Central District News

Teams have 20 seconds to clear their defensive half

The shot clock includes a 20-second clearing count, during which players must advance the ball across the midfield line with the over-and-back provision in effect. If the team in possession of the ball is not in its offensive half of the field when the visible shot clock reaches 60 seconds, it is a violation.

When the clearing team passes midfield with possession prior to the 20 second clearing count, then the remaining time left of the full 80 second clock is left for the offensive team to place a shot on goal. On goal means a save by the goalie, a deflection off the goalie or the goalie’s stick, or the shot hits pipe. If the offensive team retains possession after a goalie save or shot hitting the pipe, the 80 second shot clock is restarted. If the offensive team does not place the shot on goal within the remaining time left of the 80 seconds, a violation is called and the defensive team gets possession. If the defensive team causes a turnover, the shot clock resets to 80 seconds also.

Visible shot clock:

At least one shot clock is operated that the players and referees can visually see from the field. If only one shot clock is used, the shot clock is placed by the table. If two are used, then each shot clock will be placed by the end lines.

Non visible shot clock:

A timer will be kept at the table and the 20 second clearing count, and the remaining time left of the full 80 second clock will be counted down and verbally communicated to the referees and players on the field. It is operated similar to the table counting down a player’s penalty time verbally.