Revised Start of Game Procedures

Procedure Clarification

A few minor adjustments have been made and a revised protocol has been issued for the start of NYHL games. It will be phased in over the next few days.

For the first game of the night and each game that follows a flood, 12 minutes will go on the clock and the time will start immediately that the Zamboni doors are closed.  The Referees will peg the nets, meet the Team Staff and check the gamesheet while the clock is running.  At 10:30 the Referee will blow the whistle and go to centre ice for the opening faceoff.  In most games the puck will drop at 10:00 sharp. If the teams are not lined up and ready at the 10:00 minute mark the clock will continue to run to 9:45. If the game has still not begun the team least ready to start will be assessed a minor penalty for delay of game.

For games where there is no flood, the 12:00 minutes will start as soon as the previous teams have left the ice. The procedure from that point is the same as above.

It is important to remember that under the rules teams are required to be dressed and ready to play 15 minutes before scheduled game time. If the ice is available, the game officials will call the teams to the ice and the Start of Game procedure will commence. This early start provision does not apply to the first game of the day/night.

It is important during playoffs that the program stays on time to avoid curfews and to provide for overtime in those games where it may be necessary to determine a series winner.

Best of Luck to all in the playoffs!