NFHS 2026-27
Contact to the head: indirect versus direct
Rule numbers: NFHS 7-6-1 NFHS 7-6-2 NFHS 7-6-3
NFHS bans contact to an opponent's head or neck in any form and from any angle, whether with a shoulder, stick, elbow or hand. The rule splits it in two. Indirect contact starts below the neck and then rides up to the head or neck; it is a minor, or a major or GD when flagrant. Direct contact means the first force lands on the head or neck; the book treats this as flagrant, so only a major or a GD is available. The casebook illustrates each type.
- Clock
- Indirect: 2:00 minor (or major/GD if flagrant). Direct: 5:00 major or GD.
- Scoresheet
- Contact to the head with the tier assessed.
Example
A shoulder check makes first contact on an opponent's jaw. That is direct contact, so the choice is a major or a GD.
Common mistake: Calling only a minor for direct head contact.
Sources
- 2024-25 NFHS Ice Hockey Rules Book, Rule 7-6-1 to 7-6-3, p. 35
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