This applies to all skill levels and all game formats we play.

Why Stick Infractions Matter

Hockey is fast and physical, but sticks can quickly become dangerous when used incorrectly. These rules exist to:

Good stick work is about positioning and control, not force.

Slashing

Slashing is called when a player:

It doesn’t need to be a full baseball-style swing — forceful or repeated chops are enough.

Even if you hit the stick first, it can still be slashing if the motion is unsafe.

Hooking is called when a player:

If the stick becomes a tool to slow someone down, it’s probably hooking.

Even light hooks can be called if they affect a player’s ability to move.

High-sticking occurs when a player:

A stick above the shoulders is considered dangerous, especially in traffic.

Even during follow-throughs or battles, players are responsible for controlling their stick.

If you’re unsure whether a play crossed the line, err on the side of safety.

Good hockey isn’t about how hard you swing your stick — it’s about timing, positioning, and control.

Play hard. Play smart. Keep your stick safe.