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posted 08/31/2007 ICE FORUM ADULT HOCKEY ZERO TOLERANCE POLICY
In an effort to make ice hockey a more desirable and rewarding experience for all participants, the USA Hockey Youth, Junior, and Senior Councils have instructed the Officiating Program to adhere to certain points of emphasis relating to sportsmanship. This campaign is designed to require all players, coaches, officials, league officials and administrators to maintain a sportsmanlike and educational atmosphere before, during and after all USA Hockey sanctioned events.
Thus, the following points of emphasis must be implemented by all on-ice referees and linesman:
Players
A minor penalty for unsportsmanlike conduct (Zero Tolerance) shall be assessed whenever a player:
1) Openly disputes or argues any decision by an official.
2) Uses obscene or vulgar language at any time, including any swearing, even if it is not directed at a particular person.
3) Visually demonstrates any sign of dissatisfaction with an official's decision.
Any time that a player persists in any of these actions, they shall be assessed a misconduct penalty. A game misconduct shall result if the player continues with such action.
