What is a Check from Behind in Hockey? Learn the Dangers and Rules

As one of the most exciting and physically demanding sports in the world, hockey is beloved by millions of fans and players worldwide. However, it is also a game that comes with inherent dangers and risks. One of the most dangerous types of fouls in hockey is the check from behind.

A check from behind is a foul that occurs when a player violently shoves an opponent from behind into the boards or the ice. This type of hit is incredibly dangerous and can cause severe injuries to the player being hit.

Understanding the rules and dangers of a check from behind is crucial for anyone involved in the sport of hockey, whether as a player, coach, or fan. In this article, we will explore everything you need to know about this type of foul, including how to recognize it, prevent it, and deal with its consequences.

Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner, this guide will help you navigate the complexities of checking from behind and keep you safe on the ice. So keep reading to learn more!

Understanding Hockey Fouls and Penalties

If you’re a fan of hockey, you know that penalties are an essential part of the game. A penalty is a punishment given to a player who has broken a rule, and it usually involves time in the penalty box. There are several types of penalties in hockey, but they all fall into one of two categories: minor or major. Minor penalties are less severe and result in two minutes in the penalty box. Major penalties, on the other hand, are more serious and result in five minutes in the penalty box.

Some common minor penalties include tripping, hooking, and slashing. These are all considered to be infractions of the rules of the game, and they can be called by referees at any time during play. Major penalties are much more serious and can result in a player being ejected from the game. One of the most dangerous types of major penalties is the check from behind.

While many hockey fans love the physicality of the sport, there are rules in place to ensure that players are not put in danger. When a player commits a foul, the referee will call a penalty and the offending player will be sent to the penalty box. In some cases, the referee may even call a match penalty, which results in the player being ejected from the game.

It’s important to note that not all penalties are created equal. Some are more serious than others, and some can even result in injury. That’s why it’s important for players to understand the rules of the game and to play safely and responsibly. This is especially true when it comes to the check from behind.

Understanding the different types of penalties in hockey is essential for any fan or player. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a newcomer to the game, it’s important to know the rules and to play by them. By doing so, you can help ensure that hockey remains a safe and exciting sport for years to come.

If you want to know more about the different types of hockey penalties and how they impact the game, keep reading. We’ll take a closer look at the dangers of the check from behind and what you can do to prevent injuries on the ice.

Types of Hockey Fouls and Penalties

1. Minor penalties: These are common penalties for less serious offenses and typically last for two minutes. Examples include tripping, hooking, slashing, and roughing.

2. Major penalties: These penalties are more severe and last for five minutes. Examples include fighting, high-sticking, and checking from behind.

3. Misconduct penalties: These penalties usually result from unsportsmanlike conduct and the offending player must leave the ice for ten minutes. Examples include arguing with officials, using foul language, and refusing to obey a penalty.

4. Game misconduct penalties: These are the most severe penalties and result in the player being ejected from the game. Examples include injuring an opponent intentionally, leaving the bench to join a fight, and making obscene gestures towards officials or fans.

5. Match penalties: These are given for the most egregious offenses, such as deliberately injuring an opponent, and result in a player being ejected for the rest of the game. A match penalty also carries an automatic suspension for the next game.

It is important for players to understand these penalties and the consequences of breaking the rules. Coaches and officials should also be knowledgeable about the different types of penalties and how they are assessed. This helps to maintain a safe and fair playing environment for everyone involved.

Consequences of Committing a Foul in Hockey

1. Penalty Box – When a player commits a foul in hockey, they are sent to the penalty box to serve a specified amount of time. This can be anywhere from two minutes to five minutes, depending on the severity of the infraction. During this time, the player’s team will be shorthanded, meaning they will have one fewer player on the ice, making it easier for the opposing team to score.

2. Power Play – The team that is not penalized when a foul is committed is said to be on a power play. This means they have an extra player on the ice, giving them an advantage. They will try to take advantage of this by scoring a goal or creating scoring opportunities.

3. Game Misconduct – A game misconduct penalty is given for more severe infractions, such as fighting or deliberate attempts to injure another player. The player will be ejected from the game and will usually receive a suspension for their actions.

While committing a foul in hockey can give your team an advantage, the consequences can be severe. Here are a few more possible outcomes:

• Penalty Shot – If a player commits a foul while an opposing player has a clear breakaway towards the goal, the referee may award a penalty shot. This means the fouled player gets a one-on-one chance against the opposing goalie, giving them a good chance to score.
• Fines and Suspensions – If a player commits a foul that is deemed particularly dangerous or reckless, they may be fined or suspended by the league. This can result in a significant loss of income for the player and can hurt their team’s chances of winning future games.
• Injury – Foul play in hockey can result in serious injury to players. While the game is inherently physical, there are rules in place to protect players from dangerous hits and other infractions. A player who commits a foul that results in injury to another player may face serious consequences, both in terms of penalties and public perception.

Penalty Type	Time in Penalty Box	Infraction
Minor Penalty	2 minutes	Tripping, Holding, Hooking
Major Penalty	5 minutes	Checking from behind, Fighting
Game Misconduct	Ejected from game	Deliberate attempts to injure, Fighting with visor on

It’s important for players to understand the consequences of committing a foul in hockey. While it may seem like a good idea at the time to take a physical approach, the long-term consequences can be severe.

The Importance of Checking Safely in Hockey

One of the most important aspects of hockey is checking. It is an essential skill that can turn the game around, but it also comes with significant risks. That’s why it’s vital to check safely, both for your own well-being and the safety of your opponents. Here are some reasons why checking safely is critical:

Preventing Injuries: One of the main reasons to check safely is to prevent injuries. Checking can be dangerous, and it’s essential to learn how to do it safely to avoid causing harm to yourself or others.

Maintaining the Integrity of the Game: Checking is an integral part of hockey, and it’s important to maintain its integrity. Checking safely can help prevent injuries and ensure that the game is played fairly.

Improving Your Performance: Checking is not only about stopping your opponents but also about gaining an advantage. By learning how to check safely, you can improve your performance on the ice and increase your chances of winning.

Developing Good Sportsmanship: Checking is a physical part of the game, but it’s essential to maintain good sportsmanship. By checking safely, you can demonstrate respect for your opponents and show that you value fair play.

Building Trust with Your Teammates: Hockey is a team sport, and trust is essential for success. By checking safely, you can build trust with your teammates and show that you’re committed to the team’s success.

Overall, checking safely is crucial in hockey. By preventing injuries, maintaining the integrity of the game, improving your performance, developing good sportsmanship, and building trust with your teammates, you can help ensure that hockey remains a great sport to play and watch.

Why Safe Checking is Critical in Hockey

Checking is a fundamental part of ice hockey, and it involves the use of the body to gain possession of the puck or to separate the opponent from the puck. However, checking can be dangerous and can lead to serious injuries if not done safely. It is critical for players to understand the importance of safe checking in hockey to avoid causing harm to themselves or others.

One of the most critical reasons for safe checking is to reduce the risk of concussions. Concussions are a common injury in hockey, and they can have severe long-term consequences. A concussion occurs when the brain is shaken or jolted inside the skull, and it can result from a direct hit to the head or a whiplash effect from a body check. Safe checking techniques can help minimize the risk of concussions and protect players’ brain health.

Another reason why safe checking is critical in hockey is to prevent injuries to the spine and neck. High-velocity collisions can cause severe spinal cord injuries, leading to paralysis or even death. By using proper body positioning and targeting specific areas of the opponent’s body, players can reduce the risk of spinal and neck injuries.

Balance is another key factor in safe checking. Players who are off-balance or who use excessive force during a check are more likely to cause injuries to themselves or their opponents. It is important to maintain balance and control during a check to avoid falls and other accidents.

• Communication is also critical for safe checking. Players need to communicate with their teammates to avoid accidental collisions and to ensure that everyone is on the same page when it comes to defensive strategies.
• Experience is also an important factor in safe checking. Experienced players are often better at anticipating their opponents’ movements and can execute safer checks as a result.
• Equipment can also play a role in safe checking. Wearing proper gear, including helmets, shoulder pads, and elbow pads, can help absorb the impact of a check and reduce the risk of injuries.

By prioritizing safe checking techniques and following the rules of the game, players can enjoy all the benefits of checking without putting themselves or others at risk.

How to Recognize a Check from Behind and What to Do About It

Checking from behind is a dangerous move in hockey and can cause severe injuries, including spinal cord damage and concussions. The main signs of a check from behind are when a player’s back is facing the opponent, and the opponent hits them from behind into the boards. Players must keep their heads up to be aware of incoming hits to avoid getting hit from behind.

If you’re playing hockey and you see someone get checked from behind, it’s essential to take action. Players should immediately stop playing and alert the referees. Players should never try to retaliate, as this can lead to further penalties and potential injuries.

Coaches and players can help prevent checking from behind by teaching players the proper technique for checking and discouraging players from using this move during games. Proper body positioning, such as keeping your head up and your hands and elbows down, can help prevent dangerous checks.

If you’re a player and you suspect that you’re about to get hit from behind, you should try to protect yourself by getting low and bracing yourself for the hit. You can also use your stick to deflect the impact or try to turn away from the hit to reduce the force of impact.

If you’re a coach, you can also help prevent checking from behind by teaching players how to properly position themselves when checking and how to recognize when an opponent is vulnerable to a hit. Coaches should also encourage players to use their bodies to shield the puck, rather than turning their backs to their opponents, which can make them vulnerable to dangerous hits.

Identifying a Check from Behind in Hockey

If you’re a hockey player, coach, or parent of a player, it’s important to understand the dangers of checks from behind. Knowing how to identify a check from behind can help prevent serious injuries. A check from behind occurs when a player is hit from behind, causing them to crash into the boards or fall to the ice. This type of check is illegal and can result in a penalty, ejection from the game, or even a suspension.

There are several ways to identify a check from behind. Firstly, the player delivering the hit approaches their opponent from behind, making contact with their back. The player being hit may be unaware of the incoming player, leaving them defenseless. Additionally, the player delivering the hit may push their opponent violently into the boards or into the ice, causing serious injury.

If you suspect a check from behind has occurred, it’s important to act quickly. If the player appears to be seriously injured, call for medical attention immediately. If the player is conscious and able to move, help them to their feet and escort them to the bench. Remember that even if the player appears to be okay, they should still be checked for any signs of injury or concussion.

It’s also important to report the incident to the referee or coach. In most leagues, checks from behind are illegal and can result in penalties or ejection from the game. By reporting the incident, you can help prevent future incidents and ensure that the game is played safely.

• Look for approaching players: When you or your player is near the boards, always be aware of approaching players. If someone is coming up from behind, adjust your position to avoid getting hit.
• Watch for aggressive players: If a player is being particularly aggressive or rough, be on the lookout for checks from behind. These players may be more likely to engage in dangerous hits.
• Listen for contact: If you hear a loud bang or crash, it could be a sign that a player has been hit from behind. If you suspect a check from behind has occurred, be ready to act quickly.
• Keep an eye on the puck: If the puck is in the opposite direction of your player, they may be vulnerable to a check from behind. Remind players to keep their heads up and be aware of their surroundings at all times.
• Observe body language: If a player’s body language suggests they are about to be hit from behind, such as turning their back to the play, take action to protect them.
• Learn the rules: Make sure you understand the rules of the league or association you are playing in. This includes the penalties for checks from behind and other dangerous plays.

By being aware of the signs of a check from behind and taking steps to prevent them, you can help keep yourself and others safe on the ice. Remember that safety should always be a top priority in hockey, and that there is no excuse for dangerous or illegal hits.

Preventing Injuries in Hockey Through Responsible Checking

Checking is a fundamental aspect of hockey, but it can also be one of the most dangerous. Injuries are common in hockey, with players often experiencing concussions, broken bones, and other serious injuries as a result of a check gone wrong.

Responsible checking is crucial for preventing these injuries. Players need to be aware of the consequences of reckless checking and understand that they have a responsibility to keep themselves and their opponents safe on the ice.

Proper technique is also important. Coaches and trainers should emphasize the importance of proper body positioning, use of the stick, and other techniques to minimize the risk of injury during checking.

Techniques for Safe and Responsible Checking in Hockey

Keep your head up: The most important technique for safe checking in hockey is to keep your head up at all times. By doing this, you can see where you are going and avoid colliding with other players. This is particularly important when you are checking someone, as you need to be aware of your surroundings to avoid hitting them from behind.

Use your body, not your stick: When checking an opponent, it is important to use your body to make contact, rather than your stick. Using your stick can lead to tripping or slashing penalties, and can also cause serious injury to the other player if used improperly.

Follow the rules: Always follow the rules of the game when checking an opponent. Do not hit a player from behind or target their head, as these are illegal and can result in penalties or even suspensions. Remember that checking should be a part of the game, but it should always be done in a safe and responsible manner.

What to Expect After Committing a Check from Behind Foul in Hockey

Penalties: A check from behind is a serious foul in hockey, and it can result in various penalties depending on the severity of the action. Penalties can range from minor to major, and the player may receive a game misconduct penalty, resulting in an ejection from the game.

Possible Suspension: The severity of the check from behind can also determine if the player is suspended. The player may be suspended for a few games or for the remainder of the season. Repeated offenses can lead to longer suspensions or even expulsion from the league.

Injuries: A check from behind can cause serious injuries, and the player committing the foul can be held responsible for the damages. The injured player may require medical attention and could miss games, affecting their team’s performance.

Team Consequences: Committing a check from behind can also affect the team’s performance. The team may have to play with a shorter roster, leading to fatigue and an increased risk of injuries to other players. The team may also face negative publicity and backlash from fans and the media.

Educational Programs: To prevent check from behind fouls, many leagues and organizations offer educational programs and training for players. These programs aim to teach players about responsible checking and the consequences of dangerous plays, including checks from behind.

Penalties and Consequences of a Check from Behind Foul in Hockey

Checking from behind is one of the most dangerous actions in hockey, and it can lead to severe injuries. If a player commits a check from behind, they will receive a minor, major, or game misconduct penalty, depending on the severity of the hit.

If a player receives a minor penalty, they will spend two minutes in the penalty box, and their team will play shorthanded for that time. If a player receives a major penalty, they will be ejected from the game and suspended for at least one additional game.

If a player commits a check from behind that causes an injury, they may receive a match penalty, which results in an automatic ejection from the game, and the possibility of a suspension.

It is important for players to understand the seriousness of checking from behind and take responsibility for their actions on the ice. The consequences can be severe not only for the player committing the foul but also for the injured player and their team.

Frequently Asked Questions