NAHL announces Video Replay Review of goals system

The North American Hockey League (NAHL) has announced that effective on October 20, 2023, the league will implement a Video Replay Review system specifically for goals.

Each NAHL arena has been equipped with goal cameras, and referees will be able to view video replays in the penalty box or another location within close proximity to the ice surface. Referees will review goals and render decisions in accordance with specific parameters.

“This is one of the many important and necessary technologies we have invested resources into for our players and our brand. Implementing the video replay of goal technology not only helps us to get the right outcome in an individual game, but it could mean the difference between a team making the playoffs or not making the playoffs,” said NAHL Commissioner and President Mark Frankenfeld. “Providing all the resources to get this right is just another example of how committed NAHL owners are to the game of hockey and how committed they are to the players that play, develop, and advance in the NAHL.”

This new Video Replay Review will only be used in the following situations: A) To determine if the puck crossed the goal line. B) To determine if the puck crossed the goal line prior to the goal frame being dislodged. C) To determine whether the puck entered the net by going through the net meshing. D) To determine whether the puck entered the net from underneath the net frame.

The referee can initiate a video review after any key goal or no-goal moment during the game.  Each team also gets one Coach’s challenge during regulation play. If the challenge fails to overturn the initial on ice call, the team will incur a two-minute bench minor delay-of-game penalty and lose its Coach's Challenge privilege. Conversely, if the challenge successfully overturns the call, the team retains its Coach's Challenge. No Coach's Challenges are allowed in overtime or shootouts; any reviews during these periods are solely up to the referee.