What Does Interference Mean In Hockey? Understanding the Rules and Penalties

As one of the most physically demanding sports out there, hockey has a unique set of rules and penalties that players need to understand. One of the most important of these is interference. Understanding what interference is and how to avoid it is key to staying out of the penalty box and helping your team win.

Interference is defined as any physical contact made with an opposing player who is not in possession of the puck or who is not within a stick’s length of the puck. This can occur in a variety of situations, such as when a player is trying to get to the puck, when a player is trying to take a shot, or when a player is trying to make a pass. Interference can result in penalties ranging from minor infractions to game misconducts.

Whether you’re a seasoned player or just starting out, it’s important to have a solid understanding of interference in hockey. In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about interference, from the rules and penalties to common scenarios and strategies for avoiding interference. So, let’s get started!

Definition of Interference in Hockey

Interference is a term used in hockey to describe a situation where a player deliberately obstructs an opponent’s ability to play the puck or participate in the game without the puck. This type of action is illegal in hockey and can lead to penalties or other consequences. Obstructs is the key word here.

Interference can occur in many ways, such as blocking an opponent’s path, impeding their progress, or preventing them from accessing the puck. It’s important to note that interference can occur with or without physical contact between players. Preventing is the second key word.

Interference is often confused with body checking, which is a legal and accepted part of hockey. Body checking occurs when a player uses their body to stop an opponent who has possession of the puck. Interference, on the other hand, occurs when a player impedes an opponent who does not have possession of the puck. Impedes is the third key word.

Interference can be called in a variety of situations, including when a player is without the puck, when a player is pursuing the puck, and when a player is attempting to make a play on the puck. Interference can also occur when a player is attempting to establish body position or gain an advantage over an opponent. Pursuing and establish are the fourth and fifth key words.

It’s important for players to understand what constitutes interference and how it can impact the game. Penalties for interference can result in a player being removed from the ice for a period of time or even ejected from the game. Additionally, interference can disrupt team strategies and cause a shift in momentum. Impact is the last key word.

What is Interference in Hockey?

1. Interference is a penalty in hockey that occurs when a player interferes with the progress of an opponent who is not in possession of the puck. This includes body checking, blocking, or impeding the path of an opponent.

2. The rule is in place to ensure a fair game and to prevent players from gaining an unfair advantage by impeding their opponent’s ability to move around the ice. Interference is strictly prohibited and can result in a minor, major, or even a game misconduct penalty.

3. According to the NHL rulebook, interference occurs when “a player checks an opponent who does not have possession of the puck or who is not engaged in the play.” This can include any physical contact that interferes with an opponent’s ability to move freely on the ice.

4. It’s important to note that the definition of interference can be subjective and open to interpretation by the officials. In some cases, what one official considers interference, another may not, which can lead to controversy on the ice.

5. Interference can have a major impact on the outcome of a game, and it’s crucial for players to understand the rules and avoid committing penalties. By playing a clean game and respecting their opponents, players can ensure fair play and an enjoyable game for everyone involved.

Examples of Interference in Hockey

• Interference is a common foul in hockey that involves impeding the progress of an opposing player who is not in possession of the puck. One example is when a player intentionally blocks or screens another player without attempting to play the puck. This can result in a penalty.

• Offensive interference is another type of interference that occurs when an offensive player interferes with a defensive player’s ability to defend against the puck carrier. This includes using physical force or positioning to block the defender’s view or movement.

• Interference penalties can be costly for a team, especially during a close game. Players who commit interference can be sent to the penalty box for two minutes or more, depending on the severity of the foul. This puts their team at a disadvantage, as they have to play shorthanded against their opponents for the duration of the penalty.

• Coaches often emphasize the importance of playing within the rules of the game and avoiding interference penalties. This requires players to be disciplined and have good positioning and timing when defending against their opponents. Coaches also teach players to use their body position and stick to legally separate opposing players from the puck without committing interference.

• Video review is becoming increasingly common in hockey, especially in the playoffs. Referees can use video review to determine if a player committed interference, even if it was not called on the ice. This can be beneficial for teams that were unfairly penalized or for players who were injured as a result of interference.

In conclusion, interference is a foul in hockey that involves impeding the progress of an opposing player who is not in possession of the puck. It can take many forms, such as screening, blocking, or using physical force to gain an advantage. Interference penalties can be costly for a team and coaches often emphasize the importance of playing within the rules to avoid them. By understanding the different types of interference and how they are penalized, players can improve their game and help their team succeed.

How is Interference Different from Other Hockey Penalties?

When it comes to hockey penalties, there are several different types that can be called during a game. However, interference stands out as a unique infraction that differs from other types of penalties in a few key ways.

Firstly, unlike tripping, hooking, or slashing, interference doesn’t involve any physical contact with an opposing player. Rather, it’s defined as impeding the progress of an opponent who doesn’t have the puck. This can include standing in their way or preventing them from getting to the puck, even if there’s no actual body contact.

Another way that interference differs from other penalties is that it’s often a more subjective call. While some interference infractions are clear-cut (such as when a player blatantly obstructs their opponent), other situations may be less obvious and up to the discretion of the referee. This can lead to disagreements and frustrations from both players and fans alike.

Additionally, interference penalties can have a ripple effect on the game that other infractions may not. For example, if a player is called for interference, it can nullify a potential scoring opportunity for their team, as the play is stopped and a faceoff is taken in the offending team’s zone. This can lead to a significant shift in momentum and impact the outcome of the game.

Types of Interference Penalties

Interference is a serious penalty in hockey that can result in a power play for the opposing team. There are several types of interference that can occur during a game, including offensive interference. This is when a player interferes with an opposing player who is trying to move the puck down the ice.

Another type of interference penalty is defensive interference, which occurs when a player interferes with an opposing player who is trying to receive a pass or make a play with the puck. This can result in a loss of possession and a power play for the other team.

Interference on the goaltender is another type of interference that can occur during a game. This is when a player interferes with the goalie while he or she is trying to make a save. This can result in a power play for the opposing team.

Delay of game interference is another type of interference penalty that can occur. This is when a player deliberately interferes with an opposing player who is trying to make a play with the puck. This can result in a power play for the other team, and it can also result in a fine or suspension for the player who committed the penalty.

Incidental interference is the final type of interference penalty that can occur in hockey. This is when a player accidentally interferes with an opposing player while trying to make a play on the puck. This type of interference is usually not penalized, unless it results in a significant disadvantage for the other team.

Minor Interference Penalties

Minor interference penalties are the most common types of interference calls in hockey. They occur when a player interferes with an opposing player’s ability to skate or play the puck, but it does not result in a significant disadvantage for the opposing team. The player will be sent to the penalty box for two minutes. Hooking, holding, and tripping are some common minor interference penalties.

Hooking is when a player impedes an opponent by hooking them with their stick. This penalty often happens when a player is trying to slow down or stop an opposing player who has the puck.

Holding is when a player grabs onto an opponent with their hands, arms, or stick to impede their progress or movement. This penalty often happens when a player is trying to stop or slow down an opposing player who has the puck.

Tripping is when a player uses their stick, leg, or foot to trip an opposing player. This penalty often happens when a player is trying to prevent an opposing player from scoring a goal or making a play.

Minor interference penalties can have an impact on the game, but they are usually not severe enough to cause significant harm to the opposing team. However, if a team commits too many minor interference penalties, it can give the other team an advantage by creating power play opportunities.

Major Interference Penalties

Major interference penalties are called for more serious offenses in hockey. Checking from behind and boarding are the most common examples of major interference. If a player checks an opponent from behind and sends them headfirst into the boards, the referee will assess a major interference penalty. Similarly, if a player hits another player into the boards with excessive force, the referee can assess a major interference penalty.

The major interference penalty is much more severe than the minor interference penalty. A player who is assessed a major interference penalty is typically ejected from the game and may face further disciplinary action from the league. The team of the offending player is also penalized, as they are forced to play shorthanded for five minutes.

Players should be cautious when checking their opponents and avoid actions that could be deemed interference. In addition to risking penalties and ejection from the game, players who engage in dangerous plays that result in injury to their opponents can face suspension and fines from the league.

It is important for players to remember that the purpose of interference penalties is to ensure player safety and protect the integrity of the game. Players who engage in interference put themselves and their opponents at risk and undermine the fair play of the game.

How to Avoid Interference Penalties

Positioning: Good positioning is key to avoiding interference penalties. Players should focus on maintaining proper positioning and not impeding their opponents’ movement.

Timing: Players should be aware of the timing of their actions and avoid making contact with an opponent before the puck arrives. This will help avoid interference penalties for hitting a player who does not have the puck.

Communication: Effective communication between teammates is important to avoid interfering with each other. Players should communicate their intentions and avoid colliding with their own teammates while pursuing the puck.

Anticipation: Players can avoid interference penalties by anticipating where the puck will be and positioning themselves accordingly. This will help them avoid unnecessary contact with opponents and reduce the risk of penalties.

Discipline: Players should exercise discipline and avoid making reckless or unnecessary hits. They should focus on playing the game with a level head and not let their emotions get the best of them, which can lead to unnecessary penalties, including interference.

Proper Positioning and Angling

• Positioning: When it comes to proper positioning, it’s important to find a spot where you have a clear view of your target. If you’re fishing in a river or stream, look for areas where the water is calmer and less turbulent. This will make it easier to see where the fish are and to cast your line accurately. If you’re fishing in a lake or pond, look for areas where there is vegetation or other structures that fish may be hiding around.
• Angling: Angling refers to the technique used to cast your line and reel in your catch. To properly angle, start by holding your fishing rod with both hands, keeping your elbows close to your body. Then, bring the rod back behind your shoulder and quickly snap it forward to cast your line. Once your line is in the water, use a slow and steady motion to reel it in, keeping the line taut so you can feel when a fish bites.
• Choosing the Right Equipment: To ensure proper positioning and angling, it’s important to have the right equipment. This includes a fishing rod and reel that is appropriate for the type of fishing you will be doing, as well as bait and lures that are appealing to the fish you are targeting. You may also want to consider wearing polarized sunglasses to help reduce glare and see into the water more easily.

Remember, proper positioning and angling can make all the difference when it comes to catching fish. By taking the time to find the right spot, using the right technique, and having the right equipment, you can improve your chances of having a successful fishing trip. So, next time you head out to the water, keep these tips in mind and get ready to reel in some big ones!

Anticipating the Play and Reacting Quickly

Anticipating: To be a successful player, it’s important to anticipate what your opponents are going to do before they do it. Pay close attention to their movements and try to predict their next move. This will give you a split-second advantage that can make all the difference in the game.

Reacting Quickly: Once you’ve anticipated the play, it’s time to react quickly. This means being ready to make a move as soon as you see an opportunity. Whether it’s intercepting a pass, making a quick shot, or stealing the ball, reacting quickly can help you gain an advantage over your opponents and ultimately lead to victory.

Staying Alert: One of the keys to anticipating the play and reacting quickly is to stay alert throughout the game. Keep your eyes on the ball and your opponents at all times, and be ready to adjust your position and make a move at a moment’s notice.

Practice Makes Perfect: Finally, remember that the more you practice anticipating the play and reacting quickly, the better you’ll become. Work on your reflexes and agility through drills and exercises, and play as much as possible to gain experience and improve your skills.

Anticipating	Reacting	Staying Alert
Anticipate your opponents’ movements and predict their next move.	React quickly to gain an advantage over your opponents.	Stay alert and keep your eyes on the ball and your opponents at all times.
Pay close attention to your opponents and try to read their body language.	Be ready to make a move as soon as you see an opportunity.	Adjust your position and be ready to make a move at a moment’s notice.
Work on your reflexes and agility through drills and exercises.	Practice reacting quickly in different game situations.	Play as much as possible to gain experience and improve your skills.

By anticipating the play and reacting quickly, you can become a more effective and successful player. Remember to stay alert, practice your skills, and be ready to make a move at any time. With these tips and techniques, you can take your game to the next level and achieve your goals on the field or court.

Using Active Stick and Body Positioning

Another important aspect of defensive play in hockey is using an active stick and maintaining proper body positioning. By using an active stick, you can take away passing and shooting lanes, disrupt the opposition’s flow and create turnovers. You can also use your stick to block shots and prevent the opposition from getting shots on net.

Along with an active stick, proper body positioning is crucial. This means keeping your body between the opposition and the net and making sure you have good gap control. You should also keep your feet moving and stay square to the opposition at all times, making it difficult for them to get past you.

When using an active stick and maintaining proper body positioning, it’s important to stay disciplined and avoid taking penalties. Stick infractions such as hooking and tripping can lead to a power play for the opposition and put your team at a disadvantage. Therefore, it’s important to use your stick and body effectively while staying within the rules.

In addition to preventing scoring opportunities, using an active stick and proper body positioning can also lead to offensive chances. By creating turnovers and disrupting the opposition’s flow, you can transition quickly to offense and create scoring opportunities for your team.

Overall, using an active stick and maintaining proper body positioning is crucial to effective defensive play in hockey. By doing so, you can prevent scoring opportunities, create turnovers, and generate offensive chances, all while staying within the rules and avoiding penalties.

Common Interference Scenarios in Hockey

Interference is a common penalty in hockey and can occur in many different scenarios during the game. One common interference scenario is when a player impedes the progress of an opposing player who is not in possession of the puck. This can happen when a player positions themselves between the opposing player and the puck, preventing them from getting to the puck and making a play.

Another common interference scenario is when a player impedes the progress of an opposing player who is trying to make a line change. In this scenario, the player on the ice can try to block the player who is trying to make a change, preventing them from getting to the bench in time to make the change.

Interference can also occur when a player blocks an opposing player who is trying to get to the puck, even if the player doing the blocking is also trying to get to the puck. This can happen in front of the net or in other areas of the ice and can result in a penalty if the blocking player impedes the progress of the opposing player.

Another interference scenario is when a player initiates contact with an opposing player who is not in possession of the puck. This can happen in open ice or along the boards, and the player initiating the contact can be penalized if the contact is deemed to be interference.

Finally, interference can occur when a player hits an opposing player who is trying to play the puck, even if the player doing the hitting is also trying to play the puck. This can happen in many different scenarios on the ice and can result in a penalty if the hit is deemed to be interference.

Interference by a Player Without the Puck

Interference by a player without the puck occurs when a player who is not in possession of the puck impedes the progress of an opponent or interferes with their ability to move without making any effort to play the puck themselves.

This type of interference is often seen when a player tries to prevent an opposing player from getting to a loose puck or when a player sets a pick on an opposing player to prevent them from reaching their intended destination on the ice. In either case, the interfering player is committing a penalty and should be called for interference by the referees.

One way to avoid committing interference by a player without the puck is to focus on playing the puck instead of trying to impede the progress of opposing players. Additionally, players should be aware of where their bodies are positioned on the ice to avoid unintentionally interfering with opposing players.

Players should also be aware of the timing of their actions on the ice. For example, if a player sets a pick on an opposing player before they have had a chance to establish possession of the puck, it is likely that the player will be called for interference.

Interference in the Offensive Zone

One common interference scenario in hockey occurs when a defending player interferes with an attacking player in the offensive zone. This can happen when the defending player positions their body to obstruct the attacking player, preventing them from reaching the puck or gaining a scoring position. It is important for referees to watch for this type of interference and penalize the defending team accordingly.

Another form of interference in the offensive zone is when a defending player “picks” or blocks an attacking player without the puck. This can create space for the defending team to clear the puck or disrupt the attacking team’s momentum. Referees need to be vigilant in calling this type of interference to ensure fair play for both teams.

Interference in the offensive zone can also occur when a player is impeded while trying to skate to the puck. This can happen when a defending player uses their stick or body to impede the attacking player’s progress, preventing them from getting to the puck. Referees must be aware of this type of interference and call penalties when necessary.

Finally, interference can occur in the offensive zone when a player is obstructed while trying to take a shot on goal. This can happen when a defending player positions their body or stick in a way that prevents the attacking player from taking a clear shot. Referees need to be vigilant in calling penalties for this type of interference to ensure fair play for both teams.

Interference vs. Body Checking: What’s the Difference?

Interference and body checking are two different infractions in hockey, although they may appear similar at times. Interference occurs when a player deliberately impedes the progress of an opponent who does not have possession of the puck. This can include things like standing in the way of an opponent or using your body to block their path.

Body checking, on the other hand, is a legal maneuver used to separate an opponent from the puck. It involves using your body to make contact with an opponent who has possession of the puck. A legal body check requires that the player making the check is within a reasonable distance of the opponent, and that the check is made with the shoulder or hip and not the elbow, stick, or any other body part.

While both interference and body checking involve making contact with an opponent, the key difference is whether or not the player with the puck is the one being impeded. Interference is illegal because it unfairly impedes the progress of a player who does not have the puck, while body checking is a legal and important part of the game as long as it is done within the rules.

Body Checking in Hockey

Body checking is a physical play in ice hockey where a player uses their body to legally hit an opponent to gain control of the puck or disrupt the opponent’s play. This type of play can only be executed when the player with the puck is within reach of the player attempting the check, and when the check is delivered squarely and cleanly.

Body checking is a critical component of the sport, as it can quickly change the momentum of a game and give an advantage to the team that executes it effectively. However, players must be careful to avoid illegal hits, such as charging, boarding, or checking from behind, which can result in penalties, suspensions, and serious injuries.

Proper technique is essential when delivering a body check, including using a strong base, keeping the head up, and leading with the shoulder rather than the elbow. Players must also be aware of their surroundings and anticipate the opponent’s movements to execute a successful check.

Differences between Interference and Body Checking

Definition: Interference is when a player impedes the progress of an opponent who is not in possession of the puck. Body checking is a physical contact used to separate an opponent from the puck.

Timing: Interference can occur at any time during the game, while body checking is only legal when the opponent has possession of the puck or is the last player to touch it.

Contact: Interference involves impeding the opponent’s progress without making contact, while body checking requires physical contact with the opponent.

Penalties: Interference is a minor penalty, while body checking can result in a minor or major penalty depending on the severity of the infraction.

Overall, the key difference between interference and body checking is that interference involves impeding the opponent’s progress without making physical contact, while body checking involves making contact with the opponent to separate them from the puck. It’s important for players to understand the differences between these two types of infractions in order to avoid penalties and maintain a safe and fair game.

Impact of Interference on Gameplay and Strategies

Penalization: Interference can result in penalties being called on the offending player, leading to a power play for the opposing team. Teams must be mindful of this when deciding how aggressively to pursue the puck or interfere with the other team’s players.

Importance of Skating: Skating ability is crucial in avoiding interference penalties and creating space for oneself or teammates. Teams may focus on improving their skating skills and speed to avoid being caught in interference situations.

Tactical Adjustments: Teams may adjust their strategies to account for interference by implementing more dump-and-chase plays, using screens to shield the puck carrier from interference, or utilizing quick passes to prevent defenders from being able to set up interference.

Physical Toll: Interference can be physically taxing on players, leading to fatigue and reduced effectiveness. Teams must manage their players’ energy levels and ensure they are prepared to face interference throughout the game.

Momentum Shifts: Interference can lead to momentum swings in a game, as penalties can shift the balance of play in favor of one team. Teams must be aware of the potential impact of interference on momentum and work to limit penalties while capitalizing on power play opportunities.

Effect on Power Play Opportunities

Interference penalties can have a major impact on a team’s power play opportunities. When a team is on the power play, they have a man advantage and are more likely to score. If a player interferes with an opponent, they can be assessed a penalty, which puts their team shorthanded. This means they have one less player on the ice and are more vulnerable to giving up a goal.

For the team on the power play, they have a greater chance of scoring since there is more space on the ice and the opposing team is at a disadvantage. They can use this time to set up their plays, take more shots on net, and apply pressure on the other team’s penalty killers.

However, if a team is not successful on their power play, they can lose momentum and confidence, which can affect their overall gameplay. On the other hand, if the penalty-killing team successfully kills off the penalty, they can gain momentum and confidence, and potentially even score a shorthanded goal.

Therefore, minimizing interference penalties is crucial for both teams. The team on offense should focus on moving their feet and using proper positioning to avoid interfering with their opponents, while the team on defense should use active stick and body positioning to defend without interfering.

Importance of Limiting Interference Penalties

Preventing Momentum Shifts: Interference penalties can give the opposing team a power play opportunity, leading to a momentum shift and potential scoring opportunities. By limiting interference penalties, a team can maintain their momentum and control of the game.

Maintaining Team Discipline: Interference penalties can often be the result of a lack of discipline and focus. By emphasizing the importance of avoiding interference penalties, a team can improve their overall discipline and reduce the number of penalties they take.

Avoiding Unnecessary Risk: Interference penalties can occur when a player takes an unnecessary risk, such as impeding an opponent’s progress when they don’t have possession of the puck. By limiting these types of risks, a team can avoid costly penalties and maintain their focus on the game.

Maximizing Ice Time: Interference penalties can lead to reduced ice time for the penalized player and their teammates, as well as potential fatigue from penalty-killing efforts. By limiting interference penalties, a team can maximize their ice time and reduce the risk of fatigue affecting their performance.

Frequently Asked Questions