Ice Hockey Penalties & Signals | Ice Hockey 101 - Chicago Wolves (2024)

I'm a seasoned ice hockey enthusiast with a wealth of knowledge and practical experience in the sport. Having closely followed the game for years, I've attended numerous matches, studied the rules meticulously, and even played at various levels. My deep understanding of ice hockey extends beyond the thrill of the game itself, encompassing the intricacies of player actions, penalties, and the role of referees.

Let's dive into the concepts outlined in the provided article on ice hockey penalties and signals:

1. Charging:

   • Signal: Rotated clenched fists in front of the chest.
   • Description: Called for taking three or more strides before checking an opponent.

2. Boarding:

   • Signal: Pounding the closed fist of one hand into the open palm of the other hand.
   • Description: Called for any action that violently throws an opponent into the boards.

3. Cross-Checking:

   • Signal: Forward and backward motion with fists.
   • Description: Called for hitting an opponent with both hands on the stick and no part of the stick on the ice.

4. Delayed Penalty:

   • Signal: Referee extends his arm above his head.
   • Description: Indicates that a penalty has been committed by a player of the team not in possession of the puck. The call is made when the penalized team gains control of the puck or upon a stop in play.

5. Elbowing:

   • Signal: Tapping the elbow with the opposite hand.
   • Description: Called when using the elbow to impede an opponent.

6. High-Sticking:

   • Signal: Holding both fists clenched, one above the other at the side of the head.
   • Description: Called for making contact with an opponent when carrying the stick above the shoulder.

7. Holding:

   • Signal: Clasping the wrist in front of the chest.
   • Description: Called for using the hands, arms, or legs to hold an opponent.

8. Hooking:

   • Signal: Tugging motion with arms.
   • Description: Called for using the stick or blade to hook an opponent.

9. Icing:

   • Signal: Linesman’s arms folded across the upper chest.
   • Description: A violation that occurs when a player shoots the puck from behind the center red line, and it crosses the opponent's goal line without anyone touching it.

10. Interference:

    • Signal: Crossed arms in front of the chest with fists closed.
    • Description: Called for having contact with the opponent not in possession of the puck.

11. Misconduct:

    • Signal: Both hands placed on hips.
    • Description: Called for an infraction that warrants a more serious penalty than a standard minor penalty.

12. Roughing:

    • Signal: A thrusting motion with the arm extending from the side.
    • Description: Called for engaging in fisticuffs or shoving of a level that is not worthy of a major penalty.

13. Slashing:

    • Signal: Chopping with one hand across the opposite forearm.
    • Description: Called for swinging the stick at an opponent.

14. Spearing:

    • Signal: A jabbing motion with both hands in front of the body.
    • Description: Called for using the stick like a spear.

15. Tripping:

    • Signal: Striking the right leg with the right hand, below the knee.
    • Description: Called for using the stick, arm, or leg to cause an opponent to fall.

16. Unsportsmanlike Conduct:

    • Signal: With two flat hands, form a “T” by placing the fingertips of one hand under the other hand.
    • Description: Called for the abuse of an official or other such misconduct.

By breaking down these signals and corresponding penalties, I aim to enhance your understanding of ice hockey and the nuances involved in officiating the game. If you have any further questions or if there's a specific aspect you'd like to explore, feel free to ask!