Tony Mariconda provided the following rule interpretation issued by Bob Hayden (USA Hockey Referee-in-Chief) regarding the portion of USA Hockey Rule 304(c) that's new for 2005-07:

New Rule 304(c) - Mouthpiece Rule Clarification

The new rule requiring Girls 8 & Under through 19 & Under to wear mouthpieces applies to girls playing on a Girls-registered team only.

RULING - Thus, if an 8 year-old girl is playing on a Girls 8 & Under team, she must wear a mouthpiece as per the new rule. If that same 8 year-old girl is playing on a Youth (boys) Mite team, she does not have to wear the mouthpiece since it is not required at that level.

Posted by Dave Aiello at 4:28 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Tony Mariconda provided the following rule interpretation issued by Bob Hayden (USA Hockey Referee-in-Chief) regarding the portion of USA Hockey Rule 502(a) that's new for 2005-07:

New Rule 502(a) - "Change in Scoresheet" Ruling

We've been asked to consider whether or not the score sheet can be edited after a game for the following scenario:

Player is assessed a major plus game misconduct penalty. It was for an automatic penalty (check from behind, fighting, spearing, etc.), where there is no option other than a game misconduct accompanying the major penalty. The player is ejected from the game. The scorekeeper fails to enter the game misconduct penalty on the score sheet.

RULING - The Referee is not changing a decision by entering the missing game misconduct on the score sheet. The penalty was properly assessed, including ejection of the player. Adding the game misconduct is a technical correction and not a de

Posted by Dave Aiello at 4:20 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Tony Mariconda asked that the news of the following charitable event be posted here on AAHArefs.org:

Dear Friends,

We've all heard of situations where an unsuspecting individual gets struck down by disease without the necessary medical coverage to pay for lifesaving treatment. Such is the case of Joe McDevitt. Joe is the brother of Mike McDevitt, the Atlantic District Officiating Evaluation Program Coordinator.

"How can we help?" That is the common question we have heard from so many people. The answer has now been provided by "The Friends of Joe McDevitt." On October 15, 2005 an auction will be held at All Saints Parish Hall in Bridesburg, located on the corner of Thompson St. and Buckius St. The event, from 7:30 to 11:30 PM will include food, beer and set-ups plus a D.J. will entertain all night. For the price of $25.00 a person you can enjoy a great night as well as support a wonderful guy in his ongoing struggle for a health

Posted by Dave Aiello at 4:15 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)