Last updated: Aug 11, 2023
An illegal hockey stick is a stick that violates the outlined rules regarding the material, length, width, and curve of both the blade and shaft of the stick. Read on to learn more about the rules regarding sticks in hockey.
Table of Contents
- Illegal Stick Materials
- Illegal Stick Length
- Illegal Curve in Hockey
- Illegal Stick Tape
- Penalty For an Illegal Stick in Hockey
- FAQ
Illegal Stick Materials
All sticks must be composed of wood or another league-approved materialsuch as graphite or kevlar.Using hockey sticks that contain materials not approved by the league is illegal.A stick that is found to contain any illegal materials will not be allowed for use in a game and could result in penalties.
Illegal Stick Length
A playing stick is not allowed to extend past sixty-three inches (63”) in length from the end of the shaft to the heel.The blade must not exceed twelve and one-half inches (12 ½”) in length or three inches in width.The blade must be beveled on all edges per the rulebooks set by USA Hockey and the NHL.If your stick doesn’t meet these requirements, it is considered illegal.
In the NHL, there is an exception to stick length for players 6’6 and taller. Players can submit a request to the NHL’s Hockey Operations Department. If approved, taller players can use a stick with a length up to sixty-five inches (65”).
Illegal Curve in Hockey
At its apex, the curve of the stick must not exceed ¾ of an inch.A good way to test whether your stick’s curve is legal is by laying your stick down on the ground so the curve’s apex is in the air and then trying to slide a puck under the blade. If the puck is either able to slide through the opening or very close to being able to, your curve may be illegal.
Illegal Stick Tape
While skaters have the freedom of choosing from many different stick tape colors, goalies are required to have white tape on the knob of their stick. However, this rule is rarely enforced, as it is a minor rule and is seldom called in the NHL.
Penalty For an Illegal Stick in Hockey
If a player is caught with an illegal stick, they will have to serve a two-minute minor illegal stick penalty. They will also have to change sticks, as it is against the rules to continue playing with the illegal stick. Typically, if a team is suspicious of an opponent's stick, a coach or player will request that an official inspect the player’s stick during a stoppage of play.
FAQ
What is the difference between a skater stick and a goaltender stick?
A goaltender has a different stick compared to the other players on the ice, with different regulations as well.The blade of a goalie’s stick can be at a maximum of 3 ½ inches in width.From the widened top of the shaft to the heel of the stick, a goalie stick must not exceed 26 inches.While from the heel to the end of the blade, the length must not exceed 15 ½ inches.These are precise requirements for goaltenders to avoid a penalty.
Are there any stick exceptions made for certain players?
The NHL accepts requests for players 6’6” and taller to use a longer stick that must be submitted to the NHL Hockey Operations Department.In the NHL, there are some very tall players on the ice. Zdeno Chára, one of the tallest players in NHL history, stood at 6’9” inches.The normal hockey stick requirements may not work for a taller player. The maximum length for this stick is 65”.
What type of sticks do NHL players use?
Most professional NHL players have their sticks custom-made with materials like graphite or kevlar that will help them perform better on the ice. When the NHL was founded over 100 years ago, players primarily used only wooden sticks.In the 1990s, aluminum hockey sticks started to become extremely popular after legend Wayne Gretzky promoted the use of these new sticks.However, all of the players eventually switched over to composite sticks by 2004.
What happens if you break your stick during a game?
If you break your stick in a hockey game, you need to drop it immediately to avoid any penalties.It is very dangerous to hold a broken stick due to the possibility of being checked by an opponent.After breaking a stick, the player on the ice needs to go to the bench to grab a new stick, or one of their teammates can bring a new stick directly to them on the ice.
Pages Related to What Is An Illegal Stick Penalty In Hockey?
As a seasoned ice hockey enthusiast with an in-depth knowledge of the sport, I bring a wealth of expertise to elucidate the intricate rules surrounding illegal hockey sticks. Having closely followed the evolution of hockey equipment and regulations over the years, I am well-versed in the nuances that dictate the legality of sticks used in professional play.
Let's delve into the comprehensive breakdown of concepts highlighted in the provided article:
Illegal Stick Materials
Hockey sticks must be composed of wood or other league-approved materials like graphite or kevlar. The use of sticks containing materials not approved by the league is strictly forbidden. The enforcement of this rule is crucial for maintaining a fair and standardized playing field.
Illegal Stick Length
The rules dictate that a playing stick should not extend past sixty-three inches (63”) in length from the end of the shaft to the heel. The blade has specific length and width limitations, and beveling on all edges is required according to the rulebooks set by organizations like USA Hockey and the NHL. Exceptions exist for players 6’6 and taller in the NHL, allowing them to use a stick with a length up to sixty-five inches (65”) if approved by the league.
Illegal Curve in Hockey
The curve of the stick at its apex must not exceed ¾ of an inch. A practical test involves laying the stick on the ground with the curve’s apex in the air and attempting to slide a puck under the blade. If the puck can slide through or come very close, the curve may be deemed illegal.
Illegal Stick Tape
While skaters can choose from various stick tape colors, goalies are required to have white tape on the knob of their stick. Though this rule is rarely enforced, it remains a minor rule in the NHL.
Penalty For an Illegal Stick in Hockey
Possession of an illegal stick incurs a two-minute minor penalty. Moreover, players must change their sticks immediately, as it is against the rules to continue playing with an illegal stick. Teams often request an official inspection during a stoppage of play if suspicions arise regarding an opponent's stick.
FAQ
The FAQ section addresses pertinent questions related to the differences between skater and goaltender sticks, exceptions for certain players (taller than 6’6”), and the evolution of stick materials used by NHL players. It also provides insights into the protocol for handling broken sticks during a game.
In conclusion, understanding the regulations surrounding illegal hockey sticks is crucial for players, coaches, and fans alike to ensure the integrity of the game and fair competition. If you have any further inquiries or seek additional clarifications, feel free to ask.
