Charging Meaning in Ice Hockey

Charging is a penalty called when a player takes too many steps. The skater travels a long distance to deliver a violent hit. This action creates a dangerous impact that can cause serious injury. Referees look for a player who leaves their feet during contact. A hit should be delivered from a stationary or slow position. The official called charging after the defender ran across the entire ice. Safety rules prevent players from using excessive speed to hit others. A charging penalty usually results in two minutes in the sin bin. Players must keep their skates on the ice when making a check. Respect for the opponent is a core value of the game. This rule helps maintain a balance between physicality and player safety. Avoiding charging calls keeps the team from playing short handed often.