Ahead of 2026/27 the season, Ice Hockey UK is reinforcing the standards expected of teams and players across the UK’s league and playing structure. 

Starting 6 is reinforcing the standards that allow players to compete with commitment while respecting the rules and protecting everyone on the ice.

The initiative focuses on six important areas of the game: boarding, checks to the head, fighting, neck guards, abusive language and checks from behind. Each places a responsibility on players to understand the rules, assess the situation in front of them and make the right decision under pressure.

Where body checking is permitted, a legal check delivered with good timing and control is a valuable play. However, there is a clear distinction between playing physically and making contact that places an opponent at unnecessary risk.

Boarding, checks to the head and checks from behind can cause serious injuries. Players must remain aware of an opponent’s position and vulnerability, particularly close to the boards, and recognise when a check can be completed safely. Judgement and control are not signs of a less competitive player; they are fundamental qualities of someone who understands the game and wants to remain involved in it.

That control also matters when emotions rise. Fighting, retaliation and abusive language can quickly change the course of a game, removing players from the action and carrying consequences for both the individual and their team.

Players can compete for every puck, support their teammates and respond to difficult moments without allowing frustration to dictate their behaviour. Respect for opponents and officials is fully compatible with playing an intense and committed game.

Starting 6 also reinforces the importance of wearing neck protection correctly. The sport understands the potentially devastating consequences of leaving the neck vulnerable, and those lessons cannot be forgotten. Every player is required to wear a neck guard and must ensure it is fitted properly whenever taking to the ice, including during training sessions, warm ups and games.

The standards of the game are shaped by the decisions made in every shift and every contest for the puck. Knowing the rules, recognising where the line sits and having the discipline to remain on the right side of it are all part of being a responsible and effective player.

As the new season begins, Starting 6 is asking everyone across the sport to compete with intensity, play with intelligence and take responsibility for setting the right standard on the ice.