1. All "A" and
"B" and Inhouse (DNHL) games are curfew
games and must end on time. Also, all games at
2. Before the game starts, note on the scoresheet the
curfew time (the required end time), and have each coach initial it. There
is a place (a box) at the top of the scoresheet for
this. That way if you have to run the clock or shorten the 3rd
period, you have already forewarned both teams. This is a decision the
Referee makes, not the coaches.
3. As a routine, at the beginning of the 3rd period, make an
evaluation of the remaining time. Once
you have game time left (scoreboard time) approaching the amount of time left
in the ice slot, you need to implement a running clock. Do so at a
stoppage of play. Tell the timekeeper, and both
benches that due to a curfew, the rest of the game will be with a running
clock. Drop the puck and let the clock run. Hustle, and encourage
both teams to hustle on line changes at stoppages of play. Only stop the
clock for a timeout (and keep it shortened) or for an on-ice injury. You
may need to shorten the timeout duration to meet the curfew, and an on-ice
injury will likely result in expiration of the time available to complete the
game. Do not allow a coach to consume valuable playing time with a long
timeout, as a means to hold on to his team’s lead and have the game time run
out.