GOAL PEGS, FLEXIBLE GOAL PEGS - WHAT DOES THE RULES SAY?

Rules on Goal Pegs in Sweden

Goal pegs, also known as flexpegs or flexible goal pegs, are a crucial part of the hockey rink and the game itself. These small components play a vital role in ensuring that goals stay securely in place during play while being able to release upon impact to minimize the risk of injury. In Sweden, the use of goal pegs is regulated by the Swedish Ice Hockey Association and the IIHF (International Ice Hockey Federation) guidelines. Below is an overview of the applicable rules.

Material and Construction

According to IIHF rules, goal pegs must be made from materials that are both durable and flexible, typically rubber or high-density plastic. However, in Sweden, the pegs, or flexible goal pegs, must be made of polyurethane. They must also be marked with the responsible manufacturer and the date of production.

Furthermore, yellow pegs are used in Sweden for U15 and below, while stiffer blue pegs are used for U16 and above. These distinctions are implemented to balance safety and performance quality across different age groups.

Goal posts are secured with these pegs in pre-drilled holes in the ice. The depth and diameter of the holes are standardized to ensure the attachment is stable while allowing the posts to release under significant impact.

Placement and Installation

Goal pegs must be positioned so that the goals are precisely centered on the goal line. According to the Swedish Ice Hockey Association's directives, ice technicians must ensure that the holes for pegs, or hockey goal anchors, are drilled to the exact dimensions specified in the rulebook:

• Hole diameter: 25 mm (1 inch).
• Hole depth: 20-25 mm.
• Distance between the holes must match the exact width of the goal posts.

It is also essential to regularly check the attachments during matches, particularly in high-intensity play.

Release Mechanism and Safety

A key aspect of goal pegs is their ability to release under significant impact, such as when a player collides with the goal post or the puck strikes with high force. The IIHF requires goal posts to release under an impact force of 133-200 Newtons. This requirement has been fully implemented in Sweden, and materials used for goal pegs are tested to meet these standards.

Local Variations and Interpretations

While most rinks in Sweden adhere to IIHF rules, some local variations exist depending on the rink size and adaptations for different age groups. For youth matches, softer pegs are often used to further enhance safety. In some cases, older rinks may use alternative anchoring systems, but these should be replaced during renovations.

Rule Changes and Updates

To stay updated on current regulations, referees, teams, and rink personnel are advised to regularly consult the Swedish Ice Hockey Association's rulebook and the latest IIHF guidelines. Small changes can make a significant difference in both safety and game quality.

Summary

Goal pegs, or flexpegs and flexible goal pegs, are essential for maintaining safety and proper play on the hockey rink. In Sweden, international standards are followed with a focus on safety and functionality. Through careful installation, regular inspections, and compliance with the rules, players and officials can be confident that the goal posts function as intended.

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