Tag: team penalty

What Is a Bench Minor in Ice Hockey?

IHM Knowledge Center

What Is a Bench Minor in Ice Hockey?

What is a bench minor penalty, when is it called, and who serves it?

Editor: Coach Mark • Updated: February 26, 2026

Short Answer

A bench minor is a two-minute penalty assessed against a team rather than an individual player, and it is served by any player currently on the ice.

Full Explanation

A bench minor penalty is called when a team commits an infraction that cannot be attributed to a single specific player. Common examples include too many men on the ice, delay of game, or unsportsmanlike conduct from the bench.

When a bench minor is assessed, the team’s coach designates a player who was on the ice at the time of the infraction to serve the two-minute penalty.

The penalized team plays shorthanded for the duration of the minor unless a goal is scored during the power play.

Although no individual player receives a personal penalty record, the team is still penalized with a manpower disadvantage.

Why Bench Minors Exist

The rule ensures team accountability for collective errors, improper substitutions, or misconduct coming from the bench area.

Key Takeaways

  • A bench minor is assessed against the team.
  • It results in a two-minute penalty.
  • A player on the ice serves the penalty.
  • Common cause is too many men on the ice.