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 Safety |
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New Rule for Non-Checking
USA Hockey usually revises its rulebook every two years. The 2000-2001 edition imposes a MAJOR and a GAME MISCONDUCT on a player who causes an injury by checking in a non-checking game. Every game involving a girls' or women's team is non-checking.
Playing Near the Boards
The worst injuries in hockey involve head-first collisions with the boards. Players should adopt practices that minimize the likelihood of such collisions. These collisions tend to happen to players who are skating between one and two body-lengths from the boards. Therefore, we recommend that you try to position yourself very close to the boards or well away from the boards, but avoid positions from which you can be propelled head-first into the boards. If you find yourself headed for such an impact, USA Hockey recommends keeping your HEAD UP. The tendency to shield the face (which is already protected by a cage or shield) by turning the head down can increase the chances of spinal injury. Be careful. Your safety is important. Hockey is just a game.
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