In a message dated 99-04-19 16:33:37 EDT, [log in to unmask] writes:
 
<< ....but does anyone know whether college players are required to tag their
own defensive blue line in order to recieve a [ass coming from their
defensive zone just after coming from the penalty bench... thi is the case in
USA (amateur youth
 hockey and olympic hockey, but I don't know the NCAA rule >>
The NC$$ rule was changed about two years ago in order to "speed up" the
game...prior to this, a player coming out of the penalty box (or if he skates
directly to the bench - his replacement) must make contact with his own
defensive blue line prior to accepting a pass from his defensive zone UNLESS
the puck is touched by another player (same team or opponent) in the neutral
zone. Now, as is evident by the Haydar goal and the Kerluke (man in the
crease *cringe*) goal, a player does not have to make contact with his
defensive blue line. For all you USA hockey and Federation enthusiasts, the
touch up rule still applies...imagine how difficult it is for officials
qualified to do games a various levels to apply these rules in a split
second!!!
 
DROP THE PUCK!
GO MAINE!!
Regards,
John