USA Hockey Officials Guidelines
In an effort to make ice hockey a more desirable and rewarding experience for all participants, the USA Hockey Youth, Junior and Senior Councils have instructed the Officiating Program to adhere to certain points of emphasis relating to sportsmanship. This campaign is designed to require all players, coaches, officials, team officials, administrators and parents/spectators to maintain a sportsmanlike and educational atmosphere before, during and after all USA Hockey sanctioned games.

Thus, the following points of emphasis must be implemented by all On-lce Referees and Linesmen:

  1. Players
    A minor penalty for unsportsmanlike conduct (Zero Tolerance) shall be assessed whenever a player:

    1. Openly disputes or argues any decision by an official.

    2. Uses obscene or vulgar language at any time, including any swearing, even if it is not directed at a particular person.

    3. Visually demonstrates any sign of dissatisfaction with an official's decision.

    Any time that a player persists in any of these actions, they shall be assessed a misconduct penalty. A game misconduct shall result if the player continues such action.

  2. Coaches
    A minor penalty for unsportsmanlike conduct (Zero Tolerance) shall be assessed whenever a coach:

    1. Openly disputes or argues any decision by an official.

    2. Uses obscene or vulgar language at any time, including any swearing, even if it is not directed at a particular person.

    3. Visually displays any sign of dissatisfaction with an officials decision including standing on the boards or standing in the bench doorway with the intent of inciting the offiials, players or spectators.

    Any time that a coach persists in any of these actions, they shall be assessed a game misconduct penalty.

  3. Officials
    Officials are required to conduct themselves in a businesslike, sportsmanlike, impartial and constructive manner at all times. The actions of an official must be above reproach. Actions such as "baiting" or inciting players or coaches are strictly prohibited. On-lce officials are ambassadors of the game and must always conduct themselves with this responsibility in mind.

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