Rule enforcement is also important for reducing the risk of injury. The stick is supposed to be used to control the puck. At some age levels, checking is not allowed at all. Players are more likely to be injured due to foul play than fair play. Parents and coaches are responsible for teaching kids how to play the game within the rules.
Officials are responsible for enforcing the rules.
Strict rule enforcement should decrease the likelihood of injury. Scott Grindel, M.D. is director of the Sports Medicine Fellowship Program at St. Vincent Hospital, Erie, Pennsylvania, and Director of Sports Medicine at Mercyhurst College, Erie, Pennsylvania. This information is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice. You should not use this information to diagnose or treat a health problem or disease without consulting with a qualified healthcare provider. Please consult your healthcare provider with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your condition.