Goalie Safety & Crease Etiquette
Goalies put themselves in the most vulnerable position on the ice — facing shots, traffic, and contact every shift. This guide explains how to play hard while keeping goalies safe, and what’s expected of skaters in and around the crease.
This applies to all skill levels and all game formats we play.
Why Goalie Safety Matters
- Goalies cannot protect themselves the same way skaters can
- Many goalies are volunteering their time to make games happen
- Injuries to goalies often come from avoidable contact
Protecting the goalie protects the game.
The Crease: What It Is & Why It Matters
- The crease is the blue-painted area in front of the net
- It exists to give the goalie space to move, react, and make saves
- Skaters are allowed near the crease — but not through the goalie
Being near the crease is fine. Making contact with the goalie is not.
What Is NOT Allowed Around the Goalie
No Contact With the Goalie
- Do not bump, shove, or lean into the goalie
- Do not skate through the crease if it causes contact
- Do not push a goalie’s pads or stick to create space
Even light contact can cause injury.
No Whacking at a Covered Puck
- If the goalie has the puck covered, the play is dead
- Do not poke, jab, or swing at the puck after it’s covered
- Extra contact after a freeze-up escalates situations quickly
If you see the glove down — back off.
No Crashing the Net
- If you’re driving the net, stop short
- Don’t run into the goalie while chasing rebounds
- Loss of balance isn’t an excuse — stay under control
Hard stops and awareness prevent injuries.
What IS Allowed
Playing Loose Pucks
- Rebounds are fair game
- If the puck is loose, play it — without making contact with the goalie
- Lift sticks and play the puck, not the body
Screening the Goalie (The Right Way)
- You may stand in front of the goalie
- Keep your skates outside the crease when possible
- Hold your ground — don’t back into the goalie
Screens are part of hockey. Interference is not.
Common Situations & Expectations
After the Whistle
- Stop immediately
- No extra shots
- Skate away from the crease
Most goalie-related conflicts start after the whistle.
Defenders Protecting the Goalie
- Defenders should box out without cross-checking
- Tie up sticks instead of shoving bodies
- Keep traffic moving away from the crease
Protect the goalie — don’t escalate.
Goalie Communication
- Goalies may call out loose pucks, screens, or pressure
- Listen and react — they have the best view
- If a goalie asks for space, respect it
Good communication makes everyone safer.
A Simple Rule to Remember
If your momentum is carrying you into the goalie, you’re doing too much.
Slow down, stay in control, and respect the crease.
Final Thought
Goalies make hockey possible. Treat them with respect.
Play hard, battle for pucks — but always keep goalie safety first.