How do I tell unsportsmanlike conduct, abusive behaviour and discrimination apart?

• Unsportsmanlike Conduct (Rule 11.1): disrespectful behaviour that is rude, unpleasant, inappropriate or unprofessional, including protesting or disputing a call. Criticizing or protesting an official's decision is Unsportsmanlike Conduct.
• Abusive Behaviour (Rule 11.2): targeted, persistent or excessively profane conduct meant to intimidate, threaten, belittle or demean, often personal. Comments or actions that attack the official's character or integrity must be penalized as Abusive Behaviour.
• Discrimination (Rule 11.4): taunts, insults or intimidation based on discriminatory grounds (race, national or ethnic origin, skin colour or language; religion, faith or beliefs; age; sex, sexual orientation or gender identity or expression; marital or familial status; genetic characteristics; disability, without limitation). Gross Misconduct.

The two-question test (Rule 11.4 Interpretation 1):

1. Was the comment made in a negative context, with the intent to taunt, insult or intimidate another person?
2. Was the nature of the insult based on discriminatory grounds?

If both answers are yes, a Gross Misconduct under Rule 11.4 must be assessed. If there is any doubt about the nature of a comment, apply the test strictly.

If behaviour under Rule 11.1, 11.2 or 11.3 also involves discrimination, the person must be penalized under Rule 11.4 in addition to any other penalties.

Emotion versus inciting: the rule is not meant to over-penalize emotional responses of players and coaches, but referees must penalize behaviour intended to incite an opponent ('chirping'), and are told to work proactively with head coaches and captains on it (Rule 11.1 Interpretation 5). Celebrating a goal or important play is not restricted (Rule 11.1 Interpretation 1).

Source: Hockey Canada Playing Rules 2026-2028, Section 11. https://cdn.hockeycanada.ca/hockey-canada/Hockey-Programs/Officiating/Downloads/2026-28-hc-rulebook-e.pdf