What Happens when the Referee Loses Sight of the Puck in Ice Hockey?

The referee plays a vital role in the game of ice hockey. It is his or her job to make sure the game is played properly and in an efficient manner. However, occasionally the referee loses sight of the puck, even when it is in a potentially playable situation. Additionally, rules are in place that describe events involving the referee such as additional pucks on the ice and what happens when the puck hits the referee.

If the referee loses sight of the puck in ice hockey, he or she should blow the whistle and stop play. This situation most often occurs when a scramble is taking place and players are blocking the line of sight of the referee. The referee should first attempt to change his or her positioning, but sometimes stopping play is the only viable option, because the goalie could potentially have the puck covered. If the puck pops loose or goes into the goal after the whistle, the goal will be disallowed and a face off will take place at a spot near where the play was stopped.

If an additional puck somehow enters the playing area, then play will either continue or will be stopped depending on if it is interfering with the play. If the extra puck is directly involved in the play, then the referee should blow his or her whistle and stop play. However, if it is not affecting play and is near the referee, it should simply be picked up and play should be allowed to continue.

Another rule in place pertaining to referees in ice hockey is when the puck hits an official. If the puck bounces off a referee, then play is allowed to continue. However, if the puck hits the referee and goes directly into the goal, then the goal will not count. Additionally, if the referee is hurt by getting hit with the puck, then play will be stopped and a face off will take place when the referee is properly treated. These events do not happen very often, but any ice hockey referee needs to be aware of the rules that are in place in case the situation should arise.

Sources:

USA Hockey
Hockey Helmet