Just how do you play half-ice?
Half-ice is an exciting game of continuous hockey. There are 2 periods of ~22 minutes each. There is only 1 face-off to start each period and the only stoppage in play is when the period ends. It is a dynamic game where creativity reigns because there are no set positions other than the goalies who are rotated into the position throughout the season. Every minute a buzzer will sounds and the 4 skaters x 2 teams x 2 halves all switch with their teammates on the benches. The picture shows the setup of the rink.
Ideally, teams are 18 players with 9 players going to each bench and shared with the other team. For each ice time there are 2 teams, 36 players in total. 9 v 9 x 2, or
goalie, 4 skaters, 4 subs vs
4 skaters, 4 subs, goalie (repeat on other half).
No scores are kept. Penalties are still called but play does not stop. There are still referees. The penalized player will 'miss the next shift'. If there are not 4 subs, or for a penalty served, a player on the ice will get a 'double shift' but they still must come to bench to tag up. Double shifts will rotate through all players.
In-depth information on how to play Novice Half-ice can be found on the Hockey Canada website. Refer to the following pages:
Game Play
https://www.hockeycanada.ca/en-ca/hockey-programs/coaching/novice/mha/game-play
Rules
https://www.hockeycanada.ca/en-ca/hockey-programs/coaching/novice/mha/rules
FAQ
https://www.hockeycanada.ca/en-ca/hockey-programs/coaching/novice/faq#gameplay