ACHA: blow the whistle when a goal is scored
Rule numbers: ACHA Rule Update Memo: Whistle after Goals
An ACHA memo covering every ACHA game tells referees to blow the whistle and point at the cage on every goal, so it is clear that play has stopped. It also notes that a referee may decide play is dead a moment before the whistle is actually heard, so a puck that comes loose or crosses the line before the whistle is heard has no bearing if the referee had determined play had stopped. On disputed goals, the referee may consult the other on-ice officials before deciding. This is an ACHA instruction layered on the NCAA book.
We must ensure play stops when a goal is scored.
- On the ice
- Goal: whistle, and point to the goal cage.
Example
Team A scores on a rebound and Team B's defender immediately shoots the puck down the ice. The referee has already whistled and pointed to the net, so nothing after the goal counts.
Common mistake: Letting play continue after a goal in an ACHA game, or ruling on a disputed goal without checking with the rest of the crew when it is unclear.