DEFINITION: Hockey Hooking Penalty
In hockey, a hooking penalty refers to an infraction committed by a player who uses their stick in a manner that impedes the progress of an opponent. This penalty is called when a player “hooks” or uses their stick to impede the motion of an opposing player’s body or stick, causing a disadvantage for the opponent.
FAQs:
1. What constitutes a hooking penalty in hockey?
Answer: A hooking penalty in hockey is called when a player uses their stick to impede or obstruct the movement of an opponent. It can involve hooking the opponent’s body or stick and is generally penalized when it prevents the opponent from maintaining their position or gaining an advantage.
2. How is a hooking penalty determined by officials?
Answer: Hooking penalties are determined by the officials based on their judgment of the incident. They look for any situations where a player uses their stick in a way that hampers the movement of an opponent, whether intentional or not. If the officials deem the action to be an impediment, a hooking penalty is called.
3. What are the consequences of a hooking penalty?
Answer: When a hooking penalty is called, the penalized player is required to serve time in the penalty box for a specified duration, typically two minutes. During this time, their team will be shorthanded, playing with one less player on the ice. This can create a disadvantage for the penalized team and may result in the opposing team gaining a power play opportunity.
4. Are there any situations where a hooking penalty is not called?
Answer: There may be instances where a player’s stick makes contact with an opponent’s body or stick without impeding their movement. In such cases, the officials may determine that no hooking penalty should be called. The decision ultimately depends on the referee’s interpretation of the action and its impact on the game.
5. Can a hooking penalty be upgraded to a more severe penalty?
Answer: Yes, in certain cases, a hooking penalty can be upgraded to a more severe penalty if the officials deem the action to be particularly dangerous or intentional. If the hooking action causes injury or shows clear intent to harm the opponent, the officials may consider imposing a major penalty or even a game misconduct, which would result in the player being ejected from the game.
