Tag: offside challenge rule

What Is a Coach’s Challenge in Ice Hockey?

IHM Knowledge Center

What Is a Coach’s Challenge in Ice Hockey?

What is a coach’s challenge, and when can a team request video review during a game?

Editor: Coach Mark • Updated: March 5, 2026

Short Answer

A coach’s challenge allows a team to request a video review of certain plays, such as offside entries or goaltender interference before a goal.

Full Explanation

If a team believes a goal was scored after an illegal play, the head coach may request a coach’s challenge. Officials then review the play using video replay.

The most common situations reviewed through a challenge are offside zone entries and potential goaltender interference.

If the challenge is successful, the goal is overturned. If the challenge fails, the challenging team may receive a minor penalty for delay of game.

This rule was introduced to improve officiating accuracy and ensure important scoring plays are correctly judged.

Why the Coach’s Challenge Exists

The rule allows teams to correct critical mistakes on scoring plays while maintaining the pace and fairness of the game.

Key Takeaways

  • Coaches can challenge certain scoring plays.
  • Video replay is used to review the situation.
  • Common challenges involve offside or goalie interference.
  • A failed challenge may result in a delay of game penalty.