The goalkeeper never serves time in the penalty box
Rule numbers: USAH 407(a) USAH 407(b) USAH 407(c)
A goalkeeper's penalties are charged to the goalkeeper but served by a teammate. For a minor or misconduct, and for any other time penalty, a teammate who was on the ice at the moment of the foul serves it. The coach designates that player through the captain, and the choice cannot be changed. If the goalkeeper gets a game misconduct or match penalty, the goalkeeper also leaves the game and is replaced by a substitute goalkeeper, a temporary goalkeeper or an extra skater. Every minute is charged in the records against the goalkeeper, no matter who sat in the box. Separately, Rule 407(c) gives a goalkeeper a minor for deliberately taking part in the play beyond the center red line.
All penalties assessed to a goalkeeper, regardless of who serves the penalty, or any substitution, shall be charged in the records against the goalkeeper.
- On the ice
- A teammate from the ice at the moment of the foul goes to the box; the goalkeeper stays in net unless ejected.
- Clock
- The penalty time is posted under the serving player's number.
- Scoresheet
- The penalty is charged to the goalkeeper, with the server noted.
Example
The Team B goalkeeper slashes a Team A forward at the crease and is given a minor. The coach, through the captain, sends a forward who was on the ice to the box. The scoresheet charges the slashing minor to the goalkeeper.
Common mistake: Letting a player who was on the bench serve the goalkeeper's penalty, or charging the penalty minutes to the player who served them.
Sources
- USA Hockey 2025-29 Official Rules and Casebook of Ice Hockey, Rule 407(a)-(b), p. 91 (PDF p. 125)
- USA Hockey 2025-29 Official Rules and Casebook of Ice Hockey, Rule 407(b) (Note), 407(c), p. 92 (PDF p. 126)
- USA Hockey 2025-29 Rule Change Summary, Rule 407
Verified