Tag: stick control

What Is High Sticking in Ice Hockey?

IHM Knowledge Center

What Is High Sticking in Ice Hockey?

What is high sticking, when is it penalized, and how do officials determine the severity of the infraction?

Editor: Coach Mark • Updated: February 20, 2026

Short Answer

High sticking occurs when a player makes contact with an opponent using a stick raised above normal shoulder height.

Full Explanation

Players must control their sticks at all times. If a stick strikes an opponent above the shoulders, a high sticking penalty is assessed.

If no injury occurs, the penalty is usually a two minute minor.

If blood is drawn, the penalty is typically a four minute double minor.

Accidental contact is still penalized because players are responsible for stick control.

Why High Sticking Matters

The rule protects player safety and reduces dangerous stick positioning during battles and shot attempts.

Key Takeaways

  • Stick above shoulder height causes penalty.
  • Minor penalty if no injury.
  • Double minor if injury occurs.
  • Players are responsible for stick control.

How Do Wrist Guards Protect Without Affecting Stick Control?

IHM Knowledge Center

How Do Wrist Guards Protect Without Affecting Stick Control?

How do hockey wrist guards protect the wrist and lower forearm from slashes while maintaining full stick control and hand mobility?

Editor: Coach Mark • Updated: January 7, 2026

Short Answer

Wrist guards protect exposed areas using lightweight padding and cut resistant materials while flexible design preserves hand and wrist movement.

Full Explanation

The wrist is vulnerable to slashes and puck contact, especially during shooting and board battles. Wrist guards add coverage where gloves end.

Modern designs use thin impact foams and cut resistant fabrics that absorb contact without stiffening the joint.

Elastic construction allows full wrist flexion and extension, preserving shooting mechanics and stickhandling precision.

Low profile shaping prevents interference with gloves, ensuring seamless movement between hand and forearm.

Why Wrist Mobility Matters

Wrist motion controls shot release and puck feel. Protection must secure exposed zones without limiting range of motion.

Key Takeaways

  • Padding protects against slashes.
  • Cut resistant materials reduce injury risk.
  • Flexible design preserves wrist motion.
  • Low profile fit maintains stick control.