Rules And Regulations Of Hockey Game
Hockey is an exciting and fast-paced sport that requires skill, speed, and endurance. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced player, it is essential to understand the rules and regulations of the game to enjoy it fully. In this guide, we will take a closer look at the various rules and regulations of hockey to help you better understand this fantastic sport.
Objective of the Game
The objective of hockey game is to score goals by shooting the puck into the opponent's net. The team with the most goals at the end of the game wins. Each game consists of three periods, each lasting 20 minutes, with a 15-minute intermission between each.
Gameplay
Hockey is played on an ice rink, with two teams consisting of six players each (three forwards, two defensemen, and one goaltender). The game starts with a face-off at the center of the rink. Players use their sticks to control the puck and pass it to their teammates. They can also use their bodies to block opponents and gain possession of the puck.
Players must stay onside, meaning they cannot enter the offensive zone (the area between the blue line and goal) before the puck. If they do, the play will be blown dead, and the face-off will take place outside the offensive zone.
There are several rules players must follow while playing. For instance, players cannot use their hands to touch the puck. If a player does, a two-minute penalty for delay of game will be assessed. Players also cannot check (physically hit) an opponent from behind or above the shoulders. Doing so will result in a penalty.
Penalties
Penalties are assessed for various infractions that occur during the game. These include tripping, slashing, high-sticking, boarding, hooking, interference, and holding. If a player is penalized, they must serve time in the penalty box, and their team must play shorthanded for the duration of the penalty. Penalties can be two, four, or five minutes in length, depending on the severity of the infraction.
Face-offs
Face-offs occur at the beginning of each period, after a goal is scored, and when the play is stopped for an infraction. The puck is dropped between two opposing players, and they try to win possession of the puck. Face-offs take place at various locations on the rink, such as the center face-off circle or the face-off dots in the offensive and defensive zones.
Overtime
If the game is tied after the end of the third period, overtime will be played. In the NHL, overtime consists of a five-minute sudden-death period, meaning the first team to score wins the game. If neither team scores during the overtime period, a shootout will take place. Each team will get three shots, and the team with the most goals wins the game.
Conclusion
In conclusion, understanding the rules and regulations of hockey is essential for players, coaches, and spectators alike. Hockey is a thrilling and challenging sport that requires skill, strategy, and teamwork. By following the guidelines above, you can enjoy this exciting game to the fullest.