The Central Collegiate Hockey Association (CCHA) has been approved to utilize an experimental high stick rule for conference games during the 2023-24 season.

Aligning with the NHL rule on high-sticking the puck promotes consistency in officiating standards. This uniformity is crucial for players, coaches, and officials as it simplifies the understanding of what constitutes a legal or illegal play. It also facilitates smoother transitions for players advancing to higher levels of competition. Also, using the shoulder height for such calls allows the officials a much better frame of reference on playing the puck, rather than the current 4 feet rule.

The rule provides clear guidelines for both players and officials regarding what actions are acceptable during high-sticking incidents. It distinguishes between scenarios where a stoppage of play is warranted and instances where the play should continue, promoting fairness and reducing potential controversies over officiating decisions.

Maintaining the Flow of the Game: The rule's provisions for allowing play to continue when the puck is batted to an opponent or when a player bats the puck into their own goal help maintain the flow of the game. It minimizes unnecessary stoppages and keeps the game exciting for both players and fans.

The adoption of the NHL rule for "High-sticking the Puck" in CCHA's 2023-24 season for regular-season, conference games demonstrates a commitment to player safety, consistency, and fairness, while also ensuring that the game remains dynamic and enjoyable for all participants. This rule enhances the overall quality of officiating and contributes to the integrity and excitement of collegiate hockey within the CCHA.

NHL Rule 0.1 High-sticking the Puck – For infractions involving high-sticks, refer to Rule 60 – High-sticking. Batting the puck above the normal height of the shoulders with a stick is prohibited. When a puck is struck with a high stick and subsequently comes into the possession and control of a player from the offending team (including the player who made contact with the puck), either directly or deflected off any player or official, there shall be a whistle. When a puck has been contacted by a high stick, the play shall be permitted to continue, provided that:

(i) the puck has been batted to an opponent (when a player bats the puck to an opponent, the Referee shall give the “washout” signal immediately. Otherwise, he will stop the play).

(ii) a player of the defending side shall bat the puck into his own goal in which case the goal shall be allowed.

Cradling the puck on the blade of the stick (like lacrosse) above the normal height of the shoulders shall be prohibited and a stoppage of play shall result. If this is done by a player on a penalty shot or shootout attempt, the shot shall be stopped immediately and considered complete.