What equipment is required under NFHS rules, and what's the penalty for violations?

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Required for every player: HECC-certified helmet and facemask Neck laceration protector (required for players and goalkeepers) Skates, gloves and padded hockey pants Protective cup or pelvic protector Shin guards, elbow pads and shoulder pads Tooth and mouth protector (non-clear color) Penalties: Missing or illegal required equipment: misconduct on the first offense. A player who returns still in violation gets a game misconduct. Helmet off on the players' bench or penalty bench: misconduct. Exposed jewelry: misconduct, then game misconduct. A player wearing an electronic device (camera or microphone) on the ice: misconduct, then game misconduct. Team personnel may not use electronic devices to communicate with players during play. Neck guard missing or dislodged: the player may not stay on the ice during play. A minor penalty if they don't go to the bench when told to. Other NFHS equipment rules: Torn, ripped or unzipped pants are not permitted. Casts and splints are allowed only if adequately covered and approved by a physician. Goalie stick: the widened part of the shaft may extend up to 28 inches. A goalie can't play with a broken stick (minor). New for 2026-27: if a goalie's catching glove or blocker comes off, stop play immediately.