Inline hockey follows a set of rules and regulations that are similar to those of traditional ice hockey but adapted for the inline skates and playing surface. While specific rules may vary slightly depending on the league or organization, here are some common rules and guidelines for inline hockey:
- Teams: Each team typically consists of five players on the rink at a time, including one goaltender. Substitutions are allowed during stoppages in play.
- Game Duration: A standard inline hockey game is usually played in two or three periods, with each period lasting anywhere from 10 to 20 minutes, depending on the league and level of play.
- Scoring: The objective is to score goals by shooting the puck into the opposing team’s net. A goal is counted when the entire puck crosses the goal line.
- Offside: Similar to ice hockey, there may be offside rules in place, requiring players to stay onside (i.e., the puck must cross the blue line into the offensive zone before any attacking players).
- Icing: Depending on the rules, some leagues may have icing rules, which prevent players from shooting the puck from their defensive zone across the opposing team’s goal line.
- Penalties: Penalties can result in a player sitting in the penalty box for a designated amount of time, leaving their team short-handed. Common penalties include slashing, tripping, hooking, and interference.
- Face-offs: The game begins with a face-off at center ice, and face-offs also occur after stoppages in play and when certain infractions occur.
- Equipment: Players are required to wear protective gear, including helmets, gloves, shin guards, elbow pads, and knee pads. Goaltenders wear additional equipment, such as leg pads, chest protectors, and a mask.
- Contact: Inline hockey allows for physical contact, but the level of contact permitted can vary depending on the league or age group. Some leagues may have more restrictive rules regarding body checking.
- Overtime and Shootouts: In some leagues, tied games may be decided through overtime periods or shootouts.
It’s important to note that the specific rules and regulations can vary between different inline hockey leagues and organizations. Players and coaches should familiarize themselves with the rulebook of the specific league they are participating in to ensure compliance with the governing guidelines.