Abstract: Devices and methods for dasher board assemblies for sports such as hockey. The dasher board assemblies of various embodiments are configured to reduce impact forces when a user collides with the assembly by increasing the flexibility of the dasher board, which allows for a more gradual deceleration. In some embodiments, the dasher board assembly defines a gap behind the dasher board to allow space for deceleration. In certain embodiments, a foam material is placed between the dasher board and a frame of the assembly. In embodiments, a spline connects adjacent dasher boards without rigid connection to adjacent vertical frame elements. In embodiments, the assembly is configured to provide puck play characteristics that are comparable to conventional dasher board assemblies.