Updated
Power Line Issue
Several FWHA teams are discussing the issue of power
lines. For those of you not familiar with the term, it is when you
"stack" a line with some of your stronger skaters for a shift in an
attempt to momentarily overpower the other team. This is most often used in a
close game during either the last minute of a period, during a power play
opportunity, or, sometimes, when you are shorthanded and defending a power
play.
This is a tactical maneuver that is used with some success by competitive teams
at all levels of play. When used appropriately, it can turn the tide of a game
and take advantage of the other teams weaknesses.
However, often times when this is used, players who are not on the power line
may feel and/or receive a significant loss of playing time. Since, we are
recreational teams and we all pay the same amount to play, this can be a huge
issue. "Does the team gamble on a win or do we all play evenly?"
So, the official policy is that the decision to use power lines must be
unanimous for each team. Badgering or retribution toward a player who is not in
agreement with this issue is NOT allowed. Once you decide as a team to have
power lines, it is best you discuss it off the ice so that in the heat of the
moment there is less confusion and hard feelings. There should be situations
that you all agree on when to use the power line, i.e., only a tied game or
only in tournament, etc. Your coach, if you have one, should make the decision,
within your agreed upon guidelines, during the game to avoid having one player
barking at another.
Remember, it is a game we play for the fun of it; so respect your teammates,
your opponents, and yourself. The difference between winning all of your games
and none is a t-shirt. Is poor behavior worth it?
Please contact a
board
member with questions/comments.