Message From The Hockey Canada Board of Directors

The rules which are contained in this book are the only rules which are to be used in the playing of hockey under the jurisdiction of Hockey Canada. Members or leagues choosing to play outside these rules will be subjected to discipline and will at a minimum, forfeit the right to the Hockey Canada Insurance Program.

A game should be refereed strictly in accordance with the rules. In individual cases, Referees may feel that the rules are in some respect not satisfactory. However, it is not up to an individual to decide if a rule should or should not be applied. Rules are approved by Hockey Canada’s membership and are to be changed only through the democratic process at given periods of time. Referees are directed to thoroughly apply the rules of the Association and its Members.

If a Referee has difficulty in the interpretation of any rule, the Referee should consult with the Member Referee-in-Chief. If such person cannot give a satisfactory interpretation, the Hockey Canada Referee-in-Chief should be contacted.

It is understandable that in a country of the geographic expanse of Canada, a uniform interpretation of the rules may prove somewhat difficult. That, however, is the goal which is to be aimed at, and if the rules are strictly adhered to in all parts of Canada, it should not be hard to come near achieving that goal.