Residents of Chicago took to the frozen pond in Lincoln Park for a game of pickup hockey on Monday, despite frigid temperatures and wind chills plummeting below minus-20 degrees. The North Pond, which freezes and thaws with the weather, became the scene of a lively game between about a dozen players.
Skating enthusiast Nathan Zyck said that playing on the pond is special because it's more than just a physical activity - it's also a community event where everyone comes together to chat and socialize. The group Zyck joined for his brother and some friends was thrilled to be out on the ice, despite the biting wind and chilly air.
Zyck and his brother grew up playing hockey in rec leagues across Chicago and often organize pickup games at the North Pond. On Monday, two childhood friends Christian Moran and Aaron Vanderlinde had challenged other players to a game and ended up playing together with sticks and pucks.
Despite the cold, the group took great joy from their time on the ice, saying that it was invigorating to play hockey outdoors in temperatures below zero. "I always say the best way to practice is by playing with people who are better than you," Moran said.
Health officials caution, however, that playing in such harsh conditions can lead to frostbite and hypothermia within 30 minutes of exposure. As a result, residents are advised to dress warmly and take necessary precautions when venturing outside during subzero temperatures.
The cold snap is expected to continue into Tuesday morning, with wind chills dipping as low as five degrees below zero in some areas.
Skating enthusiast Nathan Zyck said that playing on the pond is special because it's more than just a physical activity - it's also a community event where everyone comes together to chat and socialize. The group Zyck joined for his brother and some friends was thrilled to be out on the ice, despite the biting wind and chilly air.
Zyck and his brother grew up playing hockey in rec leagues across Chicago and often organize pickup games at the North Pond. On Monday, two childhood friends Christian Moran and Aaron Vanderlinde had challenged other players to a game and ended up playing together with sticks and pucks.
Despite the cold, the group took great joy from their time on the ice, saying that it was invigorating to play hockey outdoors in temperatures below zero. "I always say the best way to practice is by playing with people who are better than you," Moran said.
Health officials caution, however, that playing in such harsh conditions can lead to frostbite and hypothermia within 30 minutes of exposure. As a result, residents are advised to dress warmly and take necessary precautions when venturing outside during subzero temperatures.
The cold snap is expected to continue into Tuesday morning, with wind chills dipping as low as five degrees below zero in some areas.
. Don't they know it's freezing their butt off? I mean, isn't that just crazy? The fact that they're all bundled up and pretending it's no big deal is just mind-boggling to me... like, don't you guys care about your health or something? 
They need to take some precautions for once. Like, frostbite and hypothermia are real problems, people! Don't be a hero just because it's a good time. Just stay indoors where it's warm and cozy...
. Can't believe people are still playing hockey in -20 degree temps without proper gear and warnings 
. It's just asking for health issues. And what's up with no indoor alternatives? We should have better equipped facilities, especially during extreme weather conditions 
. I mean, I get that some communities come together like this, but can't we prioritize safety and accessibility instead of just 'enjoying the outdoors' 
! I mean, who needs a fancy rink when you've got a natural one like that? And let's be real, the community aspect is what makes it special – it's not just about playing hockey, it's about catching up with friends and having some laughs. Sure, health officials are worried about frostbite and hypothermia, but a little bit of cold air never hurt anyone... right? 
Anyway, if you've got the gear and the spirit, go for it! Just don't say I didn't warn you when you're shivering like a leaf afterwards 
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It's like a winter wonderland out there! But yeah, I guess the health risks are real, and people need to be careful. Frostbite and hypothermia are no joke, so dress up warm and take care of yourself, folks!
that's crazy! who needs warm gloves at -20°C? they're just gonna freeze off 
plus, it's like a community thing, everyone's out having fun, chatting... it's pretty cool 
. and tbh, it's kinda refreshing to see ppl embracing the chill & not letting a little cold stop 'em 
. just remember, if u do decide 2 venture out in those temps, bundle up & stay warm 
!
It's more than just a game, it's a community thing. People come together, chat, socialize... it's like one big happy family on the ice! 
I'm glad those guys are out there having fun, even if it is -20 degrees outside. Just hope everyone's warm and safe 
. Can't we all just stay inside and play some virtual hockey or somethin'? I guess it's cool that they're makin' the most of it and havin' fun, but personally, I'd be too scared to step foot out there 
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. It's just common sense to stay inside when it's that cold, you know? But hey, if you're into crazy stunts and risking life and limb for the sake of a game, be my guest 
. Stats say that only 1 in 5 people actually go outside when it's this cold 
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I'm loving the chill vibes 
The fact that they're getting invigorated from playing outdoors in such harsh conditions just shows how passionate they are about the game. And let's be real, who needs fancy indoor rinks when you've got a frozen pond to call your own? 
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The North Pond must be a special place for them, like a winter wonderland. Let's hope everyone stays safe out there and has fun, even when it's freezing! 