Ball hockey, originally known as street hockey, is closely related to ice hockey. The game is played on foot on a non-ice surface, using a ball instead of a puck, and with different player equipment.
South Pittsburgh Ball Hockey (SPBH) follows USA Ball Hockey rules, which can be found in the USA Ball Hockey Rule Book.
We value good sportsmanship, and we expect all players, coaches, volunteers, parents & spectators to conduct themselves with respect and civility at all times. I understand that players who willfully or continually violate the rules of play may put other's safety at risk and these individuals are subject to suspension or expulsion at the sole discretion of the board of South Pittsburgh Ball Hockey with no fees refunded.
Here's an overview of some key rules and regulations:
Offside Rule
Offside is determined by a “floating blue line”. When the ball crosses the blue line, the attacking team is onside. They have the entire zone up to the center line with which to work the ball around and still be considered onside.
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The concept can be difficult to understand for non-hockey enthusiasts, but the simplest explanation is as follows:
Penalties
Foul language (swearing) will not be tolerated at any time, any level, for any reason if it’s directed at players, refs, fans or coach! A (1) minute unsportsmanlike penalty will be given out - all the time. No exceptions!
If the swearing continues, a 2nd (1) minute unsportsmanlike penalty will be given followed by a game misconduct (ejection) then a suspension.
Slamming sticks on any surface (i.e. on surface, boards, nets, glass, fence, etc. or anywhere else) is as follows: Any player who slams a stick on any surface will be assessed a (1) minute unsportsmanlike penalty. If any surface is damaged, player’s parents will be responsible for paying for the replacement.
Fighting is not permitted at any time at SPBH events and a single punch is considered fighting. There will be zero tolerance on this matter. Player(s) fighting will receive a major penalty, game misconduct and up to a 1-year suspension.
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Checking - Major penalties + roughing/intentional stick related incident will result in a 3-game suspension (or more).
Overtime Procedures
SPBH Overtime Procedures in the event of a tie at the end of regulation play:
- REGULAR SEASON GAMES & PLAYOFF GAMES: 3v3 for one 5-minute period with running clock. Game ends as soon as a team scores (a.k.a. "sudden death"). If still tied after 5-minutes, proceed to a 3-player per team shootout.
- FINALS (CHAMPIONSHIP SERIES GAMES): Overtime periods will be 5:00 running clock, and game will end as soon as a team scores (a.k.a. "sudden death").
Severe Weather
When current or forecasted weather calls for severe weather conditions, such as thunderstorms, extreme temperatures, etc, the games/practices will be cancelled. SPBH reserves the right to cancel games/practices in agreement with the coaches.
Authority of Referees
Stopping/Cancelling Game in progress - Referees have the authority to halt play at any time once the game is underway and award a win to either team regardless of the score.
Here's a summary of penalties and consequences:
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| Offense | Penalty | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|
| Foul Language | 1-minute unsportsmanlike penalty | Second penalty: Game misconduct (ejection) and suspension |
| Slamming Stick | 1-minute unsportsmanlike penalty | Damage to surface: Parents responsible for replacement cost |
| Fighting | Major penalty | Game misconduct and up to 1-year suspension |
| Checking/Roughing | Major penalty | 3-game suspension (or more) |