The North American Hockey League (NAHL) is rolling out video review on goals across the league for the 2023-24 season.

All 32 NAHL arenas have been equipped with goal cameras. Reviews will be handled by the referees via screens in the penalty box.  The final decision on all goal reviews will come from the on-ice officials. 

“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.”

 

Video reviews will be limited to four specific goal situations:

  • To determine if the puck crossed the goal line.
  • To determine if the puck crossed the goal line prior to the goal frame being dislodged.
  • To determine whether the puck entered the net by going through the net meshing.
  • To determine whether the puck entered the net from underneath the net frame.

Referees will have the option to initiate a goal review after a goal or at the next stoppage in play in situations where there was no goal on the ice.

Teams will also have the opportunity to request a review. Each team will have one Coach’s Challenge per game where they can request a goal review based on the above criteria. An incorrect challenge results in a minor penalty, as well as the team losing challenge privileges for the remainder of the game.  Teams who challenge successfully and overturn the call on the ice retain the ability to issue a subsequent challenge.  Coach’s Challenges cannot be made in overtime or during shootouts. 

Unlike in the NHL, Coach’s Challenges in the NAHL cannot be made for a missed offside, missed stoppage, or goaltender interference.