What are the NFHS ice hockey points of emphasis for 2026-27?

Question

Accepted Answer

The NFHS Ice Hockey Rules Committee's overall goal is to cut violent and reckless play, which it calls the main threat to player safety. There are three points of emphasis:

1. Sportsmanship

Taunting opponents, including jumping into the glass by the opposing student section, has no place in high school hockey.
Coaches, players and goalies must keep their language free of inappropriate or abusive remarks.

2. Health and safety

Every player and goalie must be properly equipped, including neck laceration protectors.
Body checking is for gaining possession of the puck, not punishing or intimidating.
Boarding and checking from behind are among the most dangerous plays, and the player initiating contact is responsible.
Hits to the head, fighting, blindside hits, late hits and unnecessary contact must be eliminated.

3. Game management by officials

Face-offs: position players properly and make fair drops.
Icing: apply the rule correctly.
Offside: keep proper positioning. Missing an obvious offside undermines the game's credibility.