Interference in hockey is a penalty called when a player impedes the progress of an opponent who doesn't have the puck. It's a crucial rule designed to maintain fair play and prevent overly aggressive tactics that could injure players or disrupt the flow of the game. Understanding its nuances is key to appreciating the strategic depth of the sport.
This guide will delve into the intricacies of interference, covering various scenarios, common misconceptions, and the referee's role in making these crucial calls.
What Actions Constitute Interference?
Interference encompasses a wide range of actions, but generally speaking, it occurs when a player impedes the progress of an opponent who is not in possession of the puck. This could involve:
- Checking an opponent from behind: This is a common infraction and often results in a penalty. The rationale is that a player cannot defend themselves effectively when checked from behind, increasing the risk of injury.
- Pushing or shoving an opponent: Even without a significant check, pushing or shoving an opponent to disrupt their movement or position can be considered interference.
- Blocking an opponent's path unnecessarily: If a player deliberately blocks an opponent's path without playing the puck, they are likely to be called for interference. This is particularly true if the obstruction is blatant or prevents the opponent from a scoring opportunity.
- Using a stick to impede an opponent: Using a stick to hook, trip, or otherwise impede the progress of an opponent, even if the player doesn't have the puck, is interference.
- Contact in the defensive zone: While contact is expected in the defensive zone, excessive or unnecessary contact with an opponent not possessing the puck can still be deemed interference.
How is Interference Different from Other Penalties?
Interference is often confused with other penalties, such as hooking, tripping, or holding. The key difference is that interference primarily targets impeding an opponent without the puck, while the other penalties focus on specific types of illegal contact regardless of puck possession. For example, hooking involves using your stick to impede an opponent, regardless of whether they have the puck. Interference, however, focuses on the lack of puck possession by the impeded player.
What are the Penalties for Interference?
The penalty for interference is usually a minor penalty, resulting in two minutes in the penalty box for the offending player. However, the severity of the penalty can depend on the circumstances. A particularly egregious act of interference, such as one that results in an injury, could lead to a major penalty (five minutes) or even a game misconduct.
Is Interference Always Called?
While referees strive for consistency, the application of the interference rule can sometimes seem subjective. Factors such as the speed of the play, the proximity to the puck, and the intent of the player all contribute to the referee's decision. A slight bump in a less crucial area of the ice might be overlooked, while a more forceful or deliberate obstruction leading to a scoring chance will likely be called.
How Do Referees Determine Interference?
Referees must consider several factors when determining whether interference has occurred. These include:
- The position of the puck: Was the opponent who was impeded in possession of the puck? If not, interference is more likely.
- The intent of the player: Did the player intentionally impede the progress of the opponent? A deliberate attempt to obstruct will almost certainly be called interference.
- The impact on the play: Did the interference disrupt a scoring opportunity or otherwise significantly impact the flow of the game? This can influence the severity of the penalty.
- The force of the contact: Was the contact minimal or forceful? A forceful check from behind is more likely to be considered interference.
Can a player interfere with a player who just shot the puck?
Yes, a player can be penalized for interference even if the opponent has just released a shot. The key element remains whether the impeded player had possession of the puck at the time of the contact. If not, the action could still be classified as interference, especially if the player's actions directly impeded the impeded player's ability to get back into a defensive position or retrieve a rebound.
What is the difference between interference and boarding?
Boarding is a more serious penalty involving checking an opponent violently into the boards. Interference, while it can involve contact with the boards, doesn't require the same level of force or the explicit act of checking a player into the boards. Interference is primarily concerned with impeding an opponent's progress, while boarding emphasizes the violent contact with the boards themselves.
By understanding the intricacies of interference, hockey fans can gain a deeper appreciation for the game's strategic depth and the crucial role referees play in maintaining fair play. The seemingly simple rule of interference encompasses a wide range of actions and requires careful judgment by officials in the heat of the game.
