Release from 10.12.2024

DOPS statement: Bodycheck

Short text 133 CharactersPlain text

The Department of Player Safety (DOPS) of the win2day ICE Hockey League publishes a statement regarding the the review of bodychecks.

Press release 1381 CharactersPlain text

In the win2day ICE Hockey League, a legal body check is a controlled physical action designed to separate an opponent from the puck.

Legal Body Check Characteristics:

  • Shoulder-to-shoulder contact in the legal hitting zone
  • Arms kept down to prevent dangerous follow-through
  • Target is the torso, avoiding head or back
  • Proper timing and positioning
  • Fairness and sportsmanship

Illegal Body Check Characteristics:

  • Hits to head, back, or below hip
  • Pushing with hands
  • Cross-checking with stick
  • Elbow extension
  • Interference without puck possession
  • Boarding (dangerous push into boards)
  • Charging (excessive approach or jump)



Examples of Legal Checks (from the video)

  • Würschl vs. Auer: An open-ice check that separates the puck without excessive force
  • Valentine vs. Schwinger: Shoulder-to-shoulder contact considered fair
  • Friend vs. Richter: Legal check despite momentary puck loss

Illegal Check Examples (from the video)

  • Robertson vs. Friend: Charging due to approach and dangerous board contact
  • Nickl vs. Misley: Charging for leaving the ice, warranting a 2-minute penalty

Referees must exercise significant judgment, considering:

  • Circumstances of the check
  • Player positioning
  • Potential self-endangerment
  • Maintaining player safety

The goal is to balance physical play with player protection, ensuring fair and safe competition.