Story Summary
A new SHL faceoff rule has provoked strong criticism from several head coaches after only two rounds of the season. Göteborg’s head coach Robert Ohlsson said the change has shifted attention from the match to the faceoffs and warned it could cost the league spectators. Färjestad’s Cam Abbott and Rögle’s Dan Tangnes echoed the complaint. SHL sporting director Johan Hemlin has said it is too early to alter the rule immediately but is open to change and plans a formal review meeting six rounds into the season.
Key Facts
- A new faceoff rule has drawn sharp criticism from SHL clubs two rounds into the season.
- A Tuesday 3-2 meeting was eventful, but the new faceoff rule has overshadowed the game.
- Göteborg head coach Robert Ohlsson said the match was no longer the focus, with the faceoffs taking centre stage, and warned the league could lose spectators.
- Färjestad head coach Cam Abbott and Rögle head coach Dan Tangnes expressed similar concerns.
- SHL sporting director Johan Hemlin said he has discussed the matter with clubs, captains, head coaches and referees and believes implementation takes time.
- Linesmen held a follow-up meeting to consider adjustments to how the rule is applied.
- Captains were asked to take responsibility and adapt to the change, Hemlin said.
- Hemlin will hold a check-in meeting six rounds into the season to review how the rule is working.
- Hemlin suggested it may be the interpretation and assessment of the rule, rather than the rule itself, that needs adjustment.
IHM Discussion
The immediate fallout around the faceoff change highlights how a single regulatory tweak can dominate headlines. Coaches from three clubs publicly registered their frustration, with Robert Ohlsson warning that the league could lose spectators. Johan Hemlin’s response is pragmatic: he points to prior consultation with head coaches, captains and referees, as well as further discussion among linesmen. That suggests the SHL is treating this as an issue of interpretation and implementation rather than dismissing the concerns outright. The planned six-round review offers a clear checkpoint for judging whether the early disruption persists.
Why It Matters
If a rule tweak shifts attention from play to stoppages, it risks altering the spectator experience and match rhythm. Ohlsson argued that the focus on faceoffs can interrupt flow and warned that the league could lose spectators. The league’s response could shape how coaches, captains and officials adapt to the new interpretation.
Mini Q&A
What prompted the SHL to consider changing the rule?
Strong criticism from several head coaches two rounds into the season, including comments that the new faceoff rule has shifted focus away from matches and could cost spectators.
Which coaches publicly criticised the rule?
Göteborg head coach Robert Ohlsson voiced the strongest complaint, with Färjestad’s Cam Abbott and Rögle’s Dan Tangnes expressing similar concerns.
What has SHL sporting director Johan Hemlin said the league will do next?
Hemlin said it is too early to change the rule immediately, noted prior discussions with head coaches, captains and referees, and plans a review meeting six rounds into the season to assess possible adjustments.
Coach Mark Comment
Rule changes often require a settling-in period, but successful implementation depends on consistent and clear officiating. If linesmen and referees align their on-ice assessments and captains are given precise expectations, the disruption should lessen. The SHL’s decision to convene a review after six rounds is sensible – it gives teams and officials time to adapt while creating a firm early opportunity to recalibrate interpretations before concerns become entrenched.
What Comes Next
Johan Hemlin will hold a review meeting six rounds into the season to assess how the new faceoff rule is working and whether adjustments to interpretation or application are required.
IHM Final View
The SHL has set a near-term checkpoint rather than making an immediate rule change. That approach balances the coaches’ complaints with the league’s view that interpretation and time are important factors. The six-round review is the clearest indication so far that the league is prepared to consider adjustments after further evaluation.