Checking (ice hockey)
|
|
Checking in ice hockey is the act of physically keeping an opposing player in check. It is not a penalty.
There are multiple types of checking:
- Body checking : Using the hip or body to knock an opponent against the boards or to the ice. This is often referred to as simply checking or hitting and is only permitted on an opponent with possession of the puck. Body checking taken too far is penalized as charging, as is hitting from behind. Body checking is usually not allowed for some amateur leagues or leagues with young children. Friendly games also usually omit this tactic. Some intramural university leagues do not permit body checking in order to reduce injury and avoid incidents of fighting. "Leaning" against opponants is an alternative to body checking but, if abused, may be penalized as holding.
- Poke checking : Using the stick to poke the puck away from an opponent.
- Sweep checking : Using the stick in a sweeping motion to knock the puck away from an opponent or deter him from passing.
- Stick checking : Using the stick to interfere with an opponent's stick.
- Forechecking : Rushing up the ice against the opposing team, towards the offensive zone.
- Backchecking : Rushing back to the defensive zone in response to an opposing team's attack.
External links
- Background on Checking (http://www.hockeycanada.ca/e/develop/checking/) from Hockey Canada