Rule Book
Master the game by understanding its rules! Referee Riley breaks down hockey's most important rules in simple, easy-to-understand terms.
From basic penalties to complex situations, get the official word on what's legal, what's not, and why it matters for the game we all love.
Ready to referee like a pro?
Referee Riley
Head Official
Official Rule Guide
Clear explanations of hockey's most important rules, penalties, and situations from a certified official
Faceoff Rules
Centers must position their sticks properly, visiting player puts stick down first, and no other players can enter the circle until the puck is dropped. It's all about fair starts!
Fighting Rules
Fighting results in 5-minute major penalties for both players. Third man in gets a game misconduct. While part of hockey culture, it's heavily regulated for player safety.
Goaltender Rules
Goalies have special protections in their crease, but they can also be called for penalties. They can't be checked in the crease, but they can't interfere with players either.
Icing Explained
Icing occurs when a player shoots the puck from behind center ice across the opposing goal line. Play stops, faceoff comes back to the defensive zone. It's hockey's way of preventing easy escapes!
Offside Basics
A player is offside if they enter the attacking zone before the puck. Both skates must completely cross the blue line. It's all about timing and keeping the game fair and flowing!
Penalty Types
Minor penalties are 2 minutes, major penalties are 5 minutes, and misconducts are 10 minutes. Each serves a purpose: keeping players safe and the game under control.
Power Play Rules
When a team gets a power play, they have a man advantage until the penalty expires or they score (for minor penalties). It's hockey's way of making teams pay for infractions.
Referee Signals
Every hand signal tells a story - from the raised arm for a delayed penalty to the crossed arms for no goal. Clear communication keeps 20,000 fans and players informed instantly.