system. The AVL is in no way responsible when you get the snot knocked out of you.