Game disqualification: a major, the rest of the game, and suspensions
Rule numbers: NFHS 4-6-1 NFHS 4-6-2 NFHS 4-6-5 NFHS 7-4-4
An NFHS game disqualification (GD) carries a major penalty plus a suspension covering the rest of this game and the next one. Suspensions grow with each GD during the season, playoffs included, unless a state association sets stiffer terms: game plus one for the first, game plus two for the second, game plus three for the third, and so on. The player may not stay on the team bench, in the penalty box or anywhere set aside for players. A teammate, but never the spare goalkeeper, goes into the box and comes back on when the five minutes are up. Every GD includes that major, and the book recommends that each one be reported to the state association.
- On the ice
- The player leaves the playing area; the team plays shorthanded for five minutes.
- Clock
- 5:00 major served by a substitute other than the spare goalkeeper.
- Scoresheet
- Record the GD and file the report your state association requires.
Example
A skater is disqualified in the second period. A teammate who is not the backup goalkeeper takes his place in the box for five minutes, and the disqualified player leaves the bench.
Common mistake: Letting the disqualified player stay on the bench, or using the backup goalkeeper to serve the major.
Sources
- 2024-25 NFHS Ice Hockey Rules Book, Rule 4-6-1 to 4-6-5, p. 24
- 2024-25 NFHS Ice Hockey Rules Book, Rule 7-4-4, p. 34
Verified