REFEREE GUIDEU7 & U9 · 2026–27

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Penalties & Safety

Protect players and apply the right procedure.

Rules come first. Current PCAHA and Hockey Canada rules always take priority over this guide. If in doubt, follow your mentor.
1

Recognize the infraction

Watch for tripping, hooking, slashing, holding, interference, body contact and anything dangerous. At U9 you will see a lot of accidental falls. Call what puts players at a disadvantage or at risk.

2

Make the call

  1. Identify the player and the infraction.
  2. Raise your arm straight up for a delayed penalty if the other team has the puck.
  3. Whistle when the offending team gains control.
  4. Give the penalty signal and report it clearly.

Review the hand signals →

3

U9 time-out penalties

PCAHA calls these Time-Out Penalties this season:

  • The player serves a 2-minute time out on their bench, not in the penalty box.
  • A teammate replaces them on the ice, so the team is never short-handed.
  • The penalty is still recorded.

It lets players learn from the call while the game keeps moving.

4

Injuries

  1. Stop play right away if a player may be hurt.
  2. Keep other players clear.
  3. Call the coach or trainer onto the ice.
  4. Never move an injured player unless they are in immediate danger.

For any possible head or neck injury, wait for qualified help.

5

Serious incidents

These should be rare. If one happens, record it in Spordle as normal and email Jeff or Ryan for next steps.

Watch the clinic videos

▶Module 4: Procedures▶Module 10: Standard of Play (slides)
Remember

Safety first. Right call, right signal, 2-minute time out on the bench.