Consolidated Officiating Manual

For Referees and Linespersons

Version 4.0 — Consolidated and organized by Steve Robinson

This consolidated manual combines information from four Hockey Canada source documents in an attempt to make it easier to consume and understand all of the duties, procedures and systems across different documents. All source content remains the property of Hockey Canada and we take no credit for the original material — only for the consolidation, reorganization, and supplementation of these documents into a single reference tool.

• Officiating Duties for Referee and Linespersons (12 pages) — pre-game, in-game, and end-of-period duties for referees and linespersons
• Officiating Procedures for Referee and Linespersons (31 pages) — step-by-step procedures for penalties, face-offs, icing, offsides, altercations, and more
• Officiating Systems for Referee and Linespersons (18 pages) — positioning, movement, and coordination for two, three, and four-official systems
• Hockey Canada Rulebook 2024-2026 — official playing rules; used to supplement the officiating manuals with specific procedural requirements, timing details, and authority definitions not covered in the original three manuals

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SECTION 1: EQUIPMENT AND PREPARATION

1.1 Equipment Requirements - All Officials

Officials must be mentally and physically ready to do their job. They must look professional both off and on the ice and be adequately protected to complete the job safely.

Minimum Equipment Requirements

1. Black CSA certified helmet (with CSA stickers in place)
2. Helmet ear pieces
3. Clean black skates with white laces
4. CSA certified half visor
5. Hockey Canada Referee’s Casebook / Rule Combination
6. Elbow pads
7. Shin Pads
8. Clean official’s black and white sweater with the Member crest on the left chest and the Hockey Canada crest on the left shoulder
9. Athletic support and cup
10. Black pants (no jeans)
11. Metal or black plastic whistle with finger grips

Optional Items

12. Protective girdle
13. Black referee bag
14. Referee pad and pencil
15. Extra white laces
16. Extra whistle
17. Towel and soap
18. Black or White Tape
19. Shin Tights
20. Hockey Canada Rule book App (iOS or Android)

Officiating Resources

21. Officiating Documents on Procedures and Systems
22. Off-ice Officials Manual

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SECTION 2: REFEREE - DUTIES, PROCEDURES & SYSTEMS

2.1 Pre-Game Duties

This section covers the pre-game duties of the referee(s). These duties would be assumed by both officials in the two-official system.

• The officials should arrive at the rink at least thirty minutes prior to scheduled game or as required by the official’s specific league or association.

[!] INCONSISTENCY NOTED - Arrival Time Terminology

This section states “thirty minutes prior to scheduled game” while Section 3.1 (Linesperson Pre-Game Duties) states “thirty minutes prior to scheduled game time”. While semantically equivalent, the inconsistent terminology may cause confusion.

Recommendation: Standardize to “scheduled game time” throughout.

• Check the official game report prior to the start of the game. Ensure that Captains and Alternate Captains are indicated on the report and that the game sheet complies with Hockey Canada rules 1.9 (c) and 2.2 (a).
• Prior to going on the ice, have a short discussion with your linespersons regarding their responsibilities in the game, as listed under Rule 5.3 - Linespersons.
• All officials shall be on the ice at least two minutes before the players, to ensure the warmup begins on time. Officials should appear together, led onto the ice by the referee. Officials shall remain on the ice until all players have left the ice.
• Have a warm-up skate and do so in a confident manner (when officials are on the ice for warm-up).
• Do not lean on the boards.
• Do not skate or stand with your hands in your pockets.
• It is the responsibility of the referee to report the numbers of players who, while warming up, do not have their chinstrap securely fastened and are not properly wearing the required equipment. This should be noted on the back of the game sheet. In Junior and Senior hockey, players may not wear their visor in an offset position during the warm-up and this must also be noted.
• Ensure that all off-ice officials are in position and ready to start the game and each subsequent period.
• Check with the off-ice officials to ensure that timing devices and buzzers are working.
• Count the number of players on each team prior to the start of the game. The total number of players on the ice or bench should be the same or less than indicated on the official game report.
• After the game, check and print your name on the official game report and return it to the official scorer.
• Report any rink conditions or ice markings that do not meet the requirements of the Hockey Canada rules to the League President and Member Referee-in-Chief. Also, check to see if there are any unique features of the rink and advise the visiting team, especially if they have not played in this arena previously. This could eliminate any confusion later on in the game.
• Before the game, between periods, and after the game, it is the referee’s responsibility to make sure that your dressing room is kept clear of any persons not involved in the game. The only other person in your room might be the officiating supervisor.

[!] INCONSISTENCY NOTED - Outdated Terminology

This section uses the term “officiating supervisor” which is outdated. The current Hockey Canada terminology is “Officiating Coach”.

Recommendation: Replace “officiating supervisor” with “Officiating Coach” throughout the document.

After any pregame ceremonies, such as the playing of the National Anthem, the referee and Linespersons shall initiate the “Fair Play Initiative” (Hockey Canada Rule Book) and then take their positions and start the game.

2.2 In-Game Duties

This section covers the in-game duties of the referee(s). These duties would be assumed by both officials in the two-official system.

• The referee shall ensure that only the players taking part in the actual opening face-off are permitted on the ice. All other players shall proceed directly to their respective players’ benches. For a violation of this rule, the referee shall assess the offending team a Bench Minor penalty for delay of game [Rule 10.15 (d)].
• The referee shall conduct all centre-ice face-offs to start each period and after each goal in the two-official, three-official and four-official systems. The referee should face the timekeeper at the beginning of each period. On all other centre ice face-offs, the referee may face the players’ benches, if they are on the opposite side of the ice from the penalty bench. In the two-official or four-official systems, the referee dropping the puck will face the time keeper’s bench.
• Stop play after a goal is scored, by blowing the whistle and using the “goal scored” point signal (Hockey Canada Rule Book). Advise the official scorer of the number of the player who scored the goal and the number(s) of the players assisting on the goal.
• Stop play according to the rules and assess a penalty or penalties for any infraction of the playing rules. These penalties are to be reported to the official scorer. It is important that the scorer be advised of the player’s number, the infraction and the length of the penalty (minor, bench minor, major, etc.).
• Stop play when the puck goes out of bounds or is touched by an ineligible person [Rule 10.11].
• Stop play when the puck is struck above the normal height of the shoulders and subsequently touched by the offending team or an illegal goal has been scored due to the contact [Rule 8.3 (d) & (e)].
• Stop play when the puck is batted into the net by an attacking player or when the puck is passed with the hand from one teammate to another, except when the receiving player is in the defending zone [Rule 9.1 (d) & (e)].
• A goaltender freezing the puck unnecessarily should result in the referee instructing them to continue play and puck movement. Other instances of the referee losing sight of the puck [Rule 10.12] shall result in the referee stopping play by blowing the whistle. On potentially volatile situations (e.g. at the net, after an aggressive play, or any scrums) the referee is advised to move near the players to create a presence. However, the referee must maintain a position that ensures all players are in view.
• Make every effort to keep play moving any time play is on the boards. Use your voice to encourage play to continue. Stop play only when players give up or a player(s) is down on the ice. Utilize Section 10 of the Hockey Canada Rule Book as a reference for other applicable rules.

2.3 End of Period/Game Duties

This section covers the end of period/game duties of the referee(s). These duties would be assumed by both referees in the two-official system.

• When the buzzer / horn sounds to signal the end of a period or the end of the game, it is important that the referee be aware that the potential for problems is high at this time and the referee should be ready to act even before the final buzzer / horn sounds. The referee should always ensure that both linespersons have been briefed to move in quickly when the period ends to defuse any altercations that might arise.
• In accordance with Rule 9.4 (i), all players must remain on their respective players’ or penalty bench until directed off the ice by the referee following the end of a period or game. The Visiting Team shall leave the ice first, unless otherwise directed by the referee. The referee should take up a position permitting a good view of all players on the ice and both benches. The referee must ensure that both teams remain on their respective benches until instructed to leave by the referee, especially if they cross the ice to exit to their dressing room. The referee is encouraged to extend their non-whistle hand to hold the home bench, while verbally directing the Visiting Team off the ice. Officials should be aware of players in the penalty bench and hold those players in their penalty bench until their team is being directed off the ice.
• Watch to make sure that both teams are able to leave the ice and go to their dressing rooms at the end of a period without any problems with spectators. If there is a problem, request adequate protection for the team involved.
• At the end of the game, the intent of this rule is not to hinder a team from celebrating but to ensure that the players are separated and there will be no confrontations. If there are no situations where an altercation is anticipated, then the players may leave their benches to greet their goalies without waiting for the referee’s permission. However, should an altercation occur that results in penalties being assessed, then rule 9.4 (i) would also be applied.
• Check the official game report after the game to ensure that it is completed properly. When satisfied, sign the report, along with your linespersons, keep your copies, and have the official scorekeeper distribute the rest of the copies.
• Write an incident report on any penalties as outlined in the suspension guidelines (e.g. Match penalties, Gross Misconducts, and Game Misconducts, etc.). These reports should be forwarded immediately after the game in accordance with the League or Member game incident reporting guidelines.
• Leave the arena at your earliest convenience. Do not discuss any infractions or serious penalty calls on your report with any team official or in any public domain (e.g. media, social media, etc.).

2.4 Penalty Procedures

Proper procedure in the way a referee handles a penalty situation can enhance the respect gained from all other game participants. Hockey is an emotionally charged game and good officiating hinges on the referee’s ability to remain calm and in control at all times, especially during penalty situations.

When an infraction of the rules calling for a penalty occurs during the play, the referee must follow the following procedures:

• Mentally record the number of the offender.
• Blow the whistle immediately if the offending team has possession and control of the puck. If the non-offending team has possession and control, raise the non-whistle arm straight up, extending the arm fully above the head to signal a delayed penalty. When the offending team gains possession and control of the puck, stop play by blowing the whistle.
• As the whistle is blown, the referee shall come to a full stop with the signaling arm still fully extended above the head. The referee shall pause to allow players, coaches and fans to focus on the referee. The referee will then point out the offending player by lowering the fully extended arm and hand straight out towards the offending player.
  • Note 1: In an officiating system where two referees are indicating a delayed penalty, the referee that stopped play shall initiate communication with their partner to determine whether they have the same or different penalties. This referee will then take the lead in regards to signaling and reporting the infraction(s).
  • Note 2: If the offending player is within a three-metre radius of the referee, a fully extended arm pointing at the player could be intimidating. In these situations, it is recommended that the player not be pointed out; verbal communication is sufficient.
  • Note 3: When pointing out an offending player, the full hand shall be extended, do not point with a single finger.
• The referee shall then verbally call out the offending player’s number, team color and the penalty being assessed (e.g. “14 blue, tripping”) and give the correct signal to indicate the infraction.
  • Note 1: The referee must be careful not to stare down any player who has been penalized as the signal is made, as this could be perceived as an aggressive action. However, the referee must keep all the players in view.
  • Note 2: The referee should not indicate the duration of the penalty (minor, major or match) by calling out the number of minutes being assessed until reporting the infraction at the penalty bench.
• The referee shall then proceed to the penalty bench by turning to skate backwards towards the penalty bench, keeping all players in view, for the purpose of reporting the infraction. The route taken by the referee will depend on the location of the penalized player and the tone of the game at the time. Referees shall attempt to avoid confrontation by:
  1. Trying to leave the area immediately thus avoiding the penalized player;
  2. Stopping and letting the penalized player proceed to the penalty bench first; or
  3. Using a combination of these two techniques.
  4. Avoiding excessive direct eye contact with the penalized player.
• At the penalty bench the referee shall report the penalized player’s number, team color, the penalty being assessed and the duration of the penalty. The referee should complete this process by giving the appropriate signal for the infraction. The referee must ensure that the off-ice official has the information regarding the penalized player before departing the penalty box area. Referees are encouraged to stop and report the penalty. However, there should not be any undue delay which could lead to confrontation between the penalized player and the referee. There may be times when the referee will want to keep moving and make the stop very short.
• When leaving the penalty bench area, the referee shall avoid penalized players and other players by arcing away, keeping all players in view.
• When assessing penalties to both teams on the same stoppage of play, the referee shall blow the whistle to stop play immediately and point out each player and give the appropriate signals.

Additional Considerations

The considerations below are meant to assist the referee(s) in completing the penalty procedure, while not escalating a potentially volatile situation.

• Avoid direct confrontation with penalized players at all times.
• Resist using signals, hand motions, or verbal communications which display belligerence or which could be considered aggressive or intimidating.
• When reporting penalties, do not permit players into the referee’s crease.
• Signals and verbal communication are the two means which officials have to communicate with players, coaches, fans and off-ice officials. Therefore, it is important that they be used frequently and executed correctly at all times. Signals or verbal communication used in an intimidating manner will cause problems and will not be tolerated.
• The referee should avoid explaining minor penalties unless absolutely necessary.

Delayed Penalty - Complex Goal Scoring Scenarios

These complex situations occur when a goal is scored during a delayed penalty call. Officials must understand which penalties wash out and which player returns from the penalty box in each scenario.

Note 1 - Own Goal During Delayed Penalty: If, after the Referee has signaled a penalty but before the whistle has been blown, a member of the non-offending team puts the puck in their own net in any manner through no contact by the offending team, the goal will be allowed and the penalty signaled will be assessed in the normal manner, except in situations where a penalty shot is being awarded.

Note 2 - Goal During Delayed Penalty When Shorthanded: If the Referee signals a Minor or Bench Minor penalty or penalties against a team that is shorthanded by reason of one or more Minor or Bench Minor penalties, and a goal is scored by the non-offending side before the whistle is blown, the goal will be allowed and the player who is serving the first Minor or Bench Minor penalty will return to the ice, while the signaled penalty or penalties will be assessed and served in the normal manner.

Note 3 - Penalty Shot Delayed Call: If the Referee signals a delayed penalty calling for a Penalty Shot against a team that is shorthanded and a goal is scored by the non-offending team before play is stopped, the goal will be allowed. The penalty being served would terminate and, if the infraction associated with the Penalty Shot would normally call for a Minor or Major or Match penalty, then that penalty will be assessed in lieu of the Penalty Shot.

Authority to Correct Penalty Assessment

Prior to the resumption of play, the Referee has the authority to alter or correct their decision, regardless of whether or not the penalty has been reported, announced, or displayed on the clock.

Note: The intent of this rule is not for Referees to deliberate every call to an excessive degree, but rather to allow them to correct an error. For example, if the Referee assessed a Minor penalty before realizing the penalized player had injured the opposing player, the call should be changed to a Major penalty and Game Misconduct.

The referee may change their penalty assessment before play resumes, even if it has already been reported to the penalty bench or displayed on the clock. Reporting, announcing, or displaying on the clock does NOT lock in the call.

Goaltender Penalties - Substitute Selection

When a goaltender is assessed a penalty that calls for a substitute player to serve the penalty in the Penalty Bench, the player selected must have been on the ice at the time of the infraction. This prevents teams from using a player already in the penalty box to serve the goaltender's penalty.

The following examples illustrate the correct procedure in each scenario:

Example	Penalty Type	Who Serves	Goalie Status	Man Strength
A	Goalie Minor only	Any player on ice at time of infraction	Remains in game	Shorthanded
B	Goalie + skater coincidental Minors	Goalie's substitute = player on ice; skater serves own penalty	Remains in game	Full strength (coincidental)
C	Goalie Minor + Misconduct	Player on ice serves the Minor	Stays in game (Misconduct = no ice time penalty)	Shorthanded
D	Goalie Major + Game Misconduct	Player on ice serves the Major	Ejected from game	Shorthanded
E	Goalie Minor coincidental with opponent Major	Goalie's team shorthanded; substitute serves Minor	Remains in game	Goalie's team shorthanded
F	Goalie Major coincidental with opponent Major	Neither penalty served (coincidental Majors)	Both goalies ejected (Game Misconducts)	Full strength
G	Goalie Misconduct only	No substitute needed (no ice time penalty)	Stays in game	Full strength

Cross-reference: Rule 4.5 (Coincidental Penalties) governs interactions when goalie and opponent are both penalized simultaneously.

2.5 Line Change Procedure

The referee is responsible to ensure that player changes are completed within the confines of the rules to prevent unnecessary delays in the game [Rule 2.5]. This may mean taking a moment to ensure that possibly volatile situations are diffused before proceeding with the Line Change Procedure. For player changes taking place during a stoppage of play, the referee shall begin the line change procedure as soon as it is safe to do so, even if they are still moving into position.

Rule 6.1 (d) specifies the exact timing and arm signal sequence that must be followed:

• The Referee will begin the line change procedure as soon as it is safe to do so for the ensuing face-off and then allow a five-second period during which the Visiting Team may make a player change.
• After this five-second period has elapsed, the Referee will raise an arm to indicate that the Visiting Team may no longer change any player(s). The arm should be raised toward the Visiting Team’s bench, not towards the stands.
• With the arm still up, the Referee will allow a five-second period during which the Home Team may make a player change.
• After this five-second period has elapsed, the Referee will drop the arm to indicate that the Home Team may no longer change any player(s).
• It is then acceptable but not necessary for the referee to then point to the official conducting the face-off to indicate the start of the face-off procedure.

The visiting team always receives the first opportunity to change, followed by the home team. A player change may involve between one and five players (excluding the goaltender).

[!] INCONSISTENCY NOTED - Face-Off Start Signal

This section states pointing to the official conducting the face-off is “acceptable but not necessary”. However, Section 3.9 (Face-Off Procedures) describes this as standard procedure: “This may be followed with a point to the official dropping the puck.” The differing language creates ambiguity about whether this signal should be part of standard procedure.

Positioning

• For line changes when the referee is located in the end zone, the referee should ensure that they are visible to both benches (e.g. stand near the top of the end zone circle).
• For line changes in the neutral zone, the referee should ensure that they are visible and facing the appropriate benches. They should be standing in the position that they will commence play from.

Additional Considerations

When a team attempts to make a player change after their allotted time during a stoppage of play and the referee sends the player back to their bench, the following shall occur:

• The referee shall issue a warning to the offending team and any subsequent violation may result in a Bench Minor penalty [Rule 2.5 (g)].
• This warning applies only to the team committing the infraction. Each team is entitled to one warning during the course of the game, before being assessed a Bench Minor penalty.
• The referee must use this procedure on every stoppage of play. This will ensure that both teams use the line change procedure correctly and prevent unnecessary delays.
• When the two-official system is used, the official who is not conducting the face-off shall conduct the line change procedure.

[!] INCONSISTENCY NOTED - Line Change Responsibility Terminology

This section says the official “not conducting the face-off” performs the line change. However, Section 2.14 (Two-Official System) says “the official not dropping the puck” performs it. The terminology differs - standardize throughout.

• When the four-official system is used, the referee in the neutral zone will conduct the line change procedure.
• After the scoring of a goal in the four-official system, the referee not reporting the goal shall conduct the line change procedure.
  • Note: The referee must be careful not to be overbearing with this signal. Your mannerisms and eye contact in this procedure should encourage teamwork with the coaches. The line change procedure provides a good opportunity to promote good communication and establish rapport with the teams.

2.6 Goal Procedures - Disputed Goals

Whenever there is a dispute following the scoring of a goal, or a goal which has been disallowed, emotions run high. The referee must remain calm and take control of the situation, keeping in mind that the final decision in all disputes remains with the referee.

• In every situation where the referee is in position to see and make the call, the referee’s decision shall be final without any further consultation or discussion with the linesperson or goal judge.
• If the play is very close and the goal is allowed, the referee shall follow the normal procedure for the scoring of a goal.
• If the play resulted in a disallowed goal, the referee shall immediately give the wash-out signal and, once play is stopped, indicate the face-off spot.
• It is important that the referee remains calm and in control of the situation and not permit any players to consult with or abuse the other on-ice officials or goal judges.
• The referee shall explain the decision to the captain or alternate captain once and this decision shall be final.
• The referee shall also have the scorekeeper announce over the public address system the reason why the goal was disallowed.
• If the referee was not in position to see and make the call, then further consultation may be required before a final decision can be made. The referee shall first consult with the linespersons to determine if they were in position to see and make the call.
• If the linespersons were in position and can make the call, then the referee’s decision shall be based on the linesperson’s report. The referee should always consult the other officials.
• If the linespersons were not in position to see and make the call, the referee shall consult with the goal judge and the discussion shall be either “Goal” or “No goal”.
• There will be situations where the goal judge disagrees with the decision of the referee. It is important that the referee not permit the goal judge to argue or show disrespect for the decision of the referee. It may become necessary to have the goal judge removed or replaced if the goal judge is showing partisanship or making unjust decisions.

2.7 Face-Off Procedures (Centre Ice)

• The referee shall conduct all centre-ice face-offs to start each period and after each goal in the two-official, three-official and four-official systems.
• The referee should face the timekeeper at the beginning of each period.
• On all other centre ice face-offs, the referee may face the players’ benches, if they are on the opposite side of the ice from the penalty bench.
• In the two-official or four-official systems, the referee dropping the puck will face the time keeper’s bench.

False Start Procedure

In the event of a “false start”, where the puck is dropped by the Official but the face-off has not occurred legally, the Official will stop play. No change of players may be made at this time, as the play did not officially start. If the game clock has begun counting down, it will be reset.

Important: This differs from a normal stoppage of play. When invoking a false start, the referee must: (1) blow the whistle, (2) announce “false start”, (3) prevent any player changes, and (4) communicate with the Game Timekeeper to reset the clock if it started. This is distinct from a face-off violation (which allows one warning).

Face-Off Violation - Ejection and Replacement Procedure

When a player commits a face-off violation, the procedure is:

1. Stop the face-off attempt.
2. Clearly identify and point to the violating player.
3. Verbally instruct the player “you're out” and eject them from the face-off.
4. Any other player of that team, other than the goaltender, may now take the face-off. The ejected player is not eligible to take that face-off even after ejection.
5. First violation: Issue a verbal warning to the offending team.
6. Second violation during the same stoppage: Assess a Bench Minor penalty [Rule 10.1(viii)].

Note: The warning on the first violation applies to that stoppage of play. Each team receives one warning per game before a Bench Minor is assessed for subsequent violations.

End Zone Face-Off - Positioning Priority and Escalation

For end zone face-offs, the following sequence is required:

1. Attacking team sets up first — attacking players take their positions.
2. Attacking centre places their stick on the face-off spot.
3. Defending team sets up — defending players take their positions in response.
4. Defending centre is last to set up.

This sequence prevents endless jockeying for position and ensures the defending team always has the right to set up their defence after the attacking players have positioned.

Violations:

• First violation: Issue a verbal warning to the offending team.
• Second violation during the same stoppage: A Minor penalty may be assessed [Rule 10.1(viii)].

Note: This positioning priority applies specifically to end zone face-offs. The defending team is permitted last-change advantage at the face-off spot.

2.8 Time-Out Procedure

Each team will be permitted to take one time-out of 30 seconds during the course of regular playing time or overtime (in Minor and Female hockey, where permitted by the Member). Any player designated by the Coach may indicate to the Referee that their team is exercising their option. The Referee will report the time-out to the Game Timekeeper who will be responsible for signaling the termination of the time-out.

Timing Window: The Referee will allow the calling of a time-out during a stoppage of play, at any time up to the point that the official blows the whistle to initiate the face-off procedure.

• When a time-out is requested, the referee shall proceed to the penalty bench to report the time-out. The time-out does not start until the referee reports it to the timekeeper. The referee may employ a “time-out signal”.
• The Game Timekeeper is responsible for the 30-second countdown and signaling its termination. Once the timekeeper has signaled to the referee that the thirty-second timeout has expired, the referee shall blow the whistle to resume play. After the signal announcing the end of the time-out, if the teams are slow to resume play, the referee should intervene with the visitors’ bench first. It is important that the referee and linesperson keep players and both benches in view at all times during the time-out.
• The line change procedure will be conducted in the normal manner following the conclusion of a time-out.

Note: Any player (not just the captain) can request a time-out if designated by the coach to do so.

2.9 Penalty Shot Procedure

When a Penalty Shot has been awarded during the game, the referee shall ensure that it is recorded on the official game report, along with the time it was awarded, the player designated to take the Penalty Shot and whether or not a goal was scored on the play. The referee shall follow the procedures listed below when a Penalty Shot has been awarded.

Three-Official System

• When an infraction requiring the awarding of a Penalty Shot occurs, the referee shall stop play as outlined within the rules and point to centre ice to indicate that a penalty shot has been awarded.
• Have the name of the player designated to take the Penalty Shot announced.
• Place the puck on the centre ice spot.
• Instruct the player taking the Penalty Shot on the correct proceedings to follow [Rule 4.9]:
  • The player is allowed one shot at the goal and once the puck is shot, the play is considered completed. Similarly, the player is allowed one play on the goaltender and cannot score on a rebound.
  • Instruct the player to wait until you are positioned on the goal line and until you blow the whistle, thus signaling the player to execute the Penalty Shot.
• Instruct the goaltender on the correct procedures to follow [Rule 4.9].
• Direct all other players to withdraw to the sides of the rink and beyond the centre red line.
• The referee shall then take up a position on the goal line about three metres (ten feet) from the goal. The referee’s position shall be on the side of the goal nearest the player’s stick (forehand) to give a clear view of the shot.

Two-Official System

The two-official system follows the same procedures as in the three-official system with the following adjustments: - The official that did not award the penalty shot will be located in the neutral zone to keep both benches in view prior to the penalty shot. - The official that awarded the penalty shot shall take up the position of the referee in the three-official system procedure.

Four-Official System

The four-official system follows the same procedures as in the three-official system with the following adjustments: - The referee that awarded the penalty shot will take up the position of the referee on the shooter’s forehand and will be responsible for making the goal or no goal signal. - The second referee shall take up a position on the goal line on the side opposite of the other referee. This referee will give a report or interpretation to their partner when requested. This referee shall give no signal.

Following the Completion of the Penalty Shot

• Should the player fail to score on the Penalty Shot, the referee shall give the wash-out signal and the face-off shall take place at the end zone face-off spot.
• Should the player score on the Penalty Shot, the referee shall signal a goal and point to the net.
• During a Penalty Shot, the clock does not start.

Interference During Penalty Shot

If any player or team official of the opposing team interferes with or distracts the player taking the Penalty Shot, or if the goaltender fouls the player taking the Penalty Shot, the Referee must allow the shot to be completed without stopping play.

Following completion of the shot:

• If a goal is scored: The goal counts. Assess the appropriate penalty to the offending player or team official for their interference.
• If no goal is scored: Award a second attempt at the Penalty Shot AND assess the appropriate penalty to the offending player, team official, or goaltender.

Key rule: Do NOT blow the whistle when interference occurs during the shot. Let it play out completely. This prevents a team from benefiting from their own interference by getting the play stopped.

Applies to:

• Opposing players (e.g., throwing a stick, leaving the bench)
• Opposing team officials (e.g., stepping onto the ice)
• The goaltender (e.g., leaving the crease before the puck is played, covering the puck with the hand outside the crease)

2.10 Dislodged Goal Net Procedure

• The referee(s) is responsible for stopping play whenever the goal net has been displaced from its normal position.
• Should the referee not observe this situation the linespersons should stop play.

[!] INCONSISTENCY NOTED - Dislodged Net Chain of Command

Section 2.10 clearly states the referee is responsible for stopping play, with linespersons as backup. However, Section 3.12 (Linesperson Role) only describes who retrieves the puck and replaces the net - it provides no guidance on stopping play or the chain of command. This creates confusion about responsibilities.

• Officials shall follow these guidelines in dealing with this situation:
  1. If the puck is in the same end zone as the displaced goal, play must be stopped immediately.
  2. If the goal is displaced by a player whose team is in control of the puck, play must be stopped immediately.
  3. If a team has control of the puck in the neutral zone and is moving up the ice and a player on the opposing team in the opposing team’s attacking zone displaced the goal, play shall be allowed to continue until the scoring opportunity by the non-offending team has been completed.
     • NOTE: It is possible for a goal to be scored at one end of the ice even though the goal at the opposite end has been displaced.
  • However, if the team in control of the puck moves the puck back into their own end zone, with their goal displaced, play shall be stopped immediately.

2.11 Equipment Measurement Procedure

The Hockey Canada Rulebook contains specific equipment dimensions and directions to which the referee must adhere with respect to equipment measurement [Section 3].

• All measurements are to be conducted at the referee’s crease.
• The measurement of any equipment (players’ and goaltenders’ sticks, goaltenders’ pads and gloves) shall be carried out immediately when requested by a team through a Captain or Alternate Captain. No measurements of any kind will be carried out by the referee unless a formal request has been made by a team, using the proper procedure.
• If the complaint for any measurement of sticks or equipment is not sustained, the complaining team will be assessed a Bench Minor penalty.
• Only one measurement of any kind will be allowed per stoppage of play.
• Any illegal equipment shall be removed, corrected, or adjusted without any unnecessary delay.
• Where a measurement of a stick is requested by a Captain or Alternate Captain, they must designate to the Referee which specific part of the stick is to be measured.
• No goal will be disallowed as a result of any measurement following the scoring of a goal.

2.12 Awarded Goal Procedure

The Referee will Award a Goal to the non-offending team when the goaltender has been legally substituted for another player and an attacking player has possession and control of the puck in the neutral or attacking zone, with a reasonable scoring opportunity, with no defending players between the attacking player and the goal, and any of the following situations occur:

• (i) A defending player deliberately throws or shoots any object or piece of equipment at the puck or puck carrier.
• (ii) A defending player deliberately displaces the goal post from its normal position when the puck or puck carrier is in the neutral or attacking zone.
• (iii) A player or team official, who has stepped or is on the ice from the players' or penalty bench illegally, interferes in any manner with the attacking player.
• (iv) A goaltender deliberately removes their helmet/facemask, proceeding to their bench for the purpose of delaying the game.

The Referee will also Award a Goal to the non-offending team if, when the goaltender has been removed for another player, a defending player or team official prevents the puck from entering an unattended goal by throwing any object or piece of equipment at the puck or puck carrier, or by deliberately displacing the goal post, or by a player or team official stepping or being on the ice illegally who interferes in any manner.

Decision Tree: Goaltender removed? → Attacking player has possession in neutral/attacking zone? → No defenders between attacker and goal? → Specific infraction listed above? → Award Goal.

Note: If the goaltender is in the net at the time of the infraction, these situations become Penalty Shots rather than Awarded Goals (see Rule 4.11 and Section 2.9).

2.13 Pre-Game Warm-Up Violations

The Referee will penalize any player who commits a violation of the rules during the pre-game warm-up. The penalty will be served at the start of the game. The procedure differs based on penalty severity:

• Minor, Bench Minor, or Misconduct penalty: The offending player is permitted to complete the pre-game warm-up, then serves their penalty at the start of the game.
• Major, Match, Game Misconduct, or Gross Misconduct penalty: The player will be removed from the ice immediately.

Note: It is the responsibility of the Referee to report the numbers of players who, while warming up, do not have their chinstrap securely fastened and are not properly wearing required equipment. This should be noted on the back of the game sheet. In Junior and Senior hockey, players may not wear their visor in an offset position during the warm-up and this must also be noted [Rule 2.2(g)].

2.14 Unusual Delay - Early Intermission Authority

If any unusual delay occurs within five minutes prior to the end of the first or second period, the Referee may order the next regular intermission to be taken immediately.

Procedure:

1. Referee announces early intermission to both teams.
2. Teams proceed to dressing rooms.
3. On resumption of play, the balance of the period is completed with teams defending the same goals.
4. After completing the period, teams then change ends and resume play of the ensuing period without delay.

When to invoke: Extended equipment repairs, facility issues, medical emergency requiring extended ice time. This applies only within 5 minutes of end of Period 1 or Period 2. This is Referee discretion ("may order").

Note: This applies only to the first or second period. Ordinary intermissions proceed normally. The key is that the remainder of the period must still be played (with same ends), before the normal period change occurs.

2.15 Injured Player - Play Stoppage Protocol

When a player is injured so that they cannot continue play or go to their bench, officials must follow this protocol:

• Injured player's team does NOT have possession: Play will not be stopped until the injured player's team has secured possession and control of the puck.
• Injured player's team HAS possession but NOT in scoring position: Play will be stopped immediately.
• Injured player's team HAS possession and IS in scoring position: The Referee will allow the play to be completed before stopping.
• Suspected serious injury (any official): Any On-Ice Official may stop play immediately, regardless of the above.

Definitions:

• "Scoring position" = clear shot opportunity with no defenders between the player and goal.
• "Serious injury" = head/neck injuries, player not moving, obvious severe injury, player unconscious.

Note: After play is stopped, the injured player must go to their bench. If the player remains on the ice and is not being attended by a team official, the referee should instruct the player to leave. A player who is bleeding must leave the ice [Rule 2.4(c)].

2.16 Dealing with Conflict

Communication between players, coaches and officials is extremely important. As an official, your responsibility is to enforce the rulebook to ensure the game is played safely. At times while you are carrying out your responsibility, you will have to communicate with coaches and players. Productive communication with the participants is encouraged as long as it is purposeful and does not slow the game down.

Unfortunately, players and coaches will not always participate in productive communication. As an official, you are going to have to deal with conflict. You will have to deal with people who treat you with disrespect. Treat them with respect and remember, the rule book has penalties, which may be assessed to coaches and players who choose to be abusive to you. You can penalize a player or coach, so make sure it is their behavior that is in question, not yours.

Learning how to effectively communicate will help you when dealing with conflict. You have no control over what is said to you, but you have full control in how you react to this conflict. Conflict is natural, how you handle it is the important thing. The more intense the game becomes, the more important it is to stay calm and in control of one’s emotions.

Remember your communication skills are important when dealing with disrespectful people or people who treat you in a disrespectful manner. Communication can be both verbal and nonverbal.

Verbal Communication

• Words you chose
• The tone you use
• The volume you use
• The use of your whistle, including the additional use of your whistle on a stoppage of play

Non-Verbal Communication

• Facial expressions
• Gestures and signals
• Eye contact
• Posture and body language

Remember, you are encouraged to assess penalties to abusive players and team officials [Rule 11.1 & 11.2]. As an official, you never want to be put in a situation where your behavior is being questioned.

2.13 Positioning - Keys to Success

The referee in any game must have a complete knowledge of the playing rules, be a good skater, be in good physical condition and display good judgment. The final quality required is good positioning.

End-Zone Positioning

The fundamentals of end-zone positioning involve moving within the end zone to get the best possible sight lines on players and the puck.

Benefits of this system for the referee: - A better overall view of the play. - Improved view of the goal and goal line. - Less chance of being caught behind the play on a fast break, thereby reducing unnecessary hard skating. - Safer positioning from deflections of shots on goal. - Players are more aware of the presence of the referee, which acts as a deterrent to any unnecessary activity. - When using the “cone area”, allowing the referee to move below the goal line, the official may have better sight lines; keep the play and players in front of them and be in a better position to avoid being involved in the play.

The preferred end zone positioning for the referee or end-zone official in the two-official system is anywhere in the cone (shaded area).

Figure 1: The “cone” for officials to utilize in end-zone positioning

The goal of end zone positioning is to allow the official the freedom of movement within the cone area to establish and allow for the best possible sight lines for the play.

At the Net is the position anywhere around the net that gives the referee the best view to see if the puck has crossed the line, but ideally, at the corner of the net, above the goal line. This gives the referee the best possible position to view the activity on and around the goal line and goal crease area.

The Cone area allows the official to position themselves below the goal line to gain the best sight lines as well as take up a position to avoid being caught in the play.

Movement Techniques to Avoid Play

Officials use the following movement techniques to avoid play: - Bump - Pivot - Reverse Pivot (Four-official System only)

The Bump is used when the play comes towards the official, they can move along the boards to avoid being in the way.

The Pivot consists of taking a stride out, away from the boards, crossing under, and skating backwards, back to the boards. This would happen after the play has passed behind the referee. At this point, the referee can follow the play either up the ice, or watch as play continues in the end zone.

When play is in progress and as it enters the end zone, the referee will also enter towards the end zone. The referee will move around within the cone to get the best possible sight line and stay out of the way of the puck and players. If the puck goes to the net area, the referee will also move into the At the Net position, ready and in an excellent position to make the appropriate call.

Referees may take up a position behind the goal line if this position provides the best sight lines to observe the play and players in the zone.

The Danger Zone

Figure 2: The “danger zone” for officials - Officials want to avoid this area at all costs

The shaded area is called the danger zone. A good official never enters this area as they will become involved in the play and be a factor in its eventual outcome and risk putting themselves in danger of being injured. End-zone positioning for a referee in the three-official system is the same as in the two-official system. Once the official enters the end zone, the use of the cone and the two maneuvers (Bump, Pivot) are the same.

The ability to anticipate the play is very important to an official. This will allow the official to easily keep up with fast breaks and to quickly move within the cone, out of the way of the play. Relax, anticipate the play and move only when the play warrants it, this will help you to be in a better position and also enjoy the game more.

2.14 Two-Official System (Referee Role)

Source: Officiating Systems, Pages 4-6 (Note: Systems document references Officiating Procedures for Penalty Procedures [Section 1] and Line Change Procedure [Section 2])

Reminders to Follow in This System

• Penalty Procedures: Penalties can be assessed by either official, anywhere on the ice, where there is an infraction. The same penalty procedure should be followed as described in Section 2.4 of this manual. (See Procedures, Pages 1-3)
• End Zone Positioning: The official in the end zone must follow positioning as described, using the cone.
• Line Change Procedure: It is the official not dropping the puck that performs the line change procedure.

General Guidelines

• Each official covers two thirds of the total ice surface. This coverage overlaps in the neutral zone.
• Officials should always be at, or just inside, their blue line prior to the puck and players. It is not possible to accurately call offsides from 3-6 metres (10-20 feet) away.
• When the puck is in your partner’s end zone making you the back official, watch for fouls in front of the net. If your partner is watching the play in the corner or along the boards, they may not be able to watch in front of the net as well.

Positioning for a Centre-Ice Face-Off

At the start of periods and after a goal is scored:

Figure 3: Positioning for a centre-ice face-off in a two-official system

• To start the game, or any face-off at centre ice, the two officials should be positioned along the centre red line facing each other.
• The official taking the face-off should be facing the penalty bench so that the timekeeper can start the clock when the puck is dropped.
• When the puck is dropped, the official not dropping the puck must go in the direction of the puck, either to the left or right. This will allow the official to be at the blue line as the puck crosses.
• Note that the official dropping the puck has skated backwards to the boards after dropping the puck.

Pursuit of the Play

Figure 4: Pursuit of play in a two-official system, following a centre-ice face-off

• As the puck moves into the end zone, the front official (R2) must follow the play and begin to implement their end zone positioning.
• The back official (R1) will move up the boards and take a position one stride outside the blue line, at an appropriate angle to face the play.
• The back official can watch the following:
  • The play in the entire end zone.
  • For an off-side at the blue line.
  • The play that is away from the puck.
• At no time should both officials be on the same side of the ice.
• The front official should follow proper end zone positioning.
• When the puck is in the neutral zone, close to the centre red line, both officials should be within one metre of their respective blue lines, which places them in position to call offsides.
• If the play continues towards the front official’s blue line, they need to be in position to call any potential offside, and then move in deep with the play.
• To summarize the movements of the two officials while play is in progress, they are in a diagonal position relative to one another, no further than one line apart. In this way, they are in position to call offside plays, etc., regardless of where it may occur on the ice surface.

Positioning for Face-Offs

• All face-offs shall be conducted at the designated face-off spots as indicated by the reason for the stoppage of play.
• When a face-off is at one of the four spots in the neutral zone, the official taking the face-off should skate backwards to the boards, and then move immediately to cover the near blue line. The back official is positioned outside the blue line.
• For face-offs in the end zone, the back official takes up position at the blue line.
• If the play begins to move out of the end zone, the front official must move quickly up the side boards to call plays at the blue line as the puck enters the neutral zone. The back official must hold the blue line until their partner is in the proper position to call offside in case the play moves back into the end zone.

When a Goal Is Scored

• When a goal is scored, the front official will signal the goal, report it to the timekeeper, and then conduct the line change procedure.
• The other official will retrieve the puck and go to centre ice for the ensuing face-off.
• Positioning and procedures are now the same as for the start of the game.

When a Penalty Is Assessed

• When a penalty is assessed, the official will assess the penalty and report it to the scorekeeper. The other official will escort the penalized player to the penalty box and then conduct the line change procedure. The official calling the penalty will then retrieve the puck and conduct the ensuing face-off.
• If the official assessing the penalty is the back official, the same procedure will follow but the front official will retrieve their own puck and drop it. In this situation, the officials do not change ends.

General Tips for Success

• A common error is when the official responsible for the attacking zone does not leave the zone quickly in pursuit of the play. A quick turnover in the neutral zone could result in a close offside call at this official’s blue line and the official must be in position to make the call.
• When there is a stoppage of play at the net, to reduce conflict between players, the official in the attacking zone should move to the net position immediately, but keep all players in full view. Your presence and verbal communication will act as a deterrent to altercations after the whistle.
• How does the official in the end zone know when to move within the cone, as the play moves towards them? If the puck carrier is an attacking player, you can hold your position a little longer as they will normally go to the net, and you can follow. If the puck carrier is a defending player, retreat to the boards immediately, as the play generally goes up the side of the ice.

2.15 Three-Official System (Referee Role)

Source: Officiating Systems, Pages 7-9 (Note: Systems document references Officiating Procedures for Penalty Procedures [Section 1] and Line Change Procedure [Section 2])

Reminders to Follow

• Penalty Procedures: Should be followed as described in Section 2.4 of this manual. (See Procedures, Pages 1-3)
• End Zone Positioning: The official in the end zone must follow positioning as described, using the cone.
• Line Change Procedure: It is the referee that performs the line change procedure.

Referee Role

In the three-official system, the referee is the person in charge and has the final decision in all situations. It is important that the referee give the linespersons support and backing, as needed.

Positioning

• Proper positioning enables the referee to carry out their duties while not interfering with the linespersons, the flow of the play, or the players.
• Proper positioning allows the referee to call penalties and goals.
• In situations where the linesperson is blocked out and cannot see a call, the referee can make the correct call.

Pursuit of the Play

• After conducting the centre ice face-off, it is imperative that the referee get back towards the boards as quickly as possible to avoid having players behind them. If possible, it is best if the referee skate backwards away from the centre ice face-off dot, but if the situation allows, turning and skating forwards into position is acceptable.
• As the play moves towards the end zone, the referee should follow 8-10 feet (2.5-3 metres) behind the play if the puck is on the opposite side of the ice. If the puck is on the same side of the ice, the referee should follow the play from a distance of 15-25 feet (4.5-6 metres). This will allow the referee a good view and sight line of all players. Also, if the puck changes direction, the referee will be able to avoid the play or the players. At all times the referee must remember to stay out of the “danger zone”. When play is in the end zone, the referee will utilize the end zone positioning as described in Section 2.13 of this document.

General Tips for Success

• It is beneficial for a referee to move out of the end zone in pursuit of the play as quickly as possible. You must follow the play up ice even if some players straggle behind. By glancing back (shoulder checks) and communicating with your linesperson, you can keep on top of any potential problems.
• To reduce your stops and starts, and remain in proper position, use the “turn and follow” method utilizing tight turns while keeping a sight line on the play (avoid turning so back is to the play). It is important to remain skating, going goal line to goal line using a figure-eight pattern. The play transition will dictate how deep the official needs to go before using the turn and follow method thus keeping their momentum.
• Many altercations occur near the net. Once play is stopped, the referee should move to a position not more than 10 feet (3 metres) from the net. This will allow you to keep both players and benches in view. Also, at this time, your presence and verbal communication will help to deter any further altercations.

2.16 Four-Official System (Referee Role)

Source: Officiating Systems, Pages 10-15 (Note: Systems document references Officiating Procedures for Penalty Procedures [Section 1] and Line Change Procedure [Section 2])

Reminders to Follow

• Penalty Procedures: Penalties can be assessed by either referee, anywhere on the ice, where there is an infraction. Penalty Procedures should be followed as described in Section 2.4 of this manual. (See Procedures, Pages 1-3)
• End Zone Positioning: The referee in the end zone must follow positioning as described, using the cone.
• Line Change Procedure: It is the referee located in the neutral zone following the play or when conducting the centre ice face-off, the official not dropping the puck performs the line change procedure.

The Referees Must Remember

• Being consistent in all actions during the game.
• There should be no competition between the two referees to assess penalties.
• Not being afraid of taking charge when needed – both referees are as much responsible for controlling the game.
• Each referee has the same responsibility to call penalties, to deal with players and coaches, and to stop play whenever a situation dictates the stoppage of play.

Referee Identification

The document will reference and identify the two referees in the following manner: - R1 (referee in the end zone): their priority is the area where the puck is. - R2 (referee in the neutral zone): their first responsibility is the play away from the puck.

The Reverse Pivot consists of moving out from the boards and turning around the players, while facing the play. This will give the officials an excellent view of the play by the boards, as well as keep them out of the way.

Face-Offs

Centre-Ice Face-offs:

Figure 5: A centre-ice face-off in the four-official system

• The referee (R1) will drop the puck facing the penalty bench while the other referee (R2) will be on the penalty bench side facing the players’ benches.
• The referee who is awarding the goal will remain at the penalty bench, while the other referee shall drop the puck facing the penalty bench.

End Zone Face-Offs:

Figure 6: An end-zone face-off in the four-official system

• The referees shall stand on opposite sides of the ice from each other.
• R1 will position themselves at or near the goal line as in the traditional three-official system. R2 shall position themselves on the opposite side of the ice from the lead referee, midway between the red line and blue line. R2 must not interfere with the view of the linesperson who is covering the nearest blue line.

Neutral Zone Face-Offs:

Figure 7: A neutral-zone face-off in the four-official system

• The two referees shall take their positions on opposite sides of the ice from each other for neutral zone face-offs.
• R1 shall position themselves near the top of the end zone face-off circle on the opposite side of the ice from the face-off, as in the three-official system. R2 shall take their position on the same side of the ice as the face-off close to the far blue line, seeking ice that is not anticipated to be used and ready to move towards their designated end.

Positioning - Pursuit of Play

• The referee not conducting the centre ice face-off shall go in the direction of the puck and shall assume that end of the ice. They will become R1, while the referee that conducted the face-off will become R2.
• It is important that officials skate hard as the play transitions, to maintain the gap, or the distance between the official and the play. This will ensure the best possible sightlines to the puck and players.

End Zone Positioning

• The end zone positioning of R1 will be the same as that in the three-official system (Cone system).
• If R1 must cross over to the other side of the ice behind the net, then it becomes imperative that R2 then cross the ice so that the referees remain on opposite sides of the ice. This practice is encouraged only when necessary.
• R2 shall position themselves between the red and blue lines and may adjust their position moving up and down between the lines and back and forth across the ice to be on the opposite side as R1, and always be prepared to cross over if R1 crosses behind the net. They should never be stationary, and their priority is to control the players away from the puck carrier.
• It is the responsibility of the R2 to adjust their position according to the position of R1.
• The reverse pivot is an acceptable practice in the end zone to view a critical play developing when an official deems it necessary.

Transition of Play

• If one of the attacking players is skating around the centre ice when the play is still back in the end zone, then R2 shall adjust their position so they are ahead of this player if play begins moving out of the end zone.
• As the defending team gains control of the puck, R2 shall be prepared to move from their position in the neutral zone into the end zone skating backwards so that they are ahead of the play and in no way obstructing the view of the linesperson at the blue line. This referee now becomes R1.
• R1 shall transition themselves into R2 by following the play, staying behind, and keeping the last attacking player in clear view.
• By never remaining stationary, R2 allows themselves the flexibility to move to either side of the ice away from the play and puck during the transition from R2 to R1.

Positioning Following an Icing

• Following the stoppage of play for icing, R1, from that end zone (provided there are no altercations between players) shall skate quickly to the other end zone where the face-off will take place.
• R2 (from the end where the puck was shot) shall move to the neutral zone following the icing call and take control of the line change procedure.

Positioning Following a Stoppage of Play in the End Zone

• R2 should move into the area between the centre face-off circle and the blue line in order to observe and/or go deeper into the end zone to observe and, if necessary, assist in penalty calls.

Positioning Following a Penalty Call

• When R2 (referee in the neutral zone) calls a penalty in the end zone, they report the penalty and then takes up a position as R1, in the end zone. R1 now moves to the neutral zone and conducts the line change procedure.
• When R1 calls a penalty in the end zone, they shall report the penalty and return to the end zone. R2 will remain in the neutral zone and conduct the line change procedure.

Line Change Procedure

• For end zone face-offs, R2 will conduct the line change procedure.
• For neutral zone face-offs, R2 (referee positioned in the neutral zone for the face-off) shall conduct the line change procedure.
• In all cases, R2 (the referee in the neutral zone) is responsible for controlling the line changes, in all situations.
• They should be off the boards and making themselves visible to the coaches, especially when they are positioned on the same side of the ice as the players’ benches.

Penalties

• Either referee may call a penalty at ANY time in ANY zone of the ice, regardless of the position of their partner. This will be dictated by the referee who has the best viewing position or angle (sight line) of the play.
• If a referee is 100% sure and can see that an infraction took place, they must make the call. If in any way a referee is not 100% sure that an infraction has occurred, or they are confident that their partner has seen and judged the play, then they should not make a call. The system works best when approached with a team effort.
• The areas of judgment between referees will be challenged (i.e. R1 says “no penalty” while R2 says “penalty”). The judgment of the referee and between the two referees must not be challenged on the ice. Both referees have the right to stop play and assess a penalty at the time and immediately after the foul.
  • No official should ever make negative comments or allow their body language to suggest disapproval of a fellow referee’s call or non-call.
• Even though there are two referees on the ice, referees must involve the linespersons if necessary as they may have a better angle or sight line, of the incident.
• During an altercation in the end zone, R2 shall have the responsibility of observing and controlling the players’ benches. It is not recommended that they enter deep into the zone. They may move into the top of the circles while at the same time checking to ensure the defenders do not move in past the top of the circles, which would cause the face-off to move to the neutral zone.

Altercation Procedure Summary

• R1 is in charge.
• R2 will control players away from the fight or altercation.
• Both referees shall consult after the altercation to make sure that both know all the penalties being assessed.
• R1 shall report and assess all penalties.
• R1 shall inform both captains of the penalties being assessed.
• R2 shall oversee the benches and players on the ice while the penalties are being reported.

Calling of Penalties

• It is accepted that both referees may have their arms up to assess the same penalty or different penalties to the same or different players.
  • Note 1: It is perfectly acceptable to have both referees with their arms up. If this is the case, they must communicate to the other official as to whom they are calling and for what infraction. If both have the same infraction, R1 will perform the procedure. If there are two different infractions, R1 will make both penalty signals and report the penalties.
• When play stops in the end zone and both referees signal for a penalty, the referee in the end zone (R1) shall assess the penalties.
• When there are multiple penalties to be assessed on any play, the two referees should consult with each other to ensure all appropriate penalties are assessed.

Reporting to the Benches

• When there is a decision to go to the benches (coaches), it is recommended that the referee who had made the decision or judgment be the one to make the explanation.
• At appropriate times, both referees may go to a bench or one referee may go to each bench.
• During multiple penalty situations when one referee goes to each bench, it is imperative that each referee knows and understands all the penalties that are being assessed.

Other Procedures

• Both referees will have the responsibility to making such calls as “Hand Pass”, “High Sticking the Puck”, “Puck Out of Bounds”, etc.
  • Note 1: The linespersons may assist in such calls if the referees have not observed the call.
• Due to the movement of the play, both referees may be on the same side of the ice on occasion. They should adjust their position at the first opportunity.

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SECTION 3: LINESPERSON - DUTIES, PROCEDURES & SYSTEMS

3.1 Pre-Game Duties

This section covers the pre-game duties of the linespersons. These duties would also be assumed by both officials in the two-official system.

• The officials should arrive at the rink at least thirty minutes prior to scheduled game time or as required by the official’s specific league or association.
• When leaving the officials’ dressing room and skating onto the ice surface, the linespersons should always be preceded by the referee.
• Linespersons shall check the goal, netting and ice around the goals, prior to the start of the game and prior to the start of each period, and make any repairs that are necessary.
• Linespersons should count the number of players in uniform and report any discrepancies to the referee immediately.

3.2 In-Game Duties

This section covers the in-game duties of the linespersons. These duties would be assumed by both officials in the two-official system.

• The linespersons should endeavor at all times to stay within one metre of the boards to avoid interfering with the play and with the referee.
• When play is in the end zone, the linespersons should never stand directly on or inside the blue line, but should have both feet approximately one small stride outside the line (see “working the line” in Section 3.10 of this manual).
• Whenever a linesperson must execute a turn, the turn should be made towards centre ice to face the play. Never turn to face the boards.
• Linespersons should be alert to defencemen moving deeply into the attacking zone when a gathering is taking place after a stoppage of play. Linespersons should report this to the referee. In games with two referees, the back referee will also support in this area.
• When a player on the ice is injured and being attended to by a team official, the linespersons should ensure that the remaining players return to their respective benches and that one linesperson remains in the vicinity of the benches giving a physical presence and maintaining a view of the entire ice surface.
• One linesperson should monitor any conversations between a player and the referee or whenever the referee goes to the bench. The role of the linesperson is to be a witness to what is said. The linesperson should be careful not to be drawn into the conversation.
• Linespersons will be responsible for dropping the puck for all face-offs, other than face-offs at the beginning of a period or following the scoring of a goal.
• On offsides, the linesperson not blowing the whistle is responsible for the puck, allowing the linesperson on the line to focus on making the call and deal with any other issues. However, some situations with players may require both linesperson’s attention and the puck retrieval must always be the last priority.

Linesperson Authority to Stop Play

Linespersons are authorized to stop play when:

1. An off-side situation arises.
2. An icing the puck situation arises.
3. There has been premature entry into the face-off circle.
4. The puck goes outside the playing area.
5. The puck is interfered with by an ineligible person.
6. The puck has been batted with the hand from one player to a teammate and it has become obvious the Referee has not seen the infraction.
7. The puck has been struck with a high stick and it has become obvious the Referee has not seen the infraction.
8. There are too many players on the ice. If it is a delayed penalty, the Linesperson will stop play when the offending team gains possession and control of the puck, but the Linesperson will NOT raise their arm in this situation.
9. The goal has been displaced from its normal position and the Referee has not observed this situation.
10. There has been a premature substitution of a goaltender.
11. The Referee is injured or accidentally leaves the ice, preventing them from performing their duties.
12. It is obvious that a player has sustained a serious injury and the Referee has not seen this situation.

Guiding principle: For situations (vi) and (vii), only stop play if it is obvious the Referee has not seen the infraction. If the Referee is already dealing with the situation, do not intervene. For serious injury (xii), use judgment — stop only for obviously serious injuries the Referee hasn’t observed.

Linesperson Reporting Authority

Linespersons have authority to report certain infractions to the Referee. Linespersons do not stop play for these infractions — they wait for the first stoppage, then report to the Referee.

Rule 5.3 (c) - Minor or Bench Minor infractions to report at first stoppage:

1. 7.1 (a) – Attempt to Injure or Deliberate Injury
2. 7.6 (a) – Head Contact (double Minor penalty only)
3. 7.8 (a) – Kneeing
4. 7.11 (a) – Instigator & Aggressor
5. 8.4 (a) – Interference from the Bench
6. 8.8 (a) – Slew-Footing
7. 9.1 (a) – Butt-Ending
8. 9.4 (a) – Spearing
9. 9.5 (a) – High Sticking – Junior/Senior (double Minor penalty only)
10. 10.1 (a) – Delay of Game
11. 10.4 (a) – Leaving the Players’ or Penalty Bench
12. 10.5 (a) – Throwing or Shooting Stick or Object
13. 10.6 (a) – Illegal Equipment
14. 10.7 (a) – Too Many Players
15. 11.1 (a) – Unsportsmanlike Conduct

Rule 5.3 (d) - All Major, Match, Misconduct, Game Misconduct, or Gross Misconduct infractions must also be reported to the Referee at the first stoppage.

Rule 5.3 (e) - When requested by the Referee, linespersons will give their version of any incident that may have taken place during the game.

Procedure: Identify the offending player’s number, wait for the first stoppage, skate to the Referee and clearly report the infraction. The Referee then assesses the appropriate penalty.

Interpretation Notes:

• There is NO arm signal for a delayed Too Many Players penalty (Rule 5.3 Interpretation 1)
• Linespersons cannot report Checking from Behind (Minor + GM combination)
• Linespersons cannot award Penalty Shots (Rule 5.3 Interpretation 2)

3.3 Awareness and On-Ice Positioning

One of the biggest differences between a new linesperson and a more senior linesperson is their level of awareness. While the newer linesperson is busy concentrating on the specifics of their job, such as positioning and procedures, the senior linesperson focuses their attention on what else is going on in the game. Many supervisors will tell you that a linesperson’s ability to read the play is what allows them to excel at their job. This section will go through various situations when a Linesperson can use their awareness to potentially avoid unwanted situations.

[!] INCONSISTENCY NOTED - Outdated Terminology

This section uses the term “supervisors” which is outdated. The current Hockey Canada terminology is “Officiating Coaches”.

Key Awareness Points

• Prioritize where you focus your attention. Remember, players first and puck last.
• In addition to all the other duties, linespersons have the very important responsibility of watching players away from the puck. This includes players who are late leaving the zone as play moves down the ice. Linespersons should not leave their blue line until the last attacking players have left the zone.
• Awareness is very important during stoppages of play. Linespersons must be aware of what players are doing on the ice before retrieving the puck or attending to other duties.
• Linespersons should always be anticipating potential altercations and attempt to defuse any situation before the referee is compelled to assess a penalty.
• Linespersons who hold the line, cover for the referee when required, cover for their partner, and are alert to the actions of the players on the ice, will demonstrate good on-ice awareness and make a positive contribution to the game.
• Inform the timekeeper to keep one player in the penalty box after a set of coincidental penalties has expired. This may prevent a problem, if neither player has cooled off yet.
• Be aware of the time that the coincidental penalties expire so that at least one of the linespersons can be there for the players leaving the box.
• Communicate with the referee when there is a delayed penalty and get the number of the player that is getting the penalty so that you can go directly to them when the whistle is blown.
• When hustling in after the whistle is blown, don’t focus on just where the puck is. Be sure to watch all players on the ice as a situation may occur away from the play.
• If the play is in the defending zone while the defending team is shorthanded and the penalty will soon expire, the back linesperson should be in a position close to the red line in case the puck is fired out of the zone when the player comes out of the box. The back linesperson will be in a position to go with the player on a breakaway. If your partner is the back linesperson and they have not noticed, communicate with a signal that the player is coming out of the box.
• If the back linesperson is confident with their skating, they should bump up close to their partner’s blue line in case there is a quick whistle or they have been bumped off their line. This will reduce the time it takes to get into position and keep the line from being uncovered at any time.
• If there is a problem behind the play and you are the back linesperson, communicate with your partner and go to the players. If the problem is on the other side of the ice, communicate with your partner and switch lines so that your partner can go to the players.
• Be aware of any premature substitutions, especially when there is a delayed penalty. The back linesperson should watch the goaltender change for the extra attacker, and be sure that the team has not substituted too early.
• Use your voice and communicate with the players so that they know that you are there. Just knowing that an official is there can stop players from retaliating or escalating the situation.
• If you switch lines, do not switch back unless necessary.
• If there is the chance of a quick whistle, be sure that neither linesperson has advanced too far into the zone. In anticipation of a whistle or at the end of the period/game, the back linesperson may move to the blue line and into the end zone as necessary and is safe to do so. The front linesperson must hold their line and be in position to make a call on their blue line as required. This way the blue line is covered and if there is a quick break the two Linespersons can switch roles.
• Be aware of any matching of players, such as two tough players or a tough player on a key player, and be ready to react if there is a problem.
• After the whistle is blown, focus on the players first. Once the players have dispersed, get ready for the face-off.
• When exiting the ice after the game or between periods, and both teams exit the same way to their dressing rooms, one linesperson should go between the two teams, while the other remains with the referee.
• While leaving the ice and going to the dressing room, the linespersons should position themselves between the referee and any players, coaches, or fans that may try to get at the referee.

3.4 End of Period/Game Duties

This section covers the end of period and end of game duties of the linespersons. These duties would be assumed by both officials in the two-official system.

• At the end of each period, the back linespersons should blow the whistle the instant the time runs out to accompany the buzzer to prevent any confusion regarding close plays at the net and the sound of the buzzer.
• Watch to make sure that both teams are able to leave the ice and go to their dressing rooms at the end of a period without any problems with spectators.
• Intervene in any altercations to prevent further penalties.
• Leave the arena at your earliest convenience. Do not discuss any infractions or serious penalty calls on your report with any team official or in any public domain (e.g. media, social media, etc.).

3.5 Penalty Procedures (Linesperson Role)

Linespersons can contribute significantly to the ease in which the penalty procedure is conducted. The linespersons can be of assistance both before and after the stoppage of play. It is important for linespersons to be engaged in the game from a full officiating perspective.

• When the referee signals a delayed penalty, the back linesperson should monitor (observe) the goaltender and player substituting for the goaltender to ensure that the goaltender is within the three metres (ten feet) of the bench before the substitution can be made. If there is premature substitution, the linesperson shall stop play and inform the referee [Rule 2.5 (f) Note 3].
• When the referee blows the whistle to assess a penalty or penalties, it is important that the linespersons are ready to react. The linespersons should immediately skate directly to the location of the penalized player or players to be in position to respond.
• Penalized players shall be escorted to the penalty bench or exit, depending on the penalties assessed. If only one player is being penalized, one linesperson shall escort the penalized player to the penalty bench.
• The back linesperson is responsible for escorting the penalized player when one penalty is assessed, unless it is a situation (i.e. Checking from Behind, Roughing, etc.) where the closest official should separate and escort the player involved. If players from both teams are being penalized, then both linespersons shall escort the penalized players to the penalty bench. It is very important that linespersons remain between the penalized players until they have left the ice.
• When a player from the ice needs to serve a penalty for their teammate, the linespersons must get the numbers of the offending team’s players on the ice at the time of the infraction. The linesperson must then ensure one of the players on the ice at the time of the infraction serves the penalty. If necessary, they must go to the coach of the offending team and provide them with the numbers of the players who are eligible to serve the penalty. The other linesperson is to take the original penalized player off the ice.
• Once penalized players have been escorted directly to the penalty bench or exit, the linespersons shall return to their respective position to resume play.
• While escorting players to the penalty box, position yourself between the penalized player and other players or the referee. Don’t hold on to the player unless it is absolutely necessary. Never get too far away from the player that you can’t grab them if they try to take off. If necessary, remain at the box until the gate has been closed.
• When players are being ejected from the game, escort the player all the way to the gate, and if necessary when both teams go the same way to their dressing rooms, hold back the second player until the first player is in the room or is with a team official. Never release a player to anyone unless it is a team official or someone appointed by the Team.

Important Notes

• Note 1: Whenever the whistle blows to stop play, both linespersons shall immediately skate to the location of the incident that caused the stoppage of play. Linespersons should not overreact, but should be alert for possible altercations prior to retrieving the puck or getting in position for the ensuing face-off. This is known as having good on-ice awareness.
• Note 2: It is very important that both linespersons have good on-ice awareness and be alert for potential problems during the play and at every stoppage of play. Linesperson who demonstrate good on-ice awareness and respond quickly on every stoppage of play will make a positive contribution to the overall control of the game and will prevent problems from occurring.

3.6 Line Change Procedure (Linesperson Role)

The linespersons play a significant role in the efficiency of the line change procedure. Linespersons should be ready and do everything they can to make the face-off fast and fair.

• Linespersons are to prepare to drop the puck as soon as possible after the referee lowers their arm to complete the line change procedure.
• For a complete explanation of the face-off procedure please refer to Section 3.9 of this manual.

3.7 Altercation/Fight Procedure

Two-Official System

• The official who whistles the play down will take charge of the fight scene and will take up a position near the fight, which permits a good view of the fighters, the players on the ice and both benches.
• The other official will direct all other players to their respective benches by using both verbal and physical gestures. This official must also observe and verbally direct the goalkeepers to stay in their respective creases or go to a designated neutral area. Once this has been done, the second official will then proceed to the altercation.
• Prior to entering the fight, the officials shall decide which player each will take and they should remove any equipment in the area to prevent them from tripping and falling.
• The officials must enter the fight together.
• Once the players have been separated, it is important that the officials let them go.
• The officials should remain aware and ready to restrain the players if they try to get away. The body position of the officials in relation to the two combatants is extremely important.
• The officials shall remain between the players, keeping them apart and escort them to the penalty bench or an exit that provides access to the dressing areas. Should the players exit the arena towards the dressing rooms by way of the same exit, do not allow them to leave the ice at the same time.
• The officials will then confer at the official’s crease, while continuing to observe the benches and the players on the ice.

[!] INCONSISTENCY NOTED - Altercation Consultation Process

Two-Official System (this section) explicitly states officials “confer at the official’s crease” to determine penalties. However, Three-Official System (Section 3.7) makes no mention of where or how the referee consults with linespersons before finalizing penalties. This creates ambiguity about the consultation process.

• Once they have decided on what penalties are to be assessed, one official will report the penalties, while the other official shall take up an appropriate position near the vicinity of the original altercation that allows the official to observe the benches and the players on the ice.
• At this time, the official in the vicinity of the altercation will direct one player from the ice from each team to collect any equipment left on the ice.
• Once the penalties are assessed, the official observing the benches and the players on the ice will collect the puck and proceed to the appropriate face-off spot.
• The other official will take a position as the back official and continue to observe the players and the benches.
  • Note: It is critical that the two-officials work as a team, as this is a critical time in the game.

Three-Official System - Referee Role

When altercations take place, players focus on one another and often emotions run high. A referee who knows where to be and what to say or do can often subdue a very volatile situation quickly. Physical presence is very important.

Referee:

• Get in close enough to the gathering of players so that they are aware of their presence, but not too close to restrict their view of all the players on the ice and the players' benches.
• Blowing the whistle hard and raising both arms in the air is often an effective way to stop the play following an intense scramble around the net.
• Must first ensure that all other players on the ice are directed to their respective players' benches or neutral area by using both a verbal and physical gesture.
• Must observe and verbally direct goalkeepers to stay in their respective creases or, in the event of an altercation at the crease, go to a designated neutral area.
• Shall penalize any player who does not go to the appropriate bench or neutral area when directed by the referee. In most cases, penalizing the most flagrant violators will make the point of the rule.
• Would notify the players of their Misconduct penalties only after the altercation is over and the referee is at the penalty bench.
• Should then take up a position which permits a good view of the players on the ice and both benches. It is important that the referee keep all players in view at all times and not get caught in the middle of an altercation.
• Should direct the linespersons to escort the players to the penalty bench or exit.
• Should remain in the area of the altercation keeping all players in view.
• Should direct one player from the ice from each team to collect any equipment left on the ice.
• Will proceed to the penalty bench to report the penalties.
• Should not discuss the infractions with the players until they have reported the penalties to the time keeper.
• When necessary, the referee shall communicate the penalties assessed to a captain or alternate captain from each team. This discussion shall be clear, short and to the point.
• The referee may communicate to the benches the man power on the ensuing play by indicating the number of eligible players for each team using their fingers (e.g. five-on-four) and should get the game restarted as quickly as possible.

Three-Official System - Linespersons

The following procedures outline the responsibilities of the linespersons during altercations. Please note that in the modified 3-official system the back referee will conduct the duties of the back/second linesperson outlined in this section.

• Fighting in hockey is not condoned and player safety is of the utmost importance. Linespersons are required to prevent fighting whenever reasonably possible.
• Linespersons have the responsibility for breaking up fights and separating players involved in fights. It is important that one player not get an advantage to continue to hit another player who is being held or restrained by an official.
• Prior to entering the fight, the linespersons should remove any equipment from the area to prevent them from tripping or falling.
• Both linespersons must enter the fight together.
• Prior to entering the fight, the linespersons shall decide which player each will take.
• Linespersons should attempt to get between the players only when the players have stopped throwing punches or one player has gained a significant advantage. Then, the linespersons should get between them by tying up their arms and forcing them apart.
• To get between players the linespersons should come in from the side, each taking a different player.
• Do not come in from behind and pull backwards. Come in over top of the players’ arms forcing them down so that they are not able to throw punches. Force players apart with gentle sustained pressure, using the strength in your legs to force them apart. There is no hurry if they have stopped throwing punches.
• If players are wrestling on the ice, one official should get hold of a free arm of the player on top. The linesperson taking the player on the bottom must protect this player from punches. The linesperson taking the player on the bottom must come in from the side, covering the player’s head and face, protecting the player in doing so.
• An official should never enter a fight over a player’s skates.
• If players are using sticks in the fight or swinging sticks at each other, linespersons shall stay out until they stop swinging the sticks.
• Once players have been separated, it is important that the linespersons let them go. However, the linespersons should be very alert and ready to restrain the players if they try to get away. The body position of the linespersons in relation to the two combatants is extremely important. The linespersons shall remain between the players, keeping them apart, and escort them to the penalty bench or exit as directed by the referee.
• When a fight occurs, it is the linesperson’s responsibility to report to the referee any infractions that may occur during the fight, such as head-butting or hair pulling. Be aware of this and report to the referee if necessary.

Helpful Hints

• Continually talk to players involved.
• You must remain calm yourself and talk calmly with the players involved in the fight to defuse their anger and emotion.
• Do not hold players once they have been separated.
• Skate between players involved until they cool down.
• When escorting a player to the penalty bench or exit, position yourself between the player and potential hazards (e.g. the opposing team bench, other players on the ice, the referee, etc.).
• Make sure players are separated on the penalty bench unless there are separate benches.
• Both linespersons shall mentally record the number of the players involved.
• Do not grab a player’s stick and pull it away from the player; instead, push the stick away with an open hand.
• Protect players. It is your duty to see that no player gets the advantage over another player due to the way you are breaking up the fight.
• In multiple fight situations, linespersons should be methodical in escorting players either to the penalty bench or off the ice. Linespersons should make sure that they have removed the original combatants from the ice before they attempt to break up a second fight. Always work with your partner. Never go in alone.
• Protect yourself. Do not be overeager. It is a time to exercise extreme caution and good judgment.

3.8 Goal Procedures - Following a Goal

• When a goal has been scored, it is very important that both linespersons work together. After a scoring of a goal, the front linesperson shall immediately skate into the end zone, and position themselves between the players gathered celebrating the goal and the defending players or goaltender. The back linesperson should move towards the players gathered celebrating the goal, and position themselves between those players and the opposition’s bench. Both linespersons must be alert for potential problems and be ready to respond as required.
• Once it is evident that players are under control, the front linesperson shall retrieve the puck and proceed to centre ice to await the referee.
• The back linesperson shall move with the players to prevent possible confrontations with the players from the team that scored and the opposition players.
• Linespersons need to be especially alert in cases where the players’ benches are on the same side of the ice. In this case, if the team that scored is closest to their own bench, the back linesperson would move ahead of the celebrating players and position themselves about at centre ice along the boards just past the bench of the team that scored. By positioning themselves here, the scoring team that typically celebrates by skating past the bench and slapping hands with their teammates is forced to skate off the boards and should not end up skating right in front of the oppositions’ bench. This reduces the opportunity for verbal exchanges or physical contact.
• If the bench of the team that scored is not the near bench, the back linesperson would move with the celebrating players, keeping themselves between the celebrating players and the opposition’s bench, and then stop at centre ice, along the boards, just past the opposition bench. By positioning themselves here, the linesperson is a buffer between the celebrating players and the oppositions’ bench, reducing the opportunity for verbal exchanges or physical contact. In this way, the back linesperson directs player traffic, but does so in a way that does not draw attention to the role they are playing. Body positioning is key, and verbal instructions or directing traffic with arms should not normally be required.
• The back linesperson shall also report any assists to the referee if asked, and then get into position for the ensuing face-off. There should never be a time when all three officials are standing at centre ice.
• The linesperson shall take up a position for the ensuing centre ice face-off in front of the “happy” bench to prevent unnecessary complaining from the team upon which the goal was scored. The “happy” bench is the bench of the team that scored the goal. In the modified three-official system, this positioning will apply to the referees.

3.9 Face-Off Procedures

Face-off procedure is one of the many important duties that a linesperson has to complete during a game. Upon a stoppage of play the linespersons must not concern themselves with retrieving the puck until the risk of a gathering or altercation subsides.

• After play has been stopped, the linespersons shall first ensure that no altercations are taking place. Good awareness is an important quality of a good linesperson.
• Once it is identified that no altercations are taking place the front linesperson may point to the face-off location.
  1. If play is stopped by the referee: The linesperson responsible for the end of the rink in which the puck is located when play is stopped will normally retrieve the puck.
  2. If play is stopped by a linesperson: The linesperson that blows the whistle to stop play will normally retrieve the puck.
• The other linesperson shall assist with any altercations, attend to broken sticks or lost equipment and monitor players during the line change procedure.

Face-Off Conduct

A face-off shall take place when an official drops the puck on the ice between the sticks of the two players facing-off. It is the responsibility of the official conducting the face-off to ensure that each player receives a fair opportunity to play the puck. All face-offs will be preceded by the Line Change Procedure, with the exclusion of the opening face-off of a game or period.

• The official conducting the face-off shall ensure that the other officials are in position before dropping the puck.
• Officials must ensure that all players on the ice move quickly into position for the ensuing face-off. Use your voice to facilitate this.
• All other players on the ice must position themselves and their sticks on their own side of the restraining lines (hash marks) marked on the outer edges of the circles one metre (three feet) apart.
• The official conducting the face-off should check behind themselves and communicate appropriate alignment to the players prior to blowing their whistle.
• As soon as the referee lowers their arm to indicate that all line changes are complete, the official conducting the face-off shall blow the whistle. This may be followed with a point to the official dropping the puck to indicate it is now good to start the face-off procedure.
  1. Once the official conducting the face-off blows the whistle, it becomes the other linesperson’s or back official’s responsibility to check for encroachment behind the back side of the face-off circle.
  2. The whistle is to signal to both teams that they will have no more than five seconds to line up for the faceoff. At the end of this five seconds (or sooner if the centres are ready), the linesperson shall be ready to drop the puck.
  3. The puck should not be dropped by the official conducting the face-off until all players leaving are off the ice, even if the five seconds are up.
  4. Reducing the time of the stoppage is in play is the objective but NOT at the expense of the quality or fairness of the face-off.
• The puck dropping motion is out and down, releasing the puck so that it drops flat on the face-off spot. Do not throw it down too hard or drop it too slowly. Proper face-off technique must be practiced often to perfect the procedure.
• The official conducting the face-off shall exit the face-off area by backing away towards the boards and avoiding players. When the face-off is in the end zone, the official should exit to the blue line facing the play. When clear of all players, the official shall move quickly to establish correct positioning.
• The back official shall remain in position until the official conducting the face-off has resumed normal positioning and has released the back official (with head nod) from the line. The only exception to this procedure is that if the play moves out quickly, the back official must move quickly to be in position to make a call at the other blue line.

[!] INCONSISTENCY NOTED - Release Signal Method

Section 3.9 specifies only “head nod” as the release signal. However, Section 3.15 says “eye contact, head nod, discreet hand signal, or verbal communication” and Section 3.17 says “head nod or hand signal.” Standardize to Section 3.15’s comprehensive list.

• In general, when players are skating around and getting ready for the face-off, officials should encourage and remind all players about the face-off procedures and standard. Officials are encouraged to communicate with players to ensure they understand the basic parameters within which face-offs will be conducted. Your communication should always be through the centre wherever possible as you explain and remind the centre of the procedure and standard, they will now take on the responsibility of communicating this to the team.
• The success of the face-off procedure hinges on the understanding between the official and the players that any contravention of the face-off procedure will consistently result in the immediate removal of the offending team’s centre from the face-off. It is imperative that all officials are consistent in the application of this procedure and standard. Remember, you are a team and as such you both must be consistent to be effective.
• Fast, fair and quality face-offs are the standard to be set. Proper communication and consistent firm standards will help achieve this goal. No coaching or warnings are to be given except in the advance preparation for the face-off.

Official’s Stance

• Proper stance by the official during the face-off is important.
• When conducting a face-off, the official should stand squarely to the two players involved, about 30 centimetres (one foot) from the face-off spot.
• The Official’s skates should be shoulder width apart with the knees slightly bent. The Official should have their head up and upper body vertical. This is the safest position to avoid being hit with a fast-rising stick or puck.
• The puck should be held at the official’s belt level and dropped using an outward and down motion.
• The official should have the free hand at the side, ready to be used for self-protection. Officials should not put the free hand behind their back, as this position will tend to hinder mobility and balance and increase the chance of turning sideways.

Face-Off Alignment and Encroachment

“Encroachment” occurs when a player other than the centre stands with a skate either inside the face-off circle, on the face-off circle or in the area between the hash marks prior to the dropping of the puck. It is acceptable for the player’s stick to be inside the face-off circle but not in the area between the hash marks.

• The official conducting the face-off should be set and ready at the face-off spot before the arrival of the players.
• Players not taking the face-off must have their skates completely outside the end zone circle and on their own side of the hash marks. Their sticks are permitted inside the circle but are not to be in the area separated by the hash marks. This area extends right through the circle and extends the full width of the ice surface.
• For Neutral zone face-offs, the players taking the face-off shall stand squarely facing their opponents’ end of the rink.
• For end zone face-offs, the centres must stand squarely facing their opponent’s end of the rink and their skates must be positioned clear of the face-off restraining lines.
• The players of the visiting team shall place the stick within the designated white area first [Rule 10.2 (a)].
• To ensure a fair face-off, both sticks must be on the ice, within the designated white area, and not in motion prior to the puck being dropped.
• Linespersons are not to “time” the drop with the movements of the home team player. The home team player must be stationary before the puck is dropped.
• For neutral zone and end zone face-offs at the spots, the sticks of both players facing-off shall have the toe of the blade touching the ice within the designated white area and be flat on the ice [Rule 10.2 (a)].
• If a player taking the face-off leaves the face-off position to direct teammates (quarterbacking), that centre shall be removed from the face-off by the linesperson.
• All other players on both teams must be on-side. If a player, other than the player taking the face-off, lines up off-side, or moves into the face-off circle prior to the dropping of the puck, then the offending team’s player taking the face-off shall be ejected from the faceoff. Linespersons must also ensure that the first player to enter the face-off circle is the team whose centre must be ejected from the face-off. Many times, when one winger moves into the face-off circle, the opposing player will follow. Too often linespersons will eject both centres in this situation. It is imperative that if the encroachment rule is to work, that the player “most guilty” be the one in which their centre is removed from the face-off circle.
• The responsibility of the linespersons with respect to encroachment is simple. The official conducting the face-off is responsible for the players directly in front of them, including the centres. The back official is responsible for the players behind their partner and any players around the face-off circle that their partner cannot see.
  1. Should a player behind the official dropping the puck encroach on the face-off, the back official may blow their whistle and eject the violating team’s player taking the face-off.
  2. Should players from both teams behind the official dropping the puck encroach on the face-off simultaneously the back official should blow the whistle and eject both centres for a violation.

When a violation of the encroachment guidelines above occurs, the official should: 3. Communicate this vocally by saying something like, “white centre out, your winger encroached.” 4. Indicate the removal of the player by employing a “face-off violation” signal by extending their arm straight at a ninety-degree angle from their shoulder in the direction of the offending teams’ end. 5. Be aware to follow Rule 10.2 (a) Situation 20, which indicates that the player taking the face-off may be replaced by any teammate on the ice other than the goaltender or the player that committed the encroachment violation.

• We must have zero tolerance for all encroachment violations. To be effective, the offending team’s centre must be removed. Linespersons must ensure that they set their standard early and stick to it throughout the game. It is also important that linespersons work together to ensure the standard is consistent on all face-offs during the game.
• Officials are not to coach the players by taking time to direct them to an onside position. However, linespersons should use some common sense and prior to the face-off as players are preparing, remind them to keep both their skates and sticks in on-side positions. If they do not comply or line-up incorrectly, the official is to eject the centre of the offending side out of the face-off circle and that player is to be replaced immediately by a teammate on the ice that is not guilty of the violation.
• By ensuring that face-offs are conducted properly, they will always be fair for both teams.

Face-Off Violation - Ejection and Escalation (Linesperson)

The full face-off violation procedure for linespersons:

1. Stop the face-off attempt.
2. Clearly point to the violating player — identify them by number, not just gesture.
3. Verbally instruct "you're out" and eject the player from the face-off.
4. Any other player on the team (except the goaltender) may take the face-off. The ejected player cannot take that face-off even after ejection.
5. First violation: Issue a verbal warning to the offending team.
6. Second violation at same stoppage: Report to the Referee for a Bench Minor penalty [Rule 10.1(viii)].

End Zone Face-Off Positioning Priority (Linesperson)

For end zone face-offs, the linesperson must enforce the correct sequence:

1. Attacking team sets up first and attacking centre places their stick on the face-off spot.
2. Defending team sets up second — defending players take their positions in response to the attacking team.
3. Defending centre is last to set their stick.

Violation escalation: First violation = verbal warning. Second violation at same stoppage = Minor penalty may be assessed. This applies specifically to end zone face-offs.

3.10 Offside Procedure

Offside

An offside occurs when an attacking player either carries the puck or shoots the puck directly to a teammate who has both skates inside the blue line. Should this happen, the linesperson will follow this procedure [Rule 10.8]:

• Blow whistle to stop play.
• Point to the spot where the face-off will take place.
• Survey players for any potential altercations (hot-spots). If they exist take appropriate action, otherwise proceed to the face-off location.

Delayed Offside

If an attacking player precedes the puck that is shot, passed, or deflected into the attacking zone by a teammate, or deflected into the attacking zone off a defending player, but a defending player is able to play the puck, the linesperson shall signal a delayed offside. The linesperson shall raise the non-whistle arm above their head immediately and keep the arm raised to indicate to all players, coaches, fans and other officials that the potential offside has been observed by the linesperson. The linesperson shall verbally yell “offside” to let attacking players know that the delayed offside is on with the non-whistle arm raised [Rule 10.8 (e)].

The linesperson shall lower the arm sharply to nullify the delayed offside, verbally yell “good or clear” and allow play to continue if:

• The defending team passes or carries the puck into the neutral zone.
• All attacking players in the attacking zone clear the attacking zone by making skate contact with the blue line. The attacking zone must be completely clear of all attacking players before the offside can be nullified.
• The linesperson shall blow the whistle to indicate offside when an attacking player touches the puck or attempts to gain possession of a loose puck or before an attacking player finishes a check on the puck carrier, while the puck is in the attacking zone.
• The delayed offside signal in the modified three-official system, when it is employed by the referee, will be shown as an arm extended in front of the body at a ninety-degree angle from the shoulder.

Interpretation of Delayed Offside

• The defending team in the process of clearing the zone may carry the puck behind the goal line providing they are making no attempt to delay the game.
• If an attacking player, prior to clearing the zone, deliberately plays the puck or checks a defending player who is attempting to advance the puck, an intentional offside shall be called. The official making the intentional offside call shall stop play by blowing the whistle and pointing to the offending team’s end zone. This official will then retrieve the puck and proceed to the face-off spot in the offending team’s end zone to conduct the face-off. Meanwhile, the other official will monitor the players and any potential line changes.
• If the puck is shot from behind the centre red line and crosses the goal line, icing shall be called even though the delayed offside is in effect.

Working the Line

• It is essential that linespersons be at the blue line prior to the play crossing the line so that they are in proper position to make the correct call.
• Linespersons should work the line, meaning that they shall be positioned so that they get the best possible angle to view the play as it crosses the blue line. The circumstances of the play and the position of the players will determine the distance inside the line that will be required to make the correct call.
• In some instances, working the line will not be necessary, especially when it is only one attacking player crossing the blue line with the puck with no other players in close proximity.
• Linespersons must remember to return to their position just outside the blue line immediately after making their call in order not to get in the way of the players or the play. It is also important to work the line when the play is near the linesperson so that they do not interfere with the play entering the zone.

3.11 Icing Procedure

It is the responsibility of the Linespersons to work together to set a standard in regards to icing calls. Communication is an important component of icing decisions. In the two-official system, both officials will conduct the duties of the back and front linesperson in regards to icings in accordance with their position on the ice. In the modified three-official system, the referee in the end zone of the team committing an icing violation shall initiate the icing call and assume the duties of the back linesperson.

• “Icing the puck” is completed the instant the puck crosses the goal line.
• The back linesperson/official will initiate the signal for icing and verbally yell “ice”.
• To initiate the signal for icing the back linesperson/official will raise their “back” arm straight above the shoulder. The back linesperson/official shall move up and be at the other linespersons/officials blue line to cover, should the play not be called icing.
• The back linesperson/official should also be watching players behind the play. If the back linesperson/official for some reason fails to initiate an obvious potential icing, the front linesperson/official should continue with the icing procedure as normal.
• Either linesperson/official may wash out the icing using the wash-out signal and verbally yell “no”.
• The front linesperson shall follow the puck into the end-zone to make sure that it completely crosses the goal line. The front linesperson should remain aware:
  1. The front linesperson shall always check back when the puck is in the end zone to confirm that the potential icing is still in effect.
  2. If the back linesperson’s arm is still up, the icing is still in effect.
  3. If the back linesperson gives the wash-out signal, the icing is no longer still in effect.
  4. Verbal communication between the two linespersons should be used.
  5. It can be useful for the front linesperson to communicate with the defending player that the icing is still on so they can make a decision to play the puck or not, or for the purpose of encouraging the player to pursue the puck until the conclusion of the play.
• If the play results in icing, the front linesperson shall blow the whistle immediately when the puck crosses the goal line.
• The front linesperson shall retrieve the puck and conduct the ensuing face-off. The front linesperson shall ensure that all players are kept in view while retrieving the puck and while returning to the other end.
• The back linesperson/official moves back towards the end zone to mark where the face-off will take place by pointing to the appropriate face-off location.
• The back linesperson/official will also monitor the players of both teams as they prepare for the face-off. As the linesperson/official who retrieved the puck approaches the circle where the face-off is to take place, the other linesperson/official can move back to the blue line on the opposite side of the ice.

Icing Signal - Two-Stage Procedure

The icing signal requires a coordinated two-stage procedure between the back and front officials:

Stage 1 - Back Official (Possible Icing): The back Referee or Linesperson signals a possible icing by fully extending either arm over their head. The arm must remain raised until the front official either blows the whistle to confirm icing or washes it out.

Stage 2 - Front Official (Confirming Icing): Should icing be called, the Linesperson that stops play should blow the whistle and then raise their non-whistle arm to indicate that icing has occurred.

Stage 3 - Back Official (Face-Off Spot): Once the icing has been completed, the back Referee or Linesperson will then point to the appropriate face-off spot and skate to it.

Communication is critical. Both officials must confirm the same call. If the back official's arm drops before the front official blows the whistle, icing has been washed out. Verbal communication between officials ("ice" / "no") should be used throughout.

Hybrid Icing - Race Judgment Procedure

The purpose of hybrid icing is player safety — preventing dangerous races to the puck in the corners. The Linesperson must make an instant judgment on who would be first to reach the puck.

Should there be a "race" for the puck during an icing, the Linesperson must determine which player would be potentially first to touch the puck:

• Attacking team player would be first to touch the puck: Hybrid icing will be waved off — play continues.
• Defending team player would be first to touch the puck: Blow the whistle before contact occurs to prevent a dangerous collision.

Special Case - Puck Changes Direction: Should the puck be shot or propelled in such a manner that it travels around the boards or bounces off the end zone boards (behind the goal line), the Linesperson must re-evaluate the race under these new conditions — which player would potentially be first to touch the puck given the new puck direction.

Key principle: Make the decision BEFORE players reach the puck or the boards. If in doubt on a close call, lean toward safety and blow it down to prevent injury.

3.12 Dislodged Goal Net (Linesperson Role)

• When the net comes off and the linespersons arrive at the scene, they should communicate between themselves which linesperson will retrieve the puck and which linesperson will replace the net.

3.13 Repairing Ice or Goal Net

• Whenever repairs are required to the ice or goal nets, it is important that at least one of the officials takes up a position to keep all players on the ice within view. It is important that the repairs be completed without delay and only when necessary.
• In the three and four-official system, the linesman will be responsible for these duties.
• It is wise for the linespersons to keep lengths of twine or laces in their pocket in order to repair the goal nets if required.

3.14 Covering for the Referee

Linespersons in a Three-Official System

• Occasionally, the referee will get trapped behind the play requiring the linesperson to leave the blue line to cover for the referee. This normally happens on quick break-outs or when the referee gets caught up in the play and is unable to catch up.
• The linesperson should not leave the blue line until the play has crossed the line. This will permit the linesperson to make the correct call with respect to the play being on-side.
• The back linesperson must move up and cover the blue line until the linesperson who has covered for the referee is able to return to the line, and release it.
• The linesperson covering is to utilize the normal end zone positioning and should follow the play right into the net, just as the referee would. This linesperson must stay in the end zone until the referee is in position to make the necessary calls.
• If the play results in the scoring of a goal, the linesperson covering for the referee shall give the correct signal by pointing to the net. The linesperson does not blow the whistle to stop play, but rather the referee shall blow the whistle. The linesperson never washes out a goal either. Only the referee. The linesperson shall not signal a goal if:
  1. the puck has been directed into the net as a result of a distinct kicking motion of an attacking player, or after being kicked, the puck deflects off any player or stick into the net;
  2. the puck is deliberately directed into the net by any part of the body of an attacking player other than their stick;
  3. the puck is hit with a high stick into the net;
  4. The goal net is displaced prior to puck crossing the line;
  5. Any other occasion when the puck crosses the line but is not a legitimate goal.
• If no goal is scored on the play, it is then the responsibility of the linesperson to avoid the referee when returning to the blue line position.
• It is very important that linespersons use good on-ice awareness and be prepared to cover for the referee and their partner when required.
• Be aware and ready to intervene if the referee has a problem with a player or coach while explaining a call. Never get involved unless necessary.

3.15 Covering for Linespersons

Linespersons should consider teamwork and communication as essential to their duties. Linespersons should be in the habit of communicating to each other when situations during the game present themselves that require linespersons to cover for each other. There are common situations that consistently arise that warrant one linesman covering for the other linesperson, such as:

End Zone

• As the linesperson dropping the puck in the end zone, you should back out of the end zone to the blue line.
• Once you have returned to the blue line, you should indicate to your partner (who should be covering the blue line) that you are prepared to renew your duties at the blue line.
• Linespersons must give a release signal by way of eye contact, a head nod or a discreet hand signal. Verbal communication is also encouraged and will assist in acknowledging receipt of the release signal. Until such time as the returning linesperson indicates release of the line, all line calls at the blue line are the responsibility of the covering linesperson.

[!] INCONSISTENCY NOTED - Release Signal Method

Section 3.15 provides the most comprehensive description: “eye contact, head nod, discreet hand signal, or verbal communication.” Other sections are less detailed - Section 3.9 says only “head nod” and Section 3.17 says “head nod or hand signal.” This section should be the standard.

• The front linesperson should do their best to maintain good position to make calls at their line. However, should pressure arise that requires the front linesperson to abort their duties at the line to avoid getting physically involved in the play, the back linesperson should be prepared to move up and take over blue line responsibilities. Eye contact and verbal communication are crucial to facilitate this coverage.

Neutral Zone

• At face-offs taking place at the face-off spot just outside the blue line, it is the responsibility of the linesperson not dropping the puck to make any calls at that line.
• Once the linesperson dropping the puck has returned to the boards and is prepared to renew their duties at the line, they should indicate to their partner using the release signal.
• Communication and teamwork are necessary for face-offs taking place in the neutral zone. The linesperson not dropping the puck should be prepared to travel in the direction of play that evolves from the face-off. This may result in this linesman having to cover their partner’s blue line in order to make a call.

General

• Linespersons should communicate during the game when a team becomes shorthanded and also when the team returns to full strength.
• Communication and teamwork between the linespersons will ensure limited disruptions to the flow of the game by the officials. Dedicated linespersons should endeavor at all times to make the job of the referee as easy as possible by attempting to limit the “controllable” distractions. A positive focus will always result in good preparation and game management.
• If your partner is taking heat for a call, try to switch to keep the players or benches away from your partner. Likewise, if the referee has any problems, try to position the face-off so that the referee is away from the benches. Some referees may not care, but most will appreciate it.

3.16 Two-Official System (Linesperson Role)

In the two-official system, both officials perform linesperson duties in addition to referee duties. See Section 2.14 for complete details of the two-official system.

3.17 Three-Official System (Linesperson Role)

Reminders to Follow

• All face-offs are conducted by the linesperson for that half of the ice (the linesperson who is conducting the face-off should retrieve the puck). However, the priority of both linespersons is to watch the players on the ice. If two players are talking or challenging each other, the linespersons should intervene to prevent anything serious from occurring.

Pursuit of the Play

• Linespersons should always be in position to call the play at the blue line.
• They should always be at their blue line as the puck crosses it, slightly inside the blue line to get an unobstructed view down the line. This is called “working the line”.
• They should work from their blue line to a position about halfway between the centre red line and the far blue line.
• When play is in the end zone, the front linesperson should be one stride outside the blue line, while the other linesperson should be midway between this blue line and the centre red line on the opposite side of the ice.
• When the defending team gains possession in their end zone, the back linesperson should anticipate the play coming out of the end zone and move back to the centre red line. In this position, the linespersons now have both the blue line and the centre red line covered.
• As the play moves back and forth, up the ice, the linespersons will react and be in their appropriate positions as the puck or play arrives. Linespersons should also get in the habit of watching players behind the play and after the play.

Positioning for a Face-Off

• Face-offs will be taken by the linesperson retrieving the puck.
• The linesperson not taking the face-off must cover the line of their partner until their partner returns to their proper position.
• When the referee is taking a face-off at centre ice, the two linespersons should be on opposite sides of the ice against the side boards, just outside the blue line at their end of the ice.
• For a face-off at one of the neutral zone face-off spots, the linesperson not dropping the puck must cover the blue line until the direction of the puck is determined or until their partner is back in position and has given a release signal. At this point, the linesperson covering can return to their proper position.
• For face-offs at centre ice (e.g. error in calling an icing or premature substitution of the goaltender), the two linespersons should be positioned opposite each other. The linesperson not dropping the puck is responsible for all lines, in case their partner gets trapped in the middle of the ice.
• When the face-off is at an end zone face-off spot, the back linesperson shall be positioned on the opposite side of the ice just outside the blue line. It is the job of the back linesperson to watch the players positioned behind the face-off dot for encroachment. If necessary, the linesperson at the blue line may need to move off the boards to get a better view. If one or both players encroach, the back linesperson will blow their whistle and point to the offending player’s team. That team’s centre will then be removed from the face-off.
• After the puck is dropped, the linesperson at the blue line will remain there until their partner makes their way to the blue line and gives a release head nod or hand signal.

[!] INCONSISTENCY NOTED - Release Signal Method

Section 3.17 specifies “head nod or hand signal” as release methods. However, Section 3.9 says only “head nod” and Section 3.15 provides the most complete list: “eye contact, head nod, discreet hand signal, or verbal communication.” Standardize to Section 3.15.

General Tips for Success

• Both linespersons should work as a team, and always be aware of what is going on and where the other linesperson is at all times.
• Linespersons should always be alert and ready to cover each other’s lines.
• Both linespersons should always be prepared to cover for the referee if they fall or gets trapped. If this is required, the linesperson may have to enter the end zone and assume the end zone positioning until the referee gets back into position.
• Linespersons should always be sure there is nothing going on during a stoppage (i.e. altercation) before retrieving the puck.
• Working as a team, along with the referee, should enable the officials to have complete control of the hockey game.

3.18 Four-Official System (Linesperson Role)

Reminders to Follow

• The linespersons shall use the exact same procedures and positioning as they would in the three-official system.

Additional Responsibilities

• When the benches are on the same side of the ice, the back linesperson should be positioned between the benches during the time-out. The front linesperson shall place the puck on the face-off location and may remain there or retire to the official’s crease with the referee for the duration of the time-out. Officials must keep all players in view during a time-out.
• In the four-official system, both linespersons should position themselves between the benches and both referees may retire to the official’s crease during time-outs. In the modified three-official system, the linesperson will be positioned in front of the benches.
• When the benches are on the same side of the ice during a penalty shot, the back linesperson should be positioned between the benches and not across from them. The back linesperson must also ensure that all players are on their respective benches or behind the centre red line, but not directly in front of their opponent’s bench, prior to the commencement of the penalty shot.
• When the benches are on opposite sides of the ice during a penalty shot, the back linesperson should be positioned at the centre red line on the side of the ice away from the bench of the team against which the Penalty Shot is being taken. This official is responsible for keeping all players, except the player taking the shot, beyond the centre red line or in their bench, and to ensure that there is no interference or distraction from the teams during the course of the Penalty Shot.
• The front linesperson (during a penalty shot in the four-official system) shall be positioned near the centre red line on the side of the ice opposite their partner and may trail behind the shooter to provide the referees with an added sightline. This linesperson will only give a report or interpretation when requested by the referee(s) and does not give a signal.

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SECTION 5: OFF-ICE OFFICIALS - DUTIES & PROCEDURES

Off-ice officials play a critical role in game administration. This section covers their key duties and how on-ice officials interact with them.

5.1 Penalty Timekeeper - Key Duties

The Penalty Timekeeper has active monitoring responsibilities during the game:

• Monitor players in the penalty bench and track their penalty time accurately.
• If a player leaves the Penalty Bench before their time has expired: The Penalty Timekeeper will note the exact time of early exit and signal that to the Referee at the next stoppage of play.
• The Penalty Timekeeper does NOT stop play — they wait for the next natural stoppage.
• When the Referee receives the signal, a Bench Minor penalty for premature exit is assessed under Rule 10.7 (Too Many Players).

For on-ice officials: Be aware of signals from the Penalty Timekeeper at stoppages. If the Timekeeper is signaling, check with them before beginning the face-off procedure.

5.2 Official Scorer - Key Duties

The Official Scorer has a critical tracking responsibility that directly triggers game ejections:

The Official Scorer will advise the Referee when the same player has received:

• Their second Misconduct penalty in the same game → Automatic Game Ejection [Rule 4.8(a)]
• Their third stick infraction penalty in the same game → Automatic Game Ejection
• Their third Head Contact penalty in the same game → Automatic Game Ejection

Procedure: When the Official Scorer notifies the Referee of any of the above, the Referee must assess a Game Ejection (Game Misconduct) to that player immediately at the next stoppage. The Referee should confirm the count with the Official Scorer before assessing the ejection.

For on-ice officials: Stay alert to Official Scorer notifications. After assessing multiple Misconduct penalties to one player in a game, confirm with the Official Scorer whether ejection thresholds have been reached.

5.3 Game Timekeeper - Key Duties

The Game Timekeeper coordinates with the Referee for all period starts and has backup responsibilities:

Period Start Signaling: The Game Timekeeper will signal the Referee for the commencement of:

• The start of the game (Period 1)
• The start of the second period
• The start of the third period
• Each overtime period

Period End - Backup Procedure: If the rink is not equipped with an automatic sound device, or if this equipment should fail to operate, the Game Timekeeper will — by means of a siren or whistle — signal the end of each period.

Clock Management:

• Clock starts on the drop of the puck for each face-off.
• Clock stops when the whistle sounds.
• Time-out: 30-second countdown begins when Referee reports it; Game Timekeeper signals its termination.
• False start: Clock must be reset if it started before the false start was declared [Rule 6.2(f)].

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SECTION 7: GAME REPORTING REQUIREMENTS

Referees have specific reporting obligations after certain game incidents. These reports are required by Hockey Canada rules and serve as the official record for any discipline process.

7.1 Match Penalty Reports

Referees are required to report all Match penalties and the surrounding circumstances to the appropriate Member or league immediately following the game involved. "Immediately" means same day — not the following day or week.

Required elements of a Match Penalty Report:

• Player name and number
• Team
• Time of game when infraction occurred
• Detailed description of the incident
• Supporting facts (what was observed, from what position, what preceded the infraction)
• Names of witnesses (other officials, linespeople)

Who to report to: The appropriate Member or league official — typically the Referee-in-Chief, league president, or Member discipline committee, as specified by league guidelines.

Note: Match penalties are also noted on the Official Game Report. The Game Incident Report provides the detailed narrative required for discipline proceedings.

7.2 Game Incident Reports - Misconduct and Maltreatment

The Referee is required to complete a Game Incident Report including full details and submit it to the appropriate Member or league delegate for the following incidents:

• Rule 11.1 (a) - Unsportsmanlike Conduct: When a Gross Misconduct is assessed or conduct is of sufficient severity to warrant a Game Incident Report.
• Rule 11.2 (a) - Abusive Behaviour: Any incident involving abusive, threatening, or discriminatory behaviour by a player or team official.
• Rule 11.5 (a) - Physical Harassment of Officials: Any incident where a player or team official physically harasses or contacts an on-ice official.

Required elements of a Game Incident Report:

• Who: Full name and number of all individuals involved
• What: Exact words used and/or specific actions taken
• When: Period and time of incident
• Where: Location on ice or in rink where incident occurred
• Witnesses: Names of other officials and any other witnesses
• Context: What preceded the incident
• Action taken: Penalty assessed, player/team official ejected, etc.

Submission timing: Submit promptly to the appropriate Member or league delegate. For physical harassment of officials (Rule 11.5), immediate submission is essential.

Purpose: These reports provide the factual record used by the Member or league for suspension hearings and formal discipline proceedings. "Full details" means a comprehensive, objective description — not a summary.

Note: Game Incident Reports for misconduct are separate from Match Penalty Reports, though both may be required for the same incident (e.g., a Match penalty for deliberate injury that also involved abusive behaviour).

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SECTION 4: REFERENCE INFORMATION

4.1 Source Documents

This consolidated manual combines information from four Hockey Canada source documents:

• Officiating Duties for Referee and Linespersons (12 pages) — pre-game, in-game, and end-of-period duties for referees and linespersons
• Officiating Procedures for Referee and Linespersons (31 pages) — step-by-step procedures for penalties, face-offs, icing, offsides, altercations, and more
• Officiating Systems for Referee and Linespersons (18 pages) — positioning, movement, and coordination for two, three, and four-official systems
• Hockey Canada Rulebook 2024-2026 — official playing rules; used to supplement the officiating manuals with specific procedural requirements, timing details, and authority definitions not covered in the original three manuals

Sections and subsections added from the Hockey Canada Rulebook are identified by the red source bar throughout this document.

4.2 Source Mapping Table

The following table shows which source document(s) each section of this consolidated manual comes from. Sections marked RB were added from the Hockey Canada Rulebook 2024-2026.

SECTION 1: EQUIPMENT AND PREPARATION

Section	Title	Source Document(s)
1.1	Equipment Requirements - All Officials	Duties, Page 1

SECTION 2: REFEREE - DUTIES, PROCEDURES & SYSTEMS

Section	Title	Source Document(s)
2.1	Pre-Game Duties	Duties, Pages 2-3
2.2	In-Game Duties	Duties, Pages 3-4
2.3	End of Period/Game Duties	Duties, Pages 4-5
2.4	Penalty Procedures	Procedures, Pages 1-3; Rulebook,s 4.13, 4.15(b), 4.15(e), Pages 65-69
2.5	Line Change Procedure	Procedures, Pages 4-5; Rulebook, 6.1(d), Page 80
2.6	Goal Procedures - Disputed Goals	Procedures, Pages 10-11
2.7	Face-Off Procedures (Centre Ice)	Duties, Page 3; Rulebook,s 6.2(d), 6.2(f), 6.2(a) Interp. 1, Pages 81-82
2.8	Time-Out Procedure	Procedures, Page 19; Rulebook, 6.18(e), Page 99
2.9	Penalty Shot Procedure	Procedures, Pages 20-21; Rulebook, 4.11(c), Page 58
2.10	Dislodged Goal Net Procedure	Procedures, Page 22
2.11	Equipment Measurement Procedure	Procedures, Page 28
2.12	Awarded Goal Procedure	Rulebook, 4.12, Page 63
2.13	Pre-Game Warm-Up Violations	Rulebook, 2.2(j), Page 32
2.14	Unusual Delay - Early Intermission Authority	Rulebook, 6.18(d), Page 99
2.15	Injured Player - Play Stoppage Protocol	Rulebook, 2.4(b), Page 34
2.16	Dealing with Conflict	Procedures, Page 27
2.17	Positioning - Keys to Success	Systems, Pages 1-3
2.18	Two-Official System (Referee Role)	Systems, Pages 4-6
2.19	Three-Official System (Referee Role)	Systems, Pages 7-9
2.20	Four-Official System (Referee Role)	Systems, Pages 10-15

SECTION 3: LINESPERSON - DUTIES, PROCEDURES & SYSTEMS

Section	Title	Source Document(s)
3.1	Pre-Game Duties	Duties, Page 5
3.2	In-Game Duties	Duties, Pages 6-7; Rulebook,s 5.3(a), 5.3(c), 5.3(d), Pages 75-76
3.3	Awareness and On-Ice Positioning	Duties, Pages 7-8
3.4	End of Period/Game Duties	Duties, Page 9
3.5	Penalty Procedures (Linesperson Role)	Procedures, Pages 2-3
3.6	Line Change Procedure (Linesperson Role)	Procedures, Page 5
3.7	Altercation/Fight Procedure	Procedures, Pages 6-9
3.8	Goal Procedures - Following a Goal	Procedures, Pages 10-11
3.9	Face-Off Procedures	Procedures, Pages 12-15; Rulebook,s 6.2(a), 6.2(d), Pages 81-82
3.10	Offside Procedure	Procedures, Pages 16-17
3.11	Icing Procedure	Procedures, Page 18; Rulebook,s 6.7, 6.7(e), Page 88
3.12	Dislodged Goal Net (Linesperson Role)	Procedures, Page 22
3.13	Repairing Ice or Goal Net	Procedures, Page 23
3.14	Covering for the Referee	Procedures, Pages 24-25
3.15	Covering for Linespersons	Procedures, Pages 25-26
3.16	Two-Official System (Linesperson Role)	Systems, Pages 4-6
3.17	Three-Official System (Linesperson Role)	Systems, Pages 7-9
3.18	Four-Official System (Linesperson Role)	Systems, Pages 10-15

SECTION 5: OFF-ICE OFFICIALS - DUTIES & PROCEDURES

Section	Title	Source Document(s)
5.1	Penalty Timekeeper - Key Duties	Rulebook, 5.5(b), Page 77
5.2	Official Scorer - Key Duties	Rulebook, 5.6(e), Page 77
5.3	Game Timekeeper - Key Duties	Rulebook, 5.7(b), Page 78

SECTION 7: GAME REPORTING REQUIREMENTS

Section	Title	Source Document(s)
7.1	Match Penalty Reports	Rulebook, 4.10(b) Note 1, Page 57
7.2	Game Incident Reports - Misconduct and Maltreatment	Rulebook,s 11.1, 11.2, 11.5, Pages 152-156

Legend:   Duties = Officiating Duties for Referee and Linespersons  |  Procedures = Officiating Procedures for Referee and Linespersons  |  Systems = Officiating Systems for Referee and Linespersons  |  Rulebook = Hockey Canada Rulebook 2024-2026

4.3 Additional Resources

• Hockey Canada Rulebook 2024-2026 (primary rules reference — also a source document for this manual)
• Hockey Canada Rule Book App (iOS or Android)
• Hockey Canada Referee’s Casebook / Rule Combination
• Off-ice Officials Manual