What Is Kneeing In Hockey?

Kneeing occurs in hockey when a player extends or pushes their knee outwards with the intention of making contact with an opposing player. Kneeing is also recognized when a player attempts to make contact with their opponent through their knee, whether they are successful or not. This technique does not happen often but is usually used by players when they are trying to stop an opponent from getting past them. In this case, the opponent will typically have possession of the puck.

Kneeing Penalties

Kneeing usually results in a minor penalty. The implication of a major penalty can be assessed by the referee depending on the gravity of the situation. A major penalty with a game misconduct penalty will be given to those who seriously harm or injure an opposing player as a result of their kneeing action. These penalties are rare, but they occur most often in injury prone knee-on-knee situations.

Referee Signal

To signal a kneeing penalty, a referee will face the scorer’s box and make a slapping motion at one of their knees. This lets the off-ice officials know that the violation that occurred was a kneeing penalty.

Examples

• A player is skating toward an opponent with possession of the puck. As the puck carrier passes them, they attempt to slow their progress by using their knee.
• A player attempts to body check an opponent who is carrying the puck but accidentally makes contact using their knee.
• A player attempts to body check an opponent with their knee but misses. Even though the player missed, a kneeing penalty will be called due to the dangerous intent.

FAQ