This Season's Updates
Roster Certification Deadline Moved Up
All rosters must be certified in the ACHA portal 14 days before your first sanctioned game (up from 10). Coaches: upload proof of insurance + player waivers early.
Contact-to-the-Head Penalty Standard
Any hit where the head is the main point of contact is a Major + Game Misconduct minimum. Referees have discretion for Match Penalty on egregious hits.
Neck Laceration Protection
Strongly recommended (and mandatory in some leagues) for all levels. FAU issues BNQ-approved neck guards to every rostered player — wear them.
Cross-Check Enforcement
Officials are calling cross-checks tighter — any two-handed shove with the shaft in front of the net or along the boards is a minor. Play with an open stick down low.
New Face-Off Violation Rule
Second violation on the same draw = 2-minute delay-of-game minor to the offending team's center. Get your stick down clean the first time.
Approved Stick Curves
Blade curve max 3/4" (19mm). Officials may measure on request. Illegal stick = 2 min minor and stick removed from game.
Rulebook Fundamentals
Game Length
3 × 20-minute periods, stop-time. Two 15-minute intermissions.
Penalty Structure
Minor 2:00 • Double Minor 4:00 • Major 5:00 (+ Game Misconduct) • Match: expulsion + hearing.
Overtime (Regular Season)
5-minute 3-on-3 sudden death, then 3-round shootout.
Roster
Max 20 skaters + 2 goalies dressed per game.
ACHA Rulebook (PDF)
Official manual — read cover to cover.
USA Hockey Rules Casebook
Situational rulings — great for coaches and captains.
Captains: only the "C" may address officials during a stoppage. Keep it respectful — no chirping the stripes. FAU takes fewer penalties than any opponent this season and it's a competitive edge.