LaSalle Ball Hockey Association

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PLAYOFFS · GAME SHEETS · TEAM STATS · PLAYER STATS · SCHEDULE

SECTION 1: Facility Rules

All LBHA games shall be played in the gymnasium of LaSalle Catholic Comprehensive High School (LCCHS). Players are reminded that the gymnasium has been generously provided by the City of LaSalle for our activity and all players must abide by the rules imposed by the LBHA and the City. The City reserves the right to suspend all LBHA activities from LCCHS given the failure to comply with facility rules.

1.1 All players must enter and exit through the main doors of the gym facing the corner of Bishop Power and Centrale

1.2 Upon entering the building, all players may only access the main corridor, the main gym (game gym), the small side gym (secondary gym), provided changing rooms, and bathrooms. Unauthorized players may not access equipment rooms, offices, wood floor gym, and any other area of the building beyond gym corridor doors.

1.3 Main gym doors are to remain closed at all times while a game is in progress. In the case of urgency, players may use front main doors to enter or exit only when there is a stoppage in play.

1.4 Unauthorized players may not open main gym back and side doors.

1.5 All equipment belonging to the school is to remain in the school. Any acts of or attempts at theft will result in immediate expulsion and possible legal actions.

1.6 ABUSE OF EQUIPMENT

a)	All building, gym, and league equipment used by the league are provided to all players to increase the enjoyment of the game. Any defacement of property will result in automatic suspension.
b)	Given that the value of the item(s) of the league or school equipment is greater than the amount stated above, the league shall impose an appropriate fine such that it will be sufficient to replace the damaged item(s).
c)	Failure to pay the fine will result in the temporary suspension of the player (team) until the damages are paid in full. If the cost of the damages is not fully reimbursed by a given deadline, the player (team) in question shall automatically be expelled from the league.
d)	Abuse of and/or damages to equipment and building facilities are to be reported to league officials or league committee members.

1.7

Alcohol, drugs, and any illegal substances are strictly forbidden inside the school building and on school property. Failure to comply will result in immediate suspension of the player. Once you have entered the fence entrance, alcohol, drugs and any illegal substances will not be permitted. Anyone that is caught will automatically be suspended for 1 game (first offense).

1.8

Smoking is strictly forbidden in any part of the building. Smoking is only permitted outside the building’s main entrance doors (Bishop Power and Centrale St). Failure to comply will result in immediate suspension of the player (1 game suspension for a first offense).

1.9

There is to be no food inside the gym area. Beverages are permitted on the team benches and scorekeeping area only.

1.10

All garbage is to be placed in provided garbage cans. Littering inside the building and gym areas is strictly forbidden. Do not leave pieces of tape, empty water bottles, broken sticks, etc. inside the gym. All players must throw their garbage in the appropriate garbage bin.

1.11 VIOLENCE AND UNACCEPTABLE BEHAVIOR

a)	Acts or attempts of violence are strictly forbidden inside the gym, the school building, and anywhere on school property (Note: streets surrounding the school are also included in this rule).
b)	Any acts of violence will be punished by suspension, possible expulsion, and/or team expulsion.
c)	If the league feels that a player or players have exhibited unacceptable behavior involving verbal abuse, acts of violence, or property damage, the league reserves the right to substitute the above measures for more appropriate ones.

1.12 LOST AND FOUND

a)	All equipment must be picked up and nothing is to be left behind in the gym.
b)	All equipment left behind will be collected by the LBHA Lost and Found. All items found will be posted on the league web site under “Lost and Found”. Also, to report a lost item or to report the finding of a lost item, please contact the league via email.

NOTE: The league is not responsible for any stolen and/or lost articles. If any missing article is not claimed by the end of the season, it shall become the property of the LBHA.

SECTION 2: Playing Surface

2.1	Initial face-offs shall be taken at the indicated spot on the center line.

2.2	There shall be 2 additional face-off spots located to the right and left of each goal.

2.3	Player areas/benches are located along the side wall. All players must remain in their respective team areas/benches during game time. In the event of a fight, no player is allowed to leave the bench. All Players that leave the bench will be given a 1 game suspension. If a player leaves the bench and gets involved in the altercation a minimum 5 game suspension will be given. NOTE #1: If a player gets off the bench to stop an altercation they must restrain their own team player. This will not warrant the 1 game suspension for the leaving the bench. NOTE #2: If an entire team bench is cleared note #1 is void.

2.4	Players may not pass the “player area line” while on the team bench unless for substitution. A ball that crosses this line is still considered in play unless the ball falls into a concealed area (behind bench); in this case the referee will blow the whistle and award the ball possession to the team that did not put the ball out of play. The ball possession will be given where the ball exited.

2.5	Opposite the player area line, there shall be a referee area line indicating the referee area. The area is still in bounds for players but the referee is urged to stay within this boundary to avoid interfering with play and to avoid injuring himself and others. NOTE: This boundary may be crossed at any time the referee sees necessary.

2.6	Penalty benches shall be located next to the scorekeeper's table.

SECTION 3: Games Rules

3.1

The game of LBHA ball hockey shall be a 4 on 4 contest. Each team will have 4 players and a goalie on the playing surface. However, the minimum amount of players to participate in a game is 3 players and a goalie is the shorthanded team if so chooses.

3.2 GAME TIME

Teams shall play 3 periods of 15 minutes each.

During regulation play, time is stopped only during the last three (3) minutes of the third period (i.e.: 2-minute warning) if the score is within two goals or less on each whistle (i.e: injury, goal, penalty or any such stop in play).

If there is a significant delay in the game, the referee may instruct the scorekeeper to stop the time (referee’s discretion).
NOTE: The time does NOT stop in the event of a goal or penalty.

There is a 2 minute intermission between periods.

A regular season and playoff game begins with a face off at the center face-off spot.

A regular season game ends when

i.	Regulation time expires or
ii.	By Mercy Rule (see 3.3 g).

MERCY RULE: When a team is leading by 10 goals or more after two periods of play, the league will prematurely terminate the contest.

A playoff game ends when

i.	Regulation time expires and one team has scored more goals than the other
ii.	A goal is scored in an overtime period.
	NOTE: Mercy rule is still used for all playoff games

3.3 OVERTIME

a)	There is no overtime during the regular season.
b)	In the playoffs, if the score is tied by the expiration of regulation time, a 15 minute overtime period shall be played until a goal is scored and a winner is decided.

3.4 GAME OFFICIATING

a)	Each game shall have at least one non-partisan referee, equipped with a whistle which shall be the official game whistle.
b)	Referees shall be funded by the league and shall be paid according to the agreement made between the league and referees.
c)	Referees have the option to verify any stick before or during each game. In the event of a broken stick the team shall receive a first warning. A second infraction in the game the team shall receive a 2-min penalty.
d)	The referee must wear the jersey provided to him by the league. If the referee jersey is unavailable, the referee must wear a different color shirt than those of the teams playing.
e)	All referees must officiate according to the rules presented in this book only.
f)	Referees have the authority to penalize, suspend, and expel players from the playing surface as they see fit, given that this decision is supported by the guidelines presented in the LBHA rules.
g)	The harassment of referees shall warrant an immediate general misconduct with the possibility of a suspension.
h)	No player may talk back to the referee. The only player who may approach the referee, given it is done in an orderly and non-aggressive manner, is the team captain and/or assistant captain, and he may only ask a question concerning the interpretation of the rules and not to protest a call or the referee’s decision. Players not respecting this rule will warrant a minimum of a minor penalty for unsportsmanlike conduct.
i)	The referee has the ultimate right to end a game at any time if he feels that the continuation of the game would jeopardize the safety of players and spectators.

3.5 SCOREKEEPING

a)	A scoreboard shall be provided for every game in the scorekeeping area.
b)	A designated scorekeeper is responsible for indicating the current score, time keeping, and recording goals, assists, and shots on goal on the official game sheet.
c)	The scorekeeper must verify that all players have signed in and eligible to play.
d)	The scorekeeper may request the assistance of the referee at any time.
e)	No player may discuss or influence the decision of the scorekeeper concerning the awarding of points, the occurrence of a goal, or time keeping. Team captains must consult with the referee in order to request a change to the score sheet.
f)	The harassment of scorekeepers shall warrant an immediate general misconduct and possible suspension.
g)	Only the scorekeeper and the referee are allowed to write on the score sheet. No players may write on the score sheet.

3.6 TIMEKEEPING

a)	The official game time shall be indicated at the scorekeeper’s desk. A buzzer or ringing will sound indicating the end of a period or game.
b)	The scorekeeper will also be responsible for the timing of penalties and will inform the penalized players when their penalties have expired.
c)	The scorekeeper will also be responsible for recording the time in the event of a goal or penalty.
d)	Unless instructed by referee, the scorekeeper may not tamper with the official time.

3.7 GAME STATISTICS

a)	Game stats are recorded every game and posted on the league web site. Team stats and individual player stats are both equally recorded.
b)	In the regular season, a team is awarded 2 points for a victory, 1 for a tie, and 0 for a loss.
c)	Players earn 1 point for a goal or an assist.
d)	Only the last player to touch the ball before the goal scorer receives a point for an assist.

3.8 SCORING OF A GOAL

a)	A goal is scored only when the entire ball crosses the goal line.
b)	A goal can only be scored from a strike of a stick where the contact between the ball and stick took place below the height of the cross bar.
c)	A goal may count if the ball touches a player’s limb before entering the goal on condition that the touch was unintentional. Any goal scored by an intentional bodily strike at the ball shall be disallowed.
d)	A goal is acknowledged by the sounding of the referee’s whistle. The referee will also point to the net where the goal was scored. If no whistle has sounded, play will continue.
e)	If the occurrence of a goal is in question, the referee may consult the scorekeeper or league official.

3.9 DISLODGED GOAL CAGE

a)	If, while during game play, any player of any team (including goaltenders) dislodges the net unintentionally, game play shall resume and it will be the responsibility of the referee (or the goaltender) to reposition the goal cage in its proper place.
b)	If, while during game play, the goal cage is unintentionally dislodged and a goal is scored subsequent to this, it will be disallowed.
c)	If the referee is unsure of whether the goal was scored before or after the goal caged was dislodged, the referee may consult the scorekeeper or league official.
d)	If a member of the defending team, including the goaltender, dislodges the goal cage intentionally, he will receive a minor penalty for delay of game.

3.10 FACE-OFFS

A face-off will take place:

1)	At the start of each period.
2)	After a penalty call.
3)	If an injury occurs.
4)	After a goal is scored.
5)	Ball out of play (inconclusive).

The following is a guide indicating where face-offs will take place according to types of stoppages in play:

Reason for stop	Face-off location
Ball out of play (inconclusive)	Face-off spot is in the zone and on the side where ball was last touched by a player.
Penalty	Face-off spot is on the same side where the infraction occurred in the defensive zone of the penalized team.
Goal	Center face-off spot.
Start of period	Center face-off spot.
Injury	Zone face-off spot closest to where the injury occurred.

To take a face-off, both players must be on opposite ends of the face-off spot with their sticks on opposite sides as well. More specifically, the blades of the stick must be behind the cross line. Players of opposing teams must be on their respective sides otherwise the face-off will be retaken due to an offside call. The ball MUST touch the floor before being touched by a stick (No mid-air swinging).

The referee will verify with the goaltenders before dropping the ball when it is a center face-off. However, the referee is not obliged to check if the goalie is ready or wait for a team to prepare itself when it is a zone face-off.

QUICK FACE-OFF RULE: The referee will drop the ball for a face-off on two conditions:

1)	Both teams are prepared for the face-off, or
2)	10 seconds has expired until the last whistle blew. The ball will be put into play regardless of whether or not the players are ready for the face-off. Players should be ready to play at all times.

The referee will delay a face off if there is an injury, or if a team has called a time-out.

GOALTENDER’S BALL: When the goaltender freezes the ball, one member of the team must take it behind the goal line and is given five seconds to pass the ball back into play. If a pass is not made within five seconds, the player crosses the line without passing, or the player takes a shot on net, the ball is considered dead and will be given to the opposing team to take in the corner of the offensive zone. The referee will signal to the player playing the ball when to do so by whistling, indicating the start of the 5-second count.

PLAYING GOALTENDER’S BALL: After the goaltender from the defending team freezes the ball. A member of the same team must play the ball behind his goal line by making a pass before the play can continue.

1)	If this player plays the ball before the referee has signaled him to do so. The referee shall whistle down the play declaring a false start resulting in a loss of possession.
2)	If a pass is not made within five seconds, or the player crosses the line without passing, or the player takes a shot on net, the ball is considered dead and possession will be given to the opposing team to take in the corner of the offensive zone.
3)	If the player from the opposing team does not allow at least 5 ft of clearance to the player who is playing the ball behind the goal line (or anywhere on the court as a result of referee awarded possession), the team will receive 2 warnings per game and must give the distance allocated.
4)	If the team, who has been warned twice to increase distance, does not comply, the team will be penalized and awarded a minor delay of game penalty. This applies to all cases anywhere on the court where a player is awarded possession by the referee.

3.11 PLAYOFFS

All seven (7) teams will be eligible for the playoffs.
Quarter-Final round match-ups include: 1^st bye, 2^nd vs. 7^th; 3^rd vs. 6^th; 4^th vs. 5^th.

Advancing teams re-seeded in Semi-Finals.

Tiebreakers for teams tied in points:

1)	Team wins
2)	Head-to-head season series between the teams.
3)	Teams overall goal differential.
4)	Teams with higher shooting percentage.

All playoff match-ups shall be best-of-three series. In a best-of-three series, the team that wins two games wins the series

Upon a team’s qualification for the post-season, those players who have played a minimum of four (4) season games are eligible for the play-offs

A team may dress no more than 13 eligible players for a single play-off game.

3.12 TRADES AND FREE AGENCY

The league trade deadline is at 6:00pm (18:00) immediately before week 16 games. The league is to be notified by email or telephone (to any league representative to confirm the trade).

Throughout the season, teams may trade players to better their team. A trade is made when both the team captains of consenting teams agree to terms for a trade.

Only players may be traded: equipment or money is not trading material.

All trades are evaluated by the LBHA committee. Trades may be disapproved if the league feels that sportsmanship is not being honored. Players who are being traded must approve the trade.

A player is said to “belong” to a team if the player has played a minimum of one game for the specified team. He should also have filled out a player registration form.

A player’s membership to a team can be terminated by a league-approved trade, or if the captain releases him as a free agent and he is picked up by another team².

A player may not leave his team to play for another team without the consent of the two teams involved and the approval of the league committee.

A player becomes a free agent when

i)	A player leaves an existing team with the consent of his team captain and league authorities.
ii)	When a player's team has folded.
iii)	When a player's team has been expelled but the player in question has a clean disciplinary record and pending league approval.

Any team can invite a free agent to play for them with league approval. A free agent can choose which offer is most satisfactory to him.

Unlike trades, the acquisition of free agents may continue after the league trade deadline, specified on the league schedule.

SECTION 4: Teams

4.1 TEAM COMPOSITION

a)	A team must be composed of a minimum of 7 players.
b)	A player officially enters a team roster when he has played a minimum of one game.
c)	The player’s entry increments the number of players on the team roster.

4.2 TEAM COMPOSITION FOR GAME TIME

a)	A team may bring no more than 13 players and no less than 4 players to a game.
b)	If a team has less than 4 players for a season game, the team will be forced to forfeit. Two points will be awarded to the winning team, however player stats will remain unchanged; the forfeit game will not be considered as a game played for statistical data.
c)	Before game time, captains must check off their roster selection.
d)	To be eligible to participate in a game, a player must play 1 shift in the first period or be present before the start of the second period.
e)	If a player is injured and present for the entire game he may be inserted to the game roster and receive a game played toward this playoff eligibility. The team captain must notify the scorekeeper prior to the game.

4.3 TEAM UNIFORMS (applicable when team jerseys are available)

Each player will receive his own official LBHA jersey. Players may not exchange jerseys once they have been assigned unless they notify a scorekeeper priot to the game. Players without their team’s official jerseys may not participate in the game unless the jersey is of the same color as the team uniform. If the jersey is lost, it is the player’s responsibility to replace (i.e.: the same color jersey with the same or different jersey number must be acquired).

An exception will be made if the player in question is a newly added player to the roster. Any new player added to the team roster will be expected to sport his team jersey in his next game.
NOTE: Goalies are exempt from this rule.

4.4 TEAM CAPTAIN AND CO-CAPTAIN

a)	Each team must have a Captain and Co-Captain. The Captain or Co-Captain must be indicated on the game sheet for every game. The team Captain or Co-Captain is responsible for team finances, player rosters, team jerseys, equipment, and league communications. A Captain or Co-Captain must also maintain disciplinary control over his team at all times and he is responsible for any of his players’ actions. Failure to do so may result in possible suspension or team expulsion.
b)	The team Captain or Co-Captain shall be the only players with the privilege of discussing with the referee any questions relating to the interpretations of rules which may arise during the progress of a game.
c)	If the permanent Captain is not present, the Co-Captain shall be accorded the Captain’s privileges and responsibilities.
d)	No other player can debate with the referee during the course of a game.
e)	A complaint about a penalty is NOT considered by the league to be a matter “relating to the interpretation of the rules” and a minor penalty may be imposed against any player making such a complaint.
f)	Any player, including the Captain, who displays inappropriate behavior towards the officials shall be, assessed a minimum of a minor penalty.
g)	Each team must have a representative to present themselves as Captain and Co-Captain for the game (before the game starts) if both the Captain and Co-Captain are absent.

4.5

A maximum of 5 players are permitted on the playing surface at a given time for a single team – 4 players and 1 goaltender.

4.6

Substitutions - Substitution is allowed at any time for players. Goaltenders must wait for intermission for substitution, except in the case of injury.

4.7

Injured Players – When a player is injured so that he cannot continue to play or go to his bench, the play shall be stopped according to the referee’s discretion.

4.8 TEAM AREAS

a)	Teams must take their place on their respective benches. A player may leave the bench only in the case of substitution, the end of the period, injury, or unless instructed by the referee.
b)	No player may leave the gym except for the end of a period, in case of injury, or if ordered to leave by referee.
c)	A player may only leave the gym or the player bench during a stoppage of play. Players must wait until the next stoppage to reenter the gym and take their place on the bench.
d)	All equipment is to be placed under the bench to avoid interference with game play. Under the referee’s discretion, an interference minor penalty may be called if equipment is not properly concealed from play. NOTE: Players sitting on the bench must keep their sticks out of play and their blades on the floor.
e)	Any attempt to slow down or kick the ball by players on bench will result in “delay of game” penalty.
f)	Players may bring to the bench the following items only: water bottle, tape, medical items, extra sticks, extra equipment, personal belongings . NOTE: Teams may keep their equipment along the curtain wall as long as the equipment is not loose and is contained in a proper bag.

4.9 PLAYER (TEAM) FINES AND SUSPENSIONS

a)	If a player (team) receives a suspension, that player (team) will be ineligible to play for the duration of the suspension.
b)	If a player (team) receives a fine, that player (team) will be ineligible to play until the fine is paid in full. If player (team) fines remain outstanding at the end of the season, that player (team) will be ineligible to return for the following season unless the fine is paid in full.

4.10 TERMINATION OF A TEAM

a)	A team must inform the league of its termination prior to the commencement of the season in order to claim full reimbursement.
b)	If a team folds while the season is in progress, the team will NOT be reimbursed its registration fees.

4.11 EXPULSION OF A TEAM

If a team has not paid in full its registration fees by the specified deadline, the team shall be denied a team in the LBHA for that season.

If a team has not paid in full its registration fees by the specified deadline when the season has already begun, the team shall be expelled.
The following situations apply:

i)	If a team is expelled for the above reason but has paid less than half of its registration fees after jerseys have been distributed, the team shall not receive reimbursement but may keep team jerseys.
ii)	If a team is expelled for the above reason but has paid at least half of its registration fees before jerseys have been purchased, the team shall receive reimbursement for jerseys only.
iii)	If a team is expelled for the above reason and has not paid any amount of its registration fees after jerseys have been distributed, all players on that team will not be eligible to play in the LBHA unless they issue a personal payment of what is owed on a per player basis in order to pay for his jersey.

EXAMPLE: A 10-player team has been expelled for not paying $900 of registration fees after each player has received a jersey. If some players from that team wish to play on other teams, they must pay $90 (apart from the other team’s registration fees) to the league in order to reconcile the defunct team’s debt.
NOTE: The above situations do not apply to teams who provide their own LBHA approved jerseys.

A team risks expulsion if it accumulates numerous suspensions accrued amongst its players throughout the season.

A team that accumulates numerous penalty minutes (i.e. 200 PIM) by the end of the season risks expulsion for the remainder of the season, or can be denied the privilege of having an LBHA team for the following season.

If a team demonstrates excessive verbal abuse and/or excessive acts or attempts of violence toward any league referee, player or official will result in a suspension or team expulsion.

SECTION 5: Equipment

5.1

These equipment regulations are written in the spirit of "Fair Play”. If at any time the LBHA feels that this spirit is being abused, the offending equipment will be deemed ineligible for play until a hearing has ruled on its eligibility.

5.2 STICKS

All players may play with plastic or fiber glass blades with shafts made out of wood, plastic, or aluminum. Street hockey sticks are also approved stick types for LBHA use.
NOTE: No blade deemed dangerous will be allowed to be used.
Players not complying to this rule may not participate in any given game. A player that is caught using an illegal stick shall incur an “illegal stick” minor penalty and the stick shall be confiscated by the referee (see rule 3.4).

5.3 EQUIPMENT

All players must at the very least wear running shoes, team jersey, and use an approved stick. The following items are suggested league play apparel (i.e.: not mandatory):

-	Helmet
-	Gloves
-	Shin guards
-	Jock strap
-	Mouth piece
-	Protective eyewear

Items not listed above are NOT permitted unless otherwise authorized by referee.

5.4 GOALKEEPER EQUIPMENT

The following equipment is MANDATORY for all LBHA goalies:

-	Helmet with face mask
-	Jock strap
-	Neck protection
-	Leg pads
-	Chest shoulder pads
-	Goalie jersey
-	Elbow pads
-	Protective pants
-	Blocker
-	Catching glove

SECTION 6: Penalties

6.1 GENERAL RULES

All penalties are timed using the official game clock (i.e.: running time).

High-sticking calls are no longer minor penalties. They have been replaced by a change in possession rule (i.e.: the ball is handed to the non-offending team in a corner of their offensive zone).

No team can have less than the minimum of two players on the playing surface at one time, despite the number of penalized players.

When play is not actually in progress and an offense is committed by any player, the same penalty shall apply as though play was actually in progress.

A player receiving two or more penalties simultaneously cannot serve them concurrently.

In the instance when a team serves three or more penalties simultaneously, substitutes may be provided to satisfy the minimum number of players (2 + the goaltender) that must play on the floor at a given time.

FORFEIT RULE: If a team does not have the required amount of players to start a game by the scheduled start time, then they receive a penalty according to the delay they cause:

i)	You have a 5 minute grace before being penalized
ii)	5 minute delay (0:01–5:00): 2 minute major penalty
iii)	10 minute delay (5:01-10:00): 4 minute major penalty
iv)	15 minute delay (10:01-15:00): 5 minute major penalty
v)	First period terminates: forfeit

NOTE: The game starts when both teams have the required number of players. The clock starts according to its scheduled game time. The penalty is to be served IN FULL (i.e.: the penalty continues to be served regardless of whether a goal is scored).

6.2 MINOR PENALTIES

DURATION: Two (2) minutes

INFRACTIONS:

i)	Tripping.
ii)	Hooking.
iii)	Holding.
iv)	Holding in the corner (wrapping arms around a player).
v)	Goaltender interference (any contact with the goaltender whatsoever leading to restriction/interference of movement).
vi)	Delay of game (applies to goaltenders - freezing ball outside of goal crease area). The goal crease is the painted basketball key located on the gym floor.
vii)	Too many men on the playing surface.
viii)	Illegal stick (must be mentioned by the opposing team) see 5.2.
ix)	Playing with a broken stick.
x)	Roughing (includes body checks and violent pushing).
xi)	Boarding (any check of player into the wall of the playing area).
xii)	Contact (checking, pinning on wall, hand on opposing player’s back).
xiii)	Throwing a stick to block a shot during game play.
xiv)	Disorderly bench (i.e.: bench minor).

EXPIRATION:

Criteria:

-	The team scored against must be shorthanded⁴.
-	The team scored against must be serving a minor penalty on the clock.
-	If both criteria are satisfied, the minor penalty with the least amount of time on the clock shall terminate except when coincidental penalties are being served.

ii)

If, while a Team is short-handed⁴ by one or more minor penalties, the opposing team scores a goal, the first of such penalties shall automatically terminate. Coincident minor penalties to both teams do NOT cause either side to be "short-handed".

iii)

When the minor penalties of two players of the same team terminate at the same time, the Captain of that team shall designate to the Referee which of such players will return to the playing surface first in the case of a goal and the Referee will instruct the Timekeeper accordingly.

MISCELLANEOUS:

i)	A player shall be ruled off the playing surface (i.e.: general misconduct) for the balance of the game after obtaining three penalties. No additional suspensions will be handed out.

6.3 DOUBLE-MINOR PENALTIES

DURATION: Four (4) minutes.

INFRACTIONS:

i)	A DOUBLE-MINOR penalty is incurred when a series of two minor infractions are committed in succession by the same player.

EXPIRATION:

i)	A DOUBLE-MINOR penalty ends when it has been served to its entirety, or when a goal(s) is/are scored.
ii)	If a goal is scored against the penalized team during a double-minor penalty, the first of the two minors is terminated and the penalized player will have only the second minor to serve (i.e.: 2 minutes).
iii)	If the first minor has been served, and the penalized player is in the process of serving the second minor when the opposing team scores, then he may leave the penalty box as per completion of the minor.

6.4 MAJOR PENALTIES

DURATION: Five (5) minutes.

INFRACTIONS:

i)	Spearing
ii)	Slashing (hard/intent to injure, 2-handed)
iii)	Stick to the head/face
iv)	Hitting a player when down (additional game misconduct)
v)	Blatant intention to cause bodily harm (additional game misconduct)
vi)	Fighting (additional game misconduct if player(s) is/are uncontrollable)
vii)	Any action, intentional or not, that draws blood from the player of the non-offending team (additional game misconduct if act was intentional).

NOTE: any major penalty can lead to a suspension and/or game misconduct depending on the referee’s decision.

EXPIRATION:

i)	The offender must remain in the penalty box for the entire duration of the penalty. Under no circumstance shall he return to the playing surface unless the penalty has ended or game play has terminated.

MISCELLANEOUS:

i)	A player that is awarded both major and minor penalties on the same play (i.e.: two separate infractions during a delayed penalty), regardless of the order in which committed, must serve the major penalty before the minor penalty.
ii)	In the case of a major penalty imposed for the intent to injure an opponent by means of a stick or other weapon (note: the use of a fist/foot is considered by the league to be a weapon), the offender will receive a game misconduct and a substitute player designated by the captain must serve the 5 minute major penalty.
iii)	For all actions interpreted by the referee as “intent to injure,” the league shall be notified and the act shall undergo a review. The league reserves the right to expel any player as it sees fit.

6.5 GENERAL MISCONDUCT PENALTIES

DURATION: Ten (10) minutes
NOTE: A substitute player is permitted to immediately replace a player serving a misconduct penalty (i.e.: a team is not deemed short-handed if one of its players receives a misconduct penalty).

INFRACTION:

i)	Any player who displays erratic behavior and/or uses profane language (i.e.: unsportsmanlike conduct) towards players of the opposite team, the referee, the scorekeeper, or league officials.
ii)	The differentiation between a general and game misconduct penalty will be to the referee’s discretion.

EXPIRATION:

i)	Players are not to serve their game misconduct penalty in the penalty box.
ii)	Upon receiving a game misconduct penalty, the offending player is required to leave the gym immediately. Otherwise, he may receive an additional suspension.

MISCELLANEOUS:

i)	In the case that a player incurs both minor (major) and misconduct penalties, the minor (major) penalty can be served concurrently with the misconduct penalty.
ii)	When a player receives a major/minor penalty and a misconduct penalty simultaneously, the penalized team must play short-handed for the duration of the major/minor penalty. Once the penalty is finished, the captain can send a substitute to replace the penalized player for the remainder of the misconduct.
iii)	In the regular season, any player who incurs a general misconduct penalty shall be automatically suspended (See Suspension Section 6.7).
iv)	In a playoff game, any player who incurs a general misconduct penalty shall be automatically suspended (See Suspension Section 6.7).
v)	A game suspension ONLY applies to the total number of general misconducts (i.e.: the number of general misconducts equals the number of suspensions).

6.6 GAME MISCONDUCT PENALTIES

DURATION: Ten (10) minutes
NOTE: A substitute player is permitted to immediately replace a player serving a game misconduct penalty (i.e.: a team is not deemed short-handed if one of its players receives a game misconduct penalty).

INFRACTION:

i)	Any physical action resulting from intent to harm: stick to the head/face, hard slashing (i.e.: wind up above waist), fighting, or any other action that displays intent to harm (official’s discretion).
ii)	Any physical contact with an official resulting from an act of aggression, any personal (verbal) insult directed towards the referee, or any threat of inflicting physical harm onto the referee will result in a game misconduct suspension or expulsion.
iii)	Any act of frustration qualifying as a game misconduct that is committed near the end of a game may result in suspension of that player for the remainder of the current game and the entire subsequent game. This decision is under the discretion of the official. For example, a if player commits an act out of frustration during the dying seconds in a game whose score is lopsided, knowing that he will only serve an insignificant amount of time in the penalty box, only to claim retribution on one of the opposing team’s players, then he will be suspended accordingly.
iv)	In all instances, the game misconduct will be accompanied by a suspension at the referee’s discretion or handed out by the League Disciplinary Committee (See Suspension Section 6.7).

EXPIRATION:

i)	Players are not to serve their game misconduct penalty in the penalty box.
ii)	Upon receiving a game misconduct penalty, the offending player is required to leave the gym immediately. Otherwise, he may receive an additional suspension.

MISCELLANEOUS:

i)	In the case that a player incurs both minor (major) and misconduct penalties, the minor (major) penalty can be served concurrently with the misconduct penalty.
ii)	When a player receives a major/minor penalty and a misconduct penalty simultaneously, the penalized team must play short-handed for the duration of the major/minor penalty. Once the penalty is finished, the captain can send a substitute to replace the penalized player for the remainder of the misconduct.
iii)	In the regular season, any player who incurs a game misconduct penalty shall be automatically suspended (See Suspension Section 6.7).
iv)	In a playoff game, any player who incurs a game misconduct penalty shall be automatically suspended (See Suspension Section 6.7).
v)	Prior to the commencement of playoffs, a player will have his game misconducts removed from his current season record and starts the playoffs with a clean record. However, all misconduct penalties will remain part of his historical record.

6.7 SUSPENSIONS

The league reserves the right to suspend or expel any player as it sees fit.

The following acts are deserving of a suspension:

i)	Any personal, profane, and/or threatening comments aimed directly at the referee.
ii)	Refusing to leave the gym after receiving a general or game misconduct penalty.
iii)	Fighting (the severity of the suspension shall be representative of the acts committed).
iv)	Any other act that the referee deems harmful.
v)	Using the stick as a weapon.

GENERAL MISCONDUCTS:

i)	In the regular season, any player who incurs general misconduct penalty shall be automatically suspended for the next season game.
ii)	In a playoff game, any player who incurs a general misconduct penalty shall be automatically suspended for the next playoff game.
iii)	A general misconduct suspension ONLY applies to the total number of general misconducts (i.e.: the number of general misconducts equals the number of suspensions).

GAME MISCONDUCTS:
THREE STRIKES RULE: The duration of all suspensions handed by the league are defined by the three strikes rule based on the accumulations of Game Misconducts.
NOTE:

i)	First suspension: 1 game (minimum)
ii)	Second suspension: 3 games (minimum)
iii)	Third suspension: Expulsion for remainder of season plus playoffs

The differentiation between a general and game misconduct penalty will be to the referee’s discretion.

The league reserves the right to change any suspension given by the referee, as it sees fit.

Captains may appeal a suspension if they feel that a player of their team was unfairly issued a suspension by emailing the LBHA at [email protected]
NOTE:

i)	The three strike rule is applicable during the season and carries over into the playoffs (i.e. A first offense is carried forward into the playoffs where if a player incurs another strike it shall be considered a second strike and awarded a 3 games suspension (min.)).
ii)	A record is kept of all offenses committed by players. If the league feels that a particular player may jeopardize the safety of other players, then the player in question shall be expelled from the LBHA.
iii)	The committee reserves the right to expel any player permanently if it sees fit.

6.8 PENALTY SHOTS

INFRACTION:

i)	Player is tripped/held/hooked/hit from behind on a breakaway.
ii)	The goal cage is intentionally dislodged with intent of interfering with a scoring opportunity.
iii)	Alternatively, the referee may call a penalty if he is unsure whether or not a goal was scored prior or subsequent to the dislodgement of the goal cage (i.e.: too close to call). Referee’s discretion.
iv)	Goaltender throws stick on a breakaway in an attempt to obstruct the opposing team’s player.
v)	Any player who deliberately covers the ball with any part of his body in the crease (no penalty will be called as long as the ball can be accessed by the opposing team players; i.e.: lying in front of the ball is legal).
vi)	Picking up the ball in the crease area, throwing the ball out of the crease area (even if caught in mid air; ball must be tapped down).
vii)	The referee may call a penalty shot if he is unsure of the occurrence or legitimacy of a goal. Referee’s discretion.

The time required for the taking of a penalty shot shall not be included in the regular playing time or overtime.

The player who was on the receiving end of the infraction is the one to take a penalty shot. The exception to this is if the player is unable to proceed with the penalty shot as a direct result from the penalty. In this case the captain may appoint a substitute, playing on the surface at the time of the infraction, to take the penalty shot. The Referee shall then place the ball on the center face-off spot and instruct the player taking the shot to proceed when the goalkeeper is ready.

The player taking the shot must keep in motion towards the opponent's goal line. Once the ball is shot, the play shall be considered complete. No goal can be scored on a rebound of any kind. The play is dead after the ball has been immobilized or when it crosses the goal line.

Only a player designated as a goalkeeper, or back-up, may defend against the penalty shot.

The goalkeeper may attempt to stop the shot in any manner except by throwing his stick or any object, in which case a goal shall automatically be awarded.

While the penalty shot is being taken, players from both teams shall withdraw to the sides of the playing surface in front of their own player's bench.

OUTCOME:

i)	If, while the penalty shot is being taken, any player of the opposing team should by some action interfere with or distract the player taking the shot and, because of such action, the shot should have failed, then a second attempt shall be permitted and the Referee shall impose a major penalty (5 PIM) plus a minor penalty (2 PIM) on the player so interfering or distracting.
ii)	If a goal is scored from a penalty shot, the ball shall be faced-off at center. If a goal is not scored, the ball shall be faced-off at either of the end face-off spots in the zone in which the penalty shot was taken.
iii)	Should a goal be scored from a penalty shot, a further penalty to the offending player shall not be applied.
iv)	If the offense for which the penalty shot was awarded was such as to normally incur a minor penalty, then regardless of whether the penalty shot results in a goal or not, no further minor penalty shall be served.
v)	If the offense for which the penalty shot was awarded was such as to incur a double minor penalty, the penalty shot shall negate only one minor of the double minor penalty to be originally assessed.
vi)	If the offense for which the penalty shot was awarded was such as to incur a major or misconduct penalty, then the penalty prescribed for the particular offense shall be imposed regardless of the outcome.
vii)	The stick used to take the penalty shot must be a legal stick. If an illegal stick is used, the penalty shot, regardless of the outcome, shall be stricken and an appropriate minor penalty shall be imposed on the offending player.

6.9 GOALKEEPER’S PENALTIES

a)	A goalkeeper shall not be sent to the penalty bench for an offense that incurs a penalty. Instead, the penalty will be served by a substitute player from his team who was on the playing surface when the offense was committed. This player is to be designated by the captain of the offending team.
b)	A penalized player may not also serve a goalkeeper's penalty.
c)	A goalkeeper shall be given a minor penalty for freezing the ball outside of the crease area after being warned by the official not to do so (i.e.: after 1 warning), and any time after that (i.e.: repeated offense).

6.10 MULTIPLE PENALTIES

a)	The minimum number of players on the playing surface at any time must be two players, excluding the goalkeeper.
b)	In the case that an offending team has three or more players in the penalty box at the same time, substitutes will be placed on the playing surface so that no team has less than two players on the playing surface.
c)	During coincidental penalties, the number of players on the playing surface is not affected.

6.11 CALLING OF PENALTIES

a)	In the event of a minor/major penalty, the referee shall blow his whistle once the offending team has touched the ball and penalize the offending player.
b)	If the penalty to be imposed is a minor penalty and a goal is scored on the play by the non-offending side, the minor penalty shall not be imposed. However, if the offense is deserving of a major penalty, then the offending player shall be penalized regardless of whether or not a goal is scored. In the case of a double minor penalty, only half of it (2 minutes) will be served if the non-offending team scores before play is stopped.
c)	The resulting face-off shall be taken at the place where the play was stopped.
d)	If a team already serving a minor penalty incurs another penalty (delayed), and the non-offending team scores, then the delayed penalty is NOT called. However, the remaining minor penalties are NOT affected by the goal and must be served until completion or until another goal is scored.

6.12 SPECIFIC PENALTIES

Please refer to SECTION 7.4: SPECIFIC PENALTIES

SECTION 7: The Referee's Guide

7.1 GAME TIME PROCEDURE

Start of Game

The referee should arrive between 6:15 - 6:30 P.M. every week before the first game of the night.

New players need to be registered with the score keeper prior to game time. The player jersey numbers must also be recorded on the score sheet for statistical purposes.

The referee will stand at the center face-off spot, facing the player benches, with his right arm raised and holding the game ball. This sign means that the game is about to start and that the players should take their place on the playing surface.
NOTE: The referee may choose to talk to both captains before the game to brief them on certain rules.

When two players of opposite teams have taken their position for the opening face off, the referee will check with

i)	The scorekeepers,
ii)	Both goaltenders, and
iii)	The players’ bench, verifying if all players are seated and all equipment concealed.

The referee will then drop the ball and start the game. He absolutely must start the game at the time scheduled. If a team is signed in, but delays the start of a game, the referee will start the game regardless.

When the ball is put into play, the score keeper/timekeeper must start the time on the clock.

II.

Stopping Play

a)	When play is stopped for reasons stated in rule 7.2, the referee must whistle and then resume play as soon as possible by a face-off in the location specified under rule 3.11.
b)	The referee must indicate to players, the reason for the stoppage of play and quickly resume play in the case of a non-penalty call.
c)	In the case of a stoppage of play caused by the calling of a penalty, the referee will whistle once the offending team has touched the ball. The referee will point to the penalized player(s), inform the player(s) of the call, escort the penalized player(s) to the penalty bench, and inform the scorekeeper of the situation.
d)	The referee must tell the scorekeeper, what type of penalty it is (minor, double minor, major, misconduct), the respective penalty time, and the reason for the call or the description of the infraction (tripping, hooking, etc).
e)	The scorekeeper must also keep track of penalty time. He will indicate to players when their penalty has expired.

III.

Scoring of a Goal

a)	When a goal is scored, the referee must be sure that the entire ball has crossed the goal line and then whistle and point to the net where the goal was scored.
b)	The goal must then be reported to the scorekeeper by informing him of the number of the goal scorer and of the assisting player. When the information is relayed to him, the scorekeeper must record the number of the goal scorer, the assisting player’s number, the goal scoring team, and the time at which it was scored at.
c)	A referee may only resume when the scorekeeper has finished recording the information.

IV.

End of Period

a)	The referee will whistle twice or the timer will ring when the time on the clock has expired. All play must stop at the sound of the whistle/ring/siren.
b)	The referee will recuperate the game ball and time a 2 minute intermission. The scorekeeper must reset the game clock.
c)	The referee must verify that all players arriving late sign in at intermission.
d)	At the end of intermission, players must be ready to start next period. Teams will have switched sides and the referee will stand at center with his arm raised indicating the start of the next period. The ball will be dropped whether the teams are ready or not.

End of Game

a)	When the final whistle/siren sounds, the referee must recuperate the game ball and return it to the scorekeeper. He must then sign his name on the space provided on the game sheet.
b)	The scorekeeper must also sign the game sheet.
c)	The game sheet is then available for players to view. Absolutely no modification of player/game stats is to be made by anyone other than the referee and/or the score keeper.
d)	If any infractions occur during a game the referee must fill out a report on what happened. Also if a captain has something to contest they will be given a form to fill out as well as long as it deals with the current game.

7.2 UN-PENALIZED STOPPAGE OF PLAY

a)	Ball Out of Play: When the ball is unintentionally put out of play, the referee will whistle to stop play and a change of possession will be given at the location specified be the referee. This rule also takes effect when the ball touches the gym ceiling.
b)	Goalie’s Ball: Play is stopped when the ball is frozen by the goalie. The referee must whistle immediately after making sure the goalie has secured possession of the ball. If vision is impaired, he must count 3 seconds and if the ball is still not visible, whistle and stop the play. A player must then play the ball behind the goal line (see rule 3.10). NOTE: Goalies are urged to play the ball as often as possible in order to keep the game from slowing down.
c)	Frozen Ball: Play is stopped when the ball is immobilized by anyone other than the goalie and anywhere but the goal crease. A “Delay of Game” penalty shall NOT be called if players purposely freeze the ball in order to delay the game. However, the referee will not whistle the play down if the ball is immobilized by a player who is capable of playing the ball (i.e.: this does not include stepping on a ball to delay the game).
d)	Hand Ball: Play is stopped when a player encloses his hand over the ball. The ball must be tapped down. There is no hand passing permitted in the offensive zone (i.e.: stoppage of play) or in the goal crease by a defenseman (i.e.: penalty shot).
e)	Net Dislodged: Play is stopped when the net is dislodged unintentionally. Intentional dislodgement shall warrant a minor Delay of Game penalty.
f)	Injury: Play is stopped when a player is injured and resumes after the injured player has been taken off the playing surface (Time stops as well).

7.3 PENALTIES

OFFENSE	TYPE	MIN	DESCRIPTION
Abuse of Referee	Minor	2	Excessive complaints about calls
Abuse of Referee	General	10	Extreme verbal abuse directed towards the referee; Physical abuse directed towards the referee
Bench	Minor	2	Erratic, uncontrollable bench behavior
Boarding	Minor	2	Violent push or body check into wall
Contact	Minor	2	Body checks, pinning on wall, hand on back of opposing player
Delay of Game	Loss of Possession	0	Failing to make pass behind goal line after frozen ball within 5 seconds
	Minor	2	Not allowing 5ft of space for opposing player to play ball after 1 warning
			Intentionally dislodging goal cage
			Goaltender freezes ball outside of goal crease area
			Excessive complaining that delays game progress
Diving	Minor	2	Attempt to draw a penalty
Fighting	Major +Game	5 +10	Incontrollable pushing and shoving; Fist fighting, intent to injure
Goaltender Interference	Minor	2	Any contact whatsoever leading to restriction or interference of goaltender’s movement.
High Sticking	Loss of Possession	0	Raising stick above cross bar level in traffic or away from play
	Minor	2	Contact of high stick with face, head, shoulder area
	Major	5	Drawing blood due to a high stick to face, head, shoulder area intentionally or unintentionally
Holding	Minor	2
Holding in the corner	Minor	2	Wrapping arms around a player
Holding the stick	Minor	2
Hooking	Minor	2
Illegal Stick/Broken stick	Minor	2	Playing with illegal stick or broken stick after 1 warning
Interference	Minor	2	Blocking a player without possession of the ball
			Outside interference from benches (includes equipment)
			Intentionally sliding into a player to obstruct his path
Roughing	Minor	2	Body checks and violent pushing
Roughing	Major	5	Excessive violence in game play, kicking, punching
Slashing	Minor	2	Mild hacking, hacking at goalie pads and trapper.
Slashing	Major	5	Excessive hacking, swinging of stick to inflict pain.
Spearing	Major	5	Using stick as weapon
Throwing Stick	Minor	2	To stop the ball in play
Throwing Stick	Game	10	Used as a weapon
Too Many Men	Minor	2
Tripping	Minor	2
Unsportsmanlike Conduct	Minor	2	Complaints about calls, not displaying respect for other players, officials, rules, and facilities.
		2	A goalkeeper cannot remove any equipment to participate in team play (i.e. take a shot on goal).
	Game	10	Excessive aggression towards officials and players, profane language; erratic, uncontrollable behavior

7.4 SPECIFIC PENALTIES

This rule will provide more elaboration on specific penalties that may not be evident, and the referee’s procedure.

1)	Fighting In the event of a fight, it is the referee’s responsibility to separate the fighting players and keep the peace among players. Fighting (i.e.: fist fight) warrants an automatic game misconduct and suspension, therefore the game will not continue until the offending players have left the gym area. Also, upon review by the committee, it may lead to expulsion.
2)	High Sticking The blade of the stick may not be raised above the cross bar level. If a player is in traffic or away from play and commits a high-sticking infraction, then ball possession will be turned over to the opposing team. If the player makes contact with a high stick to a players face, head or shoulder will be assessed a minor penalty. While if actual contact is made with a high stick and blood is drawn due to the high stick to face, head, shoulder area intentionally or unintentionally a major penalty will be assessed.
3)	Sliding A player may not throw his whole body onto the floor to make contact with a moving player and/or interfere in any player’s path. This act will warrant a minor interference penalty.
4)	Delay of Game A delay of game penalty shall be called against a player who intentionally delays the game by any means. This rule is applicable to goalies as well. A delay of game penalty shall also be awarded to a goaltender that freezes the ball outside his crease.

7.5 TIME-OUTS

a)	Every team is awarded two time-outs per game. The time-outs will last 30 seconds each and will be timed by the referee. If the time-outs are not used, they do not carry over to the next game.
b)	A time-out can be called only during a stoppage of play.
c)	The two time-outs can not be used in the same period of play.
c)	When returning to play after a time-out the play will be placed where the timeout was taken. It will be a face-off or a team possession.

7.6 GOALIE’S TIME-OUT

A goalie may ask for a goalie’s time-out in the case that a goalie’s equipment needs readjustment or fixing. This is also only called when play is stopped. This does not count to the two team time outs per game.

7.7 LATE TEAMS

The official game time will start regardless of whether the teams are ready to play or not. Teams that do not arrive at the scheduled time will be forced to forfeit the game if they fail to show up by the second period. Two points shall be awarded to the opposing team.

7.8 SUGGESTIONS AND COMPLAINTS

Players may submit suggestions or file a complaint with the league by emailing the league. Complaints can only be made this way and may not be filed with a specific member of the league committee. Any player making a verbal complaint in an aggressive or abusive manner with a league official may be suspended or expelled.

-- END --
Please note that the rules listed above are non-negotiable.

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1.2	Upon entering the building, all players may only access the main corridor, the main gym (game gym), the small side gym (secondary gym), provided changing rooms, and bathrooms. Unauthorized players may not access equipment rooms, offices, wood floor gym, and any other area of the building beyond gym corridor doors.