Tag: referee procedures

What Is a Faceoff in Ice Hockey?

IHM Knowledge Center

What Is a Faceoff in Ice Hockey?

What is a faceoff in ice hockey, when are faceoffs used, and how do they affect puck possession and game control?

Editor: Coach Mark • Updated: December 12, 2025

Short Answer

A faceoff is a method of restarting play where the referee drops the puck between two opposing players.

Full Explanation

Faceoffs are used to restart play after stoppages such as goals, penalties, offsides, icings or the start of a period. The location of the faceoff depends on the reason for the stoppage.

Faceoffs are taken at designated dots across the ice, including center ice, neutral zone and both offensive and defensive zones. Winning a faceoff provides immediate puck possession, which can be critical in special teams and late-game situations.

Players taking faceoffs must follow strict positioning rules. Violations such as early movement, improper stick placement or encroachment can result in a warning or removal from the faceoff.

Teams often assign specific players to key faceoffs based on handedness, strength and situational importance.

Why Faceoffs Matter

Faceoffs directly influence puck possession, especially during power plays, penalty kills and defensive-zone situations. A clean faceoff win can lead to immediate scoring chances or safe puck clears.

Key Takeaways

  • Faceoffs restart play after stoppages.
  • Location depends on the reason for the stoppage.
  • Winning faceoffs provides immediate puck control.
  • Positioning rules are strictly enforced.