Youth Hockey - Quick References

With the multiple different levels of hockey that we officiate, we've decided to create this page as a quick reference page for some information specific to each individual level. If you know of any more information that you think should be add, please let John Ford know to have it added. Thanks!

Warm-up period:Three (3)  minute warmup period before each game. There will be a one (1) minute break between each period.

Game Length: 

8U House: 2 - 20 minute, stop-time periods (concluded with full team shootout).

8U Travel: 2 - 21 minute, stop-time periods.

Run Time: The clock will stop for a face-off on every shift change. We will conduct a face-off after each goal, although the clock will  remain running. If the puck becomes frozen by the goaltender or after a penalty shot attempt that fails, a new puck will be tossed in a neutral position to keep play moving.  

Example: If the puck is covered by the goaltender on their left side of the net. The new puck should be thrown in the corner on the right side of the net. It is also helpful to say new puck as it is being thrown so that they focus on it and go to the corner. It is recommended that each referee carry two pucks for this reason.

Penalties: Can and should be assessed. Penalties will result in a penalty shot for the non-offending team. Penalty procedures may vary for travel games. 

Example: Instead of a penalty shot the offending player goes to the bench for the rest of the shift in which the offending team would play short-handed. 

Offside: Automatic

Slap Shots: Rule change now allows slap shots at all age levels

Goal Frame: No pegs in the ice for the nets

Checking: Not allowed

Mouth Guards: Not required

Icing: Always

Offside: Automatic

Slap Shots: Allowed

Goal Frame: Pegs are used

Checking: Not allowed

Mouth Guards: Required. Warning to the team and then a misconduct for violation after the warning.

Icing: Always

Offside: Automatic

Slap Shots: Allowed

Goal Frame: Pegs are used

Checking: Allowed.

The responsibility is on the player delivering the check to avoid forceful contact (minimize impact) to a vulnerable or defenseless player who is no longer in control of the puck.

Proper body checking technique starts with stick on puck, therefore the stick blade of the player delivering the check must be below the knees.

Mouth Guards:  Required (and important due to the introduction of checking at this level).  Warning to the team and then a misconduct for violation after the warning.  

Icing: Always