Maine Novice Hockey League (MNHL) – Hockey Operations Guidelines
The Maine Novice Hockey League (MNHL) is committed to fostering a competitive yet welcoming environment for beginner-level adult hockey players. Our league structure, rules, and guidelines are designed to ensure fairness, player safety, and the enjoyment of all participants.
1. League Structure
- Teams: The league consists of four teams competing throughout the season.
- Season Format:
- Regular Season: Each team will play nine (9) regular-season games.
- Playoffs: A single-elimination round will determine the two teams advancing to the finals.
- Finals: The final series will be played in a best-of-three format to determine the league champion.
- Game Schedule: All games are held on Saturdays at either 6:00 PM or 7:30 PM.
2. Roster & Player Eligibility
- Team Formation:
- In the inaugural season, teams will be formed through a mystery draft selection process to promote balanced competition.
- Eligibility Requirements:
- MNHL is designed for novice-level adult players who are within their first five years of hockey experience or those returning to the game at a lower skill level.
- Players with prior high school, collage, or advanced hockey experience are ineligible, unless they are 50 years or older.
- Roster Composition & Substitutions:
- Each team may carry a maximum of 13 players at any given time.
- If a team has fewer than 13 available players for a game, a pre-registered substitute may be assigned.
- If a team falls below 10 available players, an emergency fill-in will be provided.
3. Game Rules & Format
MNHL adheres to the USA Hockey Rule Book, with additional modifications to enhance safety and ensure fair competition.
- General Gameplay Rules:
- No body checking is permitted.
- Zero Tolerance Policy – The league strictly enforces respect among players, officials, and team members.
- Goal Limit Rule: No player may score more than three (3) goals per game. Any additional goal scored will result in a penalty.
- Shot-Blocking Safety Rule: Sliding onto the ice to block a shot is deemed unsafe and will result in a penalty.
- Game Duration:
- Each game consists of three (3) 13-minute periods with running time. (unless there is a penalty)
- The final two (2) minutes of each period will be stop time.
- A five (5) minute warm-up is provided before each game.
- If the play is halted due to an injury or penalty the clock will stop.
- There will be a two (2) minute break between periods.
- Penalty Structure:
- Minor penalties: 2-minute penalty
- Major penalties: 5-minute penalty
- Game misconduct penalties: Immediate ejection, with an automatic suspension for the remainder of the game.
- Overtime & Shootouts:
- If a game is tied after regulation, a 5-minute, 3-on-3 sudden death overtime period will be played.
- If the game remains tied, a shootout will determine the winner.
4. Equipment & Uniforms
- League-Provided Gear:
- As part of the registration fee, players will receive a team jersey, socks, and helmet stickers.
- Protective Equipment Requirements:
- All players are required to wear full protective hockey equipment, including:
- Helmet
- Gloves
- Shin guards
- Elbow pads
- Hockey pants
- Skates
- Jock
- Highly Recommended: Full or half-shield visor/cage, neck guard and shoulder pads.
- Optional: Mouthguards.
5. Attendance & Player Conduct
- Game Attendance:
- There are no penalties for missed games, however, players are encouraged to communicate absences in advance with there captains to ensure appropriate substitutes can be assigned.
- Code of Conduct:
- The league upholds a strict zero-tolerance policy regarding unsportsmanlike conduct.
- Fighting is strictly prohibited and will result in immediate disciplinary action.
- All players, referees, and team personnel must be treated with respect at all times.
- Dispute Resolution:
- Referees have the final decision on all in-game rulings.
- Any disputes or concerns will be reviewed by the league after the game, with a decision rendered within the following week.
6. Additional Features
- Championship Recognition:
- The league champions will be recognized with an award at the end of the season.
- Community & Media Presence:
- The league maintains an active Facebook group and website where game photos, updates, and league news will be shared.
These Hockey Operations Guidelines are designed to promote fairness, competition, and sportsmanship while ensuring a structured and enjoyable experience for all participants.
For any further inquiries, please contact info@mainenhl.com
