Rule 405. Match Penalties

1. A ``MATCH'' penalty involves the suspension of a player or Team Official for the balance of the game, and the offender shall be removed from the game immediately. Unless immediate substitution is permitted under the coincident penalty rules 403(c) and 405(b), the penalized team shall immediately place a non-penalized player other than a goalkeeper on the penalty bench, to serve the time portion (five minutes) of the match penalty, as prescribed by the applicable rule, and such player may not be changed. The player shall also serve any additional minor or major penalty assessed to the offending player or Team Official unless immediate substitution is permitted under coincident penalty rules 402(f) and 403(c).

   For Juniors only - Such substitute player must enter the penalty bench in accordance with Rule 404(a).

   (Note) For all ``MATCH'' penalties, regardless of when imposed, or prescribed additional penalties, a total of 10 minutes shall be charged in the records against the offending player or Team Official.

2. When coincident match penalties have been imposed or when any combination of coincident major penalties and match penalties have been imposed on a player or players of both teams, Rule 403(c) covering coincident major penalties will be applicable with respect to player substitutions.

3. Except for Juniors - A player or Team Official incurring a match penalty shall be suspended from participating in any USA Hockey games and practices until his case has been dealt with by the Proper Authorities. A mandatory hearing by the Proper Authorities shall be held and a decision made relative to any further disciplinary action within 30 days of the incident. If extenuating circumstances prevent the Proper Authorities from conducting the mandatory hearing the player or Team Official shall be automatically reinstated after 30 days.

   For Juniors only - A player incurring a match penalty shall be suspended for the next two League games, plus a hearing (the player may be subject to further suspension).

   (Note) The Referee is required to report all match penalties and the surrounding circumstances to the Proper Authorities immediately following the game in which they occur.

4. If any Team Official is assessed a match penalty, he may not sit near the players' bench of his team, nor in any way attempt to direct the play of his team.

5. Original jurisdiction in any hearing resulting from a match penalty assessed under Rule 601(g.1) or Rule 601(j.1) (Physical Assault of Officials) shall reside with the Affiliate Association.