Neck Laceration Protection

[Note: yes, we sent this last week, and we'll send it next week too.. it's important!]
Beginning on August 1, 2024, all players in all age classifications, except adults, are required to properly wear neck laceration protection in games and practices. Additionally, any official under the age of 18 is required to wear neck laceration protection. 

This rule applies to Junior players that play under USA Hockey rules (NA3, NAHL, USHL)

This rule applies to goaltenders, the mask flapper is not an alternative to the neck laceration protection. 

Application

Prior to the start of the game, while introducing yourself to the coaches, ask "are all of your players properly equipped for the game?"

When it comes to the officials attention, the TEAM gets a warning, and the player MUST obtain and properly wear neck laceration protection, they CAN NOT play without it. 

The next occurrence, the player receives a misconduct penalty and CAN NOT return to play unless or until they are properly equipped. 

639 - Tripping

A defending player leaves their feet and slides into the puck carrier. The defending player gains possession of the puck and the attacking player falls to the ice after being hit by the defending player’s body. Should a penalty be assessed?

Yes. Rule Reference 639(Note 3 and a).

When a player leaves their feet and slides into an opponent, thereby causing them to fall, a penalty for tripping must be called regardless of who gains possession of the puck. The only exception is when a player drops to their knees to block a shot and their momentum carries them into the player
shooting the puck, causing them to fall. In that event, no penalty is to be assessed

401 - Penalties

Can the Referee impose penalties that occur during the pregame warm-up?

Yes. Rule References 401(a Note 1) and 502(a).

The Officials should enter the ice prior to the start of the warm-up period and must personally witness the incident in order for penalties to be assessed. All penalties imposed during the pre-game warm-up begin at the opening face-off.