Hockey is a fast-paced and physically demanding sport that requires skill, strategy, and strength. One of the most debated topics in hockey is whether it is legal to check the goalie. Checking, which involves physical contact with an opponent, is a crucial aspect of the game, but it raises questions about safety and fairness. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the legality of checking the goalie in hockey, and examine the rules and regulations that govern this aspect of the game. Whether you’re a seasoned player or a casual fan, this guide will provide you with a deep understanding of the intricacies of checking the goalie in hockey. So, buckle up and get ready to explore the world of hockey!
Understanding the Rule
What is checking the goalie?
Checking the goalie refers to a situation in ice hockey where a player from the opposing team physically contacts the goalie while they are in possession of the puck or immediately after they have played the puck. This contact can be either a hit or a push, and it is generally considered to be an infraction of the rules. The purpose of this rule is to protect the goalie and ensure their safety, as they are vulnerable when they are not in their net.
Why is checking the goalie illegal?
The rule prohibiting checking the goalie in hockey is an important one, designed to ensure the safety of the players on the ice. The main reason for this rule is to prevent injuries to the goalie, who is particularly vulnerable when they are outside of their crease. When a player checks the goalie, they are putting them at risk of serious injury, including concussions, broken bones, and spinal cord damage.
Another reason for the rule is to maintain the integrity of the game. The goalie is a critical player in hockey, responsible for stopping the puck from entering the net. If a player is allowed to check the goalie, it could disrupt the flow of the game and potentially alter the outcome.
Additionally, checking the goalie is seen as unsportsmanlike behavior, and goes against the principles of fair play and respect for one’s opponents. The NHL has a zero-tolerance policy for checking the goalie, and any player who engages in this behavior risk being penalized with a penalty shot, a major penalty, or even being ejected from the game.
Overall, the rule prohibiting checking the goalie is in place to protect the safety of the players, maintain the integrity of the game, and promote fair play and respect on the ice.
What are the consequences of checking the goalie?
In ice hockey, checking the goalie is considered a serious infraction and is strictly prohibited by the rules of the game. When a player checks the goalie, they are subject to a penalty, and their team may have to play short-handed as a result. The consequences of checking the goalie can be significant, both in terms of the immediate game situation and the long-term impact on the team’s performance.
- Penalty: The most immediate consequence of checking the goalie is that the player who commits the infraction will be assessed a penalty. This means that their team will have to play short-handed for a period of time, usually two minutes, while the other team has a power play. During this time, the penalized team must defend against the other team’s offensive pressure, which can be difficult if they are not careful.
- Goalie interference: In addition to being penalized, a player who checks the goalie may also be called for goalie interference. This penalty is called when a player makes contact with the goalie while they are in their crease, which can prevent them from making a save or clearing the puck. Goalie interference is a penalty that can lead to a goal being disallowed, which can be critical in a close game.
- Injury: Finally, checking the goalie can also result in injury to either the goalie or the player who committed the infraction. This can have serious consequences for both teams, as an injured player may not be able to play for an extended period of time, which can impact the team’s performance.
Overall, checking the goalie is a serious infraction in ice hockey, and players must be aware of the consequences of committing this penalty. While the immediate consequences may be a penalty or goalie interference, the long-term impact on the team’s performance can be significant, particularly if an injury occurs.
The History of Checking the Goalie
When was checking the goalie made illegal?
The act of checking the goalie has been a controversial topic in hockey for many years. It is a tactic that involves hitting the goalie while they are in possession of the puck, which can result in injuries and controversial calls by referees. In recent years, the NHL has taken steps to crack down on this type of play, but the history of checking the goalie goes back much further.
In the early days of hockey, checking the goalie was a common tactic and was not considered to be a penalty. However, as the game evolved and goals became harder to come by, teams began to rely more heavily on their goaltenders to make crucial saves. This led to an increase in the number of times that players checked the goalie, which in turn led to more injuries and more controversial calls by referees.
The NHL began to take a closer look at the issue in the 1930s, and in 1941, the league officially made checking the goalie illegal. However, the rule was not consistently enforced, and players continued to engage in this type of play. It wasn’t until the 1960s that the NHL began to crack down on checking the goalie more consistently, and the rule became more strictly enforced.
Today, checking the goalie is considered to be a major penalty in hockey, and players who engage in this type of play risk being ejected from the game. Despite this, there are still instances where players will engage in this type of play, and it remains a controversial topic in the sport.
How has the rule evolved over time?
Checking the goalie, once a common tactic in hockey, has evolved over time to become a more regulated aspect of the game. In the early days of hockey, checking the goalie was not only legal but also a critical part of the game. However, as the game evolved, the risks associated with checking the goalie became more apparent, leading to changes in the rules.
One of the earliest rules regarding checking the goalie was introduced in the 1886 Ontario Hockey Association rulebook. The rule stated that “the Goal-keeper may be checked or tripped when outside his goal, but not when the puck is in play.” This rule recognized the danger of checking the goalie while the puck was in play and aimed to protect the goalie from unnecessary injury.
In the early 1900s, the International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF) was formed, and it began to introduce new rules to regulate the game. One of the significant changes was the introduction of the “goaltender’s crease,” which was designed to provide the goalie with some protection from opposing players. The crease was marked on the ice, and opponents were not allowed to enter it until the goalie had control of the puck.
Despite these changes, checking the goalie remained a part of the game, and it was not until the 1920s that the NHL began to take steps to prevent it. In 1928, the NHL introduced Rule 25, which prohibited any player from striking the goalie or deliberately pushing or tripping the goalie while he was in his crease. This rule was updated in 1933 to include a penalty for any player who “jumps on or charges the goalkeeper” while he is in his crease.
However, even with these rules in place, checking the goalie continued to be a problem in the NHL. In response, the league introduced Rule 69 in 1949, which made it illegal to check the goalie from behind. This rule was designed to protect the goalie from being hit from behind, which could result in serious injury.
Over the years, the NHL has continued to update and refine the rules surrounding checking the goalie. Today, checking the goalie is generally prohibited, and players who engage in this tactic risk being penalized or ejected from the game. While checking the goalie may have been a common tactic in the early days of hockey, it is now a strictly regulated aspect of the game, designed to protect the goalie and ensure fair play.
Notable incidents that led to the rule change
The NHL has a long history of allowing bodychecking, which includes checking the goalie. However, several notable incidents in the past have led to changes in the rules governing this aspect of the game. Here are some of the most significant incidents that led to the rule change:
- The 1950 Stanley Cup Finals
In the 1950 Stanley Cup Finals, Montreal Canadiens’ defenseman Butch Bouchard checked Toronto Maple Leafs’ goalie, Frank “Ulkie” Jackson, behind the net. Jackson was injured and did not return to the game. The incident sparked debate about the legality of checking the goalie, but no rule change was made at the time.
- The 1969-70 Season
During the 1969-70 season, the NHL saw a significant increase in the number of goalie injuries, with many attributed to illegal checks. In response, the league introduced Rule 69, which prohibited any contact with the goalie when he was inside his crease. However, this rule was not enforced consistently, and players continued to check the goalie illegally.
- The 1980s
In the 1980s, the NHL began to crack down on illegal checks, particularly those targeting the goalie. In 1983, the league introduced Rule 69a, which made it clear that any contact with the goalie was illegal unless he was outside of his crease. The league also began to enforce the rule more strictly, handing out penalties for illegal checks.
- The 1990s
In the 1990s, the NHL continued to tighten its rules governing checking the goalie. In 1991, the league introduced Rule 69b, which made it illegal to check the goalie when he was in the process of making a save. The rule was designed to protect the goalie while he was in a vulnerable position.
Overall, these incidents highlight the long history of checking the goalie in hockey and the need for rules to protect the goalie from injury. While the NHL has made significant changes to the rules governing this aspect of the game, checking the goalie remains a controversial topic in hockey today.
Checking the Goalie in Different Leagues
NHL rules on checking the goalie
The National Hockey League (NHL) has specific rules governing the legality of checking the goalie. According to the NHL’s Rule 6 – Off-side and Rule 7 – Officiating, there are certain guidelines that players must follow when engaging in physical contact with the goalie.
Stick Rules
One of the most important rules to remember is that players are not allowed to use their sticks to check the goalie. This means that a player cannot swing their stick at the goalie or use it to push, shove, or strike the goalie in any way. Players are also not allowed to hold onto the goalie’s equipment or use it to gain leverage when checking them.
Body Contact
While body contact is allowed in hockey, players must be careful when checking the goalie. Any form of roughing, charging, or hitting the goalie with excessive force is not allowed and may result in a penalty. Players must also avoid using their elbows, knees, or other body parts to make contact with the goalie.
Positioning
When checking the goalie, players must be aware of their positioning on the ice. They must avoid making contact with the goalie when they are in the crease or in close proximity to the crease. Additionally, players must avoid making contact with the goalie when they are in the process of making a save or attempting to play the puck.
Penalties
If a player violates any of the rules regarding checking the goalie, they may be penalized with a minor or major penalty, depending on the severity of the infraction. A minor penalty results in a power play for the opposing team, while a major penalty results in a game misconduct and ejection from the game.
In conclusion, the NHL has strict rules governing the legality of checking the goalie. Players must be aware of these rules and avoid using their sticks, excessive force, or making contact when the goalie is in a vulnerable position. Violations of these rules can result in penalties and can have a significant impact on the outcome of the game.
Other professional leagues’ rules on checking the goalie
While the NHL has specific rules governing checking the goalie, other professional leagues have their own sets of rules and regulations regarding this topic. Here is a brief overview of the rules in some of these leagues:
European Hockey Leagues
In European hockey leagues, checking the goalie is generally not allowed. The International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF) has strict rules against hitting the goalie, and players who engage in this behavior risk being penalized with a penalty shot or a game misconduct.
Canadian Junior Hockey Leagues
In Canadian junior hockey leagues, checking the goalie is allowed, but there are some restrictions. Players are not allowed to check the goalie from behind, and they must make contact with the goalie in a legal manner. If a player engages in illegal checking, they risk being penalized with a penalty shot or a game misconduct.
American Collegiate Hockey
In American collegiate hockey, checking the goalie is allowed, but there are some rules in place to prevent injury. Players are not allowed to check the goalie in the head or neck area, and they must make contact with the goalie in a legal manner. If a player engages in illegal checking, they risk being penalized with a penalty shot or a game misconduct.
Overall, while the rules may differ slightly between leagues, checking the goalie is generally not allowed and can result in penalties or ejections if done illegally.
College and amateur rules on checking the goalie
In college and amateur hockey, checking the goalie is generally considered to be illegal. The following are some of the specific rules that govern this aspect of the game:
National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Rules
According to the NCAA, checking the goalie is strictly prohibited in all college hockey games. Any player who deliberately checks the goalie will be assessed a penalty, which could result in a penalty shot being awarded to the opposing team. Additionally, if a player makes intentional contact with the goalie while the puck is not in play, they will also be penalized.
Canadian Interuniversity Sport (CIS) Rules
The CIS, which governs university sports in Canada, has similar rules to the NCAA when it comes to checking the goalie. Players are not allowed to check the goalie at any time during the game, and any infraction will result in a penalty being called. However, unlike the NCAA, the CIS allows for some leeway when it comes to accidental contact with the goalie. If a player accidentally bumps into the goalie while attempting to play the puck, they will not be penalized as long as they do not make deliberate contact.
International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF) Rules
In international hockey, checking the goalie is also illegal. Any player who checks the goalie will be assessed a penalty, which could result in a penalty shot being awarded to the opposing team. The IIHF also has specific rules regarding intentional contact with the goalie, and any player who makes intentional contact with the goalie will be penalized.
In summary, checking the goalie is not allowed in college or amateur hockey, and any player who engages in this behavior will be penalized. While there may be some slight differences in the rules between different leagues, the overall principle remains the same: players must avoid making intentional contact with the goalie at all costs.
The Debate Around Checking the Goalie
Arguments in favor of allowing checking the goalie
- Increased offensive play: One of the primary arguments in favor of allowing checking the goalie is that it would lead to an increase in offensive play. This is because goalies would be less likely to hold onto the puck for extended periods, and thus, the game would be more fast-paced and exciting.
- Promoting player safety: Another argument in favor of checking the goalie is that it could potentially reduce the risk of injury to other players on the ice. By forcing the goalie to play more actively, it would be less likely that they would be in a position to be hit by an oncoming player, leading to fewer collisions and injuries.
- Ensuring fairness: Some argue that checking the goalie would make the game more fair, as it would prevent goalies from simply holding onto the puck for extended periods, which can be a tactic used to run out the clock or to prevent the other team from scoring. By allowing players to check the goalie, it would ensure that both teams have an equal opportunity to score.
- Increasing skill and technique: Finally, allowing checking the goalie could potentially increase the skill and technique required to play the game. Players would need to develop new strategies and techniques for getting around the goalie, and this could lead to an overall improvement in the quality of play.
Arguments against allowing checking the goalie
The topic of checking the goalie in hockey has been a subject of debate for many years. There are several arguments against allowing checking the goalie, which include:
- Safety concerns: One of the main arguments against checking the goalie is safety. Checking the goalie can lead to injuries for both the player checking the goalie and the goalie themselves. Goalies are vulnerable when they are outside of their crease, and checking them can result in collisions that can cause serious injuries.
- Unfair advantage: Allowing players to check the goalie would give a significant advantage to the attacking team. Goalies are an essential part of the defense, and checking them would allow the attacking team to disrupt the flow of the game and gain control of the puck. This would give the attacking team an unfair advantage and would change the nature of the game.
- Rules and consistency: Checking the goalie would also raise questions about consistency in the rules. The NHL has specific rules regarding checking, and allowing players to check the goalie would create confusion and inconsistency in the game. Referees would have to make judgment calls on whether a check on the goalie is legal or not, which could lead to confusion and controversy.
- Respect for the position: Finally, some argue that checking the goalie is disrespectful to the position. Goalies are an essential part of the team, and checking them would show a lack of respect for their skills and contributions to the game. Goalies work hard to protect their net, and checking them would undermine their role in the game.
Overall, these arguments against allowing checking the goalie highlight the potential risks and consequences of changing the rules of the game. While checking the goalie may seem like a simple solution to gain control of the puck, it could have significant implications for the safety of the players, the flow of the game, and the integrity of the rules.
How has the debate evolved over time?
The debate around checking the goalie in hockey has been a contentious issue for many years. Over time, the debate has evolved as new incidents and rule changes have come to light.
One of the earliest incidents that sparked the debate was the 1992 playoffs when Quebec Nordiques goaltender, Bill Ranford, was checked from behind by Chicago Blackhawks forward, Jeremy Roenick. Although Roenick received a penalty for the hit, it sparked a discussion around the legality of checking the goalie.
In 2002, the NHL introduced Rule 68, which specifically addressed checking the goalie. The rule stated that any player who intentionally or deliberately checks an opponent who is in the process of releasing the puck into the corner of the rink, shall be assessed a minor penalty for interference. However, this rule did not specifically address checking the goalie while he is in his crease.
In 2013, the NHL implemented Rule 68.1, which stated that any player who skates directly at the goalie, or any player who attacks the goalie, shall be assessed a minor penalty for roughing. This rule was implemented in response to several incidents where players were physically confronting goalies, including one incident where Boston Bruins forward, Brad Marchand, was suspended for delivering a shoulder hit to the head of Montreal Canadiens goalie, Carey Price.
More recently, in 2019, the NHL implemented Rule 70.1, which prohibits any player from intentionally making forcible contact with the head of an opponent. This rule was implemented in response to concerns around player safety and the potential for concussions.
Overall, the debate around checking the goalie in hockey has evolved over time as new incidents and rule changes have come to light. While some argue that checking the goalie is an important part of the game, others argue that it is a dangerous and unnecessary practice that puts players at risk.
Other Penalties Related to Checking the Goalie
Delay of game penalty
The delay of game penalty is a common penalty that can be called when a player deliberately delays the game by, for example, throwing their stick or dislodging the net from its moorings. When a player commits a delay of game penalty, the opposing team is awarded a faceoff at a neutral zone faceoff spot. In the case of checking the goalie, the delay of game penalty may be called if the player checks the goalie in a manner that deliberately delays the game, such as by sliding into the goalie or dislodging the net from its moorings. It is important for players to be aware of the delay of game penalty and to avoid committing this penalty in order to avoid giving the opposing team an advantage.
Goaltender interference penalty
In addition to the penalty for checking the goalie, there is another penalty related to checking the goalie in hockey known as the goaltender interference penalty. This penalty is called when a player makes contact with the goalie while they are in their crease or if a player impedes the goalie’s ability to make a save.
There are several scenarios that can result in a goaltender interference penalty, including:
- When a player pushes, shoves, or punches the goalie while they are in their crease.
- When a player skates into the goalie or makes contact with them while they are in their crease.
- When a player dislodges the goalie’s mask or other equipment.
- When a player uses their stick to interfere with the goalie’s ability to make a save.
If a player is called for goaltender interference, the opposing team is awarded a penalty shot. This means that one player from the non-offending team is given a one-on-one opportunity to score against the goalie without any defenders on the ice.
It is important to note that the goaltender interference penalty is not the same as the penalty for checking the goalie. While both penalties involve contact with the goalie, the goaltender interference penalty is called for impeding the goalie’s ability to make a save, while the penalty for checking the goalie is called for physically checking the goalie.
It is also worth noting that the goaltender interference penalty can be a controversial call, as some players and coaches believe that it can be subjective and open to interpretation. However, it is an important rule in hockey to ensure the safety of the goalie and to prevent any unnecessary roughness on the ice.
Unsportsmanlike conduct penalty
In hockey, the unsportsmanlike conduct penalty is called when a player engages in behavior that is deemed to be detrimental to the game. This penalty can be called for a variety of reasons, including checking the goalie, which is considered to be a dangerous and potentially harmful play. When a player checks the goalie, they are essentially trying to dislodge the puck from the goalie’s possession, which can lead to collisions and injuries. The unsportsmanlike conduct penalty is typically called when a player is deemed to be reckless or deliberately trying to hurt the goalie. If a player is called for this penalty, they will be ejected from the game and face a automatic one-game suspension. In addition, they may also face further disciplinary action from the league. The unsportsmanlike conduct penalty is a serious offense in hockey, and players are strongly discouraged from engaging in this type of behavior.
The Future of Checking the Goalie
Possible rule changes in the future
In recent years, there has been a growing concern about the safety of checking the goalie in hockey. With the increasing number of injuries sustained by both players and goalies, the future of checking the goalie has become a topic of debate among coaches, players, and officials.
Emphasis on Player Safety
The National Hockey League (NHL) has made a commitment to prioritize player safety. In response to the rising number of injuries, the league has implemented several rule changes to reduce the risk of injury. For instance, the league has banned blindside hits to the head, and players who deliver such hits face penalties and suspension.
Rule Changes Under Consideration
Given the growing concern about the safety of checking the goalie, several rule changes are under consideration. One proposed change is to prohibit any form of physical contact between a player and the goalie when the goalie is outside the crease. This rule change aims to reduce the risk of injury to the goalie and also prevent goalies from engaging in unnecessary roughness.
Another proposed change is to limit the number of times a player can check the goalie in a game. This rule change would prevent players from repeatedly checking the goalie, which can lead to injuries and unnecessary roughness.
The Impact of Rule Changes
If these rule changes are implemented, they could have a significant impact on the game of hockey. Players may need to adjust their playing style to avoid penalties and injuries, and coaches may need to rethink their strategies for attacking the net. However, these changes could also lead to a safer and more enjoyable game for all players.
Overall, the future of checking the goalie in hockey is uncertain, but the NHL is committed to making the game safer for all players. As the league continues to evaluate rule changes, it is essential to balance player safety with the excitement and physicality that make hockey such a beloved sport.
How might these changes affect the game?
As the debate over the legality of checking the goalie in hockey continues, it is important to consider the potential impact that any changes to the rules might have on the game. While it is difficult to predict exactly how these changes might play out, there are several potential effects that could arise.
One potential effect of changes to the rules surrounding checking the goalie is an increase in the number of goals scored. If goalies are no longer able to be checked, they may be more likely to leave their net in an attempt to play the puck, creating more opportunities for opponents to score. This could lead to higher-scoring games and more exciting action on the ice.
Another potential effect of changes to the rules is an increase in injuries. Checking the goalie is a risky play that can result in collisions and hard hits. If this play is no longer allowed, players may be more likely to engage in other physical contact, leading to more injuries on the ice. This could have a significant impact on the safety of the game and the health of the players.
It is also possible that changes to the rules surrounding checking the goalie could impact the strategy of the game. If goalies are no longer able to be checked, teams may need to adjust their game plans to account for this change. This could lead to more emphasis on passing and team play, rather than relying on physicality and individual skill.
Overall, the potential effects of changes to the rules surrounding checking the goalie are complex and multifaceted. While it is difficult to predict exactly how these changes might play out, it is clear that they could have a significant impact on the game of hockey.
The impact on player safety
Player safety has always been a top priority in hockey, and the legality of checking the goalie is no exception. When a player checks the goalie, there is a risk of injury to both the player and the goalie. The impact of checking the goalie on player safety can be significant, and it is important to consider the potential consequences before making a decision.
One of the main concerns about checking the goalie is the risk of head injuries. A player who checks the goalie is at risk of colliding with the goalie’s head, which can result in serious injuries. Additionally, the goalie is also at risk of injury when they are checked by a player. This can lead to concussions, neck injuries, and other head injuries.
Another concern about checking the goalie is the risk of injuries to the spine and neck. When a player checks the goalie, there is a risk of the goalie’s head snapping back and causing injury to the spine or neck. This can result in paralysis or other serious injuries.
The impact of checking the goalie on player safety is not limited to the players on the ice. Fans and spectators are also at risk of injury when a player checks the goalie. This can lead to injuries to bystanders, which can be severe or even fatal.
Overall, the impact of checking the goalie on player safety is significant, and it is important to consider the potential consequences before making a decision. The legality of checking the goalie is a complex issue, and it is important to carefully evaluate the risks and benefits before making a decision.
The potential impact on team strategies
Checking the goalie is a controversial topic in hockey, with many arguing that it should be legalized, while others believe it should remain illegal. If checking the goalie were to become legal, it would undoubtedly have a significant impact on team strategies. Here are some potential consequences of this change:
Increased Physicality
One of the most significant changes that could occur with the legalization of checking the goalie is an increase in physicality on the ice. Teams would be able to use their size and strength to intimidate the opposing goalie, which could lead to more hits and collisions on the ice. This could potentially result in more injuries and a higher risk of concussions for both the goalie and the player delivering the check.
Changes in Gameplay
Another potential impact of legalizing checking the goalie is a shift in gameplay. With the ability to check the goalie, teams may choose to focus more on defense, as they would have an additional tool to prevent the opposing team from scoring. This could lead to a more defensive-minded style of play, with fewer goals being scored overall.
Adaptations in Goaltending Techniques
Finally, if checking the goalie becomes legal, it’s likely that goaltenders will need to adapt their techniques to avoid being hit. This could result in a shift towards a more aggressive style of goaltending, with goalies using their skates and pads to block shots and clear the crease. Alternatively, some goalies may choose to focus more on positioning and angle, rather than trying to fight off opposing players.
Overall, the potential impact of legalizing checking the goalie on team strategies is significant. It could lead to a more physical and defensive-minded style of play, with goalies needing to adapt their techniques to avoid being hit. However, it’s important to consider the potential risks and consequences of this change, including the potential for increased injuries and a higher risk of concussions.
FAQs
1. What is checking the goalie in hockey?
Checking the goalie in hockey refers to any physical contact between a player on the opposing team and the goalie, typically when the goalie is in possession of the puck outside of the crease. This can include hitting, pushing, or otherwise impeding the goalie’s movement.
2. Is checking the goalie legal in hockey?
In most cases, checking the goalie is not legal in hockey. The rules of the game state that any contact with the goalie, including checking, is prohibited except for when the goalie is in the crease and actively attempting to make a save. However, there are some exceptions to this rule, such as when the goalie is out of the crease and has possession of the puck.
3. What are the consequences of checking the goalie in hockey?
The consequences of checking the goalie in hockey can vary depending on the severity of the infraction and the discretion of the referee. In general, checking the goalie is considered a penalty, and the offending player may be assessed a minor or major penalty, depending on the circumstances. If the check is deemed particularly dangerous or aggressive, the player may also be ejected from the game.
4. What is the crease in hockey?
The crease in hockey is the area immediately surrounding the goal, which is designated as a protected zone. When the goalie is in the crease, they are considered “out of play” and are protected from being checked by the opposing team. Players are not allowed to make contact with the goalie while they are in the crease, except for when the goalie is actively making a save.
5. Can the goalie be checked when they are out of the crease?
Yes, the goalie can be checked when they are out of the crease and do not have possession of the puck. However, once the goalie has possession of the puck, they are considered “in play” and cannot be checked, except for in certain circumstances where the referee may allow physical contact for the sake of fairness or to prevent a scoring opportunity.
