INDEX
1 THE PITCH
1.1 SURFACE
1.1.1 The surface of the Pitch must be of wood, tiles, tarmac, or such other substances as may be approved by the IISHF and be flat and smooth so that the skate wheels can roll without deviation.
1.2 DIMENSIONS
1.2.1 The Pitch shall be a minimum size of 15 metres by 30 metres and a maximum size of 30 metres by 60 metres.
1.2.2 For International Title events, the Pitch must be a minimum size of 20 metres by 40 metres.
1.2.3 The corners should be rounded in a circular arc with a radius of between 2 and 4 metres in proportion to the size of the Pitch. Two thirds of the width must be rectilinear.
1.3 BOARDS
1.3.1 The Pitch shall be surrounded by �Boards�.
1.3.2 The Boards shall be between 80 cm and 1.22 metres high. The measurement must be taken from the playing surface to the top of the Boards. A flush wall of a building or a combination of a wall and Boards can also be used.
1.3.3 The Boards shall be smooth and free of any object that could cause injury to the Players. They must be firmly fixed and able to withstand impact from the Players. All doors giving access to the playing surface must swing away from the Pitch. All protective screens and gear used to hold the Boards in position must be mounted on the side away from the playing surface.
1.3.4 Advertising may be placed on the Boards. For International Title Matches approval and permission must be granted by the IISHF. For all other games, approval and permission must be granted from the Proper Authorities. No advertising may be within the area 2.5 metres either side of the goal cage and 2.5 metres from the playing surface.
1.4 PITCH MARKINGS
1.4.1 All measurements shall be from the centre of the line to the centre of the next line, or from the wall to the centre of the line.
1.4.2 All lines and markings on the Pitch shall be between 4cm and 10cm in width, but they must be of one standard width. All markings must be the same colour and must be clearly distinguishable from the playing surface.
1.4.3 For International Title Matches a �Goal Line� shall be drawn completely across the playing surface and continued vertically up the side of the Boards. For other Matches the goal line may be marked on the Pitch as above or solely inside the goal Crease.
1.4.4 For International Title Matches a �Goal Area line� shall be drawn completely across the playing surface and continued vertically up the side of the Boards. For all other Matches the Goal Area line may be marked as above or it may be an imaginary line between the two Face Off Spots on either side of the Pitch. For International Title Matches a �Centre Line� shall be drawn completely across the playing surface and continued vertically up the side of the Boards exactly halfway between each end of the Pitch. For all other Matches the centre line may be marked as above or it may be an imaginary line extending from the centre Spot to either side of the Pitch.
1.4.5 The Goal Crease (1 metre x 2.5 metres) shall be marked as follows: 1.25 metres on either side of the centre of the goal line, two lines, 1 metre in length shall be drawn at right angles to the goal line and point towards the halfway line. The ends of these lines furthest from the Goal Line shall be joined by another line.
1.4.6 The area between each end of the Pitch and the Goal Area line shall be called the Goal Area.
1.4.7 The Goalpost markers shall be marked as follows: 90 � 93cm (dependant on the width of the goal) on either side of the Goal Line, 2 lines 30cm in length shall be drawn at right angles across the Goal Line (15cm each side).
1.4.8 The Face Off Spots shall be marked as follows: 6 metres from the centre of the Pitch on the Goal Area line a line shall be drawn at right angles extending 20cm in each direction. (Also, a circle of 20cm radius can be drawn at the same position).
1.4.9 The Centre Face Off Spot shall be marked as follows: Midway along the centre line, a line shall be drawn at right angles to the centre line extending 20cm in each direction. (Also, a circle of 20cm radius can be drawn at the same position).
1.4.10 Each Face Off Spot should be surrounded by a circle (or broken circle) of 3 metres radius (Free Hit distance line).
1.4.11 The Referees Crease shall be marked as follows: A semi circle of 2m radius shall be drawn with its centre touching the Board immediately in front of the Timekeeper�s position.
1.5 PLAYERS BENCHES
1.5.1 Each Pitch shall be provided with seats or Benches to accommodate 18 Players and 3 Officials of each Team. The accommodation provided, shall be uniform for both Teams, and shall be placed immediately alongside the Pitch as near to the centre of the Pitch as possible, and separated from each other. All doors into the Players� Benches shall swing away from the Pitch.
1.5.2 No other person except the 18 Players and the three Team Officials who must have been registered on the Match sheet before the game shall be permitted to occupy the Players Bench area.
1.5.3 Each Team should use the same Team Bench for the whole of the game. The first named Team on the Match sheet has the right to choose the Bench.
1.5.4 The Players Bench area must be separated from the spectators.
1.6 PENALTY BOX
1.6.1 The Penalty Boxes should be on the opposite side of the Pitch to the Player�s Benches and should be separated by the Timekeeper�s Bench. The Penalty Boxes shall have seats or Benches to accommodate penalised Players.
1.6.2 The Penalty Boxes shall be situated as close to the centre of the Pitch as possible. All doors to the Penalty box shall swing away from the Pitch and shall not lie within the Referee�s Crease.
1.6.3 The Penalty Boxes shall be separated from the Player�s Benches and the spectators.
1.6.4 For International Title Matches rules 1.5 and 1.6 must apply. For all other Matches if a combination of Boards and flush wall are used, the Players Benches should be at each end of the Pitch and the Penalty Boxes and Timekeepers box should be as near to the centre of the Pitch as possible.
1.7 PITCH LIGHTING
1.7.1 The lighting on all Pitches must be sufficient so that all Players, Officials and spectators may conveniently follow play at all times.
1.7.2 If in the opinion of the Referees, there is not sufficient light to continue the game, the Referees shall have the authority to postpone the remainder of the game or take time out pending the necessary improvement to the lights.
1.7.3 If one Team is being handicapped to a greater extent by failure of lights and in the opinion of the Referees, the game should not be cancelled, they shall have the authority to alternate the Teams so that each Team will play the same amount of time in each end of the Pitch.
1.8 DRESSING ROOMS
1.8.1 Each Pitch shall provide suitable dressing rooms equipped with toilet and shower with sufficient space for 18 persons with equipment, for the use of the Teams.
1.8.2 Each Pitch shall provide a suitable dressing room equipped with toilet and shower for the use of the Match Officials.
1.8.3 No unauthorised person shall be allowed to enter the Official�s dressing room, before, during or immediately after a game. For any infraction of this rule, a Match Penalty shall be given and the matter reported immediately to the Proper authority for further action.
1.9 EXEMPTIONS
1.9.1 Exemptions from the rules 1.1 to 1.8 are permissible upon application to the IISHF with regard to International Matches, or by the National Associations with regard to all other games.
1.9.2 For International Matches or Tournaments all the Teams, taking part must be informed of any exemptions, in writing a minimum of four weeks beforehand.
2 MATCH EQUIPMENT
2.1 GOALS
2.1.1 The Goal Cage must be made of wood, metal, or synthetic material of strong enough construction to withstand impact from Players. The Goal Cage must not be fixed to the ground, allowing the goal cage to move on impact from the Players.
2.1.2 The Goal Cage shall be positioned so that the front of the goal posts are level with the front of the goal line and on the goal post markers.
2.1.3 The inside measurements of the Goal Mouth shall be 1.22 metres high and 1.88 metres wide. These measurements can be plus or minus 3cm. Both goals must be the same size.
2.1.4 The Goal Posts and cross bar shall be square or round in cross section, with a minimum measurement of 3 cm and a maximum of 6cm. All posts and cross bar must be of one standard thickness.
2.1.5 The distance from the front of the goal post to the rear of the cage at floor level shall be a minimum of 50cm and a maximum of 1 metre. At cross bar level a minimum of 20cm and a maximum of 50 cm.
2.1.6 All Goals shall be constructed so that the floor level measurement shall always be a minimum of 30 cm larger than the measurement at cross bar level.
2.1.7 The back, sides and the top of each goal shall have attached a net constructed in such a manner as to keep the ball within the confines of the goal. The mesh used must not allow the ball to pass through.
2.1.8 The Goal posts, cross bar and supporting framework shall be painted in a colour easily distinguishable from the playing surface and the Boards. Red shall not be used if either the playing surface or Boards are green.
2.1.9 The Goal must be equipped with drop nets.
2.2 BALL
2.2.1 The ball shall be made of plastic and be spherical in shape with a maximum diameter of 7.5cm and a minimum diameter of 6cm. The IISHF shall determine the exact and valid diameter of the Officially approved ball.
2.2.2 The weight shall be a minimum of 80gm and a maximum of 120gms. The IISHF shall determine the exact and valid weight of the Officially approved ball.
2.2.3 The ball when dropped onto a solid concrete floor from a height of 2metres between the bottom of the ball and the floor shall bounce so that the height that the top of the ball reaches is approximately 40cm.
2.2.4 This test is to be carried out at a temperature of 20 degrees Celsius +/- 0.5 degrees C, and the ball having being kept in this temperature for a minimum of one hour before the test.
2.2.5 The ball may be of any colour that is easily distinguishable from the playing surface, Boards and Lines.
2.3 PITCH EQUIPMENT
2.3.1 Each Pitch must have:
2.3.2 For International Matches/Tournaments a visible Time Clock and Scoreboard, For use of the Timekeepers to keep the Players, Officials and spectators informed as to all time elements at all stages of the game.
2.3.3 For each Match the Host must provide:
3 OFFICIALS
3.1 APPOINTMENT OF OFFICIALS
3.1.1 For all International Title Matches there shall be appointed for each game by the IISHF:
3.1.2 For all other Matches:
Shall be the minimum number of game Officials.
3.1.3 The Proper Authorities in whose territory the game is being played shall appoint the Match Officials. The Referees cannot be active or passive members of clubs or Teams taking part in the game. The Guest Teams are allowed to request to provide a Timekeeper, but must make this request at least 30 minutes before the game. The Match Officials must perform their duties during the whole game.
3.1.4 If no authorised Referees have been appointed or that the appointed Referees do not appear, the Referees may be chosen by mutual agreement between the two competing Teams.
3.1.5 The Chief Referee is authorised to speak to the appointed Officials during intervals/stoppages of a Match in progress.
3.2 REFEREES
3.2.1 The Referees shall have total supervision of the game, and shall have full control of all game Officials and Players during the game including stoppages. They are the sole judges of fact and law and in the case of any dispute, their decision shall be final and binding.
3.2.2 The Referees shall remain on the Pitch at the end of each period and at the end of the game until all of the Players have shaken hands and left the Pitch. After the end of the game, the Referees shall immediately retrieve the ball.
3.2.3 For Tournaments the Referees, power of jurisdiction shall be for the duration of the event.
3.2.4 For all other Matches, the Referee�s power of jurisdiction shall extend from 30 minutes before the published time of the start of the game until all Players have departed the venue.
3.2.5 All Referees shall be dressed in the IISHF approved uniform (Black and White Referee shirt and long black trousers) and shall be equipped with efficient skates, the Official Penalty cards, one approved Referee whistle and must produce an Official Referee pass. The wearing of a helmet is optional but must be black if worn.
3.2.6 The Referees must check before each game that the host has provided the required Pitch and Match equipment. They must record the result of the check on the supplementary sheet of the Match report.
3.2.7 The Referees shall order the Teams on to the Pitch at the appointed time for the beginning of the game and at the commencement of each period. If, for any reason, there will be more that two minutes delay in resuming play after any interval or period, the Referee shall state in their report to the Proper Authorities the cause of the delay and the Team(s) which were at fault.
3.2.8 The Referees shall, before starting the game, see that the appointed game Officials are in their respective positions, and satisfy themselves that the timing and signalling equipment are in order.
3.2.9 Referees must not give any instruction or advice to either Team before the game.
3.2.10 During the game, a Referee must not consult with any person other than the other Referee or any other Official, but only on a point of fact relating to that Officials function.
3.2.11 A Referee cannot alter a decision, except one given before he/she spoke with the other Referee.
3.2.12 During a game, no person other than the Players or Referees may be on the Pitch without the express permission of the Referees, which shall only be given for a special and temporary purpose.
3.2.13 The Referees shall inform the Timekeepers of the number of the Players scoring and assisting each goal.
3.2.14 The Referees must indicate by use of the Official signals, the time Penalty imposed and the infringement, to the offending Player/s, before informing the Timekeepers.
3.2.15 The Referees shall not discuss verbally the reasons for awarding a Penalty to anyone; they shall simply show the hand signal for the Penalty given. The Referees shall not enter into any discussion with anyone regarding decisions he/she has made.
3.2.16 Immediately after the end of the game, the Referees and Timekeepers shall check and sign the Match report and supplementary sheets. In case of any Match penalties, injury, non-participation etc, the Referees must immediately write a report on the supplementary sheet giving all details and must forward the report to the Proper Authorities.
3.3 TIMEKEEPERS
The Timekeepers are responsible for the following:
3.3.1 Before the start of the game obtaining from the manager of each Team a list of the Players taking part in the game, and also the names of the Captain and Assistant Captain and ensure that a C or A as appropriate is placed against their names on the Match sheet.
3.3.2 Recording the starting and finishing of each game and actual playing time during the game using the timing device. He/she must also run one stopwatch as a backup in case of failure of the main device. Signal by use of sound device the end of each period and time outs. Allowing the fixed interval between periods and the interval for time outs. Announcing when two minutes remain in the final period of the game and in the final period of overtime. Ensuring that the game clock is stopped when the Referee blows his whistle in the final two minutes of the game and in the last two minutes of the final period of overtime.
3.3.3 Recording all penalties imposed by the Referees (including the number of the Players penalised, the duration of the Penalty, the time at which each Penalty was imposed and for what offence). Ensuring that the time served by the penalised Players is correct and that they are released from the Penalty box at the Proper time. Informing the penalised Player when he/she has 15 seconds until the expiry of his/her Penalty. Advising the Referees when a Player has received a second Major or second Misconduct Penalty Penalty in the same game. Keeping a record of the goals scored the scorers and their assistants on the Match report. Indicating on the Match report all Players who have actually taken part in the game.
3.3.4 Drawing to the attention of the Referees any abuse or Misconduct Penalty by any person to any of the off Pitch game Officials. Prepare the Match report for the signature of the Referees.
3.3.5 In case of any dispute regarding time, the Referee�s decision shall be final.
3.4 PENALTY BOX STEWARDS
3.4.1 The Penalty box stewards shall be responsible for :
3.5 GOAL JUDGE
3.5.1 There shall be one Goal Judge at each goal. They shall not be members of either Team engaged in the game, nor shall they be replaced during its progress. If, after the commencement of the game, it becomes apparent that either goal judge because of partisanship or any other cause is guilty of giving unjust decisions, the Referee may appoint a replacement.
3.5.2 Goal judges shall be stationed behind the goals, immediately outside the Boards, during the progress of play. They shall not change ends during the game.
3.5.3 The goal judge shall decide only if the ball has passed between the goal posts, and under the crossbar, and then give the appropriate signal. It is not part of the goal judges duty to decide if a goal has been legally scored. A Referee is the only person who can award a goal.
3.6 PROPER AUTHORITIES
3.6.1 The term �Proper Authorities� as applied under these rules is defined as the immediate Governing Body of the games involved.
4 TEAMS
4.1 AGE LIMITS
4.1.1 MEN/WOMEN
4.1.2 JUNIOR
4.1.3 YOUTH
4.1.4 PEE WEE
4.1.5 MINNOW
4.1.6 Players in the top 2 years of the junior age group are allowed to play in the Men/Women age group. For all other age groups, only Players in the final year of the age group are allowed to play in the next higher age group.
4.1.7 Girls/women are allowed to play in a men�s Team of their own age group. If a women is playing in a men�s Team and a women�s Team and there is an overlapping of games, she must play in the women�s Team.
4.1.8 Exceptions to rules 4.1.1 to 4.1.5 can only be made after approval by IISHF for International Matches and by the National Association for other Matches.
4.2 TEAM COMPOSITION
4.2.1 The maximum number of Players that may be registered as members of a Team for any game is 18 (16 outfield Players and 2 goalkeepers). For International Matches the minimum number that shall be registered is 8 (eight). These Players must be kitted up and be on the Players Bench or on the Pitch. An exception is only possible if under proven force majeure. All Players and Team Officials must be registered members of their National Association.
4.2.2 At least 30 minutes before the start of each game, the Manager or coach of a Team shall submit, to the timekeeper or Competition Secretary as appropriate, all licence cards and a list of Players who shall be eligible to play in that game, in the following order:
Indicating all shirt numbers and licence/membership card numbers.
A Team Official from each Team must sign the Match Sheet to confirm the Team lists, before the start of the game. The Referees may only start the game when the Officials from both of the Teams have signed the Match sheet.
The licence /membership cards must be produced for checking and shall remain at the Timekeepers desk for the duration of the game. Once the game has started, no other Players can be added to the Match Report.
If a Player who is not listed on the Match Report participates in a game, and the omission was a genuine error, then the score at the end of the game will stand.
If a Player who is not listed on the Match report participates in a game and the omission was not a genuine error or if an ineligible, banned or suspended Player participates in a game, the non �offending Team shall win the game 5 - 0 and gain 2 points. The Referees must write a report on the supplementary sheet giving full details of the occurrence.
4.2.3 The maximum number of Players of a Team that may be kitted up and play in any one game is 18 (16 outfield and 2 Goalkeepers). Only these 18 Players plus 3 Team Officials may be on the Bench during a game.
4.2.4 It is permissible to replace a Goalkeeper with an outfield Player at any time during a Match.
4.2.5 The maximum number of Players that may be on the Pitch whilst play is in progress is 5 five. If at any time, a Team has more that 5 Players on the Pitch or the number, to which they are entitled by reason of penalties, a Minor Penalty shall be awarded against a Player of that Team who was on the Pitch at the time. The Captain shall nominate the Player.
4.2.6 The minimum number of Players of a Team that must be on the Pitch is three (3). If a Team cannot put the required number of Players on to the Pitch, due to penalties, injury, absence or lateness, the Team shall forfeit the game. The game will be awarded 5 � 0 to the non-offending Team. The Referees must write a report on the supplementary sheet giving full details of the occurrence.
4.3 TEAM CAPTAIN
4.3.1 Each Team shall appoint one Captain and he/she alone shall have the privilege of discussing with the Referees any questions relating to the interpretation of rules during a game. A complaint about a Penalty is not a matter relating to the interpretation of the rules. The Referee shall on the first occasion, give any Captain not observing this rule a verbal warning. On the second and subsequent occasions, a Misconduct Penalty Penalty shall be awarded against him/her.
4.3.2 The Captain shall wear the letter C of a minimum of 10cm in height and in a contrasting colour to his shirt, and in a conspicuous position on the upper left front part of his/her shirt. If the letter C is not worn privileges under this rule will not be permitted.
4.3.3 Another Player in each Team shall be appointed as Assistant Captain and he/she shall wear the letter A on his/her shirt in the same position. Only if the Captain is not available due to injury or Penalty may the Assistant act as Captain.
4.3.4 Team Managers, Coaches and Goalkeepers are not permitted to be Captain or Assistant Captain.
4.3.5 The Captain and Assistant Captain of each Team shall be indicated on the Match report before the start of the game.
4.3.6 Any Player (excluding Captain) who makes any protest or intervention with the Referees or Officials for any purpose shall be given a Misconduct Penalty Penalty.
5 PLAYERS DRESS AND EQUIPMENT
5.1 DANGEROUS OBJECTS
5.1.1 No Player may wear or carry anything dangerous onto the Pitch.
5.1.2 Any Jewellery or metal objects attached to a Player�s body must be removed where possible, if it is not possible to be removed it must be taped.
5.1.3 Metal objects other than that forming part of approved equipment is forbidden.
Penalty for infringement of 5.12 and 5.1.3 - Misconduct Penalty Penalty
5.1.4 Players needing spectacles to play must use plastic or non-breakable lenses. The spectacles must be securely attached to the head, and full-face protection must be worn.
Penalty for infringement of 5.1.4 - Misconduct Penalty
5.2 PLAYERS UNIFORM
5.2.1 All Players of each Team shall wear identical shirts, but these may not be Black/White or Black/Grey. For International Title Matches all Players must also wear identical helmet and trousers.
5.2.2 In all games where in the opinion of the Referee, the colours of the competing Teams are so alike that there is a risk of a miscall by the Referee, The away Team or second named Team on the Match report must change their shirts.
5.3 PLAYERS NUMBERS
5.3.1 Each Player must wear an individual number on the back of the shirt and also on each arm, half way between the shoulder and the elbow. The number must be within 1 to 99 inclusive.
5.3.2 The number on the back of the shirt must have a minimum height of 20cm and the number on the arms must have a minimum height of 10cm.
5.4 GOALKEEPERS EQUIPMENT
5.4.1 Goalkeepers must wear the following equipment:
All protective equipment other than the helmet, gloves, shorts and leg pads must be worn under the uniform.
5.4.2 With the exception of skates and stick all of the equipment worn by the Goal Keeper must be constructed solely for the purpose of protection to the head or body and must not include any garment or contrivance which would give the goalkeeper undue assistance in keeping goal.
5.4.3 Goalkeepers leg pads must not exceed 30cm in width and must be a minimum of 3cm in thickness.
5.4.4 Goal Keepers Blocking and Catching gloves including any padding therein must not exceed 21cm width or more than 42 cm in length at any point when laid on a flat surface. The webbing between the thumb and index finger of a Goalkeepers Catching glove must not exceed the minimum required to fill this gap when the hand is fully extended.
5.5 OUTFIELD PLAYERS EQUIPMENT
5.5.1 Players other than the Goalkeeper must wear the following protective equipment:
Players: Men/Women (rule 4.1.1)
Players: All other age groups (rule 4.1.2, 4.1.3, 4.1.4, and 4.1.5)
Junior Players playing into the Men/Women age group must wear full junior protection.
5.6 HELMETS
5.6.1 All helmets must meet approved certified International standards.
5.6.2 All helmets must have a manufactured chin strap and must be securely fastened. There should be room for the insertion of only one finger between the strap and chin.
5.6.3 Any Player whose helmet is not in order or whose chin strap is not Properly fastened, shall, on the first occasion be given a verbal warning by the Referee (it is not required that the whistle is blown for this) on the second and subsequent occasion a Misconduct Penalty Penalty shall be awarded.
5.6.4 If the helmet is equipped with eye protection (half visor) the protection must be securely fixed to the helmet, it should not endanger other Players.
5.6.5 All cages fitted to helmets (including Goalkeepers) must not allow the blade or the butt end of a stick to pass through.
5.7 SKATES
5.7.1 Each Player must wear skates.
5.7.2 Each skate must have wheels all of which must turn.
5.7.3 The wheels and trucks must be securely attached to the boots.
5.7.4 Wheels must be made of urethane or other approved material.
5.7.5 Toe and heel stops are permitted provided that they are of a light coloured material.
5.7.6 All skates must be in good order and must not have any protrusions that could be a danger to other Players or cause damage to the Pitch surface.
5.7.7 All skates must have the correct number of wheels for which they were designed.
Penalty for infringement of 5.7.1 to 5.7.7 Misconduct Penalty.
5.8 STICKS
5.8.1 All Players must carry a stick, which shall be made of wood, or other approved material and must not have projections.
5.8.2 All sticks must have a manufacturers butt end securely fitted.
5.8.3 The maximum length of an outfield Players stick shall be 163 cm from the heel to the end of the shaft.
5.8.4 The blade shall be a minimum of 25 cm and a maximum of 32 cm from the heel to the end of the blade. The minimum width of the blade shall be 5cm and the maximum width of the blade shall be 8cm measured at any point. The curvature of the blade of the stick shall be restricted in such a way that the distance of a perpendicular line measured from a straight line drawn from any point at the heel to the end of the blade shall not exceed 2.0cm.
5.8.5 The maximum length of a goalkeeper�s stick shall be 163 cm from the heel to the end of the shaft. The blade shall be a minimum of 28cm and a maximum of 39cm from the heel to the end of the blade. The minimum width of the blade shall be 5cm and the maximum width of the blade shall be 9cm. The maximum width of the wide portion of the shaft shall be 9cm except at the heel where is must not exceed 11.5cm. The wide portion of the shaft must not exceed 71cm from the heel.
5.8.6 All shafts and blades must have a smooth finish with no sharp edges and no cracks or damage that could cause injury to other Players.
5.9 ILLEGAL EQUIPMENT
5.9.1 All Players including goalkeepers must have all equipment checked before playing by a qualified Referee. Any equipment found to be faulty or illegal must be removed , repaired or changed to the satisfaction of the Referee.
5.9.2 It is illegal to have any part of the equipment hanging outside the uniform. Braces, long laces on gloves, etc must be kept in for safety. It is not allowed to wear towels.
5.9.3 Any Players found to have any equipment not conforming to the rules by the Referee must remove or change that equipment when so ordered by the Referee. Failure to obey the Referees order.
PENALTY: Misconduct Penalty Penalty against the offending Player.
6 STARTING THE GAME
6.1 FACE OFF
6.1.1 Face-offs are taken on the Centre Spot to commence a match, after a goal is scored and to start subsequent periods.
6.1.2 All other face offs (unless provided for in these rules) shall be taken at the nearest face off spot, or at a point on an imaginary line between a Face off spot at each end of the pitch and running parallel to the sides of the pitch, and at the point nearest to where the ball was last touched. No face off shall take place closer to either goal than the Goal Area line.
6.1.3 During a Face off, two opposing players shall stand squarely facing their opponent end of the pitch. Their sticks must be held with both hands, in front of their bodies. The full length of the blade must be touching the pitch. The blades of the sticks must be on the outside of the Face Off Spot, and must be a distance of 40cm apart.
6.1.4 All players must have both feet and the blade of the stick on their own side of an imaginary line running through the Face Off Spot, parallel to the Goal line.
6.1.5 No movement of the players taking the face off is allowed until the ball has touched the pitch.
6.1.6 No other player is allowed within 3 metres of the players taking the face off until the ball has been played.
6.1.7 Players must not physically intimidate an opponent before or during a Face Off.
PENALTY: for any infringements of the above rule, on the first occasion a verbal warning, In the second and subsequent instances a Misconduct Penalty Penalty shall be given to the offending player.7 PENALTIES
7.1 FREE HIT
7.1.1 A free hit shall be taken from the position indicated by the Referee by a member of the non offending Team. A free hit shall be taken at the centre Spot, Face Off Spot or at a point on an imaginary line between the Face Off Spots at each end of the Pitch and running parallel to the sides of the Pitch, at a point nearest to where the infringement occurred. No free hit shall take place closer to either goal than the goal area line.
7.1.2 The free hit shall be taken within a maximum of 3 seconds after the Referee has blown his/her whistle. PENALTY: Free Hit to the opposing Team.
7.1.3 All Players of the offending Team must be a minimum of 3 metres from the ball until the ball is played.
PENALTY: In the first instance, - verbal warning (re-take free hit).
Second and subsequent instances - Misconduct Penalty Penalty.
7.1.4 The Player taking the free hit must hit the ball with his stick and may not play the ball again until it has touched or been touched by another Player of either Team.
PENALTY: Free hit to the opposing Team.
7.1.5 A goal may be scored direct from a free hit.
7.2 MINOR PENALTY (2 MINUTES)
7.2.1 For a Minor Penalty, the Player (except Goalkeepers) on whom it has been imposed shall go to the Penalty box and remain there for 2 minutes elapsed time on the game clock.
7.2.2 No substitution of the penalised Player is permitted during this period.
7.2.3 If while a Team is short-handed by one or more Minor penalties, the opposing Team scores a goal, the first imposed Minor Penalty shall automatically terminate. This rule shall also apply if the goal was scored on a Penalty shot, (except in rule 6.2.4 and excluding a Penalty shoot out). Major, Misconduct Penalty and Match penalties must always be served in full.
7.2.4 If a rule infringement results in a Minor Penalty and a Penalty shot the Minor Penalty must be served even if a goal results from the Penalty shot.
7.2.5 Short handed means that the Team must be below the numerical strength of its opponents on the Pitch due to penalties.
7.3 MAJOR PENALTY (5 MINUTES)
7.3.1 For a Major Penalty the Player on whom it has been imposed shall go to the Penalty box and shall remain there for 5 minutes elapsed time on the game clock. A Major Penalty must always be served in full.
7.3.2 No substitution of the penalised Player is permitted during this period.
7.3.3 Where the same Player in the same game receives a second Major Penalty, a Match Misconduct Penalty Penalty shall also be imposed on the Player. The Player must leave the pitch and go to the dressing room; he/she is not allowed to take any further part in the game. A Player from the same team (nominated by the Captain) must go to the Penalty box and serve 5 minutes for the Major Penalty.
7.4 MISCONDUCT PENALTY PENALTY (YELLOW CARD 10 MINUTES)
7.4.1 For a Misconduct Penalty Penalty (showing of the yellow card by the Referee) the Player on whom it has been imposed shall go to the Penalty box and remain there for 10 minutes elapsed time on the game clock.
7.4.2 A Misconduct Penalty Penalty must always be served in full.
7.4.3 A substitute Player is permitted to go on to the Pitch immediately replacing the Player serving the Misconduct Penalty. A Player whose Misconduct Penalty Penalty has expired shall remain in the Penalty box until the next stoppage of play.
7.4.4 When a Player receives a Minor or Major Penalty and in addition a Misconduct Penalty Penalty at the same time, the penalised Team shall immediately put a substitute Player in the Penalty box and he/she shall serve the Minor or Major Penalty without change. The substitute Player must return to the Pitch but only after the expiry of the Minor or Major Penalty. The Misconduct Penalty Penalty shall commence immediately after the expiry of the Minor or Major Penalty. The offending Player must remain in the Penalty box during the whole duration of the Minor or Major Penalty and his/her Misconduct Penalty Penalty.
7.4.5 Where the same Player in the same game receives a second Misconduct Penalty Penalty, a Match Misconduct Penalty Penalty shall be imposed on the Player. The Player must leave the pitch and go directly to the dressing room; he/she is not allowed to take any further part in the game. A Player from the same team may go directly onto the pitch to replace the penalised Player.
7.5 MATCH MISCONDUCT PENALTY PENALTY RED AND YELLOW CARDS
7.5.1 A Match Misconduct Penalty Penalty (showing of a red and yellow card together) can be directly or automatically imposed on a Player, subsequent to the second Major or Misconduct Penalty Penalty.
7.5.2 A Match Misconduct Penalty involves the suspension of a Player for the remainder of the game and the offender shall be ordered to the dressing room immediately.
7.5.3 For a second Major Penalty, the offending Player must leave the playing area and a nominated Player from the same team must go to the Penalty box and serve 5 minutes for the Major Penalty.
7.5.4 For a second Misconduct Penalty Penalty the offending, Player must leave the playing area. A Player from the same team shall go directly on to the pitch to replace the penalised Player.
7.5.5 If the non-playing Manager or the non-playing Coach receives a Match Misconduct Penalty, he/she shall immediately leave the playing area, and must not return for the remainder of the game.
7.5.6 Any person incurring a Match Misconduct Penalty Penalty is not allowed to take any further part in the remainder of the game, but shall not be suspended from playing in any further games.
7.5.7 A Match Misconduct Penalty Penalty may be directly imposed on a Player or person who has committed an act of severe Misconduct Penalty.
7.6 MATCH PENALTY RED CARD
7.6.1 A Match Penalty (showing of the Red card by the referee) involves the suspension of a Player for the remainder of the game and the offender shall be ordered to the dressing room immediately.
7.6.2 The penalised team shall immediately put a substitute Player in the Penalty box and he/she shall serve without change 5 minutes elapsed time on the game clock. These 5 minutes must always be served in full.
7.6.3 A Player incurring a Match Penalty shall be suspended from playing in any further games until the proper Authorities have dealt with his/her case.
7.6.4 If a team bench official receives a Match Penalty he shall be ordered from the playing area immediately and his case refereed to the proper authorities for further action.
7.7 GOALKEEPERS PENALTIES
7.7.1 Goalkeepers receiving a Minor Penalty shall continue to play in Goal and a Player chosen by the team captain shall go directly to the Penalty box to serve the Penalty.
7.7.2 Goalkeepers shall serve all other time penalties awarded against them.
7.7.3 If another goalkeeper replaces the penalised Goalkeeper, the team captain shall nominate a Player from the pitch, who shall also go to the Penalty box, so as to reduce their playing strength to the correct number.
7.7.4 On completion of the Penalty, if the penalised Goalkeeper has not been replaced by another goalkeeper the penalised goalkeeper may leave the Penalty box and rejoin the game immediately.
7.7.5 On completion of the Penalty if another goalkeeper has replaced the penalised goalkeeper, he shall remain in the Penalty box until the next stoppage of play. The additional Player who accompanied the goalkeeper to the Penalty box shall be released to rejoin the game immediately.
7.7.6 If a Penalty shot is awarded, as a result of an offence committed by a Goalkeeper receiving a time Penalty (except a Minor Penalty) he/she must go directly to the Penalty box before the Penalty shot is taken.
7.7.7 When a Penalty (except for a Minor Penalty) is awarded against a Goalkeeper or the goalkeeper shall be injured and no Player is correctly kitted up as a replacement a maximum period of 5 minutes is allowed for a replacement Goalkeeper to be kitted up.
7.8 OUTSTANDING TIME PENALTIES
7.8.1 All outstanding penalties at the end of any period of play shall continue into the next period.
7.8.2 Where the rules of the Competition require periods of extra time, all outstanding penalties shall continue in to the next period of extra time.
7.8.3 Players with outstanding penalties at the end of a game (including extra time) are not allowed to take part in a Penalty shoot out.
7.9 RELEASE FROM PENALTY BOX
7.9.1 All Players leaving the Penalty box, having served a time Penalty must go directly on to the pitch.
7.10 PENALTY SHOT
7.10.1 The game clock must be stopped during any Penalty shot.
7.10.2 Any Player of the non-offending team except goalkeepers and Players in the Penalty box may take a Penalty shot.
7.10.3 The Penalty shot will commence after the ball is placed on the Centre spot and the referee blows the Whistle.
7.10.4 The Penalty taker has 10 seconds from first touching the ball to completing the shot at the goal.
7.10.5 The defending Goalkeeper must remain within their own goal crease until the Penalty taker touches the ball.
PENALTY: On the first occasion - Continue the Penalty shot and repeat if a goal is not scored
On the second occasion - Minor Penalty on the Goalkeeper.
On the third occasion - Goal automatically awarded.
7.10.6 Once the Penalty taker has touched the ball the Goalkeeper may advance but must remain behind the Goal Area line.
PENALTY On the first occasion - Continue the Penalty shot and repeat if a goal is not scored.
On the second occasion - Minor Penalty on the goalkeeper
On the third occasion - Goal automatically awarded.
7.10.7 The Goalkeeper may attempt to stop the shot in any manner within these rules, except by throwing their stick or any other object in which case a goal shall be awarded.
7.10.8 The Penalty taker must remain between the halfway and the goal line and proceed towards their opponent's goal, they must not turn with the ball through 360 degrees to cross their own track.
7.10.9 Once the ball has been shot, the play shall be considered complete. No goal can be scored by a second shot from a rebound of any kind.
7.10.10 All Players except the defending goalkeeper and the Penalty taker must remain in the opposite half of the pitch, behind the goal line or on the Players bench, until the Penalty has been completed. PENALTY For an infringement by the defending team when a goal has been scored � No Penalty For an infringement by the defending team when a goal has not been scored � Re- take the Penalty. For an infringement by the attacking team � face off at the face spot nearest the attacking team goal.
7.10.11 A Penalty shot is finished when - A goal is scored - The goalkeeper saves the ball - The ball crosses the goal line - An infringement under 6.10.5, 6.10.6 occurs. - 10 seconds has elapsed - An infringement of rule 6.10.8
7.10.12 When a goal is scored from a Penalty shot , play will restart from the centre spot with a face off
7.10.13 When a Penalty shot is saved or misses the goal, play will re-start with a face off from one of the face off spots adjacent to the defending goal.
7.10.14 When the end of a period is signalled (half or full time) and a Penalty shot has been awarded, the Penalty shot shall be completed before the time signal is observed.
7.11 DELAYED PENALTIES
If a third Player of any team is penalised with a Minor, Major or Match Penalty, while two Players of the same team are serving one of these penalties, the Penalty time of the third Player shall not commence until the Penalty time of one of the two penalised Players shall have already elapsed. The third Player must immediately proceed to the Penalty box but may be replace on the pitch by a substitute Player. The sequence for operating delayed penalties is as follows:
7.12 SEQUENCE OF PENALTIES
7.12.1 Penalties imposed at the same time shall start in the sequence announced by the referee.
7.13 CALLING OF PENALTIES
7.13.1 When a player of the team in possession of the ball commits an infringement of the rules, which would call for a penalty (except a Misconduct Penalty), the referee shall immediately blow his whistle and give the penalty against the offending team,
7.13.2 When a player of the team not in possession of the ball commits an infringement of the rules which would call for a Free Hit penalty, the referee shall blow his whistle ONLY if the non offending team lose control of the ball as a direct result of the infringement.
7.13.3 When a player of the team not in possession of the ball commits an infringement of the rules which would call for a Minor or Major Penalty, the referee shall signify the calling of the penalty by raising their arm. On completion of the play (as defined below), by the team in possession, the referee will immediately blow the whistle and give the penalty against the offending player. �Completion of the play by the team in possession of the ball� in this rule means that the ball must have come into the possession and control of, or intentionally played by, an opposing player, or the ball has been frozen. This does not mean a rebound off the Goalkeeper, the boards, or the Goal or any accidental contact with the body or equipment of an opposing player.
7.13.4 Where a Referee has signalled a delayed call of penalty according to rule 6.13.3 and there is a second infringement of the rules (except a Misconduct Penalty), the referee will immediately blow the whistle and award the penalties.
7.13.5 Where the same player causes the second infringement of the rules, the referee will award both penalties to the offending player, these penalties must be served in succession beginning with Minor penalties.
7.13.6 Should an infringement of the rules call for a Match Penalty, the referee shall immediately stop the game and show the offending player/s the Red Card.
7.13.7 After a penalty is given, the game shall re-start with a face off at the position indicated by the referee; the position will be determined according to rule 6.1.1.
7.13.8 If a goal is scored by the non-offending team during the signalling of a delayed call of penalty, the penalty shall still be awarded to the offending player.
7.13.9 If a goal is scored by the non offending team in to their own goal during a delayed call of penalty, the goal shall be disallowed
7.13.10 Should an infringement of the rules call for a Misconduct Penalty Penalty, the game shall not be stopped immediately, nor shall a delayed call of penalty be used. The Misconduct Penalty penalty will be imposed at the next stoppage of play.
7.14 SUPPLEMENTARY DISCIPLINE
7.14.1 In addition to the suspensions imposed under these rules, the Proper Authority may, at the conclusion of any game, at their discretion, investigate any incident that occurs in connection with any game or aftermath thereof by any person whether or not such offence has been penalised by the Referee. Additional suspensions may be imposed for any offence according to the IISHF Constitution or Regulations or National Regulations.
8.1 ADJUSTMENT OF EQUIPMENT
8.1.1 Play shall not be stopped nor the game delayed for any adjustments to clothing, equipment, or skates. The onus of maintaining clothing shall be upon the player. If adjustments are required the player must retire from the pitch and play shall continue.
8.1.2 No delay shall be permitted for the adjustment of Goalkeepers clothing or equipment
8.1.3 If a repair to a Goalkeepers equipment is required, a maximum period of 5 minutes shall be allowed. The game clock must be stopped during this period. PENALTY For deliberately exceeding the 5 minute period, - Minor penalty on Captain of offending team.
8.2 BALL OUT OF SIGHT AND ILLEGAL BALL
8.2.1 Whenever a ball is out of sight of the Referee, they must blow the whistle and immediately stop the play. The ball shall then be faced off at the point where the play was stopped, unless otherwise provided for in these rules.
8.2.2 If at any time a ball other than the ball legally in play shall appear on the pitch, the play shall not be stopped provided that the play is not disturbed by the second ball, but shall continue with the legal ball until the play then in progress is completed by a change of team possession. If the play is disturbed, the referee shall blow the whistle to stop the play and retrieve the illegal ball. The legal ball shall then be faced off at the point where the legal ball was last touched.
8.3 BALL OUT OF PLAY
8.3.1 No player shall deliberately shoot, hit with the stick or hand, or throw the ball over the boards either during play or after a stoppage. PENALTY For an infringement, a Minor Penalty, except in the last two minutes of a game or the last two minutes of overtime, then a penalty shot shall be awarded as well against the offending team.
8.3.2 When the ball is accidentally propelled over the boards or touches the ceiling of the hall (including fixed objects) by one or more players of both teams, the referee shall blow the whistle to stop play. The game shall be restarted with a face off from a point nearest to where the ball was last touched, unless within a Goal Area, then at the nearest face off spot.
8.4 BALL TOUCHING REFEREE
8.4.1 If the ball touches the referee and if as a result of this, the referee considers that one team has gained an unfair advantage, the referee shall order a Face off, to be taken where this occurred unless within the Goal Area, then at the nearest Face Off spot.
8.5 BALL UNPLAYABLE
8.5.1 When the ball becomes accidentally caught in the goalkeepers padding, the referee shall stop the game immediately and order a Face Off.
8.5.2 When the ball becomes caught in the Goal Cage, or any other static equipment, the Referee shall stop the game immediately and order a Face off.
8.6 BROKEN STICKS
8.6.1 If any player should break their stick, whatever the reason, they must drop the stick immediately and leave all parts of the broken stick on the pitch for the referee to remove. The player may obtain a new stick from their own players bench, or may play without a stick until the next stoppage of play, or may leave the game for substitution. PENALTY For an infringement; Immediate Misconduct Penalty Penalty
8.6.2 If a Goalkeeper should break their stick, they must drop the stick immediately and leave all parts of the broken stick for the referee to remove. He/she may go to his/her team bench to obtain a replacement stick. Alternatively they may be given a stick by an outfield player from their own team, who then can obtain a replacement stick for himself /herself from the team bench. At the next stoppage the Goalkeeper may go to the Team Bench to obtain a replacement Goalkeeper stick. PENALTY For infringement Immediate Misconduct Penalty
8.6.3 Throwing a new stick to a player who has broken their stick is Forbidden. PENALTY For infringement Misconduct Penalty on the person who threw the stick, or if the offender is unknown a Minor penalty shall be given to the Captain of the Team.
8.6.4 No player may play with a stick, which has been thrown on to the pitch. PENALTY For an infringement Misconduct Penalty
8.7 DROPPED STICKS
8.7.1 A Player (including a Goalkeeper)who drops (except a broken stick) their stick must retrieve as soon as they can, but they are able to take an active part in the game until the stick is retrieved. They are not allowed to obtain a second stick from their players bench. The stick must be retrieved during the next stoppage of play. The player who has dropped his/her stick cannot be substituted until they have retrieved their stick. PENALTY For an infringement Misconduct Penalty.
8.8 THROWING OF STICKS
8.8.1 No Player or Official is allowed to deliberately throw a stick or any other object in the direction of the ball or at an opposing player. PENALTY For an infringement by a Player Major Penalty For an infringement by an Official Match Penalty. If in the opinion of the referee, the player has deliberately attempted to cause injury by this action. A Match penalty shall be given.
8.9 EARLY TERMINATION OF THE GAME
8.9.1 The referee has the power to terminate a game before full time, if in their opinion it would be dangerous or impossible to allow play to continue on the pitch. A Full report must be made by the referees and forwarded to the Proper Authorities for a decision on the outcome of the game and any further action needed.
8.10 PLAYING WHILE LYING ON THE PITCH
8.10.1 It is permitted to play the ball while lying on the pitch. The player must not hold the ball or deliberately take the ball out of the game. No player (other than a Goalkeeper within his own goal Area) may deliberately fall on the ball. PENALTY For infringement Free Hit Or if there is a real chance of a Goal being scored � Penalty Shot.
8.10.2 A player while lying on the pitch is allowed to stop the ball with any part of the body, but may only play the ball with their stick. PENALTY For infringement Free hit Or if there is a real chance of a Goal being scored - penalty shot
8.11 FAIR BODY CONTACT
8.11.1 Fair Body Contact (Fair Check) Is that which is delivered with the side of the body, from hip to shoulder inclusive, with the arm tucked in close to the body and both feet must be on the pitch surface. A fair check can only be made on an opponent who is in possession of the ball., and can only be made to the front or to the side of that opponent.
8.12 FOUL PLAY
8.12.1 ILLEGAL USE OF BODY A player must not make unfair body contact (Rule 8.11).
8.12.2 CHARGING A player must not charge. Charging shall mean running or jumping or taking more than two steps or strides with excessive force to check an opponent.
8.12.3 FIGHTING/ROUGHING A player must not fight or use violence of any kind. This shall mean using or attempting to use any part of his/her body or equipment against any player on or off the pitch. This shall include retaliation or attempted retaliation by any player.
8.12.4 CROSS CHECKING A Player must not Cross Check. A Cross Check shall mean a check against another player delivered while both hands are holding the stick, no part of the stick being in contact with the pitch, and the stick is in contact with the other player.
8.12.5 HOLDING A Player must not Hold. Holding shall mean the use or attempted use of hands, arms, or stick to hold an opponent in any way.
8.12.6 ILLEGAL USE OF STICK A player must not push, attempt to push or hit an opponent with any part of the stick.
8.12.7 SLASHING A Player must not swipe or slash at an opponent with his stick. This shall mean a player who uses his stick to strike or attempt to strike an opponent's body or stick.
8.12.8 TRIPPING A player must not trip. A Trip shall mean any attempt to cause an opponent to trip or fall by use of the stick or any part of the body. A player must not Slide Tackle. A Slide Tackle shall mean any movement or attempt to contact an opponent feet first.
8.12.9 HOOKING A Player must not hook. This shall mean, the use or attempted use of the stick to hook any part of an opponent�s body.
8.12.10 HIGH STICKING A player must not touch an opponent with his stick above the opponents shoulder height.
8.12.11 ELBOWING A Player must not strike or attempt to strike any other player with his/her elbow.
8.12.12 BACK CHECKING A player must not push, body check or hit an opponent from behind in any manner.
PENALTIES For infringement of rules 8.12 :
8.13 FREEZING THE BALL
No player except the Goalkeeper unless they are being tackled, may hold the ball against the board�s or Goal Cage for more than 3 seconds with his/her stick, skates or body, in such a manner as to cause a stoppage in play. PENALTY: Free hit except in the last two minutes of the game or the last two minutes of overtime, then penalty shot.
8.14 GOAL CAGE MOVED
8.14.1 When a Goal cage becomes displaced by accident and the play is away from the Goal Area. The referee shall re-position the Goal Cage without stopping the game. If the play is near the Goal Area, the Game shall be stopped to re-position the Goal Cage and the Game re-started with a Face off.
8.14.2 No player shall deliberately displace the Goal Cage. PENALTY: Minor penalty If an opposing player is in a real scoring position Penalty Shot in addition. If the Offence occurs in the last two minutes of the game or the last two minutes of overtime: - Penalty Shot in addition.
8.14.3 When the Goal Cage is deliberately displaced by an opposing player and the ball misses the goal Cage instead of a Goal being scored. A goal shall be awarded by the referee in addition to the Minor penalty.
8.15 GOALKEEPERS RIGHTS
8.15.1 A Goalkeeper is permitted to stop the ball with any part of his/her body or equipment.
8.15.2 Goalkeeper�s special rights of handling, catching, holding or throwing the ball are subject to the ball being within his/her own Goal Area.
8.15.3 A Goalkeeper is allowed to play outside the Goal Area, but then loses his/her special rights of handling, catching, holding or throwing the ball.
8.15.4 A Goalkeeper is only allowed to pick up, hold or carry (max 2 metres) the ball for a maximum of 3 seconds whilst within his/her own Goal Area. PENALTY: Free hit When a ball is trapped in the Goalkeepers equipment or under the Goalkeepers body or he/she is being tackled by an opposing player/s and cannot release the ball, the referee shall blow the whistle after 3 seconds and order a face off.
8.15.5 A Goalkeeper is only allowed to throw the ball along the ground whilst within his/her own Goal Area. PENALTY: Free hit
8.15.6 A Goalkeeper within his/her own Goal Area is permitted to palm down or slap away a ball in any direction provided that he/she has not caught the ball before. PENALTY: Free Hit
8.15.7 When a Major, Misconduct Penalty, or Match penalty is awarded against a Goalkeeper or the goalkeeper shall be injured and no player is correctly kitted up as a replacement. A maximum period of 5 minutes is allowed for the replacement Goalkeeper to be kitted up. During this time the Game Clock must be stopped (refer to 6.7.7). PENALTY For deliberately exceeding the 5 minute period: - A Minor Penalty on the Captain of the offending team.
8.15.8 No body contact is permitted on a Goalkeeper within their own Goal Area. PENALTY: Minor or Major Penalty unless in the opinion of the referee there was a deliberate intention to injure � then match penalty.
8.16 GOAL CREASE
8.16.1 Attacking players are not permitted to be in their opponents Goal Crease unless they are in possession of the ball or the ball is within the Goal Crease before they enter it. (A player is inside the Goal crease if any part of their body or equipment except the stick is on or inside the line surrounding the Goal Crease). PENALTY: Free Hit to non offending team.
8.16.2 No more than two defending players (this may include the Goalkeeper) may be within their own Goal Crease at any one time. PENALTY; Free Hit unless an opponent is in a real scoring position then Penalty Shot.
8.17 SCORING A GOAL
8.17.1 A Goal is scored when the whole of the ball passes completely over the back edge of the Goal Line, between the vertical posts and under the crossbar of the Goal Cage.
8.17.2 A Goal can only be scored if the following conditions apply:
8.17.3 A ball deflected into the goal from a Referees body or equipment shall not count as a goal.
8.18 HANDLING AND KICKING THE BALL
8.18.1 A player other than the Goalkeeper is only allowed to stop the ball with his/her hand. A ball so played must only be stopped with an open palm and the ball must descend vertically to the playing surface.A hand gripping a stick shall be deemed part of the stick. PENALTY: Free hit unless in a real scoring position, - Penalty Shot
8.18.2 No player other than the Goalkeeper within their own Goal Area is allowed to pick up or carry the ball by hand. PENALTY Free Hit: unless in a real scoring position - Penalty Shot
8.18.3 A ball may be kicked touched or stopped using the skates.
8.19 HIGH STICKS
8.19.1 No player may play or attempt to play the ball above shoulder height with any part of his/her stick. PENALTY: Free Hit only if the non offending team lose control of the ball as a direct result of the infringement (rule 7.13.2)
8.19.2 No player may raise any part of his/her stick above shoulder height if it is dangerous to an opponent or an official. PENALTY: If an opponent was endangered or touched - Minor Penalty
8.20 LEAVING THE PLAYERS BENCH OR PENALTY BOX
8.20.1 No player may leave the Players bench at any time when there is an altercation on the pitch PENALTY: Misconduct Penalty If the player engages in violent behaviour - Match Penalty
8.20.2 No player except on the expiration of his/her penalty may leave the Penalty Box whether the play is in progress or not, (except the official intervals between the playing periods). PENALTY: MATCH PENALTY
8.20.3 No Team Official or any other persons except players shall go onto the pitch at any time during a game without the permission of the referee. If a team Official goes on to the pitch without prior permission of the referee, he shall on the first occasion receive a warning from the referee to leave the pitch. On refusal or the second or subsequent occasion, he/she shall receive a Match Penalty. If a spectator or other person goes on to the pitch without prior permission from the referee they shall be immediately expelled from the sports hall. In all cases, a report written by the referees will be submitted to the proper authority.
8.21 MISCONDUCT PENALTY
8.21.1 No player may use obscene or abusive language to any player or official.
8.21.2 No player may use obscene gestures on the pitch, in the players benches or in the penalty box at any time.
8.21.3 No player may dispute or resist any decision or instruction given by a referee or other Official.
8.21.4 No player may prevent or attempt to prevent a referee or another Official from carrying out his/her duties.
8.21.5 No player or Team Official may incite another player to commit any Offence.
8.21.6 No player or Team Official may commit any other form of Misconduct Penalty prejudicial to the spirit of good sportsmanship.
8.21.7 No player or any part of their body or equipment may within the referees crease when the clock is stopped.
8.21.8 No player shall deliberately hit the ball out of reach of an official who is trying to retrieve it.
8.21.9 No player shall strike the boards or Goal Cage with his stick or other equipment at any time.
8.21.10 No player shall throw any equipment either on the pitch or out of the playing area at any time. PENALTIES : Misconduct Penalty unless severe case Match Penalty
8.21.11 No player may spit at any person. PENALTY: Match Penalty.
8.21.12 No person shall deliberately touch, hold or strike a referee or other Game Official with his/her hands or stick nor shall he/she trip, body check or attack any such official on or off the pitch. PENALTY: Match Penalty.
8.22 REFUSING TO START
8.22.1 If a team does not arrive completely kitted up on time (within 15 minutes of the scheduled start of a match, or declines to start the match, the match will not take place and two points, with a score of 5 � 0 will be awarded in favour of the innocent team.
8.22.2 If when both teams are on the pitch, one team shall refuse to play when ordered to do so by the referee, the referee shall warn the Captain and allow the team 30 seconds in which to begin the game or resume play. If the offending team fails to re-start the play within these 30 seconds, the Captain shall be awarded a Misconduct Penalty penalty. Should there be a reoccurrence of the same incident the referee will award the game two (2) points and a score of 5 � 0 to the non offending team and the case shall be referred to the proper authorities.
8.22.3 If a match cannot be continued because of unforeseen circumstances, the referee shall stop the game. If it is not possible to rectify the problems within 30 minutes of the stoppage, the game shall be terminated. The case must be referred to the proper authorities who will decide the result of the game.
8.23 RESTART AFTER STOPPAGE
8.23.1 After any stoppage, the re-start of a game shall be by means of a face off except where the referee has given a Free Hit.
8.23.2 If there is any undue delay by either team on a face off the referee shall in the first instance issue a verbal warning to the Captain of the offending team, on the second or subsequent occasions a minor penalty shall be imposed on the Captain.
8.24 SUBSTITUTION OF PLAYERS
8.24.1 Players may change at any time from the player�s bench. There will be an allowance of 2 metres on the pitch for substitution from the bench.
8.24.2 If the clock is stopped, incoming substitutes may be on the pitch before the players going off have reached the players bench or substitution area without penalty.
8.24.3 If the clock is running incoming substitutes must not come on to the pitch until at least one foot of the player they are replacing is in the substitution area. Incoming and outgoing players in the substitution area must not take an active part in the game until the substitution is complete. If they do, they become liable for an illegal substitution of players. PENALTY: Minor penalty on incoming player. In the last two minutes of the game or the last two minutes of overtime : - Penalty Shot in addition.
8.24.4 If several illegal substitutions (rule 8.25.3) occur at the same time only the first illegal substitution will be awarded a penalty.
8.25 WINNER OF A GAME
8.25.1 The team that at the end of a game has scored more goals than the other team is the winner of the game.
8.25.2 All games shall be awarded as follows:
8.26 TIED GAMES
8.26.1 If at the end of the regular time for a game, the score of both teams shall be equal, the game shall be finished and called a draw.
8.26.2 If a game requires a decision (winner) extra time must be played. If after the end of extra time the score of both teams shall still be equal, a Penalty Shoot Out must be played.
8.27 PENALTY SHOOT OUT
8.27.1 In a penalty Shoot out each team Captain will select 5 players (excluding players in the penalty box and the Goalkeeper). The shots will be taken in alternate sequence. The team who will shoot first will be decided by the drawing of lots by the Captains. If the Penalty Shoot out result is decided before all the 5 Penalties of each team are taken, the penalty Shoot out will be stopped and finished.
8.27.2 If at the conclusion of the Penalty Shoot out, there is still no winner, the penalty Shoot out will be continued, until one player fails to score when his opponent has scored. The sequence of the shots will be as the original sequence and will be taken by all eligible players listed on the match report No player may take a second shot until all his eligible team members have taken a shot.
8.28 TIME
8.28.1 The duration of games for International Title events will be as follows: Single Matches Extra Time Tournaments
8.28.2 The interval between periods at International Title Events (except Tournaments) shall be:
8.28.3 For International Title, events the game clock shall run in real time whereas in all other International and National matches the games shall run in continuous time.
8.28.4 When the game clock is running in Real Time the clock shall be started when the whistle is blown and the ball is put into a face off or when the whistle is blown to signal a Free Hit should be taken. At all other times the clock shall be stopped.
8.28.5 If the game clock is running in Continuous time the clock shall be started when the referee blows the whistle as the ball is put into the first Face Off and shall run continuously except where the referee signals for it to be stopped. The referee shall only signal for the time clock to be stopped if one of the following occurs:-
8.28.6 In the last 2 minutes of a game or in the last 2 minutes of overtime the game clock must be stopped when the referee blows the whistle for a stoppage in play.
8.28.7 Teams shall change ends for each period.
8.28.8 All players shall leave the pitch immediately at the end of each period. They shall return promptly to the team bench when given 2 minutes warning by the timekeeper.
8.28.9 At the conclusion of the game, all players and team officials will shake hands with each other and the referees.
8.28.10 There must be a minimum pause of 10 minutes between games of the same team.
8.28.11 In games of less than 30 minutes (15 minutes each half) all time penalties shall be reduced by 50%.
8.28.12 When a Penalty Shot is being taken the game clock must remain stopped.
8.29 TIME OUT
8.29.1 During the progress of each period of a game (including overtime) the Captain of each team shall be permitted to ask the referee for a Time Out of 30 seconds duration. The request can only be made during a stoppage in play.
8.29.2 The referee when requested correctly by the Captain shall immediately signal to stop the clock and inform the timekeeper which team has taken the time out.
8.29.3 The timekeeper must signal the referee when the 30 seconds duration has expired.
8.29.4 The referee will restart the game in the same way as the game would have been continued before the time out.
8.29.5 At all tournaments, except International Title events, the rule 8.30.1 can be waived with the permission of the National Association.
8.30 WHISTLE
8.30.1 When a referee blows the whistle to indicate that play should start at a face off, a Free Hit or penalty Shot, the players shall start play immediately.
8.30.2 When a referee blows his/her whistle on any occasion, other than under rule 8.31.2 all players shall stop play immediately. PENALTY: For infringement Misconduct Penalty Penalty
8.31 BLOOD
8.31.1 Any player who has a bleeding wound must be ordered off the pitch by the Referee immediately the bleeding is noticed. A substitute player may come on to the pitch immediately. The wounded player may not return to the pitch until the bleeding is satisfactorily stopped.
8.31.2 Any blood spillage onto the pitch must be removed in accordance with National Laws. In addition, any pieces of kit or items of clothing must be changed. The referees must specify the piece of equipment or clothing that must be changed. If the player returns to the pitch without changing the required clothing, the referee will award a Misconduct Penalty penalty.
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