There have been a few concerns brought forward recently regarding how certain rules are being interpreted. To provide clarity for everyone involved, here are the rules for 2009 as dictated by the
CLA/ALRA.
Rule 81 (expulsion) in relations to rule 38 (checking from behind):
If a double minor is assessed and not a major for a check from behind the double minor is to be counted as 2 penalties towards the five penalty limit.
Discussion: In many cases the scorekeepers are writing this on the gamesheet as a single four-minute penalty. It is preferable to record it as two separate two-minute penalties. That way it is easier to count up when trying to keep track of the five penalty rule, and it is less confusing if a goal is scored as a goal nullifies only one of the two penalties. If a goal is scored within the first two minutes, the first two minute penalty is nullified but the player stays in the penalty box and the second two mintutes starts when play resumes after the goal.
Rule 85(f) (delayed penalty) in relations to rule 38 (checking from behind):
If a double minor is assessed for a check from behind by the defending team the double minor is to be counted as 1 penalty in this instance and play allowed to continue until completion of the play.
Discussion: Normally, when the referee has his arm up to signal a delayed penalty the play is blown dead if a second infraction occurs. This rule is meant to clarify that when there is a delayed penalty for hitting from behind, play continues even though it is two penalties it is really just one infraction.
Rule 39(f) Crease Play:
A minor penalty shall be assessed to a player or goalkeeper who cuts through his/her opponent's crease to check a ball carrier and a possession change if the infraction is in pursuit of a loose ball. The
ball is awarded to the non offending team. It is permissible for a player to cut through his/her own crease in either of the above situation.
Discussion: A defender may cut through his or her own crease to make a check on a offensive player.
Rule 60 (b) Leaving the Players' Bench/Penalty Bench
No player/goalkeeper shall leave the players' bench or the penalty bench at the end of a period or the end of game until the referee signals the bench to do so. A game misconduct penalty shall be assessed to the first player/goalkeeper from each team and any non-playing personnel who leave the players' bench or penalty bench prior to the referee's signal.
Discussion: Coaches must play an active role in informing their players of this rule and in instructing their players to regard this rule during games. It is of particular importance during the second period when teams are defending the net at the oppositre end of the floor from their bench. Normally the referees will not signal to release the players from the benches until the goalies and all other players have crossed over center line and are on their own side of the floor. This rule is part of game management and is intended to minimize the likihood of altercations betwen periods or at the end of game.