1. New Standard of play: Stick vs. Puck
Click Here to see the new rules and watch the VIDEO presentation on USAhockey.com
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.
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2. Coaches MUST Wear Helmets:
All Coaches must wear helmets for all on ice practices and control scrimmages
Click Here to see the ruling on MEAHA.com
During the 2006 Annual Congress, USA Hockey’s board of directors passed new legislation mandating that all coaches and instructors wear helmets during on-ice sessions. The complete legislation, effective at the start of the 2006-07 season, reads as follows:
All ice hockey coaches and instructors of registered USA Hockey Youth/High School, Disabled, Girls’/Women’s 19 & Under and below programs must properly wear an ice hockey helmet during all on-ice sessions, including practices, controlled scrimmages and coach and referee clinics (seminars).
“Every year there are injuries to coaches that could have been prevented by wearing a helmet,” USA Hockey President Ron DeGregorio said of the change in policy. “This legislation represents a positive step forward for the safety of our coaches.”
USA Hockey is committed to making the sport of ice hockey as safe as it can possibly be, and is constantly working on ways to make the sport safer. The links below can provide you, the coach, with valuable information regarding managing and preventing injuries. |
