If you are a hockey fan, generally you are attracted to the game for two reasons...speed and violence.  Hockey gives you both in heavy doses.  During the off season, its pretty easy to find stuff (at least for an international guy like me) that helps the pallet along...

Hurling:  My favorite off season sport.  The pre-cursor to hockey many a year ago.  Hurling is the the speed and violent sport of Ireland.  The All Ireland finals are coming up next weekend...check your local listings.

CFL Football:  Canadian football is much more about speed than the NFL.  The past few seasons, its been fun to watch again (except the Lions suck this year).  Watch a game...TSN posts all of the games on their website after they are completed.

AFL Footie:  The Australian league has always been a favorite of mine.  Once you get past the gay uniforms, the game is surprisingly simple...and violent.  Check your local listings...

Enjoy your summer.