Rule 9.2 - Cross-Checking

Cross-checking is when a player uses the shaft of the stick, between their two hands, to check an opponent.

A Minor penalty will be assessed to any player who cross-checks an opponent.
A Major penalty and Game Misconduct penalty, at the discretion of the referee, based on the degree of violence of impact, may be assessed to any player who cross-checks an opponent.

A Major penalty and Game Misconduct penalty will be assessed to any player who injures an opponent by a cross-checking infraction that would otherwise call for a Minor penalty.
A Match penalty will be assessed to any player who attempts to injure or deliberately injures an opponent by cross-checking.
No Misconduct penalty may be assessed for a cross-checking infraction.
A Game Misconduct penalty must be assessed any time a Major penalty is assessed for cross-checking, as detailed under Rule 9.2 (b).

INTERPRETATIONS

Interpretation 1

Rule 9.2 (a)

In applying this rule, the Referee should consider whether the player is “pushing” or “striking” an opponent with the shaft of their stick. If a pushing motion is used, a penalty may not be necessary. However, a striking motion must be penalized.

Interpretation 2

Rule 9.2 (b)

A Major penalty and Game Misconduct penalty for Head Contact must be assessed to any player who strikes an opponent with a cross-check above the normal height of the shoulders. Please refer to Rule 7.6 – Head Contact for details.