Obscene language after the game: a game misconduct
Rule numbers: USAH 601(d)(10) USAH 601(c)(2)
USA Hockey now treats abusive language after the game more severely than the same language before or during it. Under 601(c)(2), obscene, profane or abusive language aimed at anyone at the rink, before the game or while it is being played, is a misconduct for the player. Under 601(d)(10), the same conduct after the game is a game misconduct, and paragraph (d) applies to players and team officials. A game misconduct also suspends the person for the team's next game under 404(b), and every game misconduct must be reported to the proper authorities. The game is not over for the crew until the report is done.
Using obscene, profane or abusive language to any person anywhere in the rink after the game.
- Scoresheet
- Game misconduct under 601(d)(10), recorded as 10 minutes in the records, plus a report.
Example
After the handshake line, a Team B player skates past the officials and directs a profane remark at the referee. The referee assesses a game misconduct under 601(d)(10), records it on the scoresheet and files the report.
Common mistake: Giving only a misconduct for post-game abuse, or not writing it up because the game was over.
Sources
- USA Hockey 2025-29 Official Rules and Casebook of Ice Hockey, Rule 601(c)(2), p. 176 (PDF p. 210)
- USA Hockey 2025-29 Official Rules and Casebook of Ice Hockey, Rule 601(d)(10), p. 177 (PDF p. 211)
- USA Hockey 2025-29 Official Rules and Casebook of Ice Hockey, Rule 404(b), p. 87 (PDF p. 121)
- USA Hockey 2025-29 Rule Change Summary, Rule 601(d)
Verified