Tag: five minute penalty

What Is a Major Penalty in Ice Hockey?

IHM Knowledge Center

What Is a Major Penalty in Ice Hockey?

What is a major penalty, how long does it last, and how is it different from a minor penalty?

Editor: Coach Mark • Updated: February 27, 2026

Short Answer

A major penalty is a five-minute penalty assessed for serious infractions, and it is not canceled if the opposing team scores.

Full Explanation

A major penalty is called for severe violations such as fighting or dangerous contact that could cause injury. It results in the offending team playing shorthanded for five full minutes.

Unlike a minor penalty, which ends if the opposing team scores, a major penalty continues for the entire five-minute duration regardless of how many goals are scored during that time.

Major penalties are often accompanied by additional discipline such as a game misconduct depending on the severity of the incident.

Officials may review certain plays to determine whether the infraction warrants a minor or major penalty.

Why Major Penalties Exist

The rule ensures that serious or dangerous actions carry stronger consequences and protect player safety.

Key Takeaways

  • A major penalty lasts five minutes.
  • The team plays shorthanded for the full duration.
  • Goals do not cancel a major penalty.
  • Often called for fighting or dangerous contact.

What Is a Match Penalty in Ice Hockey?

IHM Knowledge Center

What Is a Match Penalty in Ice Hockey?

What is a match penalty, when is it called, and how is it different from a major penalty?

Editor: Coach Mark • Updated: February 26, 2026

Short Answer

A match penalty is assessed when a player deliberately attempts to injure an opponent. The player is ejected immediately and the team receives a five-minute power play against them.

Full Explanation

A match penalty is one of the most severe penalties in ice hockey. It is called when an official determines that a player intentionally tried to injure another player.

The penalized player is immediately removed from the game and may face additional discipline or suspension following league review.

The team must serve a five-minute penalty, which cannot be shortened by a goal scored by the opposing team.

Unlike a regular major penalty, a match penalty specifically involves intent to injure and triggers automatic review.

Why Match Penalties Exist

The rule protects player safety and discourages dangerous or malicious actions on the ice. It reinforces the league’s commitment to preventing intentional harm.

Key Takeaways

  • A match penalty involves intent to injure.
  • The player is ejected immediately.
  • The team serves a full five-minute penalty.
  • Additional discipline may follow.