Now You Know - 2nd Edition
Following up on the 1st installment of 'Now You Know', here are some more tidbits of info to help you follow the action on the ice.
In this article we touch on the definition of two words that mean something completely different on the ice compared to how the world outside the hockey rink may define them.
1. Calling of Penalties (Rule 4.13(a&b))
When there is a penalty why does the ref whistle the play dead immediately sometimes and not others?
(4.13 a) If a player on the team in
possession of the puck commits an infraction...the referee shall blow her whistle immediately.
(4.13 b) If a player on the team not in possession of the puck commits an infraction...the referee shall blow her whistle immediately when the offending team gains
possession and
control of the puck.
2. Glossary
Which begs the question what is the difference between possession of the puck and control of the puck?
(Glossary)
Control > A player actually propelling the puck with her stick, skates or gloves.
(Glossary)
Possession > The state of a player other than the goaltender who is the last one to have come in contact with the puck. The goaltender must have had control of the puck before he is deemed to be in possession.
One thing to note is how specific the definition is for control. Actually propelling the puck with stick, skates, or gloves. Meaning if a puck deflects off your skate, you gain possession but not control. If instead you kick that puck with your skate you now have both possession and control. That said if you kick a puck that is slightly in the air with your shin guard then again possession but not control. You could go on and on with other what if scenarios.
The words possession and control can be found throughout the rule book (56 times each to be exact). You will find them relating to hand passes, high sticks on the puck, offsides, and the list goes on. Understanding the impact these 2 words have on the game will help your understanding considerably.
3. Rink (Rule 1.1)
Ice hockey shall be played on an area of ice called a 'Rink'.
Did you know that your kids were playing on a rink inside the arena? Now you do. And that won't help you at all going forward.
If you have any questions that you'd like to see answered in this article please email them to me at [email protected], and I'll do my best to include them.