* There will now be a MINIMUM of six checks per team, per game. There is still the possibility of the coach's request for equipment check, but there will be the 6 stick-only checks as well.
* The checks between the 1st and 3rd periods are gone, because they can be anticipated. The intent is to make these totally random, so you may see them called after a goal, before a faceoff, after a timeout call, during injury time, etc.
* Most of the checks will be done in the 1st thru 3rd quarters. The coaches do not want this random check occuring in the final two minutes, although the coach could do his requested one then.
* When called, a stick from each team will be taken
* If done after a goal, the goal scorer's stick and a long pole will be obtained. If the goal scorer's stick is illegal, the goal is taken off the board and the penalty is assessed.
* If done before a faceoff, both faceoff guys will be called.
* The checks after goals will be balanced between teams - say two on Team A after goals and two on Team B. (Assuming Team B scores!
)
* The '07 Rule Book also put back in this year the requirement that head width be measured on the front and BACK of the stick - 6.5" for each. This had been in the rule book several years ago - was taken out - and put back in specifically this year. We will find out if this will be part of the stick check procedure during the meetings. An interesting point - the stick measurements designed for '09 say 6.5" on the front and 6" on the back. It would be nice if they would adopt that for the current season, but as of now, the rule book says 6.5" front and back.
We were the first group to hear about this at the Convention. Needless to say, it created a LOT of discussion and buzz. When it is announced at the NCAA Rules Clinic on Saturday to the whole group, it will be interesting - Should sound like the British House of Commons!
You've been alerted. This will be happening this season.
