Player Conduct Policy & League Rules

Bender Hockey League, LLC

Introduction

The Bender Hockey League (BHL) is committed to fostering a safe, inclusive, and fun recreational environment. This Player Conduct Policy outlines the standards expected of all participants, ensuring a positive experience for all players. We are a non-profit, co-ed, recreational hockey league where skill levels vary greatly, and respect, sportsmanship, and camaraderie are paramount.

This document establishes guidelines for acceptable behavior on and off the ice, focusing on fairness, inclusion, and safety. Failure to adhere to these rules will result in disciplinary action, up to and including expulsion from the league.

1. Player Behavior and Sportsmanship

1.1 Respectful Conduct

  • All players are expected to treat teammates, opponents, officials, and spectators with respect. This includes refraining from any derogatory remarks, gestures, or behavior.
  • Prohibited Actions:
    • Use of offensive language, racial slurs, or personal insults.
    • Harassment or bullying of any kind.
    • Any form of sexual harassment is grounds for immediate expulsion.

1.2 Zero Tolerance for Violence

  • Violence or threats of violence will not be tolerated under any circumstances.
    • Examples include, but are not limited to:
      • Throwing punches or any form of physical altercation.
      • Challenging or provoking a fight (e.g., “Want to fight?” or suggesting a location for a fight).
    • Course of Action: Immediate expulsion from the league for any such behavior.

1.3 Controlled Contact

  • BHL is a non-checking league, where contact should be minimal and controlled. Accidental or incidental contact may occur, but deliberate attempts to impede or injure another player are strictly forbidden.
    • Acceptable contact includes:
      • Body positioning to protect the puck.
      • Minimal incidental contact as a natural result of hockey play.
    • Prohibited actions include:
      • Checking, slashing, tripping, elbowing, or any deliberate act that impedes or endangers another player.

2. Skill Levels and Beginner Protections

2.1 Bender Rating System

The BHL uses a Bender Rating System (1-10) to gauge each player’s skill level:

  • 7-10 Rating (Advanced/Intermediate): Players in this range are expected to engage in full competition, including defending, stealing pucks, and normal hockey play. Physical contact must still be avoided, but defense should be assertive.
  • 1-6 Rating (Beginner): These players have special protections to encourage their growth and enjoyment of the game.

2.2 Protections for Beginner Players

  • Neutral Zone Protection: Beginner players (1-6 rating) are allowed to skate freely through the neutral zone without the threat of their puck being stolen.
  • Defense Responsibilities: Opposing players can use their sticks to block passes but are not allowed to poke check or make physical contact with beginners while they are in possession of the puck.

2.3 No-Contact Rule for Beginners

  • Beginner players must not be physically contacted while they have possession of the puck. This rule applies in all zones, ensuring a safe and supportive environment for new players.

2.4 Enforcement of Beginner Protections

  • Situations covered under the official USA Hockey Rule Book will be handled by the referee through penalties. However, other concerns like allowing beginners to develop their skills or unsafe play—such as reckless skating or crashing into the boards—may result in the BHL asking the player to consider playing in a different league, like ANIA’s A League, or at another rink.

2.5 Warm-Up Procedures and Captain Meeting

  • Captain and Referee Meeting: During warm-ups, the two team captains and the referee will meet at center ice to discuss how many beginners are on each team, help identify those players, and set a friendly, inclusive tone for the match.

3. Ice Arena Rules

3.1 Alice Noble Ice Arena Policies

  • The Bender Hockey League adheres to the policies and safety procedures set by the Alice Noble Ice Arena (ANIA). Failure to follow ANIA’s policies, including arena conduct and safety measures, will result in immediate expulsion from the league.

4. Season Participation and Fees

4.1 No Refund Policy

  • Refund Policy: All fees are calculated based on player registration 4 weeks before the start of the season. Once the season starts, no refunds will be issued for any reason, including quitting the league.
  • Commitment: By registering, players commit to the full season. This policy ensures the financial sustainability of the BHL as a non-profit organization.

5. Game Rules

5.1 USA Hockey Guidelines

  • The BHL follows the USA Hockey definitions for penalties and game conduct not explicitly addressed in this policy.

5.2 League-Specific Rules

  • Warm-Ups: Players will have 3 minutes for warm-ups before the start of the game. It’s recommended to stretch before stepping onto the ice.
  • No Checking: BHL is a non-checking league—remember, we all have to work the next day.
  • Slap Shots: Slap shots are allowed. However, keep sticks below the waist as much as possible to minimize risk to other players.
  • Shift Length: Keep shifts short and maintain high energy. If you’re on the ice longer than 2 minutes, you’re likely not skating hard enough.
  • Scoring Limit: Individual scoring is limited to 3 goals per player per game.
  • Shootouts for Tied Games:
    • In the event of a tie, the game will be decided by a 3-person shootout.
    • No player may take a second shot until all teammates have attempted a shot.
    • Shootout attempts carry over throughout the season, with the aim of giving everyone a chance to try a penalty shot.
  • Game Length: Each game will consist of three 17-minute periods.
    • The clock runs continuously, with the exception of injuries or a referee’s decision to stop play.
    • We follow the 3-3-3 Rule: In the last 3 minutes of the 3rd period, the clock will stop if the goal difference is 3 goals or less to allow for close games to play out fully.

6. Enforcement and Disciplinary Actions

6.1 Reporting Misconduct

  • Players and officials are encouraged to report any violations of this conduct policy to league administrators.

6.2 Consequences for Violations

  • Verbal Warnings: For minor infractions, such as mild trash-talking or accidental infractions of the rules.
  • Suspensions: Multiple warnings or any form of prohibited contact may result in suspension from future games.
  • Expulsion: Any act of violence, threats of violence, or consistent failure to follow the league’s core policies will result in immediate expulsion from the league without refund.

7. Conclusion

The Bender Hockey League is a place for players of all levels to enjoy the sport of hockey in a safe, respectful, and competitive environment. By adhering to this conduct policy, you contribute to a positive atmosphere for everyone involved. Let’s maintain the spirit of camaraderie and keep the focus on fun and fair play.

This policy is subject to review and update by the BHL Board of Directors as necessary to ensure the continued safety and enjoyment of all participants.

Updated: 10/01/2024