NHL OFFICIAL RULE BOOK
REFEREE HAND
SIGNALS
  These are the various hand motions used by the referees to signify a penalty.

  • Boarding: Pounding the closed fist of one hand into the open palm of the other hand.

  • Charging: Rotating clenched fists around one another in front of chest.

  • Cross-checking: A forward and backward motion with both fists clenched extending from the chest.

  • Delayed calling of a penalty: Referee extends arm and points to penalized player.

  • Elbowing: Tapping the elbow of the "whistle hand" with the opposite hand.

  • High-sticking: Holding both fists, clenched, one above the other at the side of the head.

  • Holding: Clasping the wrists of the "whistle hand" well in front of the chest.

  • Hooking: A tugging motion with both arms, as if pulling something toward the stomach.

  • Interference: Crossed arms stationary in front of chest with fists closed.

  • Misconduct: Place both hands on hips.

  • Roughing: A thrusting motion with the arm extending from the side.

  • Slashing: A chopping motion with the edge of one hand across the opposite forearm.

  • Spearing: A jabbing motion with both hands thrust out in front of the body.

  • Tripping: Strike the right leg with the right hand below the knee keeping both skates on the ice.

  • Unsportsman-like conduct: Use both hands to form a "T" in front of the chest.
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  ©1996 National Hockey League