A new season, a new set of rule changes.

The ASHL Rule Book recently underwent its latest evolution with the addition of several new rules, as well as some amendments to existing rules already in place.

In consultation with the full compliment of ASHL League Managers representing each facility, the following additions and amendments are what you need to know for this season.

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2.13(B) SKILL LEVELS – PLAYERS(AMENDED)

A Pro, Semi-Pro or Minor Pro (NHL, AHL, Europe, ECHL, UHL, CHL, WPHL, etc), NCAA Division I, II or III, University (USport) Major Junior (QMJHL, OHL, WHL, USHL); Women’s (or Girls) AAA, AA

Purpose – This rule was amended to provide better/stronger parity within the divisions

2.17 GAME PROTESTS – PLAYOFFS (AMENDED)

Protests during playoffs must be made within 24 hours of the conclusion of the scheduled playoff game.

Purpose – This rule was amended to allow team reps more time to gather facts of the game before protesting

3.2 HELMETS & GOALIE MASKS (AMENDED)

Ear-guard for helmets are not mandatory

Purpose – This rule was amended to provide further clarification of equipment requirements

4.6 TIME OUTS (AMENDED)

There will be no time outs before the start of the first period.

Purpose – This rule was amended to avoid teams taking extra time for late players/goalie.

4.9 LENGTH OF GAME (AMENDED)

In the event that a game is being played in an unsafe manner, the Referee or League Official (manager, Convenor or Designate), may decide at their joint discretion, to cause the game to convert to run time.

Purpose – This rule was amended to eliminate time being wasted due to unnecessary events that may occur during a game.

5.15(A) UNSPORTSMANLIKE CONDUCT – UNNECESSARY INVOLVEMENT (NEW)

• Any player that in the opinion of the referee enters an existing altercation, instigates further altercation during the same stoppage of play, or attempts to act as a peacemaker in an altercation, shall be assessed a Game Misconduct in addition to any other penalty assessed to the player.

This penalty may be assessed regardless of the existence of a fight or other penalty being assessed during the stoppage of play.

Purpose – This rule was added to expand on the “Third Man” penalty and further eliminate the additional players from involving themselves in altercations.

5.7 HIGH STICKING

There was an inadvertent omission of the game ejection penalty for the accidental high-stick causing injury. Until we get it corrected in the book next year, as a matter of policy and application, we recommend that in these cases the officials assess the major penalty for the high stick under 5.7 and assess a game ejection under 5.17.