Clipping & Slew-Footing Rules
Clipping and slew-footing remain two of the most scrutinized calls in hockey, and recent rule clarifications have made it more important than ever for players — and coaches — to understand exactly what officials are watching for.
What You Need to Know
Clipping is defined as a hit delivered below the knees of an opponent. The key element is intent and mechanics: a player who crouches or lowers their body to deliver contact below the knee is subject to a major penalty and potential game misconduct. The challenge for officials has always been distinguishing between a legal body check where body positions shifted at contact and a deliberate attempt to target the legs.
Recent directives from Hockey Canada and USA Hockey emphasize that the player delivering the check is responsible for where contact is made. If you leave your feet or lower your center of gravity specifically to make contact below the knees, the call is coming regardless of whether injury occurs.
Slew-footing involves using your leg or foot to trip an opponent from behind while simultaneously pushing their upper body forward. It's one of the most dangerous plays in hockey because it sends the victim falling backward with no ability to protect themselves. The NHL has increased supplemental discipline for slew-footing, and amateur levels are following suit with automatic suspensions in many jurisdictions.
Key Points for Players:
- Keep your check at waist level or above — adjust if your opponent changes position
- Never use your foot or leg to sweep behind an opponent's skate
- Defensive zone battles along the boards require extra awareness
- Coaches: make teaching legal body contact a training priority
These aren't obscure technicalities — they're rules that exist to prevent serious injury. Understanding them makes you a smarter, safer hockey player.