New year, same standard

August 30, 2007 — from usahockey.com

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. – USA Hockey, which successfully implemented its new Standard of Play and Rules Enforcement initiative nationwide last season, is looking forward to the second campaign of the initiative, according to Ron DeGregorio, president of USA Hockey.

“The Standard of Play is one of the most significant initiatives that has ever been implemented by USA Hockey,” said DeGregorio. “While not without its challenges, the results have been highly successful and played to positive reviews from players, coaches and fans alike. As we move forward, it is important for everyone to realize that this initiative will continue in earnest.”

The goal of the enforcement standard is to reduce restraining infractions, while not removing legal body checking or body contact. The initiative calls for strict enforcement in regard to holding, hooking, slashing, tripping and interference. In short, the Standard of Play calls for enforcement of rules already in place without adding anything new to the rulebook.

To help clarify certain on-ice situations relating to the Standard of Play and Rules Enforcement initiative, a new supplemental video was produced by USA Hockey over the summer, which features examples of actions that are acceptable and also those that are not acceptable under the standard.

The initial video regarding the Standard of Play and Rules Enforcement that was released in August of 2006, as well as the new supplemental piece produced this summer, are both available for viewing at usahockey.com.

In addition, posters will be distributed to rinks across the country later this fall that highlight the Standard of Play and Rules Enforcement initiative.

For more information on USA Hockey’s Standard of Play and Rules Enforcement, visit www.usahockey.com.