USA Hockey 2006-2007 New Standard of Play and Rules Emphasis

2006-2007 New Standard of Play and Rules Emphasis

The recent USA Hockey Congress was noteworthy for the new standard of Play and Rules Emphasis that emanated out of this meeting. Everyone should take a moment to familiarize themselves with these new rules and standards. We provide a summary of the same below:

Summary

Through the new standard of rules enforcement, our game, much like the National Hockey League, will continue to allow the opportunity for improved skill development and a more positive hockey environment for all participants. The mission of USA Hockey is clear; through this new initiative a greater emphasis will be placed on skating, puck possession and the proper use of the body to establish position and a competitive advantage.

The goal of the enforcement standard is to reduce restraining infractions in the game and not to remove legal body checking or body contact. A hard body check or using body contact/position (non-checking classifications) to gain a competitive advantage over the opponent should not be penalized as long as it is performed within the rules.

The principles of this new enforcement standard include the following:

· The use of the stick will be limited to only playing the puck.

· The stick will not be allowed to in any way impede a player’s progress.

· The use of a free hand/arm will not be allowed to grab or impede a player’s progress.

· Players who use their physical skills and/or anticipation and have a positional advantage shall not lose that advantage as a result of illegal acts by the opponent.

· Players will be held accountable for acts of an intimidating or dangerous nature.

FOR MORE DETAILS AND ANALYSIS ON THESE CHANGES, PLEASE CLICK THIS HYPERLINK WHICH WILL TAKE YOU TO THE USAHOCKEY WEBSITE EXPLAINING THIS NEW DIRECTION IN THE GAME UNDERTAKEN BY USA HOCKEY.