OFFICIAL RULE BOOK OF MOORESTOWN YOUTH STREET HOCKEY ASSOCIATION

Foreword
The rules which are contained in this Rule Book are the rules which are to be used in playing street and roller hockey at any league game, tournament, clinic, event or site sanctioned by the Moorestown Youth Street Hockey Association (MYSHA). A game should be refereed strictly in accordance with these rules. If a Referee is unclear as to the proper interpretation of any rule, the Referee should consult with MYSHA officials before or after the game. Referee decisions during game time are final. Our goal is to develop uniform interpretation of the rules for street and roller hockey. If these rules are strictly adhered to by all MYSHA members we should achieve this goal. MYSHA officials retain the right to change, enhance and create new or existing rules for the benefit of the league and its members. MYSHA prohibits any and all discrimination practices including, but not limited to, racial, religious and sexual discrimination or harassment by or on behalf of its Officers, Volunteers, Players, Coaches, Referees and all other persons associated with MYSHA.

Mission Statement
The Association and its members are dedicated to emphasizing the ideals of good sportsmanship, teamwork, honesty and courage. Teach basic skills and fundamentals of street hockey at both the player and referee level. Organize, supervise and structure non-contact street and roller hockey leagues.

The Values of MYSHA
Fun and Fitness . Friendly Competition . Leadership Development . Teamwork . Positive and Healthy Environment

MOORESTOWN YOUTH STREET HOCKEY ASSOCIATION RULE BOOK
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Section One - The Rink
Rule 1.1 Dimensions of Rink
Rule 1.2 Division of the Rink Surface
Rule 1.3 Center of Rink
Rule 1.4 Face-Off Spots
Rule 1.5 Goal Posts and Nets
Rule 1.6 Goal Crease and Goalkeeper's Privileged Area
Rule 1.7 Players Bench Area
Rule 1.8 Penalty Bench Area
Rule 1.9 Minor Officials Bench and Referee's Crease

Section Two - Equipment
Rule 2.1 Protective Equipment
Rule 2.2 GoalkeeperÕs Equipment
Rule 2.3 Dangerous Equipment
Rule 2.4 Puck/Ball
Rule 2.5 Lack of Proper Equipment

Section Three - The Game
Rule 3.1 Time of Match
Rule 3.2 Choice of Goals
Rule 3.3 Beginning Play
Rule 3.4 Game Delay Due to Weather
Rule 3.5 Ball Must Be Kept in Motion
Rule 3.6 Ball Out of Bounds or Out of Play
Rule 3.7 Ball Out of Sight
Rule 3.8 Puck/Ball Striking Referee
Rule 3.9 Goals and Assists
Rule 3.10 Tied Game
Rule 3.11 Point System
Rule 3.12 Adjustment of Clothing and Equipment
Rule 3.13 Broken Stick
Rule 3.14 Clearing
Rule 3.15 Game Forfeiture
Rule 3.16 Kicking the Ball
Rule 3.17 interference by Spectators
Rule 3.18 In the Goal Crease
Rule 3.19 Player Altercation
Rule 3.20 Center Line Off-Side
Rule 3.21 League Standings /Tie Breakers

Section Four - The Team
Rule 4.1 Captain of Team
Rule 4.2 Player Roster
Rule 4.3 Player Substitution
Rule 4.4 Injured Players
Rule 4.5 Equal Playing Time

Section Five - Penalties
Rule 5 Referees
Rule 6 Minor Penalties
Rule Rule 7 Major Penalties
Rule 8 Match Penalties
Rule 9 Misconduct Penalties
Rule 10 Penalty Shot
Rule 11 Goalkeeper Penalties
Rule 12 Calling of Penalties

Appendix MYSHA Age Requirements

Glossary 1


THE RINK

1. Rink: The game of street hockey shall be played on a surface known as a rink. The rink can be outdoors and unprotected to the natural elements, outdoor partially enclosed, or a fully enclosed indoor facility. The rink surface may consist of asphalt, concrete, wood or interlocking tiles.

Rule 1.1 Dimensions of Rink a) As nearly as possible the dimensions of the rink shall be 185' long by 85' wide. The rules will allow surfaces ranging from as large as 200' long by 100' wide to 145' long by 65' wide. Games played under tournament or championship conditions must attempt to stay close to the ideal or official rink dimensions. b) The rink must be surrounded by bordering material known as the "structure" which will extend to no less than 8" and not more than 48" above the playing surface.
Rule 1.2 Division of the Rink Surface: a) The rink shall be divided into two halves with a centerline 12" wide. b) This center line, between the two Blue Lines, (where applicable) shall be considered a neutral area. c) A team's goal area shall be called the 'defending zone.' The opposing team's area shall be known as the 'attacking zone.'
Rule 1.3 Center of Rink:  A circular spot (preferably blue) 2' in diameter placed on the center line shall mark the center of the rink. This will be the location where face-offs occur at the beginning of each period and after each goal, or at the discretion of the Referee.
Rule 1.4 Face-Off Spots: In each half of the two zones there shall be two 'spots' 2' in diameter marked of equal distance from the rink's side structure. Face-offs shall occur at these spots. Note: Center rink area face-off spots are optional (see Appendix C).
Rule 1.5 Goal Posts and Nets: a) Official size of the goal net is 72" between goal posts and 48" from the surface to top of net. This size net will be official for tournament an championship play. Alternative sizes are acceptable for regular league play. b) Attached to each goal frame must be a net. Each net must have goal posts and a cross bar. c) Painted from post to post must be a line 2" wide. This is known as the 'goal line.' This line should be extended the width of the rink to assist the official in making a 'clearing' call. d) The recommended area behind each goal net, measured from the goal line to the bordering structure shall be 10' to 15'.
Rule 1.6 Goal Crease and Goalkeeper's Privileged Area: a) In front of each goal, a 'goal crease' area shall be marked. The goal crease shall include a semicircle shaped line 6' in radius and 2" in width and shall be drawn using the center of the goal line as the center point. b) The goalkeeper's privileged area shall extend 12' from the mouth of the goal and 12' from either side of the center of the goal. This 288 square foot imaginary area allows the goalkeeper an extended playing zone. Stoppage of play by the goalkeeper outside of this area and behind his/her net will be a penalty against the goalkeeper for delaying the game.
Rule 1.7 Players' Bench Area: An area outside of the playing area shall be designated as the players' bench. Each rink shall have adequate space to accommodate two separate teams.
Rule 1.8 Penalty Bench Area: Each rink shall provide a designated area outside the playing surface where a player(s) will serve penalty time. If possible, the penalty bench should be located on the opposite side of the surface from the players' bench.
Rule 1.9 Minor Official's Bench and Referee's Crease: a) Each rink shall be equipped with an official clock and/or a designated timekeeper to monitor game and penalty time. This person (minor official) shall have a designated area (minor officials' bench) where he/she will sit. Goal Judges are optional. b) The referees' crease shall be a 2" wide line drawn in a semicircle with a radius of 10'. This line shall be located near the minor officials bench.

2. EQUIPMENT
Sticks a) Sticks shall be made of materials approved by the MYSHA Rules Committee and must not have any alterations. b) No stick shall exceed 6' in length from the heel to the end of the shaft and no more than 12" from the heel to the end of the blade. The blade shall be no more than 3.25" in width at any point nor less than 1.75" at any point. All edges must be beveled. The curvature of the blade shall be restricted to the distance such that a perpendicular line measured from the base of the toe to the point of maximum curvature shall not exceed three quarters of an inch. c) The blade of the goalkeeper's stick, extending the length of the shaft, shall not exceed more than 26" from the heel or exceed 3.5" in width. The wide portion of the goalkeeper's stick, extending the length of the shaft, shall not exceed 26" from the heel or 3.5" in width. d) A minor penalty shall be assessed to any player or goalkeeper who uses a stick in a way that does not conform to the provisions of this rule. The stick shall be removed from play in such a case. e) Plastic or fiberglass bladed stick only must be used. f) A minor penalty plus a game misconduct shall be assessed to an player who deliberately breaks a stick or refuses to surrender his/her stick to an official. g) The referee will take the stick to the referee crease to make the appropriate measurement

Rule 2.1 Protective Equipment
a) All players under the age of 21 are required to wear:
    1. Head protection (hockey helmet with chin strap) MANDATORY
    2. Face protection (full face cage or full face shield) MANDATORY
    3. Mouth guard (in mouth) MANDATORY
    4. Elbow pads MANDATORY
    5. Hand protection (hockey gloves) MANDATORY
    6. Knee and shin protection MANDATORY
    7. Jock strap and protective cup (male) MANDATORY FOR GOALIES
    8. Sneakers or rubber soled shoes only MANDATORY
    9. Roller Hockey approved skates.
NOTE: The above mentioned equipment is mandatory for youth players. Any default on the mandatory equipment shall put the player, guardian, and MYSHA at risk. NOTE: If a player injury occurs while not wearing any of the above mentioned equipment, the insurance carrier may not be responsible for the claim.
b) A player, excluding the goalie, whose helmet or face mask falls off during play must go immediately to his/her bench and may not resume play until his/her helmet or mask has been properly refitted. Failure to do so will result in a penalty.
c) If a goalkeeperÕs helmet or face mask falls off during play the referee shall stop play immediately. A minor penalty shall be given to a goalkeeper who deliberately removes his/her mask or helmet during play.
Rule 2.2 GoalkeeperÕs Equipment a) With the exception of sneakers and stick, all the equipment worn by the goalkeeper must be constructed solely for the purpose of protecting the head or body, and he/she must not wear any garment or use any ÒaideÓ which would give him/her an unfair advantage in keeping goal. b) The individual leg pads worn by the goalkeeper shall not exceed 12" in total width when fastened to the leg. c) GoalkeeperÕs blocker shall not exceed 9" in width nor 16" in length. d) GoalkeeperÕs catch glove cuff shall not exceed 9" in width including any attachments to the glove. The length of the catch glove shall not exceed 12". e) lt is required for all goalkeepers to wear helmets, full face masks, chest protection and arm protection. f) A minor penalty shall be assessed to a goalkeeper using illegal equipment in the game.
Rule 2.3 Dangerous Equipment a) The use of pads or protectors made of metal or any other material that may cause harm to another player is prohibited and may result in a misconduct penalty. b) A glove from which all or part of the palm and/or fingers has been cut or worn away to allow the bare hand or fingers to be exposed shall be considered illegal equipment. A minor penalty shall be assessed to any player wearing such equipment.
Rule 2.4 Ball a) The ball shall be made of any material approved by MYSHA. b) The ball should be of one color and contrast with the playing surface.
Rule 2.5 Lack of Proper Equipment a) A minor penalty will be assessed to any player that has not complied with MYSHA equipment rules. b) A player that does not comply with the MYSHA equipment rules, will be prohibited from re-entering the game until proper equipment is worn.

3. THE GAME
Description: a) The game is played on a reasonably flat surface free of debris and obstacles. The surface may be indoors or outdoors. b) The game is played between two teams of five players and one goalie. The object of the game is to advance the ball down the rink past your opponentÕs goalkeeper and into the net. The team with the most goals at the end of the allotted time period is declared the winner. c) No intentional body contact is allowed. Accidental or incidental contact is permitted. It shall be the officialÕs discretion if any body contact between two players is deemed an altercation and warrants a penalty.

Rule 3.1 Time of Match The maximum time allotted for a game is 60 minutes in duration from the start of the match to the conclusion of the match. The match shall be made up of three equal periods (Two 20 minute periods for roller hockey). The following options are allowed: a) Three 15 minute running time periods with a 2 minute rest period between periods (3 minutes bewteen periods for roller). b) Each team will be allowed a one minute Ã’time outÓ to be used during regulation time during a stoppage of play.
Rule 3.2 Choice of Goals TheÓ decision will be determined by the toss of a coin between the coaches from each team by the referee, in the event an agreement is not agreed upon before the start of the game.
Rule 3.3 Beginning Play The game begins with a face-off at the center rink face off spot and is repeated at the start of each period of play or in the event of a goal or a disallowed goal. a) The ball is faced-off when the referee drops the ball on the rink between the sticks of the players facing-off. Players facing-off must stand facing each otherÕs end of the rink, approximately one stick-length apart with the blades of their sticks touching the surface of the rink. No other players may come within a 10' radius of players facing-off and all players must be Òon sideÓ during all face-offs, if applicable. b) During a face-off, no player facing-off may have physical contact with an opposing player until the ball is dropped. If a player does not leave the face-off area after being directed by an official, the player may be assessed a minor penalty.
Rule 3.4 Game Delay Due to Weather Play may stop immediately in the event of rain or any other condition that may create a safety hazard on the playing surface. The game will resume at the refereeÕs discretion, at the exact game time of interruption provided the surface is safe. If the condition persists and the game does not resume within 20 minutes from initial stoppage and there is more than 10 minutes of playing time remaining, the game will be cancelled and rescheduled by the league manager. The game will resume at the exact time of game interruption; games cancelled within the first 15 minutes, however, will be played as a full game. In the event that there is less than 15 minutes of playing time remaining at the time of cancellation, the team with the most goals will be declared the winner.
Rule 3.5 Ball Must Be Kept in Motion Except to carry the ball behind his/her net the team in possession of the ball in its own defending zone must always advance play with the intention of scoring on the opposing goal, except if prevenpted from doing so by players on the opposing team. A minor penalty shall be assessed to any player or goalie who holds the ball with his/her stick, sneakers, or body along the rink walls in such a manner as to cause a stoppage of play, unless he/she is actually being pursued by an opponent.
Rule 3.6 Ball Out of Bounds or Out of Play When the ball goes outside the playing area, it shall be considered Òout of play Ð and faced-off at the nearest face-off spot. If the ball is shot by the offense and goes outside the playing area at the end of the rink without touching anything on the way, the face-off will take place at the closest center rink area face-off spot NOTE: It is recommended that the minor official bench always keep an extra ball. a) When a ball becomes lodged in the goal netting and is unplayable, or if it is ÒFrozenÓ between opposing players unintentionally or otherwise, the official shall blow his/her whistle to signal a face-off at the nearest face-off spot b) A minor penalty shall be imposed upon a goalkeeper who deliberately drops the ball on the goal netting to cause a stoppage of play.
Rule 3.7 Ball Out of Sight If the ball goes out of sight or view of the game officials, the referee shall blow the whistle to signal the stoppage of play. Play shall resume with a face-off at the nearest face-off spot.
Rule 3.8 Ball Striking Referee Play shall not stop if the ball strikes the referee any where within the rink during play.
Rule 3.9 Goals and Assists It is the responsibility of the referee to award goals and assists. Such calls shall be considered final. a) A goal shall be scored when the ball has completely crossed the goal line. b) A goal shall be scored if a player from the defending team puts or deflects the ball into his/her own net. In such a case, the last player to touch the ball from the attacking team shall be awarded the goal but no assist will be recorded. c) A goal can only be scored when the ball is contacted by the offensive playerÕs stick below the shoulder. d) A goal shall be scored from a deflection of an attacking player, including his/her sneaker, providing that the player is outside the goal crease. A goal shall also be scored if the attacking player has been involuntarily moved into the opposing goalkeeperÕs crease by a defending player. e) If an attacking player kicks the ball directly into the net, or if the kicked ball deflects off another player and/or goalkeeper, a goal shall not be awarded. f) If a ball which has been deflected off of an official goes into the net a goal shall not be awarded. g) When a goal is scored, an assist shall be awarded to the player who passes the ball to the player who scored the goal. No more than one assist may be awarded per goal scored. Each goal and assist recorded shall count as a point on the playerÕs record.
Rule 3.10 Tied Game If the score is tied at the end of regulation, each team shall be awarded one point in the league standings. There shall be no overtime play during the regular season.  In summer roller hockey, however, a shoot out may (determined by individual divisions) be played immediately following the game.  Each team should pick 3 players who will each get a shot.  Should an equal number of goals be scored, then a sudden death shootout using the remaining players will occur.  The shootout will end with the first goal scored (regardless if whether or not the teams had equal shots).  Goalies may not be substituted prior to the shootout and no player may shoot a second time unless all other players have taken a shot.  In the case of league playoffs, there will be overtime to decide games which are tied after regulation time has expired. The overtime periods will be played as follows: a) 15-minute sudden death periods are played. The first team to score wins. All normal rules apply. b) The 15 minute overtime periods are considered part of the game and any unexpired penalties shall remain in effect
Rule 3.11 Point System The winning team shall receive 2 points in the league standings. The losing team shall receive 0 points. In the event of a tied game each team shall receive 1 point (roller hockey: the team winning the shootout will be awarded an extra point).
Rule 3.12 Adjustment of Clothing and Equipment A player shall not be permitted to request stoppage of time to adjust clothing or equipment. If adjustments are necessary, the player shall return to the playerÕs bench and another player shall enter the game. The goalie may receive adjustment to padding only when there is stoppage of play.
Rule 3.13 Broken Stick a) A player or goalkeeper without a stick may participate in the game. A player or goalkeeper whose stick has been broken must drop the broken portions immediately. A minor penalty shall be assessed for an infrapction of this rule. b) If a team member throws a replacement stick to a player he/she shall receive a penalty. A replacement stick may only be passed by hand.
Rule 3.14 Clearing/Icing (excluding summer roller hockey) The ball may not be shot or passed from the defensive zone past the center line continuing to the opposite end of the rink crossing the opposite goal line; without having the ball touched by a player on the surface. There will be a stoppage in play and a face-off in the defensive zone of the team which shoots or passes the ball the length of the surface. NOTE: if the ball passes through the opposing teamÕs goal crease, the clearing will be nullified. Rinks 150' or shorter should use own defensive zone face-off dots to opposing goal line.
Rule 3.15 Game Forfeiture Each team must have a minimum of 6 players at the commencement of the game. Less than 6 players at commencement of game will result in an automatic forfeiture. NOTE: Players must be ready to play within 15 minutes after the scheduled start time of the game. NOTE: If a team receives a second penalty after already being one player short and cannot sustain 3 players excluding the goalkeeper, the opposing team will be awarded a penalty shot.
Rule 3.16 Kicking the Ball Kicking the ball with your sneaker shall be permitted in all zones. However, a goal shall not be scored if it is kicked in. A goal also shall not be allowed if it is kicked and deflects into the goal off a player, including the goalie.
Rule 3.17 Interference By Spectators In the event of a player being held or interfered with by a spectator, the referee will blow the whistle and play will be stopped.
Rule 3.18 In The Goal Crease. A goal will not be allowed if a offensive player is in the goal crease area before the ball enters the net. If the attacking player is pushed into the goal crease by a member of the defending team, the goal will be allowed. An attacking player who has possession of the ball may enter the goal crease while attempting to score. 
Rule 3.19 Player Altercation No player may leave the bench, penalty box, or goal crease to participate in an on-surface altercation. Any violation of this rule shall result in a match penalty.
Rule 3.20 Center Line Off-Side In rinks less than 150' in length, the center line shall serve as the official off-side. In rinks longer than 150', the opposing blue lines will be the official off-side. a) The ball, either carried, passed or shot must precede players over the attacking playerÕs offensive zone line. b) If an attacking player precedes the ball, which is shot, passed, or deflected into the attacking zone, but a defending player is able to play the ball, the referee shall drop his/her arm to nullify the off-side violation and allow play to continue. The following situations also nullify off-side violation: 1. The defending team passes or carries the ball over the line. 2. All the attacking players clear the offensive zone by leaving it or making contact with the off-side line.
Rule 3.21 League Standings Tie-Breakers
    1. Head to head record
    2. Most wins (season)
    3. Fewest goals allowed (season)
    4. Goal differential in head to head games (2 teams)
    5. Total goal differential (season)
    6. Fewest penalty minutes (season)

4. THE TEAM
Composition: A team shall be comprised of five players on the rink (4 skaters during Bantam and Cadet Roller Hockey), plus a goalkeeper (a total of six (five) players on rink). A maximum of 15 players, including goalkeepers, will be allowed on any single team roster. A minimum of 6 (5) players must be present for any league game.
Rule 4.1 Captain of Team The Head Coach or assistant shall serve as team captain at each game. He/She shall have the sole privilege of conferring with the referee on the playing surface.
Rule 4.2 Player Roster a) At the beginning of the season, the coach of each team will receive from the league or club manager, a roster of players who are eligible for play. No additions will be permitted after this point. b) The goalkeeper may be substituted with a forward or a defenseman but will not have the same privileges as a fully equipped goalkeeper. c) Each player listed on the player roster must wear the same color jersey. Numbers of at least 8" in height must be affixed to the back of the player jersey. NOTE: Any ineligible player or coach that participates in an MYSHA game will subject their team to game forfeiture.
Rule 4.3 Player Substitution a) Players may be substituted at any time from the playersÕ bench only. Exiting players must not interfere with play while exiting the surface. The exchange may only be made within 10' of the playersÕ bench. (In rinks 150' or longer. 5' in rinks shorter than 150'.) b) A Òtoo many playersÓ penalty shall be called if the exiting player attempts to ÒplayÓ the ball while leaving the surface. c) A goalkeeper may be substituted at any tim e for a player. The goalkeeper must be within 10' of the playerÕs bench before the substituting player may step out onto the surface. NOTE: The goalkeeperÕs re-entry may occur only at the stoppage of play. d) Any player who deliberately attempts to obstruct play by throwing debris or reaches for the ball or a player while not on the surface, shall be assessed a minor penalty. If a ball is headed for an empty net while the goalkeeper is off the surface and a player on the bench attempts to interfere, a goal will be scored for the opposing team.
Rule 4.4 Injured Players a) If a player is injured, he/she may remove themselves from the rink without the assistance of another player. He/she shall do so without the stoppage of play. An official may warn a player if they feel he/she is using time to delay play. This rule applies to goalkeepers. If an injured player cannot remove him/herself, play will stop and time will be called so as to remove the injured player from surface. b) An injured penalized player may go straight to the locker room and another player may serve his/her penalty.
Rule 4.5 Equal Play Rule: Each team playing 5 vs 5 (4 vs 4 for roller Cadet/Bantam) shall play each player as close to equal time on the rink every game, with exception of the goal keeper. When playing 5 on 5 with 10 skaters per team, each shift change will result in no players being double shifted (5 players on and 5 off each shift). If there are 8 or 9 skaters, then 1-2 players will need to be double shifted without penalty, but these should be rotated through the team. Exceptions: injuries, absences, sickness on the bench, will be considered by the referees. Coaches will have the last 2 minutes of the final period of regulation play to shift players in and out without penalty. Penalty will be a bench minor, served by the double shifted player at the referees discretion. 

5 PENALTIES

Referees: a) The referees shall maintain control of the game and the players. Any decision made by a referee is final. The referee has control over stoppage of time and play. b) The referee shall assign an official time keeper and scorekeeper at the beginning of each game. The score keeper will also record penalties. c) Each game shall have a minimum of one referee and a maximum of two. d) Players who excessively argue the refereeÕs decision(s) may be removed from play and may face suspension. e) The referees will see that the teams are called to the surface at the appointed time for the commencement of each game and at the start of each regulation period. The referee will remain at the conclusion of each period and wait until the players have proceeded to their benches or dressing rooms. f) The referees will check the equipment worn by any player when requested to do so by the coach of either team. g) The referees will assess all penalties as described by the rules in the rule book. h) The referees will have the final decision on all goals, disputed or not. i) The referees will announce to the official scorer the duration of the penalties and the rule infractions involved, and also to whom the goals and assists are to be credited. j) After each game, the referees will check and sign the scoresheet and return it to league officials. NOTE: Mandatory referee equipment requirements include: whistle, sneakers or rubber-soled shoes and distinguishable attire. 

Minor Penalties:
1. For a minor penalty The offending player shall be removed from play for 90 seconds (running time) from the time the ball is dropped to restart play. His/Her team will play with one less player. When a player from each team receives a minor penalty at the same time, the penalties are called coincidental minors. When coincidental minors occur, the teams remain at full strength (5 vs. 5). NOTE: Should consecutive minor penalties be called upon one team, the offending team shall remain only two players short (three player surface minimum excluding the goalkeeper at all times) until all minor penalties have been served consecutively. NOTE: In cases where two minor penalties have been assessed to the same team, the second player that enters the penalty box does not have his/her penalty time commence until the first playerÕs penalty has expired or a goal has been scored against his/her team.
2. For a bench minor penalty (this is an infraction by the team, not an individual player) the captain or coach of the offending team will assign a player (either on or off the playing surface) to serve two minutes in the penalty area. His/Her team will play short one player.
3. If The opposing team scores a goal while a team is short-handed by one or more minor penalties, the short handed team shall be permitted to immediately release the first player who caused his/her team to be short handed.
4. If a player receives a major and minor penalty, the major penalty shall be served first. When two players on the same team receive penalties, one minor and one major, the minor penalty shall be served first
5. Players with 3 minor penalties or 1 major and 1 minor penalty, will also receive a game misconduct.  The penalty resulting in the misconduct will be served by a different player on the rink at the time of the penalty. 

Minor and major penalties shall be imposed for the following reasons (The severity of the infraction shall be left to the refereeÕs sole discretion):
    1. Unsportsmanlike Conduct: ¥ Challenging or disputing the decision of the referee ¥ Creating a disturbance ¥ Shooting the ball after the whistle has blown ¥ Delaying the game by deliberately throwing or shooting the ball out of the playing area ¥ Deliberately displacing the goal net ¥ Using obscene or abusive language ¥ Interfering in any way with the game official ¥ Interference of play from the bench ¥ Making physical contact with an opponent after the whistle has blown ¥ Abuse of officials (verbally or physically) ¥ Not immediately following the decisions of the official after a penalty has been called ¥ Throwing anything into the playing area
    2. Excessive Violence ¥ Any deliberate body checking ¥ Running, jumping, kicking or charging at an opponent ¥ Cross checking ¥ Unnecessary roughness ¥ Use of forearms or hands to check an opponent above the opponentÕs shoulder
    3. Injury or Attempt to Injure ¥ Slashing or attempts to slash ¥ Butt-Ending or attempts to butt-end ¥ Spearing or attempts to spear
    4. Altercations (fighting/wrestling) ¥ Retaliating physically with a player
    5. Obstructions ¥ Elbowing or kneeing ¥ Holding an opponent or his/her stick impeding him/her from playing ¥ Tripping ¥ Defending player (excluding the goalkeeper) smothering the ball ¥ Goalkeeper smothering the ball outside the privileged area ¥ Impeding the progress of an opponent who does not have control of the ball or knocking his/her stick from the hands or preventing him/her from retrieving it.
    6. Technical Violation ¥ Use of the stick not conforming to the rules ¥ Leaving the penalty bench prior to expiration ¥ Throwing a stick in the direction of the ball
    7. Delaying the Game ¥ Failing to maintain proper face-off position ¥ Deliberately holding the ball against the surface structure ¥ Exceeding the maximum allowed players in play ¥ Excessive clearing (refereeÕs discretion) ¥ Stick measurement; if stick is legal, team requesting measurement is penalized

Rule 6.1 Unnecessary Roughness (Roughing) a) A minor or major penalty, at the discretion of the referees, will be imposed on any player who uses unnecessary roughness. b) The act of riding an opponent off the ball, or meeting the opponent head-on while attempting to play the ball will not be considered roughing. c) Penalty for unnecessary roughness should be called in every case when an opposing player makes unnecessary contact with the player in possession.
Rule 6.2 Holding A minor penalty will be imposed on a player who holds an opponent with his hands, stick, or in any other way. This rule will be strictly enforced.
Rule 6.3 Elbowing and Kneeing a) A minor penalty shall be assessed any player who fouls an opponent in any manner with his elbow or knee. b) A major penalty shall be assessed any player who injures an opponent by elbowing or kneeing.
Rule 6.4 Handling Ball With Hands a) If a player, except the goalkeeper closes his/her hand intentionally on the ball, the play will be stopped and a minor penalty will be imposed. b) A player will be permitted to stop or bat a ball in the air with his open hand, or push it along the surface with his/her hand, and the play will not be stopped unless, in the opinion of referee, The player has deliberately directed the ball to a teammate, in which case the play is to be stopped and the ball faced-off at the nearest face-off spot toward the center line. c ) Hand passes will be permitted only in the defensive zone.
Rule 6.5 High Sticking a) High sticking shall occur when the hockey stick is extended above the offending player's shoulders at any time. The result is a 90 second (running time) penalty. If the hockey stick makes contact with the opponent above the normal height of the shoulder, the referee, at his discretion, may impose a 90 second minor, three minute minor, or 3 minute major in the event of an injury.. b) Batting the ball above the normal height of the shoulder with the stick is prohibited and when it occurs play shall be stopped and the offending player shall receive a 90 second minor penalty. . Following a high sticking penalty, the ensuing face-off shall take place at an end zone face-off spot of the offending playerÕs team.
Rule 6.6 Charging A minor or major penalty, at the discretion of the referees, will be imposed on a player who violently runs, jumps into, or charges an opponent, or blindsides an opponent from behind.
Rule 6.7 Interference It is a violation of the rules to interfere with or impede the progress of an opponent who is not in possession of the ball. Accidental body contact will be permitted. All judgements in this case shall be at the refereesÕ discretion. NOTE: Often it is the action and movement of the attacking player which causes the interference, since the defending players are allowed to stand ground. NOTE: Occasionally players of marginal ability, may create the appearance of interference. An official should only call a penalty for the those types of deliberate interference: a) When a player deliberately impedes the movement of an opposing player after ball has been faced-off. b) When a player deliberately holds the stick of an opposing player. c) When the ball carrier makes a drop pass and follows through as to take his/her opponent out of the play, thus opening the way for the ball carrier. d) When the ball carrier is eliminated from the play by a defender who slides on his/her pads, whether possession of the ball is gained or not. Defensive interference consists of bodily contact with an opposing player when he/she does not have possession of the ball. Goalie interference occurs when an offensive player interferes with or impedes the progress of the goalie while the goalie is in his/her crease or privileged area. e) When the ball is in the attacking zone and not in the goal crease, a player of the attacking team may not stand on the goal crease line or in the goal crease, hold his stick in the goal crease or pass through the goal crease.  If the ball should enter the goal while such a condition prevails, a goal shall not be allowed.  For violation of this rule, while the attacking team has possession of the ball, play shall be stopped and a face off held at the nearest face off spot outside the attacking teams zone. This rule shall not apply when the goal keeper is out of his goal crease. 
Rule 6.8 Delaying the Game a) A minor penalty will be imposed on any player, goaltender, or coach who delays the game by deliberately shooting or batting the ball outside the playing surface, deliberately displaces the goalpost from normal position,or refuses to place the correct number of players on the surface to commence play after being warned by a referee. b) Intentional delay of the game by goalies will be called at the discretion of the referee.
Rule 6.9 Cross Checking and Butt-Ending a) A minor or major penalty, at the discretion of the referees, is to be imposed on a player who cross checks or butt-ends an opponent. b) A match penalty will be imposed on any player who deliberately injures an opponent by cross checking or butt-ending.
Rule 6.10 Slashing a) A minor or major penalty, at the discretion of the referee, will be imposed on any player who slashes or attempts to slash an opponent with his stick. Referees should penalize as slashing any player who swings his stick at an opposing player without actually striking him, or where where he makes a wild swing at the puck with the object of intimidating an opponent. b) A major penalty and game misconduct penalty will be imposed on any player who injures an opponent by slashing. c) Any player who swings his/her stick at another player in the course of any altercation will be subject to a match penalty.
Rule 6.11 Hooking a) A minor penalty will be imposed on a player who impedes or seeks to impede the progress of an opponent by hooking the body or stick with his/her stick. This rule will be strictly enforced. b ) A major penalty will be imposed on a player who injures an opponent by hooking. c) When a player is checking another player in such a way that there is only stick-to-stick contact, such action is not either hooking or holding. He may turn the stick down over the opponentÕs stick.
Rule 6.12 Tripping a) A minor penalty will be imposed on any player who places his stick, knee, foot, arm, hand, or elbow in such a manner that it causes his opponent to trip or fall. b) A player may not slide on his knees or roll into an opponent thereby causing the opponent to trip or fall. c) When a player is in control of the ball in the attacking zone and has no opponent between him and the goaltender, and is tripped or otherwise fouled from behind, thus preventing reasonable scoring opportunity, a penalty shot will be awarded to the player. If when the opposing team has pulled the goalie, the above infraction occurs, the attacking team will be awarded a goal.
Rule 6.13 Zero Tolerance Rule
    1. If an official on the surface or off (i.e. scorekeeper) hears either a player on the surface or on the bench use profane language, the official will stop the game and issue a Ã’firstÓ warning to the offending player. The same warning will be made to the playerÕs bench and the coach of the team. The second offense warrants a two minute unsportsmanlike penalty.
    2. If the on-surface official hears profane language and determines that the public (fans, parents, etc.) can hear profane language, a two minute bench penalty will be assessed, an on-surface player will serve the penalty, and the team will play one on-surface player short for the duration of the penalty.
    3. If the on-surface official hears profane language used a second time from the team, bench, or coach, and determines that the surrounding public can also hear the profane language, a five minute bench penalty will be assessed, an on-surface player will serve the penalty, and the team will play one on-surface player short for the duration of the penalty.
    4. If the team in question cannot be controlled, the referee at their discretion may default the game and award the points to the opposing team.

Major Penalties
    1. For the first major penalty assessed to a player in any single game, he/she shall be removed from the surface for 3 minutes. (Goalkeeper excluded.)
    2. For a second major penalty assessed to a player in a single game, a game misconduct penalty in addition to a major penalty will be given. The player will also be suspended from playing for the remainder of the game and no less than five games.
    3. A game misconduct penalty may be assessed if what was normally a minor penalty causes an opponent to bleed.
    4. The following infractions result in a major penalty: ¥ Injuring an opponent by cross-checking or hooking. ¥ Injuring an opponent by deliberate use of knee or elbow. ¥ Grabbing or holding the face mask of an opponent. ¥ Injuring an opponent by slashing. ¥ Deliberate intent to injure an opponent. NOTE: Wild swinging at an opponent or at the ball to intimidate an opponent is considered a major penalty.

Rule 7.1 Molesting Officials a) Coaches are not allowed to enter the playing surface during regulation play. Coaches who do enter the playing surface are subject to review and possible suspension by the League Manager. All incidents of this nature must be reported to MYSHA league officials. b) Any player, coach or trainer who holds or strikes an official will automatically be assessed a gross misconduct, suspended from the game and reported to The League Manager for further penalty. c) Players, coaches, and trainers are not to use obscene or profane language anywhere in the rink. For violation of this rule a bench minor penalty will be imposed.
Rule 7.2 Spearing A major penalty will be imposed on a player who spears or attempts to spear an opponent, regardless of whether bodily contact is made or not.
Rule 7.3 Suspensions Coaches and/or players under suspension are not allowed to serve as a coach or player.

Match Penalties: A match penalty involves the suspension of a player for the balance of the game. A substitute player must be placed on the penalty bench to serve a three-minute penalty and may not return onto the surface, regardless if a goal is scored. b) For all match penalties, regardless of when imposed, a total of 5 minutes will be charged against the offending player. c) A player incurring a match penalty will be investigated by the League Manager who will have full power to impose any further penalty he may deem fitting. d) A match penalty will disqualify the player for at least two consecutive games.

Rule 8.1 Fighting A match penalty will be assessed to any player aggressively involved in a fight. Dropping of the gloves is seen as an aggressive action of a fight. The circumstances of such occurrences will be reported to the league for further action. NOTE: If player enters a fight as a third man, that player (including goalkeeper) will be assessed a match penalty.
Rule 8.2 Leaving Player or Penalty Benches a) No player may leave the player or penalty benches at any time to enter an altercation. A match penalty is to be imposed on each player violating this rule. The referee will report all such infractions to the League Manager for further action. b) Except at the end of each period, a time-out, or an expiration of a penalty, no player may leave the penalty bench. c) A penalized player who leaves the penalty bench before his penalty has expired, whether play is in progress or not, will receive an additional minor penalty to be served after serving the unexpired penalty. 

Misconduct Penalties
1. A misconduct penalty calls for the removal of a player other than the goalkeeper from the game for a period of ten minutes. Another player is permitted to replace the removed player. After the penalty has expired, the player may not return to the game until there is a stoppage in play.
2. A player assessed a misconduct with another penalty will serve both penalties consecutively (back-to-back). All offending players will be required to sit in the penalty area until their penalty is served.
3. A game misconduct penalty involves the suspension of a player or a team official for the remainder of the game. His/ Her team may replace the suspended player with a substitute. NOTE: Any player or team official who is assessed a game misconduct shall automatically be suspended for a minimum of the next league or play-off game. (Ten minutes will be charged in the records against the penalized player.)
4. A gross misconduct penalty calls for the suspension of a player or team official for the remainder of the game. His/Her team may replace the suspended player with a substitute. The player or team official, however, will not be allowed to attend further games until the case has been reviewed by the league manager.
The following infractions also result in a misconduct penalty: 
Abuse of Officials 1. An aggressive dispute by a player with an official after a penalty has been called. 2. Using obscene or abusive language. 3. Intentionally shooting or knocking the ball out of reach of an official trying to retrieve it. 4. Deliberately throwing the ball or equipment onto the playing surface. 5. Entering the refereeÕs crease while the referee is consulting with game officials. (Applicable in rinks 150' or longer.) 6. Touching or holding a game official in any way. 7. Any inappropriate behavior that the referee views as detrimental to the game.

Penalty Shot: A penalty shot may be awarded to a team for the following reasons:
    1. A defending player (other than the goalkeeper) who deliberately gathers the ball in the crease and intentionally smothers it stopping play.
   2. If the attacking player has a Ã’break awayÓ and is illegally prevented by the defending team from advancing towards the goalkeeper when there are no players between the attacking player and the defending goalkeeper.
    3. Throwing a stick or any other object at the ball in the defending zone while the attacking team is attempting to score. If this is done on an open net and the goalie has been removed, a goal will be awarded.

Penalty Shot Execution
    1. For a penalty shot the referee will place the ball at the center rink face-off spot. The referee will signal play to begin. The players must maintain a forward motion at all times. No goal will be scored from a rebound.
    2. The goalkeeper must remain in his/her crease until the shooting player has made contact with the ball. If the goalkeeper leaves the crease prematurely the referee may start again.
    3. During a penalty shot, all players must return to their respective benches except for the players participating in the penalty shot.
    4. If a goal is scored, there will be a center-rink face-off. If no goal is scored, The face-off will be played in the defending teamÕs zone.

Goalkeeper Penalties
    1. A goalkeeper shall not be removed from the net for a minor or major penalty. Another team member will serve the goalkeeperÕs penalty.
    2. If the goalkeeper receives a game misconduct or match misconduct, he/she will be removed from the game and be replaced by a substitute goalkeeper or another player. This player will be granted a reasonable amount of time to put on the goalkeeper equipment. 
    3. A goalkeeper may be suspended for future games if the infraction is deemed Ã’seriousÓ by the league manager.
    4. A minor penalty shall be assessed to a goalkeeper leaving the goal crease during a fight.
    5. A minor penalty shall be assessed to a goalkeeper who engages in play beyond the center line.

Calling of Penalties
    1. An infraction of the rules by a team in possession of the ball shall be called immediately and the referee will stop play.
    2. If the penalized team is not in possession of the ball at the moment of the penalty, the referee shall raise his/her arm and play will resume until the penalized team touches the ball. (This is called a DELAYED PENALTY.) Then, the referee shall stop play and call the penalty. Until play has stopped, the attacking team may replace their goalkeeper with another Ã’attackingÓ player. 
    3. Once play resumes, the resuming face-off shall be where the infraction took place. In a delayed call the face-off will take place in the penalized teamÕs zone.
    4. If under a delayed minor penalty call the attacking team scores, the penalty is waived off and not assessed.
    5. If under a delayed major penalty call the attacking team scores, the goal is awarded and the penalty will be assessed.

MOORESTOWN YOUTH STREET HOCKEY ASSOCIATION {MYSHA} Reserves the right to investigate an infraction and impose additional disciplinary measures as it deems appropriate. This may be against a player, a team official, or an entire team. Any team or player removed from a sanctioned tournament or a season of play, will not be entitled to a refund of any dues/fees paid. Any suspensions imposed will include: playoffs, tournaments, and/or championships.

GLOSSARY
Attempt to injure or Deliberate Injury: An action by a player or team official who attempts to hit an opposing player or team official, or game official with the intent to cause injury.
Breakaway: A player with full control of the ball and having no opposing player between him/herself and the opposing goalkeeper or goal (if goalkeeper has been removed).
Broken Stick: A stick that in the opinion of the Referee is unfit for normal play.
Butt-Ending: Action of using the shaft of the stick above the upper hand to: check, jab or attempt to jab an opposing player in any manner.
Captain: A player, other than a goalkeeper or coach, who is selected to represent the team with the officials.
Charging: The act of taking more than two steps or strides to make contact with an opposing player.
Coach: A person responsible for directing the actions of his/her team. He/She is responsible for the conduct of the players: before, during and after the game in the playing area.
Control: A player actually propelling the ball with his/her stick, foot or glove(s).
Creases: Enclosed space designated for the protection of the goalkeeper and the use of the Referee in the discharge of their respective duties. The lines which designate this space are to be considered part of the crease.
Cross-Checking: Acton of using the shaft of the stick between the two hands to check an opponent at any height.
Face-Off: Action of the Referee of dropping the ball between the sticks of two opposing players to start or resume play. A face-off begins when the Referee indicates location of the face-off and ends when the ball has been legally dropped.
Game: Meeting of two teams playing for a specific length of time, for the purpose of declaring a winner through the scoring of goals.
Game Disqualification: When a player has been ejected from a game, this player must leave the area of the playerÕs bench and must in no way direct, coach, or assist the team in any manner for the remainder of the game.
Goalkeeper: Person who is identified by the use of special and legal equipment and privileges to prevent the ball from entering the net.
Heel of the Stick: The point where the shaft of the stick and the bottom of the blade meet.
High Sticking: The action of the player carrying the stick or any part of the stick above the normal height of the shoulder.
Holding: Any action by a player that impedes the progress of an opposing player whether or not he/she is in possession of an opponent
Hooking: Action of appling the blade of the stick to any part of an opponent's body or stick and impeding his progress by a pulling or tugging motion with the stick.
Kicking: Action of a player deliberately using his foot with a kicking motion to contact an opponent, with no intent to play the ball.
Minor Officials: Officials appointed to assist the on-surface officials in the conduct of the game. They include: scorer, game timekeeper, penalty timekeeper and goal judges.
On Surface Officials: The Referees.
Penalty: The result of an infraction of the rules.
Players: Members of the team physically participating in a game. Except where special rules apply to him/her.
Possession: The state of a player other than a goalkeeper who is the last one to have come in contact with the ball.
Protective Equipment: Equipment worn by a player for the sole purpose of protecting against injury.
Shorthanded: A team is below the numerical strength of its opponent on the surface.
Slashing: Action of striking or attempting to strike an opponent with a stick or of swinging a stick at an opponent with no contact being made.  Tapping an opponent's stick is not considered slashing.
Spearing: Action of poking or attempting to poke an opponent with the toe of the blade of the stick while holding the stick with one or both hands.
Team Officials: Team Manager, Coach, Assistant Coach.