Officials In Hockey And Their Duties
Ice hockey is a fast-paced sport that requires trained officials to ensure that the game runs smoothly and fairly. Each game is officiated by a team of four officials, including two referees and two linesmen. In this article, we will discuss the duties and responsibilities of each type of official in hockey.
Referees
Referees are responsible for enforcing the rules of the game and ensuring player safety. They have the authority to stop play, assess penalties, and make rulings on disputed plays. There are two referees in each game, with each referee assigned to monitor one half of the ice.
During the game, referees must move quickly and have a good understanding of the rules. They must be able to make split-second decisions and communicate effectively with the players and other officials. Referees must also be in good physical shape in order to keep up with the fast pace of the game and avoid collisions with the players.
Linesmen
Linesmen are responsible for determining whether the puck has crossed the goal line and for enforcing the rules related to offsides and icing. They also assist the referees in making calls on penalties and other rulings. There are two linesmen in each game, with each linesman stationed on opposite sides of the ice.
Similar to referees, linesmen must be able to move quickly and have a good understanding of the rules. They must be able to communicate effectively with the players, referees, and other linesmen. In addition, linesmen must be able to skate backwards, as they often need to follow the play while facing away from the action.
Video Review Officials
Video review officials are responsible for reviewing disputed plays and making determinations on goals, penalties, and other rulings. They use video replay technology to review the play and make a ruling, which is communicated to the on-ice officials. Video review officials work in a central location and are not physically present at the game.
The use of video review has become increasingly common in hockey, as it allows for more accurate and fair rulings. Video review officials must have a good understanding of the rules and be able to make accurate determinations based on the available video evidence.
Conclusion
Hockey officials play a crucial role in ensuring that the game is played safely and fairly. Referees, linesmen, and video review officials each have specific duties and responsibilities that contribute to the overall functioning of the game. By working together, they help to maintain a level of fairness and integrity that is essential to the sport of ice hockey.
