Coach's challenge: what it costs and how to ask
Rule numbers: NCAA 93.1 NCAA 93.4(b) NCAA 93.6 NCAA 93.7
Replay reverses a call only with conclusive video; if there is any doubt, the call on the ice stands. Some items may be reviewed only through a coach's challenge, including a goal preceded by an off-side play, a puck directed in by a hand, a distinct kicking motion or a high stick, goalkeeper interference on scoring plays, and a missed stoppage in the offensive zone before a goal. To be granted, the coach must say from the start that the request is for video review, name the reviewable item and the approximate clock time, and not stall. The first failed challenge costs the team its time-out; later failures, or a first one after the time-out is gone, are a bench minor for delay of game. A goal must be reviewed before the puck is dropped again.
If a review is not conclusive and/or there is any doubt whatsoever as to whether the call on the ice was correct, the original call on the ice will be confirmed.
- Clock
- Failed challenge with no time-out left: bench minor for delay of game.
Example
Team B scores. Team A's coach, who has already used his time-out, challenges the zone entry and names the time. The review shows the entry was onside, so Team A gets a bench minor.
Common mistake: Accepting a vague challenge with no item or time named, or forgetting the bench minor when the time-out is already gone.
Sources
- NCAA 2026-27 and 2027-28 Men's and Women's Ice Hockey Rules and Interpretations (IH28), Rule 93.1, p. 113 (PDF p. 116)
- NCAA 2026-27 and 2027-28 Men's and Women's Ice Hockey Rules and Interpretations (IH28), Rule 93.4(b), pp. 114-115 (PDF pp. 117-118)
- NCAA 2026-27 and 2027-28 Men's and Women's Ice Hockey Rules and Interpretations (IH28), Rule 93.6-93.7, p. 116 (PDF p. 119)
Verified