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Ringette Rules

Basic Rules​

Ringette has unique rules that emphasize teamwork, strategy, and fair play. Here are the main rules of the game. The complete rule book can be found on Ringette Canada's website

Passing Across the Blue Lines​

  • Players cannot carry the ring across either of the blue lines. It must be passed to a teammate.
  • This rule promotes team play and prevents individual players from dominating the game.

The Shot Clock​

  • Teams have 30 seconds to take a shot on goal after gaining possession of the ring.
  • If they don’t shoot within 30 seconds, the opposing team gains possession.
  • The shot clock resets when:
    • A shot on goal is taken.
    • The opposing team gains control of the ring.

The Crease​

  • Only the goalie is allowed inside the crease.
  • Players cannot reach into the crease with their stick or body to retrieve the ring.
  • If the ring enters the crease, only the goalie can play it.
  • The goalie has 5 seconds to pass the ring out of the crease.

Free Pass​

  • Free passes are used to start play after stoppages, such as goals, penalties, or violations.
  • The ring is placed in a free pass circle, and the player has 5 seconds to pass the ring to a teammate.
  • The player taking the free pass cannot skate out of the circle.

No Body Contact​

  • Body checking and intentional physical contact are not allowed.
  • Players must focus on using positioning and stick skills to gain possession of the ring.

Stick Play​

  • Players are not allowed to slash, hook, or interfere with an opponent using their stick.
  • Stick-checking is allowed, but it must be done cleanly and without physical contact.

Three-in Rule​

  • In the offensive and defensive zones, only three skaters from each team (plus the goalie) are allowed inside the zone at any time.
  • A violation of this rule results in a stoppage of play and a free pass for the opposing team.

Overtime (if applicable)​

  • In some games, if the score is tied at the end of regulation, an overtime period is played.
  • The format may vary, but sudden death (first goal wins) is often used.

Starting Play​

  • Each game begins with a free pass at center ice.
  • After a goal, play resumes with a free pass from the center ice circle.

Penalties​

  • Penalties are given for rule violations.
  • Penalties typically result in a player serving 2 minutes in the penalty box, leaving their team short-handed.

Body Contact​

A body penalty is called when a player uses their body to make illegal physical contact with an opponent, such as checking, pushing, or hitting them in a manner that is unsafe or against the rules. This penalty typically occurs when a player initiates contact that is excessive, high, or involves body checking, which is not allowed in ringette. The body penalty is usually considered a minor penalty, and the offending player serves two minutes in the penalty box.

Hooking​

A hooking penalty is called when a player uses their stick to hook an opponent, typically around the body, arms, or legs, in an attempt to impede their movement. This can occur when a player places the blade of the stick in or around the opponent’s body to slow them down or prevent them from skating freely. Hooking is considered a minor penalty, and the offending player must serve two minutes in the penalty box.

Slashing​

A slashing penalty is called when a player swings their stick in a forceful or dangerous manner, making contact with an opponent's body, stick, or equipment. This includes attempts to strike an opponent with the stick, regardless of whether the intent is to injure or simply disrupt play. Slashing is considered a minor penalty, and the offending player is sent to the penalty box for two minutes.

Tripping​

A tripping penalty is called when a player uses their stick, body, or any other method to intentionally or unintentionally cause an opposing player to fall or lose balance. This includes actions like placing the stick in the skates or legs of an opponent, impeding their movement and causing them to trip. Tripping is considered a minor penalty, resulting in the offending player serving two minutes in the penalty box.

Interference​

An interference penalty is called when a player impedes or obstructs the movement or play of an opponent who does not have possession of the ring. This includes actions like blocking, holding, or setting illegal picks that prevent an opponent from moving freely or participating in the play. Interference is considered a minor penalty, and the offending player is required to serve two minutes in the penalty box.

Boarding​

A boarding penalty is called when a player checks or pushes an opponent dangerously into the boards or rink barriers, typically with excessive force or in a way that could cause harm. This type of penalty is meant to prevent players from being placed in vulnerable positions where they could be injured by the boards. A boarding penalty is usually assessed as a minor penalty, with the offending player serving two minutes in the penalty box.

Unsportsman Like​

An unsportsmanlike conduct penalty is called when a player, coach, or team official behaves in a disrespectful, abusive, or inappropriate manner. This includes actions such as arguing with officials, taunting opponents, using offensive language, or deliberately disregarding the rules of the game. The penalty is typically two minutes in the penalty box, but more severe actions may result in misconduct or game ejection penalties.

Major Penalty​

A major penalty is called for more serious infractions, typically involving actions that are deemed dangerous or intentional, such as severe body contact, fighting, or attempts to injure an opponent. A major penalty results in the offending player being sent to the penalty box for four minutes, during which time their team plays short-handed. Unlike a minor penalty, a major penalty does not automatically expire if the opposing team scores a goal.

These rules shape the unique flow and teamwork-focused nature of ringette, ensuring a dynamic, skill-based game that emphasizes strategy over physicality.