Discover What Hits Are Legal in Hockey

If you’re a fan of hockey, you know that hits are an essential part of the game. However, what you might not know is what kind of hits are legal in hockey. In this article, we will discover the ins and outs of legal hits in hockey, and also discuss protective gear, penalties, and how to stay safe on the ice.

Before we delve into the topic, it’s important to distinguish between legal hits and illegal hits. Legal hits are those that are delivered within the parameters of the game’s rules, while illegal hits can result in penalties and even suspensions. It’s crucial for players to understand these rules and for fans to know what they’re watching.

Now, let’s get into the nitty-gritty of what hits are legal in hockey. We’ll be discussing different types of hits, what gear players use to stay safe, and what the consequences are for delivering an illegal hit. Keep reading to become an expert on hits in hockey!

Whether you’re a seasoned hockey fan or just starting out, this article will provide valuable insight into the world of legal hits in hockey. By the end of this post, you’ll have a better understanding of the different types of hits, the rules surrounding them, and how to stay safe on the ice. Let’s get started!

Legal Hits vs. Illegal Hits

Understanding the difference between legal and illegal hits is critical for any hockey player or fan. In general, legal hits are those that are made on an opposing player with the puck and are deemed to be within the rules of the game. Illegal hits, on the other hand, involve contact that is deemed to be dangerous or outside the bounds of the rules.

One of the most significant differences between legal and illegal hits is the amount of force involved. Legal hits are typically forceful but not overly aggressive, while illegal hits are often intended to injure or intimidate the opposing player. Additionally, illegal hits are often made when the opposing player is not in possession of the puck, which is a significant violation of the rules of the game.

Another key difference between legal and illegal hits is the location of the hit. In general, hits to the head or neck area are deemed to be illegal, as are hits that come from behind or are intended to cause injury. Legal hits, on the other hand, are typically made to the opposing player’s torso or legs and are not intended to cause serious harm.

While it’s important to understand the difference between legal and illegal hits, it’s also important to note that hockey is a physical game and that some level of contact is expected. As such, players need to be aware of the rules of the game and work to avoid making dangerous hits that could result in penalties or injuries.

The Definition of Legal Hits

In hockey, hits are a common occurrence during games. A hit is when a player makes body contact with an opponent in an attempt to separate them from the puck or to disrupt their progress. Not all hits are considered legal, however. In fact, the rules surrounding hits in hockey are quite specific.

To be considered a legal hit, the player must make contact with the opponent’s body and not their head or neck. The hit must also be made within the designated “body contact” area, which is typically from the opponent’s shoulders to their hips. The hit must not be made from behind or in an unsuspecting manner.

Legal hits are a crucial aspect of the game of hockey. They can help a team gain momentum and control of the puck. However, it’s important to remember that there are still rules that must be followed, and hits that are deemed illegal can result in penalties or even ejections from the game.

Players who make legal hits are respected for their toughness and physicality on the ice. Coaches and fans alike appreciate players who can make clean, effective hits without crossing the line into illegal territory.

The Difference Between Legal and Illegal Hits

While legal hits are an integral part of hockey, it is essential to distinguish them from illegal hits. Legal hits involve body contact that is within the rules and aims to separate the player from the puck. Illegal hits, on the other hand, are those that target vulnerable areas, such as the head or neck, or those that intend to injure the opposing player.

One of the main differences between legal and illegal hits is the point of contact. Legal hits target the opponent’s body from the waist to the shoulders and primarily aim to separate them from the puck. Illegal hits, on the other hand, target vulnerable areas such as the head or neck or aim to injure the opposing player.

Another difference between legal and illegal hits is the timing. A legal hit occurs when a player is in possession of the puck or has only recently passed it away. Illegal hits, on the other hand, occur well after the puck has left the targeted player’s possession or at a time when the player is unable to defend themselves.

The intent of the hit also plays a role in determining whether it is legal or illegal. Legal hits aim to create a turnover or regain possession of the puck, while illegal hits aim to injure or intimidate the opposing player.

Common Types of Legal Hits

Body check: The most common legal hit in hockey is the body check. A body check is when a player uses their body to separate an opponent from the puck. The player delivering the check must stay within the rules regarding body contact, making contact only with the opponent’s torso and not targeting the head or knees.

Hip check: A hip check is a type of body check in which the player delivering the check uses their hip to make contact with the opponent’s hip. This is a legal hit as long as it is not targeting the opponent’s knee or head.

Shoulder check: Another common legal hit in hockey is the shoulder check. This is when a player uses their shoulder to make contact with the opponent’s body. Like other legal hits, the player delivering the check must not target the head or knees.

Poke check: A poke check is not a physical hit like the others, but it is a legal way to take the puck away from an opponent. This involves using the stick to poke the puck away from the opponent, rather than making body contact.

Body Checks

A body check is a legal hit that occurs when one player makes contact with another player using their body to impede their progress. The purpose of a body check is to separate the opponent from the puck and gain possession of it.

Body checks are permitted in certain areas of the rink and must be executed in a specific manner to be considered legal. The player delivering the check must be in control of their body and must not lead with their elbows, stick, or any other part of their body. Additionally, the player being checked must be in possession of the puck or must have touched it recently.

Body checks are often used in open ice situations, along the boards, or in front of the net. They are a key component of physical play in hockey and are used to create space and momentum for a team.

While body checks are legal, they can still cause injury if not executed properly. Players must be aware of the risks involved in delivering or receiving a body check and take necessary precautions to avoid injury.

Stick Checks

Stick checks are another common type of legal hit in hockey. A stick check is when a player uses their stick to disrupt an opponent’s stick or interfere with the puck. Stick checks are generally used to gain possession of the puck or prevent an opponent from scoring.

There are different types of stick checks, including the poke check, sweep check, and lift check. The poke check involves using the stick to poke at the puck, while the sweep check is used to sweep the puck away from an opponent. The lift check is used to lift an opponent’s stick to prevent them from passing or shooting the puck.

Penalties for Illegal Hits

When a player makes an illegal hit, they will be penalized according to the severity of the infraction. Minor penalties are given for hits to the body, while major penalties are given for hits to the head.

A minor penalty results in the offending player serving two minutes in the penalty box, while a major penalty results in a five-minute penalty. In some cases, the player may also receive a game misconduct or a match penalty, which results in ejection from the game and possible suspension.

Penalties for illegal hits not only affect the offending player but also their team. When a player is serving a penalty, their team is short-handed and must play with one less player on the ice. This can put them at a disadvantage and make it more difficult to score goals or defend against the opposing team’s attacks.

In addition to the penalties, the league may also impose fines and suspensions for players who repeatedly make illegal hits. These measures are meant to discourage dangerous and reckless play and promote safety on the ice.

Minor Penalties

Minor penalties are less severe than major penalties and usually result in a two-minute power play for the opposing team. Some examples of minor penalties include tripping, hooking, and high-sticking. Tripping occurs when a player uses their stick or body to cause an opponent to fall. Hooking is when a player uses their stick to slow down or impede an opponent’s progress. High-sticking is when a player makes contact with an opponent using their stick above shoulder level.

In some cases, a minor penalty may be upgraded to a major penalty depending on the severity of the infraction. For example, if a player is injured as a result of a tripping or hooking penalty, the penalty may be upgraded to a major penalty and result in a five-minute power play for the opposing team.

Players who accumulate multiple minor penalties in a single game may also receive additional penalties, such as a 10-minute misconduct or a game misconduct.

Protective Gear for Players

Ice hockey is a physical sport, and players wear a variety of protective gear to prevent injury.

Helmets: Helmets are required for all players during games and practices. They are made of high-impact plastic and have a cage or shield to protect the player’s face.

Shoulder Pads: Shoulder pads protect the player’s upper body, including the chest, shoulders, and back. They are made of foam and hard plastic and can absorb impacts from checks and hits.

Gloves: Gloves protect the player’s hands and wrists from pucks and sticks. They are padded with foam and have a reinforced palm to improve grip on the stick.

Shin Guards: Shin guards protect the player’s lower legs from skates, pucks, and sticks. They are made of plastic and foam and have a hard shell to absorb impact.

Protective Cups: Protective cups are worn by male players to protect their genital area. They are typically made of hard plastic and are worn inside of compression shorts or hockey pants.

Helmets and Face Masks

When it comes to protective gear for hockey players, helmets and face masks are the most important. Helmets provide a hard shell to protect the player’s head from impacts, while face masks protect the player’s face from flying pucks or sticks.

Modern hockey helmets are made with a variety of materials, including hard plastic, foam padding, and kevlar. The best helmets have multiple layers of protection, and are designed to reduce the risk of concussion.

Face masks are usually made of hard plastic, and come in full-face or half-face styles. Full-face masks provide the most protection, but some players prefer half-face masks because they allow for better visibility.

How to Stay Safe During Hits

Know the rules: Understanding the rules of the game and what constitutes a legal hit can help prevent dangerous situations on the ice.

Use proper technique: When making a hit, players should use proper technique to avoid unnecessary contact or injury to themselves or others.

Stay aware of your surroundings: Players should always be aware of their surroundings on the ice, looking out for potential collisions or dangerous situations.

Wear appropriate gear: Protective gear, such as helmets, mouth guards, and padding, can help prevent serious injuries during hits.

Communicate with your teammates: Clear communication among teammates can help prevent collisions and keep everyone safe during gameplay.

Proper Stance and Positioning

When preparing for a hit, it’s important to have the proper stance and positioning to minimize your risk of injury. Keep these tips in mind:

• Stay low: A lower center of gravity will help you stay balanced and stable during a hit.
• Keep your head up: Always keep your head up and your eyes on the target to avoid putting yourself in a vulnerable position.
• Use your legs: Your legs are your strongest muscles, so use them to generate power and momentum during a hit.
• Position your body: Make sure your body is aligned with your target and that your shoulders are squared up to the hit.

Remember, the right stance and positioning can help you deliver a safer hit and minimize your risk of injury.

Knowing When to Expect a Hit

Anticipate the hit: Before entering an area where you might be hit, be aware of your surroundings and be prepared for a hit. Keep your head up and watch for the opponent who is about to hit you.

Stay focused: It is crucial to maintain your focus throughout the game. Don’t lose your focus, especially when you have the puck, and always be aware of who is around you.

Use your senses: Listen to the sounds of the game, including the sounds of the puck and the players. Use your peripheral vision to be aware of other players, and anticipate when someone is about to hit you.

Communicate with your teammates: Communicate with your teammates, especially when you are in possession of the puck. They can give you a heads up if an opponent is about to hit you.

Professional Hockey Leagues’ Rules on Hits

Hockey is a fast-paced sport that requires players to skate quickly and handle a small, hard puck. With so much speed and physical contact, it’s important for players to follow the rules and regulations set by professional hockey leagues. These leagues have specific guidelines on what constitutes a legal hit and what type of hit will result in a penalty.

The National Hockey League (NHL) has strict rules on hits that are considered illegal. Players are not allowed to hit their opponents in the head, target their opponents’ heads, or hit their opponents from behind. Hits that result in head contact are penalized harshly, and repeat offenders may face suspension or other disciplinary action.

The International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF) also has rules on hits. Similar to the NHL, hits that target the head, neck, or spinal area of an opponent are illegal. Additionally, hits to the knees, elbows, and lower body are considered dangerous and may result in a penalty.

College hockey follows the rules set forth by the NCAA. Players are not allowed to hit their opponents from behind or engage in any type of hit that is deemed to be dangerous or excessive. Any hit that results in head contact may result in a penalty or ejection from the game.

Minor hockey leagues have different rules depending on the league and age group of the players. Generally, hits that target the head, neck, or spine are illegal, and hits from behind are strictly prohibited. Players who engage in dangerous hits may be penalized or suspended from games.

National Hockey League (NHL)

Body Checking: NHL rules allow for body checking, but it must be done legally. Body checking that is deemed illegal will result in a penalty for the player responsible.

Head Contact: The NHL has implemented rules to reduce hits to the head. Any player who makes illegal contact with an opponent’s head will receive a penalty and may face further disciplinary action.

International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF)

• Rule 124 – Body Checking: This rule is similar to the NHL’s, but also includes restrictions on checking from behind, checking to the head or neck area, and checking an opponent who is not in possession of the puck.
• Rule 152 – Charging: This rule prohibits a player from taking more than three strides or skating distance to accelerate into a check. Charging penalties can also be given if a player leaves their feet to deliver a hit.
• Rule 153 – Boarding: Similar to the NHL, this rule prohibits a player from checking an opponent in a way that causes them to be thrown violently into the boards.

The IIHF also has strict penalties for hits to the head, checking from behind, and hits that cause injury, with players often receiving game misconducts or even suspensions for these types of hits. Additionally, the IIHF has rules in place regarding protective gear and equipment, such as mandatory helmets and face masks for all players.

Amateur Athletic Union (AAU)

Background: The AAU is a non-profit sports organization that governs amateur sports in the United States.

Rules on Hits: The AAU follows the same rules as USA Hockey, with strict penalties for dangerous hits. Any hit that targets the head or neck of an opponent is considered a violation of AAU rules and results in a penalty. Additionally, any player who receives three penalties in one game is ejected from the game and may be subject to further disciplinary action.

Frequently Asked Questions