In 2021, USA Hockey implemented sweeping youth rule changes nationwide, sparking debate in local clubs. New rules banned icing the puck while shorthanded (penalty kill) at youth levels and eliminated “tag-up” offsides, meaning play stopped immediately when an offside occurred. The changes – along with a re-emphasis on “competitive contact” over dangerous hits – aimed to improve skill development and safety, but many coaches and parents were initially concerned about longer games and altered strategies. After several seasons of feedback, USA Hockey’s board approved modifications in early 2025: starting in 2025–26, delayed/tag-up offsides and shorthanded icing will again be allowed at older youth age groups (15U/16U and above). These adjustments represent a compromise to balance skill development with game flow at competitive levels.

Details: usahockey.com