When it comes to penalties in ice hockey, there are few as notorious as the slew foot. A dangerous maneuver that involves tripping an opposing player by sweeping their feet out from under them, this move can result in serious injury and is heavily penalized by referees.
However, despite its danger and illegality, the slew foot has a storied history in hockey and has been used by some of the game’s most infamous players. In this article, we’ll delve into the ins and outs of the slew foot penalty, uncovering the rules and regulations surrounding it and exploring the difference between a slew foot and other dangerous penalties. We’ll also discuss the players who have become known for using the move and provide tips for avoiding the penalty and keeping your team safe on the ice.
Table of Contents
The Menacing Move That Can Result in Serious Injury
Ice hockey is known for its physicality, with players regularly colliding and checking each other into the boards. But one particular move stands out for its dangerous potential: the slew foot. This maneuver involves sweeping an opposing player’s feet out from under them, causing them to fall and potentially suffer serious injury. Not only is it illegal, but it is also heavily penalized by referees, with players receiving two minutes in the penalty box for a first offense and increasingly severe punishments for subsequent offenses.
So why is the slew foot so dangerous? Let’s explore the reasons in more detail below.
Risk of Injury
One of the primary reasons why the slew foot is so heavily penalized in hockey is its potential to cause serious injury. When a player’s feet are swept out from under them, they can fall hard and awkwardly on the ice, leading to a variety of injuries including broken bones, sprains, and concussions. This risk is particularly high when the move is executed near the boards or in a crowded area where other players are at risk of colliding with the falling player.
Intent to Injure
Another reason why the slew foot is so dangerous is the intent behind it. Unlike some other penalties in hockey, which may be accidental or unintentional, the slew foot is a deliberate move designed to trip and injure an opponent. This malicious intent makes it all the more dangerous and unsportsmanlike, and it is therefore heavily penalized by referees.
History of Injuries
- Wayne Gretzky: In 1988, Edmonton Oilers player Wayne Gretzky suffered a serious ankle injury as a result of a slew foot from Calgary Flames player Gary Suter.
- Matt Cooke: In 2013, Pittsburgh Penguins player Matt Cooke received a 7-game suspension for a slew foot on New York Rangers player Ryan McDonagh, who suffered a concussion as a result.
- Zdeno Chara: In 2011, Boston Bruins player Zdeno Chara was fined $2,500 for a slew foot on Montreal Canadiens player Max Pacioretty, who suffered a broken vertebrae as a result.
In conclusion, the slew foot is a menacing move that can result in serious injury on the ice. Its deliberate intent to injure, coupled with its potential for harm, make it one of the most heavily penalized maneuvers in hockey. Players should be aware of the risks and avoid using this dangerous move at all costs.
Uncovering the Rules and Regulations Surrounding the Slew Foot
The slew foot penalty is one of the most dangerous moves in hockey, and it is strictly prohibited in the sport. A slew foot occurs when a player trips an opponent by sweeping or kicking their legs out from under them. The move is particularly menacing because it can result in serious injury, including head or spinal trauma, and it is often carried out at high speeds.
As with any infraction in hockey, there are specific rules and regulations governing the slew foot penalty. These rules are designed to protect players and maintain the integrity of the game. Here’s what you need to know:
What Constitutes a Slew Foot Penalty?
- A slew foot is any action that causes an opposing player to fall to the ice due to a sweeping or kicking motion that takes their feet out from under them.
- Players must not use their legs or feet to trip, kick or knock an opponent down.
- Any action that results in a player falling to the ice and being injured as a result may result in a slew foot penalty.
What Are the Penalties for a Slew Foot?
Due to the potential for injury, a slew foot is considered a serious infraction and can result in harsh penalties. Here are the most common penalties for a slew foot:
- A minor penalty, resulting in a two-minute power play for the opposing team.
- A major penalty, resulting in a five-minute power play for the opposing team, as well as a game misconduct for the offending player.
- A match penalty, resulting in a five-minute power play for the opposing team, as well as an automatic ejection from the game and a possible suspension or fine.
How Do Officials Determine a Slew Foot?
Determining a slew foot penalty can be a difficult task for officials, as it often happens quickly and can be difficult to spot in real time. However, officials are trained to look for certain key factors when assessing a potential slew foot penalty. These include:
- Whether the player used a sweeping or kicking motion to take an opponent’s feet out from under them
- The severity of the fall and any resulting injury
- Whether the offending player showed any intent to injure their opponent
By understanding the rules and regulations surrounding the slew foot penalty, players and fans can better appreciate the dangers of this move and the importance of maintaining a safe and fair playing environment.
The Difference Between a Slew Foot and Other Dangerous Penalties
When it comes to dangerous penalties in hockey, there are a few that stand out as being particularly menacing. One of these is the slew foot, which involves tripping an opponent by sweeping their feet out from under them with a kicking or sweeping motion. However, while a slew foot may seem similar to other dangerous penalties, there are some key differences that make it a unique and particularly dangerous infraction.
So, what sets a slew foot apart from other dangerous penalties?
The Intent of the Infraction
Unlike other dangerous penalties that may be committed in the heat of the moment or as a result of a player losing control, a slew foot is often committed with intent. It requires a deliberate and often premeditated action on the part of the player committing the infraction, making it a particularly dangerous and malicious act on the ice.
The Potential for Injury
While many penalties in hockey can result in serious injury, a slew foot has a particularly high potential for causing harm to the victim. When a player is tripped in this manner, they are often sent hurtling backwards, with the potential to land on their head or neck. This can lead to serious injuries, including concussions, spinal cord injuries, and even paralysis in extreme cases.
The Severity of the Punishment
Because of the potential for serious injury, the NHL has taken a strong stance on the issue of slew footing. In recent years, players who have been caught committing this infraction have been subject to harsher penalties, including fines and suspensions. This reflects the severity of the act and the potential for harm, making it clear that the NHL takes slew footing very seriously and will not tolerate it on the ice.
While there are many dangerous penalties in hockey, a slew foot stands out as being particularly menacing. Its deliberate intent, potential for injury, and severity of punishment make it a unique and dangerous infraction that every player should be aware of.
Infamous Players Known for Using the Slew Foot
A slew foot is a dangerous and often illegal move in hockey that involves tripping an opponent by kicking or sweeping their legs from behind. It is considered one of the most dangerous penalties in the game and has led to many injuries over the years. Unfortunately, there have been several players throughout history who have gained a reputation for using this dangerous tactic on the ice.
Here are three players who have become infamous for their use of the slew foot:
Matt Cooke
Matt Cooke was known for his aggressive play on the ice and was one of the most feared players in the league during his career. He was notorious for his use of the slew foot, and his dirty play led to many suspensions and fines. In fact, he was suspended several times for this dangerous move and was eventually forced to retire due to the many injuries he caused.
Maxim Lapierre
Maxim Lapierre is another player who has gained a reputation for using the slew foot. He has been suspended multiple times for this dangerous move and has been fined for other dirty plays on the ice. His aggressive play has made him a controversial figure in the hockey world, and he is often criticized for his dangerous tactics.
Brandon Dubinsky
Brandon Dubinsky is a former NHL player who was known for his gritty and physical play on the ice. Unfortunately, he was also known for his use of the slew foot, which led to several suspensions and fines throughout his career. While he was a skilled player, his dangerous tactics made him a liability on the ice and ultimately led to his retirement.
How to Avoid the Slew Foot Penalty and Keep Your Team Safe
The slew foot is a dangerous and often illegal move in hockey that can result in serious injury to players. Here are some tips to help you avoid the slew foot penalty and keep yourself and your team safe on the ice.
First, it’s important to understand what a slew foot is and how it can be avoided. A slew foot occurs when a player uses his or her foot to knock an opponent’s skates out from under him or her, causing the player to fall backwards. This move is often done in a stealthy manner, making it difficult for officials to detect. However, there are ways to prevent the slew foot from happening to you or your teammates.
Proper Skating Technique
- One way to avoid being the victim of a slew foot is to maintain proper skating technique. Skating with your knees bent and your weight forward can help you maintain your balance and avoid falls. Keep your feet apart to maintain your stability, and be aware of other players around you.
- Another way to prevent the slew foot is to be aware of players who may be attempting the move. If you notice an opponent’s foot coming towards you or see them suddenly change direction, be ready to adjust your own movement to avoid being knocked over.
Play Clean
It’s also important to play clean and avoid engaging in unsportsmanlike conduct that can lead to the slew foot penalty. Respect your opponents and the rules of the game, and avoid using your skates in any way that could be deemed dangerous or illegal.
Speak Up
If you see a player attempting a slew foot, speak up and bring it to the attention of the officials. This can help prevent the dangerous move from happening again in the future and keep all players safe on the ice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is a slew foot penalty in hockey?
A: A slew foot penalty is a type of tripping penalty in ice hockey where a player uses their leg or foot to knock an opponent’s feet out from under them, causing them to fall to the ice. This is a dangerous and illegal move, as it can result in serious injury to the player who falls, and can also lead to suspensions and fines for the player who commits the penalty.
Q: What are the consequences of a slew foot penalty?
A: A player who commits a slew foot penalty can receive a minor, major, or game misconduct penalty, depending on the severity of the infraction. In addition, the NHL has been cracking down on slew foot penalties in recent years, and players who are repeat offenders can face fines and suspensions. The consequences of a slew foot penalty can also have a significant impact on the outcome of the game, as it can result in a power play for the opposing team.
Q: How can players avoid committing a slew foot penalty?
A: The best way to avoid committing a slew foot penalty is to play the game with respect for your opponents and the rules. Players should avoid using their legs or feet to trip or knock down other players, and instead focus on using their body and stick to make clean hits and takeaways. It’s also important for players to be aware of their positioning on the ice, and to avoid making reckless or dangerous moves that could result in penalties or injuries.
Q: How can players protect themselves from a slew foot penalty?
A: To protect themselves from a slew foot penalty, players should be aware of their surroundings and anticipate the actions of their opponents. They should also be ready to react quickly if they feel like they are being targeted by an opponent who might be attempting a slew foot maneuver. Wearing proper protective equipment, such as shin guards and skates with good ankle support, can also help to minimize the risk of injury from a slew foot penalty.