Boarding Meaning in Ice Hockey

Boarding is a dangerous penalty where a player hits an opponent. This hit pushes a defenseless player violently into the rink boards. The official stops play and sends the offender to the box. Boarding often happens when a player is hit from the back. This action can cause serious injury to the head or neck. Referees watch closely for this foul to keep all players safe. The referee called boarding after the defender hit the falling player. Keeping the hands down during a hit helps avoid this penalty. Players should never hit an opponent who is facing the boards. The safety of the skaters is the most important rule here. A boarding call usually results in a two or five minute penalty. Officials have the power to eject players for very dangerous hits.