RIGA HOCKEY CUP GAME REGULATIONS 

1. Rules of Play 

1.1. Governing Rulebook 

RIGA HOCKEY CUP deeply share common values with International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF) and Latvian Ice Hockey federation (LHF) such as solidarity, integrity, skills, passion, discipline, respect and principles of the game, which will be followed and encouraged within the tournament. 

All matches will be conducted in accordance with the rules of the International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF) – IIHF OFFICIAL RULEBOOK 2024/25– Version 1.0, May 2024, unless specifically modified in this document. See particular modification fro specific age groups in this document. 

The organizers of the Tournament keep the right to make decisions over situations not mentioned or covered in the tournament rules and regulations. 

1.2. Proper Authorities and Discipline 

“Proper Authorities” according to IIHF Official Rule Book refers specifically to the RIGA HOCKEY CUP Disciplinary body having jurisdiction to apply these playing rules to the matter at hand as set out and in accordance with the RIGA HOCKEY CUP Disciplinary Code and other relevant rules and regulations. The Proper Authorities shall review all incidents sanctioned with a Game Misconduct or a Match Penalty. 

In addition, the Proper Authorities have the authority to review all actions by Players, Coaches and non-playing Team Personnel which could be a violation of these playing rules. 

The organizers of the Tournament keep the right to inform a hockey association of the particular team, player or team personell, if they have been  decisions over situations 

1.3. Modifications of Rules of Play 

1.3.1. RULE 1.8. GOALKEEPERS RESTRICTED AREA 

This rule does not apply for age categories U-9, U-10, U-11, U-12, U-13, U-14. 

1.3.2. RULE 3.1. PLAYERS’ BENCHES 

Additional clause:  

The team which is first listes in the game sheet is the home-team, and accordingly, the second-listed team is the guest-team.  

1.3.3. RULE 5.1. ELIGIBLE PLAYERS 

A Game is contested between two (2) Teams which play under the direction of On-ice and Off-ice Officials. 

A Team shall be composed of twenty-two (22) Players. No more than twenty (20) Skaters and two (2) Goalkeepers shall be permitted.  

For the purposes of these playing rules, any reference to “Player” shall refer to both Skaters and Goalkeepers. Any reference to “Goalkeeper” shall mean that the section of the rule is specific to Goalkeepers. 

The Coach must submit the “Team Sheet” to the IT system of the tournament at least fifteen (15) minutes prior to the start of the first game of the team in the tournament, and no change shall be permitted to the Team Sheet after the commencement of the first team’ game in the tournament. 

Only eligible Players can play in a game and in the pre-game warm-up.  

Players are considered eligible if they meet the eligibility criteria of the tournament and have not received any additional disciplinary measures. 

Game rules will not allow for a Team to have more than six (6) Players (one (1) Goalkeeper and five (5) Skaters) on the ice at any time during game action when the team is not penalized. 

A Team must put at least four (4) Players (one (1) Goalkeeper and three (3) Skaters) on the ice, if two (2) or more Players are penalized. 

See Rule 74 – Too Many Players on the Ice. 

A Team must put the required number of players on the ice to resume play. 

See Rule 66 – Forfeit of Game. 

1.3.4. RULE 5.3. GOALKEEPER 

Rule replaced with: 

It is allowed to have two goalkeepers.  

One club with several teams in the same age group may have one assigned goalie for the pariticular team, which can not be changed during tournament, however third (3rd) goalie of the club can be switched between teams and shall be announced in advanced and approved by the organizers. 

1.3.5. RULE 5.4. COACHES AND TEAM PERSONNEL  

Rule replaced with: 

Only Players in uniform and official team personnel duly registered on the Roster Sheet shall be permitted to occupy the Player’s Benches so provided. 

Every Team must have at least one, and not more than three (3), Staff Members behind the Team on the Players’ Bench to act as Coach and at least one (1) qualified Coach or Medical Expert to treat Players in case of injury. Exceptions are allowed only by agreement with the organizers of the tournament. 

Team officials can be in different teams of the same club in the same age group. 

1.3.6. RULE 7 STARTING LINE-UP 

This rule does not apply. 

1.3.7. RULE 9.1. TEAM UNIFORM 

Additional clause:  

The home-team plays in dark-colored forms, and consequently, the guest-team plays in the light-colored forms. 

1.3.8. RULE 9.7. FACIAL PROTECTION 

Rule replaced with: 

All skaters shall have facial protection according to Specific rules and guidelines for appropriate head / face / mouth protection Men's Junior “Under 18” categories, Rule 202.2. 

1.3.9. RULE 9.12. NECK LACERATION PROTECTOR 

Rule replaced with: 

For violation of this rule in Junior Hockey Rule 202.7 – Men’s Junior Hockey Specific Equipment shall be applied. 

1.3.10. RULE 9.13. MOUTHGUARDS 

Rule replaced with: 

For violation of this rule in Junior Hockey Rule 202 – Men’s Junior Hockey Specific Equipment shall be applied. 

1.3.11. RULE 10.7. STICK MEASUREMENT – PRIOR TO SHOOTOUT ATTEMPT 

This rule does not apply. 

1.3.12. RULE 11.1 GOALKEEPER’S EQUIPMENT 

Rule replaced with: 

With the exception of skates and stick, all the equipment worn by the Goalkeeper must be constructed solely for the purpose of protection, and they must not wear any garment or use any device which would give them undue assistance in keeping goal. 

The Organisers may to make a check of each Goalkeeper's equipment (including the sticks) to ensure the compliance with the rule. They shall report its findings to the Disciplinary body for proper disciplinary action. 

See IIHF 2024 Rules Appendix III – Ice Hockey Equipment. 

1.3.13. RULE 11.3 CHEST AND ARM PADS 

Rule replaced with: 

The chest and arm protector worn by each Goalkeeper must be anatomically proportional and size specific based on the individual physical characteristics of that Goalkeeper. 

No raised ridges are allowed on the front edges or sides of the chest pad, the inside or outside of the arms, or across the shoulders. 

Layering at the lateral edge of the torso is permitted to add rib protection, however, said thickness shall not exceed the thickness of the blocks on the front of the chest and provided further, that the flank protection must wrap around the contour of the Player’s torso. If, when the Goalkeeper assumes the normal crouch position, the shoulder or shoulder cap protection is pushed above the contour of the shoulder, the chest pad will be considered illegal. 

Any chest and arm protector deemed to be too large for a Goalkeeper by measurements taken by Tournament representatives shall be considered illegal equipment for that Goalkeeper, whether or not it would have fallen within previous equipment maximums. 

1.3.14. RULE 11.4 PANTS 

Rule replaced with: 

The pants worn by each Goalkeeper must be anatomically proportional and size-specific based on the individual physical characteristics of that Goalkeeper. 

No internal or external padding is permitted on the pant leg or waist beyond that which is required to provide protection (i.e., no ridges, inside or out). 

If the Goalkeeper is wearing their pants shells loosely, allowing them to close the open space between their legs above their pads when they are in the crouch position, the shells will be considered illegal. Thigh protectors inside the pants must follow the contour of the leg. Flat thigh protectors are not allowed. 

Any pant deemed by the Tournament representatives to be non-compliant with this rule will be considered illegal equipment for that Goalkeeper, regardless of whether or not it would have fallen within previous equipment maximums. 

Any alteration request must be filed with an application to the Organizers before any modifications or additions are made. 

1.3.15. RULE 11.8. FACE MASKS 

Rule replaced with: 

Sea Rule 202.2. FACIAL PROTECTION – MEN’S JUNIOR HOCKEY “UNDER 18” – AGE CATEGORY. 

1.3.16. RULE 11.9. INSPECTIONS BY THE IIHF 

Rule replaced with: 

Goalkeepers are not allowed to participate in the game with equipment that does not comply with the rules. Inspections by the Organizers can take place at any time, before, during, or after any game. 

The Tournament representatives may obtain equipment from any or all participating Goalkeeper(s). This equipment may be removed to a secure location for measuring. 

Non-complaint and illegal equipment must be corrected before participation in a game or further use in it. 

If further irregularities are found during follow-up checks, the incident will be reported to the Disciplinary body. 

Refusal to submit the equipment for the Organisers measurement will result in the same sanctions as those imposed on a Goalkeeper with illegal equipment. 

1.3.17. RULE 12.5. INSPECTIONS BY THE IIHF 

Rule replaced with: 

Inspections can be made by the Organizers. 

1.3.18. RULE 15.1. CALLING A PENALTY 

Rule replaced with: 

Following penalties can be assessed within tournament: Minor, Bench Minor, Minor and Misconduct, Major and Game Misconduct and Match penalty. 

A Misconduct penalty constitutes ten minutes of playing time, but immediate substitution in on-ice manpower is allowed. The skater must serve his misconduct in full unless he is injured, in which case a teammate designated by the coach through the captain must sit in the penalty box in his place. The skater is not allowed to leave the penalty box until the first whistle after ten minutes of playing time has elapsed. 

If a player is assessed a second Misconduct any time during a game, it will become an automatic Game Misconduct penalty instead. He must go to the dressing room but may be substituted immediately on ice, and no teammate has to serve his penalty. 

If a goaltender is assessed a Misconduct penalty, it must be served by a skater on the ice at the time of the whistle to stop play and who is designated by the coach through the captain. 

When a skater is assessed a Minor and Misconduct penalty at the same time, the penalized team must immediately put an additional skater in the penalty box to serve the minor penalty. No substitution of this skater is allowed in on-ice manpower. At the expiration of that penalty, that skater may leave the penalty box but the skater who committed the infractions must remain in the penalty box to serve the misconduct penalty. Even though a teammate serves the minor penalty, the misconduct penalty does not begin until the expiration of the lesser penalty. 

Applying playing rules Match penalty shall be treated the same way as Major penalty plus automatic Game Misconduct penalty. 

1.3.19. RULE 16.1 MINOR PENALTY 

Additional clause: 

A Minor and automatic Misconduct penalty can be imposed on any Player who commits a physical foul and at the discretion of the Referee, such Player would not be sufficiently sanctioned by imposing a Minor or Double-minor Penalty for following infractions: 

I boarding; 

II charging; 

III checking from behind; 

IV clipping; 

V elbowing; 

VI checking to the head; 

VII kneeing; 

VIII roughing. 

Such assessment of reckless endangerment shall be based on the severity of the infraction, severity of the contact, the degree of violence and the general reprehensibility involved. 

1.3.20. RULE 19.3. LAST FIVE MINUTES AND OVERTIME 

This rule does not apply. 

1.3.21. RULE 20.1. MAJOR PENALTY 

This rule is modified. 

Distinction has been made in this tournament to Major penalty and Match penalty and shall be applied through the all particular rules where Major penalty and automatic Game misconduct penalty is applied. 

The Referee, at their discretion, may assess a Major Penalty and an automatic Game Misconduct Penalty as well as Match Penalty. 

MAJOR PENALTY: 

A Major Penalty shall be imposed on any Player who commits a physical foul and who recklessly endangers the fouled Player in a way that at the discretion of the Referee such Player would not be sufficiently sanctioned by imposing a Minor or Double-minor, Minor and Misconduct Penalty. 

Such assessment of reckless endangerment shall be based on the severity of the infraction, severity of the contact, the degree of violence and the general reprehensibility involved. 

Any Player who commits a foul that is assessed a Major Penalty will also receive in any case an additional Game Misconduct Penalty and will be ejected from the game as per Rule 201.1. ASSESSMENT OF PENALTIES – MEN’S JUNIOR “UNDER 20” AND “UNDER 18” AGE CATEGORIES. 

MATCH PENALTY: 

A Match Penalty shall be imposed on any Player who commits a physical foul and who recklessly endangers the fouled Player in a way that at the discretion of the official such Player would not be sufficiently sanctioned: 

I by assessing a Major Penalty and automatic Game Misconduct Penalty (5+20 min.); or 

II An injury or the attempt to deliberately injure the opponent does not lead automatically to a Match Penalty but can be used as an indication whether the reckless endangerment is severe enough to impose a Match Penalty (25 min.). The physical fouls as set forth herein may provide for exceptions or additional criteria. 

A match penalty results in the immediate expulsion of the player or team official from the game and a five-minute penalty served by a teammate designated by the coach through the captain. No substitution of this skater is allowed in on-ice manpower until after the expiration of the five minutes. 

1.3.22. RULE 20.6. ON-ICE VIDEO REVIEW OF MAJOR PENALTIES 

This rule does not apply. 

1.3.23. RULE 20.7. REPORTING 

Rule replaced with: 

The Referee is required to report all Major penalties and Match penalties and the surrounding circumstances to the Proper Authorities immediately. 

1.3.24. RULE 21.1. MAJOR PENALTY AND GAME MISCONDUCT PENALTY 

Rule replaced with: 

Match Penalty shall be imposed on any Player who commits an action that is not covered by the playing rules and, in the judgement of the Referee, endanger any person involved in the game. 

1.3.25. RULE 23.2. DISCIPLINARY MEASURES 

Rule replaced with: 

A Player, Coach or other team personnel incurring a Match Penalty shall be reported to the Proper Authorities which shall have full power to impose further Disciplinary Measures on the penalized person. 

1.3.26. RULE 23.3. DISCIPLINARY MEASURES – GENERAL CATEGORY 

Rule replaced with: 

See Clause 2. 

1.3.27. RULE 23.4. DISCIPLINARY MEASURES – ABUSE OF OFFICIALS CATEGORY 

Rule replaced with: 

See Clause 2. 

1.3.28. RULE 23.5. DISCIPLINARY MEASURES – STICK INFRACTIONS CATEGORY 

Rule replaced with: 

See Clause 2. 

1.3.29. RULE 23.6. DISCIPLINARY MEASURES – PHYSICAL INFRACTIONS CATEGORY 

Rule replaced with: 

See Clause 2. 

1.3.30. RULE 23.8. OTHER INFRACTIONS – THAT COULD RESULT IN A GAME MISCONDUCT PENALTY 

Rule replaced with: 

Following list of infractions will result in a Match Penalty being assessed: 

I a player or team official interfering with or striking a spectator. 

II a player or team official makes racial taunts or slurs or sexual remarks. 

III a player or team official spitting, smearing blood on or at an opponent or spectator. 

IV a player or team official biting an opponent or spectator. 

V a player or team official who uses his head, with or without his helmet on and strikes (head-butts) an opponent; 

VI a player who generates a swinging motion with his skate directed at any part of an opponent’s body and kicks or attempts to kick an opponent.  

VII a goaltender who uses his blocker glove to punch an opponent in the head, neck, or face during game action, after a whistle, or any time during the regular course of a game during a prolonged player confrontation. 

VIII a team official who is involved in a fight, on ice or off. 

1.3.31. RULE 28.1. SUPPLEMENTARY DISCIPLINE 

Rule replaced with: 

The Proper Authorities may, at their discretion, investigate any incident that occurs in connection with any game played in the tournament. 

The Proper Authorities may assess additional Disciplinary Measures for any offense committed during the course of a game or any aftermath thereof by a Player, Coach, or team personnel or Team executive, whether or not such offense has been penalized by the Referee(s). 

See Clause 2. 

1.3.32. RYLE 28.2. SUPPLEMENTARY DISCIPLINE – PRE-CHAMPIONSHIP – AND EXHIBITION GAMES 

This rule does not apply. 

1.3.33. RULE 30.1. APPOINTMENT OF OFFICIALS 

Rule replaced with: 

The RIGA HOCKEY CUP shall appoint the On-ice Officials (Referees, Linespersons) and the Off-Ice Officials (Official Scorekeeper, Game Timekeeper, etc.) for each game. 

The games of the tournament are officiated by two Referees. For the semi-final and final games the organizers may appoint Referees and Linespersons to officiate games using three (3) or (4) men system. 

1.3.34. RULE 31.10. START AND END OF GAME AND PERIODS 

Rule replaced with: 

The team must be ready to come on ice five (5) minutes before the game starts. Otherwise, the organizers can decide on giving the team a technical loss of 0:5. 

1.3.35. RULE 34.1. GENERAL DUTIES 

Rule replaced with: 

The Game Timekeeper shall record the time of starting and finishing of each period in the game. 

During the game, the Game Timekeeper will start the clock with the drop of the puck and stop the clock upon hearing the On-ice Officials’ whistle or the scoring of a goal. 
Manual stopwatches should be available to determine the correct playing time in the event the timing system fails. 

1.3.36. RULE 34.2. INTERMISSIONS 

This rule does not apply. 

1.3.37. RULE 35.7. STICK MEASUREMENTS 

Rule replaced with: 

An appropriate measuring tape will be used for this rule. 

1.3.38. RULE 36 STATISTIC STAFF 

This rule does not apply. 

1.3.39. RULE 37 VIDEO REVIEW 

This rule does not apply. 

1.3.40. RULE 38 COACH’S CHALLENGE 

This rule does not apply. 

1.3.41. RULE 39 ABUSE OF OFFICIALS 

This rule is modified. 

A Match Penalty for “Unsportmanslike Conduct – Abuse of Officials” shall be assessed under this rule for the following infractions: 

I A player or team official who intentionally and recklessly applies force in any manner or who causes injury to an on-ice official; 

II A player who throws or swings his stick at an on-ice official (striking him or not) or shoots the puck at an on-ice official; 

III A player or team official who threatens, makes racial or ethnic slurs, spits, smears blood, or makes sexual remarks to an on-ice official; 

IV A player or team official who makes any obscene gesture or actions to an on-ice official on the ice or anywhere in the rink immediately before, during, or immediately after the game. 

1.3.42. RULE 40.1. GAME MISCONDUCT 

This rule is modified. 

Any Player who deliberately applies physical force in any manner against an official, where such actions were likely to cause injury to the latter, physically demeans, or deliberately applies physical force to an Official solely for the purpose of getting free of such an Official during or immediately following an altercation shall receive a Match Penalty. 

1.3.43. RULE 40.2. SUPPLEMENTARY DISCIPLINE – SUSPENSION – CATEGORY I 

See clause 2.8.2 

1.3.44. RULE 40.3. SUPPLEMENTARY DISCIPLINE – SUSPENSION – CATEGORY II 

See clause Error! Reference source not found. 

1.3.45. RULE 40.4. SUPPLEMENTARY DISCIPLINE – SUSPENSION – CATEGORY III 

See clause 2.8.4 

1.3.46. RULE 40.5. SUPPLEMENTARY DISCIPLINE – SUSPENSION PROCESS 

Rule replaced with: 

After the game in which such Match Penalty is imposed, the Referees must make a verbal and/or written report to the Proper Authorities. The Player and Team concerned will be notified by the Disciplinary body and the respective procedure will be started accordingly. 

1.3.47. RULE 40.6. SUPPLEMENTARY DISCIPLINE 

See clause 2. 

1.3.48. RULE 63.8 NO LINE CHANGE 

This rule is not applied for tournament games in age groups from U-9 to U-12. 

1.3.49. RULE 77.1. GAME TIMING 

Rule replaced with: 

Age groups U-9 and U-10: 

Games in the age groups U-9 and U-10 tournaments are 1 x 35 minutes (running time) and the last two minutes of the game – stop time. The maximum duration of a single game is 45 minutes (including warm-up). 

Age groups U-11, U-12, U-13, U-14, U-15, U-16, U-18: 

Games in the age groups U-11, U-12, U-13, U-14, U-15, U-16, U-18 the duration of a game is 3 x 15 minutes (running time). The last two minutes of the third period – stop time. The maximum duration of a single game is 60 minutes (including warm-up), if a Referee of the particular game has not decided otherwise. 

Length of the breaks between periods is one (1) minute. 

1.3.50. RULE 77.2. INTERMISSION TIMING 

This rule does not apply. 

1.3.51. RULE 77.3. DELAYS 

Rule replaced with: 

Any delays shall be managed by the decisions of Referee. 

1.3.52. RULE 81.1. ICING 

This rule is not applied for tournament games in age group U-9 and U-10. 

1.3.53. RULE 81.4. LINE CHANGE ON ICING 

This rule is not applied in for tournament games in age groups U-11 and U-12. 

1.3.54. RULE 83. OFF-SIDE 

This rule does not apply for age category U-9. 

1.3.55. RULE 84.1. OVERTIME OPERATIONS – first or preliminary round  

Rule replaced with: 

During the first or preliminary round all teams will play each other once. For second round games and finals we refer to the format of each individual tournament. 

There is not any overtime procedures envisaged in the first or preliminary round of the tournament. Upon completion of the games regulation time the following points are assigned to the teams: 

I Three (3) points for the winning team at the conclusion of regulation time. 

II One (1) point for both teams at the conclusion of regulation time if the game is tied. 

III Zero (0) points for the team losing the game in regulation time. 

If two (2) teams end up with equal points: 

I The tie-breaking system for two teams with the same number of points in a standing will be the game between the two teams, the winner of the game taking precedence. 

II If the game between the two (2) teams is also a draw, the better goal difference in the group games concerned is taken into consideration. 

III If the (better) goal difference is equal, the higher number of goals scored in the group games concerned is taken into consideration. 

IV If the (higher) number of goals scored is equal, the total number of penalty minutes in the group games concerned is taken into consideration. The higher place is taken by the team with less penalty minutes. 

V If the total number of minutes is equal, the tournament organizers will draw the final placing for the teams in the group concerned in front of the representatives of both teams. 

If three (3) or more teams end up with equal points: 

I Taking into consideration the games between each of the tied teams, a sub-group is created applying the points awarded in the direct games amongst the tied teams from which the teams are then ranked accordingly based on the higher number of points. 

II If two (2) or more teams end up with equal points, the better goal difference in the subgroup games concerned is taken into consideration. 

III If two (2) or more teams end up with equal goal difference, the higher number of goals scored in the sub-group games concerned is taken into consideration. 

IV If two (2) or more teams end up with equal number of goals scored, the total number of penalty minutes in the sub-group games concerned is taken into consideration. The higher place is taken by the team with less penalty minutes. 

V If two (2) or more teams end up with equal number of penalty minutes, the better goal difference in the original group games concerned is taken into consideration. 

VI If two (2) or more teams end up with equal goal difference in the original group games, the higher number of goals scored in the group games concerned is taken into consideration. 

VII If two (2) or more teams end up with equal numbers of goals scored in the original group games, the total number of penalty minutes in the group games concerned is taken into consideration. The higher place is taken by the team with less penalty minutes. 

VIII If two (2) or more teams end up with equal number of penalty minutes in the original group games, the tournament organizers will draw the final placing for the teams in the group concerned in front of the representatives of both teams. 

1.3.56. RULE 84.4. PENALTY SHOT SHOOTOUT PROCEDURE 

Rule replaced with: 

The following procedure will be utilized for Penalty Shot Shootout, if applicable: 

I Shots will be taken at both ends of the ice surface.  

II The procedure will begin with three (3) different shooters from each Team taking alternate shots. Eligible to participate in the “Penalty Shot” Shootout will be all Players from both Teams listed on the Official Game Sheet except as specified in article iii. below. 

III Any Skater whose penalty had not been completed when the Overtime period ended is not eligible to be one of the Players selected to take the shots and must remain in the Penalty Box or in the Dressing Room. Also, Players serving penalties assessed during the “Penalty Shot” Shootout must remain in the Penalty Box or in the Dressing Room until the end of the procedure. 

IV The home team taking the first shot. 

V The Goalkeepers shall defend the same goal as in the game or Overtime period (if applicable) and remain in the goal when their own team is taking a shot. 

VI The Goalkeepers from each Team may be changed after each shot. 

VII The shots will be taken in accordance with Rule 24 – Penalty Shot 

VIII The Players of both Teams will take the shots alternately until a decisive goal is scored. The remaining shots will not be taken. 

IX If the score is still tied after all shots are taken by each Team, the procedure shall continue with a “tiebreak shoot-out”, using the same or new Players. The Team that shot second in the first three Penalty Shot will start first in the “tie-break shots”. The game shall be finished as soon as a duel of two Players brings the decisive result. The same Player can be used for each shot by a Team in the “tie-break shoot-out”. 

X The Official Scorekeeper will record all shots taken, indicating the Players and goals scored. 

XI Only the decisive goal will count in the result of the game. It shall be credited to the Team that scored the goal and charged against the Team that was scored upon. 

XII If a Team declines to participate in the “Penalty Shot” Shootout, the game will be declared as a loss for that Team and the other Team will be awarded 3 points for a win. If a Player declines to take a shot it will be declared "no score" for their Team. 

1.3.57. RULE 84.5 OVERTIME OPERATIONS – PLAYOFF  

Rule replaced with: 

If the result in the play-offs is a draw, a Penalty Shot Shootout will take place according to Rule 84.4 of the Tournament rules. 

1.3.58. RULE 84.6. OVERTIME OPERATIONS – FINAL GAME 

Rule replaced with: 

In case if in the final game for 1st and 2nd place the two (2) playing Teams are tied, the Teams will then play a “sudden death” Overtime period of not more than five (5) minutes with the Team scoring first declared the winner. 

The Overtime period shall be played with each Team at a numerical strength of three (3) Skaters and one (1) Goalkeeper. 

If no goal is scored in the Overtime period, then the Penalty Shot Shootout Procedure will apply according to Rule 84.4 of the Tournament rules. 

1.3.59. RULE 86.1. START OF GAME AND PERIODS 

In game facilities during the tournament events where the participating Teams enter and depart the ice surface and benches using the same common door and hallway system, the procedure is proposed to ensure that the Teams enter and depart the ice surface in an orderly fashion and without incident. 

The game clock will be the only timing device used in the timing of the actual game itself. 

The game shall be commenced at the time scheduled by a “face-off” in the Center of the Rink and shall be renewed promptly at the conclusion of each intermission in the same manner, if applicable. 

1.3.60. RULE 86.2. BENCH MINOR PENALTY  

This rule does not applies. 

1.3.61. RULE 86.3. CHOICE OF ENDS 

Rule replaced with: 

The home-team takes the seats and defend goal on the right side looking from the benches side to the ice. 

The Teams shall change ends for each period of regulation time. 

The age group’s U-9 and U-10 teams do not change sides after the break. 

1.3.62. RULE 86.4. DELAYS 

Rule replaced with: 

No delay shall be permitted by reason of any ceremony, exhibition, demonstration or presentation unless approved by the tournament organizers. 

1.3.63. RULE 86.5. END OF PERIODS 

Rule replaced with: 

At the conclusion of the first and second periods, upon hearing the buzzer teams shall remain at the respective benches. 

Players shall not be permitted to come on the ice during a stoppage of play or at the end of the first and second periods for the purpose of warming-up. The Referee will report any violation of this rule to the Proper Authorities for disciplinary action. 

1.3.64. RULE 86.6. PRE-GAME WARM-UP 

Rule replaced with: 

Two (2) minutes warmup is allowed prior scheduled commencement time of the game, each Team shall confine its activity to its own end of the Rink. 

The Game Timekeeper shall be responsible for signaling the commencement and termination of the pre-game warm-up and any violation of this rule by the Players shall be reported to the Proper Authorities.  

1.3.65. RULE 86.7. START OF GAME 

Rule replaced with: 

The team must be ready to come on ice 5 minutes before the game starts. Otherwise, the organizers can decide on giving the team a technical loss of 0:5. 

If a Team does not appear on the ice on time at the start of the game without justification, this incident will be reported to the Proper Authorities. If deemed appropriate, Supplementary Discipline can be applied by the Proper Authorities at their discretion. 

1.3.66. RULE 86.8. START OF PERIODS 

Rule replaced with: 

At the beginning of the second and third periods, and Overtime periods in playoffs (0:00 on the clock), Teams must be on the ice. Failure to comply with this regulation will result in a Bench Minor Penalty for “Delay of Game”. 

During intermissions and the start of the second and third periods (and Overtime) the Teams shall stay at their respective Players’ Benches. 

The visiting Team will immediately place its Skaters at the Face-off Circle, then the Home Team will follow, with the Referee allowing the Home Team to make a line change if so desired prior to the “face-off”. Skating, warm-ups, or on-ice activities by non-starters will result in a Bench Minor Penalty for “Delay of Game” to the offending Team. 

No warm-up involving pucks on the ice shall be permitted for a Goalkeeper at the start of any period. If, after one warning, this continues, the Referee shall assess a “Delay of Game” penalty to the offending Team. 

1.3.67. RULE 87.2. COMMERCIAL BREAK 

This rule does not applies. 

1.3.68. RULE 87.3. GOAL BREAK  

This rule does not applies. 

1.3.69. RULE 200.1 DEFINITION MEN’S JUNIOR HOCKEY AGE CATEGORIES 

Rule replaced with: 

The Season 2025 tournament has following age groups: 

I U-18 for players born in 2007 and younger.  

II U-16 for players born in 2009 and younger. 

III U-15 for players born in 2010 and younger. 

IV U-14 for players born in 2011 and younger. 

V U-13 for players born in 2012 and younger. 

VI U-12 for players born in 2013 and younger. 

VII U-11 for players born in 2014 and younger. 

VIII U-10 for players born in 2015 and younger. 

IX U-9 for players born in 2016 and younger. 

No overage players are allowed in the tournament. 

Players cannot be in different teams. 

Exceptions: 

Overaged players will be allowed only based on rules of local leagues of the team’ country. No exceptions made in other countries for the team will be accepted. 

Requests for any overage players should be forwarded to the Organisers not later than 14 days before the commencement of the Tournament. Overage players added to the line up without a request made in advance as mentioned above will not be accepted anymore in the tournament under any circumstances. 

Club teams (“No-select teams”) are entitled to have a maximum of three (3) overage players in their team under the following conditions: 

I The player concerned has obtained official permission from the National (or regional) Federation to participate in a lower age group during the regular season. 

II The player concerned has not played in his own age group during the regular season. 

III Permission shall be requested at least two (2) weeks before the tournament commences and the player is only entitled to participate as soon as the organizing committee grants approval. Official documentation should be sent to the organizers. 

Girls are allowed to play in one (1) age group below their designated category, which is determined by a two-year range of birth years (cohort).Team officials can be in different teams of the same club in the same age group. 

1.3.70. RULE 201.1. ASSESSMENT OF PENALTIES 

Rule replaced with: 

Any Player who commits a foul that is assessed a Major Penalty will also receive in any case an additional Game Misconduct Penalty or Match Penalty and will be ejected from the game. 

Additional disciplinary measures according to Clause 2.2. 

1.3.71. RULE 202.2. FACIAL PROTECTION – MEN’S JUNIOR HOCKEY “UNDER 18” – AGE CATEGORY 

This rule is applicable to all age categories of the tournament. 

1.3.72. RULE 202.4. MOUTHGUARD – MEN’S JUNIOR HOCKEY “UNDER 18” – AGE CATEGORY 

This rule is applicable to all age categories of the tournament. 

1.3.73. RULE 202.6. HELMET / EAR-PROTECTION – MEN’S JUNIOR HOCKEY “UNDER 18” – AGE CATEGORY 

This rule is applicable to all age categories of the tournament. 

1.3.74. RULE 202.7. PROCEDURE – NON-COMPLIANCE WITH PROTECTION EQUIPMENT 

This rule is applicable to all players of all age categories of the tournament. 

1.3.75. RULE 202.8 ILLEGAL HIT - AGE GROUPS U-9, U-10, U-11, U-12 

Additional rule: 

In age groups U-9, U-10, U-11, U-12 hockey, a player is not allowed to deliver a bodycheck to an opponent.  

A player who bodychecks an opponent will be assessed one of:  

I Minor Penalty (2’); 

II Minor Penalty and automatic Misconduct Penalty (2’+10’); 

III Major Penalty and automatic Game Misconduct Penalty (5’+20’); 

IV Mach Penalty (25’). 

A player who recklessly endangers an opponent by bodychecking will be assessed either a major and automatic game-misconduct penalty or a match penalty. 

If two players are in pursuit of the puck, they are reasonably allowed to push and lean into each other provided that possession of the puck remains the sole object of the two players. 

If two or more players are fighting for possession of the puck, they are not allowed to use the boards to make contact with an opponent to eliminate him from the play, push him into the boards, or pin her along the boards. All of these actions indicate an absence of interest in gaining possession of the puck. 

A player who is stationary is entitled to that area of the ice. It is up to the opponent to avoid body contact with such a player. If that player is stationed between the opponent and the puck, the opponent is obliged to skate around the stationary player. 

If a player with the puck is skating directly at an opponent who is stationary, it is the obligation of the puck carrier to avoid contact. But, if the puck carrier makes every effort to avoid contact and the opponent moves into the puck carrier, that opponent will be assessed a minor penalty for bodychecking. 

Players are allowed to “hold their ground” any time that they have established their position on the ice. No player is required to move out of the way of an oncoming player to avoid a collision. Any move by a player to step or glide into an opposing player will be assessed a minor penalty for bodychecking. 

A player will not be penalized if his intention is to play the puck and insodoing he causes a collision with an opponent. 

1.3.76. RULE 202.9 ILLEGAL HIT - AGE GROUPS U-13, U-14, U-15, U-16 

Additional Rule: 

In age groups U-13, U-14, U-15, U-16 hockey bodychecking is allowed when there is a clear intention of playing the puck or attempting to gain possession of the puck. 

If two (2) Players are in pursuit of the puck, they are reasonably allowed to push and lean into each other provided that “possession of the puck” remains the sole object of the two (2) Players. 

A player that makes an illegal hit on an opponent described in this rule will be assessed one of a: 

I Minor Penalty (2’); 

II Major Penalty (5’) and automatic Game Misconduct Penalty; 

III Mach Penalty (25’). 

A player who recklessly endangers an opponent by bodychecking will be assessed either a major and automatic game-misconduct penalty or a match penalty. 

If two (2) or more Players are competing for “possession of the puck”, they are not allowed to use the boards to make contact with an opponent to eliminate him from the play, push him into the boards, or pin him along the boards. 

A Player, who is stationary, is entitled to that area of the ice. It is up to the opponent to avoid body contact with such a Player. If that Player is stationed between the opponent and the puck, the opponent is obliged to skate around the stationary Player. 

If a Player with the puck is skating directly at an opponent who is stationary, it is the obligation of the puck carrier to “avoid contact”. 

But, if the puck carrier makes every effort to “avoid contact” and the opponent moves into the puck carrier, that opponent will be assessed at least a Minor Penalty (2’) for an “illegal hit”. 

Players are allowed to “hold their ground” any time that they have established their position on the ice. No player is required to move out of the way of an oncoming player to avoid a collision. 

Any move by a Player to step or glide into an opposing Player will be assessed at least a Minor Penalty (2’) for an “illegal hit”. 

Bodychecking that is made on open ice where both players are traveling in the opposite direction of travel to each other (north-south) shall be penalized for an “Illegal hit”. 

1.3.77. RULE 202.10 ILLEGAL HIT - AGE GROUPS U18 

Additional Rule: 

In age groups U-18 body checking is allowed according to IIHF Men’s junior hockey rules.  

A legal body check is one in which a Player checks an opponent who is in possession of the puck, by using their hip or body from the front, diagonally from the front or straight from the side. Legitimate body checking must be done for the purpose of separating the opponent from the puck, only with the trunk of the body (hips and shoulders) and must be above the opponent’s knees and at or below the shoulders. 

See Rule 42 - Charging. 

2. Disciplinary code 

2.1. General Principles 

2.1.1. Fair Play and Integrity 

All participants, including players, coaches, team officials, and spectators, are expected to uphold the principles of fair play, integrity, and respect for others. 

Breaches of conduct will be addressed promptly to maintain the integrity and safety of the competition. 

2.1.2. Authority 

The Disciplinary body nominated by the Organising Committee, composed of three (3) appointed members, will review reported infractions, incidents and determine appropriate actions as well review submitted protests and appeals. 

Decisions will be based on match reports, video evidence (if available), and testimonies from parties involved. 

2.2. Disciplinary measures 

2.2.1. General 

The RIGA HOCKEY CUP is committed to providing a safe and fair environment for all participants. While the vast majority of players participate within the rules and respect the game and their opponents, RIGA HOCKEY CUP recognizes the need to hold those players and coaches deemed to be repeat offenders accountable for their actions. 

Disciplinary measures refer to penalties or sanctions imposed during or immediately after a game based on the on-ice officials' decisions or the rules governing gameplay. 

2.2.2. Game misconduct penalty 

A Player or a Team official which has received a Game Misconduct is suspended from the rest of the particular game. 

A Player or a Team official which has received a second Game Misconduct penalty in the tournament is automatically suspended from (and minimum) one next game of the tournament and players or team personnel’ further participation in the tournament is reviewed by the RIGA HOCKEY CUP Disciplinary body. 

In case the same player/team official received a third Game Misconduct Penalty in the tournament he is disqualified for the tournament entirely. 

2.2.3. Match penalty 

A Player or a Team official which has received a Match Penalty is suspended from the rest of the particular game. 

A Player or a Team official which has received Match Penalty automatically is suspended from (and minimum) one next game of the tournament and player’ or team personnel’ further participation in the tournament is reviewed by the RIGA HOCKEY CUP Disciplinary body. 

If the same player/team official is given a second Match penalty in the tournament, he is disqualified for the tournament entirely. 

2.2.4. Excessive number of penalty minutes 

A player which has received more than 40 penalty minutes within the tournament automatically is suspended from (and minimum) one next game of the tournament and player’ further participation in the tournament is reviewed by the RIGA HOCKEY CUP Disciplinary body. 

For the second Game Misconduct Penalty, only one automatic game suspension will be imposed, regardless of whether the 40-minute penalty threshold is exceeded as a result. 

2.3. Supplementary discipline procedures  

2.3.1. Reporting Infractions 

Assessed penalties, including Game misconduct penalties and Match penalties will be registered in the game protocols. 

On-ice officials will report severe game-related infractions. 

Off-ice infractions must be reported in writing to the Disciplinary body within one hour of the incident. 

2.3.2. Implementation of suplementary discipline sanctions 

Affected individuals or teams will be notified of the Disciplinary body’s decision and Disciplinary sanctions shall be implemented immediately.  

If an appeal is submitted, disciplinary sanction is still in place until the final decision is made on the submitted appeal. 

2.4. Protests

2.4.1. General

A protest is an objection raised about an incident or decision that occurred during the game or directly affected the outcome of the game.

2.4.2. Grounds for Protest

Teams can only protest issues related to compliance, equipment, or violations of game rules.

Protests regarding referees' decisions will not be reviewed unless there is clear evidence of a violation of game rules or incorrect application of tournament rules.

2.4.3. Procedures

The team must immediately inform the referee after the game that they will file a protest. This is recorded in the game protocol.

Protests can be submitted in writing to the disciplinary committee (Email: disciplinary@rhc.lv) within 30 minutes after the end of the game.

The protest submission must include a protest fee of 100 EUR.

 

The payment should be made to the following details:

SIA “Riga Cup Events”

Reg. No. 40203079105

Uzvaras bulvāris 10, Riga

SWEDBANK

IBAN: LV33HABA0551043656504

SWIFT: HABALV22

 

If a positive decision is made regarding the protest, the paid protest fee will be refunded to the team.

2.4.4. Decision

The disciplinary committee will consider the protest and provide a written decision to the team.

The decision of the disciplinary committee regarding the submitted protest is binding for all tournament participants.

2.5. Appeal Process

2.5.1. General

An appeal is a request to review the decision made by the tournament disciplinary committee.

2.5.2. Grounds for Appeal

Appeals can be submitted regarding decisions related to disqualification or fines.

An appeal must be based on new evidence or a supposed incorrect application of the regulations.

If there is no new evidence regarding the case, the appeal will not be accepted.

2.5.3. Procedures

An appeal must be submitted to the disciplinary committee in writing within one (1) hour after the decision of the disciplinary committee.

The appeal submission must include a non-refundable fee of 150 EUR.

2.5.4. Decision

The disciplinary committee will consider the appeal and provide a written decision to the team.

The decision of the disciplinary committee regarding the submitted appeal is final and binding.

2.6. Proceedings

All disciplinary cases will be documented and maintained in the official tournament records.

Teams and individuals with severe or repeated violations may be subject to restrictions on participation in future events organized by the same organization.

2.7. Reporting

Tournament organizers have the right to inform the relevant national hockey federation about players or team staff who have committed serious, unprecedented, or controversial violations during the tournament games and have received additional disciplinary actions.

2.8. Supplementary Discipline Policy 

2.8.1. General 

In all instances where a player or team official has been suspended for a period of time as a result of a Match penalty, a second Game misconduct penalty, or total 40 minutes of penalties, the player or team official shall be prohibited from participating in all the tournament activities for the length of the suspension.  

The required game(s) suspensions shall include the next regularly scheduled games that appear on the schedule of their team at the time of the incident.  

A goalkeeper or team official who is rostered on multiple the tournament registered teams shall serve the suspension in full before they are permitted to participate on any other the tournament registered team, unless otherwise specified by the proper authorities. 

The suspension duration is determined based on the infraction's severity or number of repeted offenses, such like: 

I On-Ice Incidents with Intent to Injure; 

II Abuse of Officials; 

III Off-Ice Incidents; 

IV Repeat Offender or Accumulated Incidents; 

V Unprecedented or Controversial Actions. 

Following ranges of suspension games may be used to ensure consistency: 

2.8.2. Category I 

Category I: Infractions under the below rules may have a 1 to 5 game suspension: 

I Rule 39 Abuse of Officials

II Rule 44 Clipping

III Rule 45 Elbowing

IV Rule 46 Fighting

V Rule 49 Kicking an opponent

VI Rule 50 Kneeing

VII Rule 51 Roughing

VIII Rule 52 Slew Footing

IX Rule 55 Hooking

X Rule 56 Interference

XI Rule 57 Tripping

XII Rule 59 Cross-Checking

XIII Rule 60 High-Sticking

XIV Rule 201.2 Illegal Hit - Age groups U-9, U-10, U-11, U-12

XV Rule 201.3 Illegal Hit - Age groups U-13, U-14, U-15, U-16

2.8.3. Category II 

Category II: Infractions under the below rules may have a 4 to 7 game suspension: 

I Rule 21 Dangerous actions

II Rule 23 Interfering with or striking spectator

III Rule 39 Abuse of Officials

IV Rule 40 Physical abuse of officials

V Rule 41 Boarding

VI Rule 42 Charging

VII Rule 43 Checking from behind

VIII Rule 46 Fighting

IX Rule 47 Head butting

X Rule 48 Illegal check to the head

XI Rule 49 Kicking an opponent

XII Rule 53 Throughwing equipment

XIII Rule 56 Interference

XIV Rule 58 Butt-ending

XV Rule 59 Cross-Checking

XVI Rule 61 Slashing

XVII Rule 62 Spearing

XVIII Rule 73 Refusing to Start Play

XIX Rule 75 Unsportsmanlike conduct

XX Rule 201.2 Illegal Hit - Age groups U-9, U-10, U-11, U-12

XXI Rule 201.3 Illegal Hit - Age groups U-13, U-14, U-15, U-16

2.8.4. Category III 

Category III: Infractions under the below rules may have from a 6 to indefined game suspension: 

I Rule 21 Dangerous actions

II Rule 23 Interfering with or striking spectator

III Rule 40 Physical abuse of officials

IV Rule 75 Unsportsmanlike conduct

2.9. Behavior within tournament facilities 

Hockey sticks can only be used during on-ice games. The use of hockey sticks outside the ice (inside or outside around the accommodation) is not allowed.  

Violation of ice arena rules might lead to fines imposed by the ice arena staff and responsible player/players might be disqualified from the tournament. 

The representatives of the tournament and the Organisers are not responsible for any team’s lost/damaged inventory of personal belongings. Do not leave any valuables in the dressing rooms. 

2.10. Other infractions 

The Tournament organizers and Disciplinary body may review any other infractions that are not described in these regulations and make any decisions. 

 

Injury Tracking and Concussion Protocol