NCAA rejects rule changes regarding overtime, visors, and discipline

The NCAA rules committee met in Indianapolis recently to consider making rule changes regarding overtime, face shields, and discipline. The meetings saw little action, as the committee feels that the league is currently operating under appropriate rules that require very little changing.

"“I would say that generally, we dissected our game and ultimately believe our current rules are serving us well,”  said Tom Anastos, chair of the rules committee. “We continue to work to find ways to improve our game long term, but I would say we’re pleased with where we are right now.”"

The committee declined several rule changes, including making a change to overtime. Both a longer overtime, as well as 4-on-4 play received minimal support.

The committee also decided to leave disciplinary rules alone, including allowing referees to use video review video, or eliminating automatic one-game suspensions for certain DQ penalties. Plus, each individual conference will continue to pass out disciplinary suspensions for their own players.

"“I think the awareness that has been raised to this issue is important and significant,” Anastos said. “In meetings with conference commissioners, coaches and coordinators of officials, we believe it is best to continue to funnel reviews of this type as we are now.”"

The idea of moving away from full facial shields was also discussed, but no action was made to remove the rule. However, the discussion is not over, the NCAA just feels that they need to acquire more information before making any changes to the rule.

"“We are trying to be sure we help to collect data from any source that can be compared to NCAA data,” Anastos said. “The process has been challenging, but we will continue to work with leagues that use the shield so we can make an informed proposal if appropriate. We just don’t have enough information at this point.”"

However, the committee did agree with some rule changes, which will be forwarded to the playing rules oversight panel for it’s meeting on July 16th.

Here’s an overview of the possible rule changes, courtesy of uscho.com

"Hand Pass by Faceoff Player – The players taking a faceoff are not allowed to use their hand to play the puck. A violation of this rule will result in a minor penalty, similar to the NHL rule.Faceoff Procedure – The defending team’s faceoff player shall be required to put the stick down first. Previously, the attacking team was required to do so. Center ice faceoffs will continue to require the visiting team to put the stick down first.Goal pegs – Ten-inch goal pegs that are anchored into the ice or floor must be in place at all NCAA levels by the 2016-17 season.Faceoff Location – Offensive Scoring Opportunity: If the offensive team is attempting to score and the puck goes out of play — the faceoff will remain in the attacking zone.Faceoff Location – High stick/hand pass: In these cases, the ensuing faceoff will be one zone closer to offending team’s goal.Video Replay – Several changes were made to the criteria and process:• It is reviewable to determine if a goal was scored before a penalty occurred.• If an offsides or too many men on the ice penalty is missed and a goal is scored, it is reviewable until the puck leaves the offensive zone. This replaces the previous wording that only allowed the review to occur if the missed play directly led to a goal.• It was clarified that video review may be used without the restriction of games that are being broadcast on television.Penalty Shot/Shootout – During a shootout or penalty shot, if the goal becomes dislodged by the goalkeeper, the referee shall either award a goal (if intentional or if the goal was obvious and imminent) or allow the team to shoot again.Penalty Shot – If a player that is awarded a penalty shot is injured and unable to take the shot, one of the players on the ice at the time of the infraction shall be chosen to shoot.Look-Up Line – The committee approved the use of a warning-track style line intended to positively impact safety near the boards. The use of this line will not be mandatory, but is permissible."