7 - Special Game Rules Relating To Particular Grades

Special Rules for Atoms

The main emphasis for this grade is intended to be on "skills development" rather than "winning". The principal of 'equal opportunity' in respect to even ice time will apply in all games, regardless of skill level. This is enforceable through an application to the NSW Coaching Director, or NSW Development Officer on his sole recommendation, subject to the prior approval of the Committee of Management. As this is viewed as a critical element in the development and growth of our sport, a fine of $100.00 (no GST) will be levied on any club for every game of non-compliance with an approved recommendation.

Slap shots are prohibited in Atoms. A face-off will be taken in the defending zone of the offending player.

A minor penalty will be given to any player that intentionally uses his body to check another player, however:

• Accidental contact between two players going for the puck will not be penalised.
• "Riding off" an opponent is part of the skills of ice hockey and will be permitted, provided the opponent is not taken directly into the boards.
• Hip and shoulder checks will be penalised.

Any player in this grade that receives more than seven minutes in minor penalties in any one game will be excluded from the rest of that game. In applying this rule, only personal penalties are counted; ie: a two and ten penalty is counted as two.

Friendly games will be encouraged with ACTIHA teams during the season.

The Atom season will end with a round-robin tournament for all players registered in this grade. There will be no grand-final for this grade.