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Rule 616 | Fouled from Behind

Rule 616 | Fouled from Behind

(Note 1) For the purpose of this rule, fouled from behind is defined as any infraction committed to an opponent either directly or diagonally from behind (beyond the fouled player's peripheral vision), that would normally be deemed a penalty, including cross-checking, high sticking, holding, hooking, slashing and tripping.

(Note 2) For the purpose of this rule a "breakaway" is defined as a player who is in control of and is propelling the puck in a desired direction, and is beyond his defending blue line with no opponent between him and the goalkeeper.

(a) A penalty shot/optional minor penalty shall be awarded to the non-offending team anytime a player is fouled from behind, or diagonally from behind by an opponent, and is denied a reasonable scoring opportunity during a breakaway.

(Note) The intent of this rule is to restore a reasonable scoring opportunity that has been lost by reason of a foul committed from behind during a breakaway situation. This penalty shall be assessed in the normal manner allowing for a “delayed penalty” and a change of possession prior to stopping play.

(b) If the opposing goalkeeper has been removed from the ice and an obvious and imminent goal has been prevented by the fouled from behind provisions, then the Referee shall stop play and award a goal to the non-offending team.