Hits from Behind – It’s Time We Got the Message
Hockey Canada and every hockey organization in the country has recognized the inherent danger in checks from behind. The recipient has no way to protect and often no way to anticipate being hit in this fashion. The act has been described as cowardly, mean and irresponsible, and every year the on-ice officials are urged to call the penalty closely, allow no latitude, and err on the side of strictness.
The NYHL referees have heard the message and heeded the intent. Since the season began on October 14th there have been more than 100 CFB penalties called and an equal number of suspensions issued by the League office. While it may be obvious that the officials did get the message it is equally apparent that some of the teams have yet to hear it.
Not only does the check from behind endanger the player receiving it. More than half the time the team serving the penalty is scored upon while they are short handed. Under the feeble excuse of playing “tough hockey”, the offender has committed the ultimate selfish act of hurting his own team. Good coaching will recognize that fact and act upon it through training, counseling and zero tolerance.
Suspensions alone are not an answer. They come after the fact and do nothing to protect against the offense happening or the needless injury that can result. Coaches, players and parents alike share the responsibility for eradicating the check from behind from the Canadian game. Working together they can make the needed difference. Not doing so unnecessarily risks injury, suspension and team success.
Teaching players the proper technique for taking a check is as important as teaching them how to deliver one. For parents, making sure your player understands the concept of respect for opponents is key to spreading the mind set necessary to wipe out this blight on the game. In doing your part with your players you will contribute to their safety as well.
Clubs also need to take an active role in eradicating the problem. The Liaison people are made aware every time there is a suspension. Teams that are frequent offenders need to feel considerable pressure from Club Executives who can emphasize the unacceptability of that kind of play by teams who carry their banner. Working together we can all make the difference. Those who don’t or won’t get the message will find themselves increasingly ostracized through suspension, exclusion and riding the pines while others play. With a little effort and common sense, none of that needs to happen.