Refusing to start play: a second warning before suspending the game
Rule numbers: USAH 633(a) USAH 633(b)
If both teams are on the ice and one refuses to play after the referee orders it to, the referee warns the captain and gives the team 15 seconds. A team that still refuses gets a bench minor for delay of game. Under 2025-29 there is a second warning: only if the same team refuses to continue after that second warning does the referee suspend the game, with a match penalty to the team official or officials responsible. Rule 633(b) covers a team that does not go onto the ice promptly at the start of the game or a period: a bench minor, then a suspended game and a match penalty if it has not taken the ice and started play within five minutes. Every use of this rule is reported to the proper authorities.
- Clock
- Bench minor for delay of game against the refusing team.
- Scoresheet
- Bench minor; any match penalty goes to the responsible team official(s), plus a report.
Example
Upset with a call, a coach keeps the team at the bench after the face-off is set. The referee warns the captain, waits 15 seconds, then assesses a bench minor. When the team still will not line up, the referee gives a second warning before going further.
Common mistake: Skipping the second warning that 2025-29 added, or forgetting the required report.
Sources
- USA Hockey 2025-29 Official Rules and Casebook of Ice Hockey, Rule 633, p. 204 (PDF p. 238)
- USA Hockey 2025-29 Rule Change Summary, Rule 633(a)
Verified