Ever wondered what the referee's moves mean? Here's a brief overview of the referee's signals when a penalty is called...
![boarding](/images/penaltysignals/charging.png)
Charging
Rotating fists.
Called when a player takes more than three strides to make a hit.
![hooking](/images/penaltysignals/hooking.png)
Hooking
Tugging motion with arms.
Called for using the stick to pull an opponent down or backwards.
![cross checking](/images/penaltysignals/crosschecking.png)
Cross-Checking
Fists moved away from chest.
Called for hitting an opponent with both hands on the stick and no part of it on the ice.
![interference](/images/penaltysignals/interference.png)
Interference
Arms crossed in front of chest.
Called for impeding the progress of a player who is not in possession of the puck.
![high sticks](/images/penaltysignals/highsticks.png)
High Sticks
Arms raised above shoulder.
Called for striking a player above shoulder height with the stick whether accidental or not. Double penalty called if injury is caused.
![slashing](/images/penaltysignals/slashing.png)
Slashing
Chopping hand accross opposite forearm.
Called for swinging the stick at an opponent with excessive force.
![holding](/images/penaltysignals/holding.png)
Holding
Grasping wrist in front of chest.
Called for needless pulling of an opponent's body or equipment with the hands.
![tripping](/images/penaltysignals/tripping.png)
Tripping
Striking the right leg with the right hand below the knee.
Called for using the stick, an arm or a leg to cause the opponent to fall.
![boarding](/images/penaltysignals/boarding.png)
Boarding
Strike the clenched fist of one hand into the open palm of the other hand directly in front of the chest.
Called if a player hits a defenseless player with no intention of going for the puck.