203 - Players In Uniform

Shall a team be allowed to participate in a game with several players who are wearing sweaters that are a different color than those of their teammates?

Yes, as long as they are not similar in style and/or color to those of the opposing team. Rule Reference 203(b).

Even though Rule 203(b) states that all players of the same team must be dressed uniformly, it is not always possible for amateur hockey teams to conform to this rule. Financial and other consideration come into play at this level. Each case must be considered individually and worked out amicably
among the two teams and the Referee.

403 - Major Penalties

The Referee assesses a minor penalty to a player and it is announced as such. Before the ensuing face-off they decide that the situation warrants a major plus game misconduct penalty to be called instead of the minor penalty. Should they change the minor penalty even though it has already been announced?

Yes. Rule Reference 403(a).

Even though this is a situation that the Referee must try to avoid, they are still required to change the call. The Referee has an obligation to get the call right, whenever possible, and take the time when making this type of decision to improve their chances of doing so. Potential criticism by the offending team for changing the call is not a valid reason not to do what is right.

633 - Refusing to Start Play

A Coach has been assessed a game misconduct penalty but refuses to move away from their team’s players’ bench. What action should the Referee take?

The Coach is required to leave the immediate vicinity of the players’ bench area and not attempt to direct the play of their team. Rule References 633(a), 401(c) and 404(c).

If the Coach refuses to comply with either of these requirements, the Referee must advise the team Captain that the team has 15 seconds to get the Coach away from the bench area or the team will be assessed a bench minor penalty. If it becomes necessary to assess the penalty, the Referee must repeat the same 15-second warning, and if the Coach still refuses to move, the game must be suspended. The Coach and any offending Team Official(s) shall be assessed a match penalty, and the Referee must report the incident to the proper authorities.