Tag: bench minor

What Is a Bench Minor in Ice Hockey?

IHM Knowledge Center

What Is a Bench Minor in Ice Hockey?

What is a bench minor penalty, when is it called, and who serves it?

Editor: Coach Mark • Updated: February 26, 2026

Short Answer

A bench minor is a two-minute penalty assessed against a team rather than an individual player, and it is served by any player currently on the ice.

Full Explanation

A bench minor penalty is called when a team commits an infraction that cannot be attributed to a single specific player. Common examples include too many men on the ice, delay of game, or unsportsmanlike conduct from the bench.

When a bench minor is assessed, the team’s coach designates a player who was on the ice at the time of the infraction to serve the two-minute penalty.

The penalized team plays shorthanded for the duration of the minor unless a goal is scored during the power play.

Although no individual player receives a personal penalty record, the team is still penalized with a manpower disadvantage.

Why Bench Minors Exist

The rule ensures team accountability for collective errors, improper substitutions, or misconduct coming from the bench area.

Key Takeaways

  • A bench minor is assessed against the team.
  • It results in a two-minute penalty.
  • A player on the ice serves the penalty.
  • Common cause is too many men on the ice.

What Is Too Many Men on the Ice?

IHM Knowledge Center

What Is Too Many Men on the Ice?

What is the “too many men on the ice” penalty, when is it called, and how are line changes judged legally?

Editor: Coach Mark • Updated: February 18, 2026

Short Answer

Too many men on the ice is a bench minor penalty called when a team has more than five skaters actively involved in play.

Full Explanation

Each team is allowed five skaters and one goaltender on the ice during regular play. If an extra skater participates before a line change is completed, the referee may assess a penalty.

During line changes, the departing player must be within a reasonable distance of the bench before the substitute can engage in the play.

If the new player touches the puck or interferes before the change is legally completed, the infraction is called.

The penalty assessed is a two minute bench minor, served by any player on the ice at the time of the call.

Why Line Change Discipline Matters

Clean line changes are essential for maintaining pace and structure. Mistimed substitutions can lead to unnecessary penalties and momentum shifts.

Key Takeaways

  • Only five skaters allowed.
  • Line changes must be completed properly.
  • Early puck involvement triggers the call.
  • Results in a two minute bench minor.