?? Susan... *I* set the premise wrongly? Which premise precisely? The one about how "...trying to injure the other guy is a common part of the routine."? I am sure that almost no one would admit they were trying to injure the other guy. I flatly do not believe this 'never' happens.

I 'have' watched it. And I have listened to the commentary from supposedly expert sportscaster about the fights, the high-sticking, the 'enforcers...etc. I have watched guys go out of their way to put a heavy body-check on an opponent who was not near the puck.

I have heard athletes in hockey, as well as football, explain that they just like hitting someone.

Say what you will about my 'understanding' of it: I do not like that temperament.

..the thread was about violence. I see young kids learning sports ..AND fans ...eager for more clashes, fights, etc., than I remember from years ago....mostly before TV began highlighting the 'intense' aspects of the 'game'.
   (perhaps my memory is also suspect, as well as my logic.)