Insights into hockey operations work during the playoffs

"The win2day ICE ICE Hockey League Playoffs have provided excitement and very competitive games. Playoffs bring out the best in teams, with high stakes and intense performances that create thrilling moments. Whether it’s the intensity of the matches, close scores, or standout players, the atmosphere of the playoff hockey have been full of energy and passion. Additionally, the unpredictable outcomes and underdog stories are keeping everyone on the edge of their seats. But the true story and satisfaction, is the fans exceptional support of this great product. The robust attendance underscores the fans’ deep enthusiasm and commitment to the win2day ICE Hockey League, contributing to the vibrant atmosphere of the play-offs," says Seitz. 140.000 spectators have visited the arenas for the playoff games so far, and the mark of one million fans in total was already broken during the quarter-final series.

Referees are intensively prepared for playoffs
Participation is not only something very special for the players and teams that make it to the playoffs, but also for the referee team. During the playoffs, officials undergo a comprehensive preparation process to ensure the integrity and smooth operation of the games. Lyle Seitz explains the most important aspects of this preparation.

Selection of Officials: "Only the most qualified officials are chosen to officiate during the playoffs. For instance, a reduced and restricted roster of referees and linesmen are selected to oversee the playoff games. This selection is based on their performance during the regular season and their ability to handle high-pressure playoff scenarios. Within each Round of Playoffs, the performance is evaluated each game night and the highest performing move forward".

Training and Briefings: "Prior to and within the playoffs, selected officials participate in specialized training sessions and briefings. These sessions cover various aspects, including rule interpretations, game management strategies, and handling of specific in-game situations unique to playoff hockey. This ensures that officials are aligned with the league’s expectations and are prepared for the intensity of playoff games".

Utilization of the Situation Room: "The Situation Room serves as the central hub for monitoring all playoff games. Equipped with multiple workstations and screens, it allows officials to review game footage, analyze critical moments, and ensure consistent enforcement of rules across all games. This centralized system aids in maintaining the quality and fairness of officiating during the playoffs".

Through these measures, the win2day ICE Hockey League ensures that officials are thoroughly prepared to manage the heightened demands of playoff hockey, contributing to the overall success and integrity of the postseason.

Good communication as the basis for success
In the playoffs, things get more heated on and off the ice than in the regular season. Behind the scenes, communication between the league’s hockey operations department and the teams can be intense, highly coordinated, and critical to ensuring everything runs smoothly. As there can be multiple layers for discussion, it is unique for each series, game, and/or team. Lyle Seitz provides an overview of how this communication typically works:

Game Operations and Rule Enforcement: "Hockey Operations keeps close contact with the teams to ensure all league rules are adhered to. This includes things like reviewing calls, ensuring player safety protocols, and addressing any concerns with officiating. The department may directly reach out to team management, coaches, or even officials to clarify situations as they arise. If there are any controversial calls or incidents during a game, Hockey Operations might communicate with the teams to explain decisions or request further review".

Officiating: "Before and during the playoffs, when required, there’s a dialogue between Hockey Operations and the teams about officiating. Teams may ask for clarification about how rules are being interpreted in the playoffs, especially regarding things like penalties or replay reviews. The win2day ICE Hockey League ensures that officiating standards are upheld. Any issues or concerns the teams have about the officiating can be raised with Hockey Operations, who might then communicate with the officiating crew".

Player Safety: "Communication with the teams is crucial when it comes to player safety. If a player is injured, especially in a high-profile incident, Hockey Operations will often follow up with the team’s staff. This ensures that protocols are followed, and decisions are made in the best interest of the players. Hockey Operations also monitors suspensions or fines related to player behavior. Possible player behaviour can alter from game to game and even shift to shift, so this is a constant and ongoing procedure".

Video and Replay Reviews: "The Hockey Operations department handles video reviews for contentious moments, like goals, major penalties, or major incidents. Communication with the game officials is frequent during these moments. Additionally, during the playoffs, teams might discuss these specific incidents from the game with the league to gain clarity on rulings or to ensure all aspects were properly reviewed".

Seitz emphasises that good communication is the basis for success, "it ensures that games run smoothly, that the integrity of the league is maintained, and that players’ safety and fairness are prioritized. The process is organized, efficient, and often takes place at multiple levels - from any team personal to the league office."