DEFINITION: Hockey interference penalties refer to penalties that are called by the referees in a hockey game when a player obstructs or interferes with the progress of an opponent who is not in possession of the puck.
FAQs:
1. Q: What actions are considered interference in hockey?
A: Actions such as body checking, impeding a player’s skating path, or preventing a player from reaching the puck can be considered as interference in hockey.
2. Q: Are there any exceptions to calling interference penalties?
A: Yes, interference penalties are not called when players are battling for the puck, if the contact is deemed incidental, or if a player is hugging the boards while both players are pursuing the puck.
3. Q: Can interference penalties lead to player ejections?
A: Generally, interference penalties do not result in player ejections unless they are accompanied by other major infractions or if a player receives multiple interference penalties in the same game.
4. Q: How long does a player serve in the penalty box for an interference penalty?
A: Typically, a player serves a two-minute penalty in the penalty box for interference, unless the opposing team scores a power-play goal before the time expires.
5. Q: Can interference penalties be challenged or reviewed by coaches?
A: No, interference penalties cannot be challenged or reviewed by coaches. The referee’s decision is final in such cases, and coaches have no recourse for disputing an interference penalty.
