Signal and Timing Devices

During the middle of the first period the timekeeper accidentally blows the horn. What procedure should the On- Ice Officials follow?

Stop play immediately. Rule Reference 108(a).

As always, safety is one of our major concerns during all USA Hockey games. Play is dead the instant the horn blows, and the On-Ice Officials must blow their whistles to ensure that all participants are aware of this situation. The ensuing face- off will be conducted at the last play face-off location.

Captain of Team

There is a question of a rule interpretation and the Captain comes off the bench to protest the decision of the Referee. What should the Referee do?

If the Captain leaves the bench for a discussion without being invited to do so, and makes a complaint or protest, he must be assessed a minor penalty for unsportsmanlike conduct under this rule. Rule Reference 202(b).

** Keywords "protest" and "complaint".  **

Handling Puck with Hands

Is a goalkeeper permitted to catch the puck and throw it (to the side or rear) directly to a teammate, who gains immediate possession, without incurring a stoppage of play?

Yes. Rule Reference 618(c).

The puck may not be caught and then hand-directed to a teammate by a “player,” but the intent is to exclude the goalkeeper from this restriction provided the puck is not thrown “forward.” “Forward” is considered to be anywhere in between two imaginary lines, one at each goal post, extending to the nearest end zone face-off spot.