Tag: dangerous hit

What Is Charging in Ice Hockey?

IHM Knowledge Center

What Is Charging in Ice Hockey?

What is charging, how is it defined, and how do referees determine when a hit becomes a charging penalty?

Editor: Coach Mark • Updated: February 20, 2026

Short Answer

Charging is a penalty assessed when a player takes excessive strides or distance to violently check an opponent.

Full Explanation

Charging occurs when a player skates a significant distance or builds unnecessary speed before delivering a body check.

Officials evaluate the distance traveled, number of strides and level of force used in the hit.

Even if the hit is legal in terms of contact point, excessive momentum can make it illegal.

Depending on severity, charging can result in a minor, major or game misconduct penalty.

Why Charging Is Penalized

The rule discourages reckless speed and reduces the risk of high impact collisions that can cause injury.

Key Takeaways

  • Excessive speed or distance before a hit.
  • Officials judge momentum and force.
  • Penalty varies by severity.
  • Protects players from reckless contact.

What Is Boarding in Ice Hockey?

IHM Knowledge Center

What Is Boarding in Ice Hockey?

What is boarding, how is it defined, and what penalties can result from this infraction?

Editor: Coach Mark • Updated: February 20, 2026

Short Answer

Boarding is a penalty assessed when a player violently checks an opponent into the boards in a dangerous manner.

Full Explanation

Boarding occurs when a player pushes, hits or checks an opponent in a way that causes them to crash dangerously into the boards.

Officials consider distance from the boards, force of impact and vulnerability of the opponent.

Depending on severity, boarding can result in a minor, major or game misconduct penalty.

If the hit causes injury, harsher discipline is typically applied.

Why Boarding Rules Matter

Board collisions carry high injury risk, especially for the head and spine. The rule protects players from reckless contact near the boards.

Key Takeaways

  • Dangerous contact into boards.
  • Severity determines penalty length.
  • Injury increases discipline.
  • Protects vulnerable players.