THE CODE - The Unwritten Rules of Fighting and Retribution in Ice Hockey

[@NinhLyUK]

FOOTNOTES: - “LEGAL DISCLAIMER - This video is not intended to be an instructional guide, nor is it meant to encourage or condemn fighting and retribution in the sport of ice hockey. I acknowledge that this is my interpretation of ‘The Code’, and as stated in the video, different people have different interpretations of the code and is therefore not meant to be an undisputed guide on the subject matter in question. If you feel strongly against the subject of fighting and retribution, you are fully entitled to your opinion - but abuse against myself for the creation of this educational (but not instructional) video will not be tolerated. If any individuals watching this video feels the need to follow the examples as indicated on this video, they do so at their own risk.” - I’m THIS close to 100k subscribers’ guys, so please share this video and get this shown to as many people as possible. The more subscribers and views I get, means I get to create more content for you and my ever-growing army of fans. - As per my other video, here in the UK (as well as most other countries) - the world 'hockey' refers to field hockey, not ice hockey. I am well within my rights to use the terminology as designated by my country and most of the world. Please don't be an ignorant jackass, and understand that different countries call things by different words and terms. Trying to 'correct me' on this matter will not be tolerated. - A lot of commenters quote that you cannot remove your own helmets in the NHL. Granted, but this video is about the code in the sport of ice hockey, not just the NHL. Because not all ice hockey is NHL ice hockey. - Let me know in the comments below what you thought the best ever hockey fight was? If you ask me, it’d be Tie Domi vs Bob Probert (the second one I think?) - that was real nasty. - Do any British Ice Hockey fans remember the Hilton Ruggles fight that turned so ugly, that he used his helmet (with visor) to cave his opponent's skull in?! Dude was covered in claret. I tried to find footage of it but couldn’t … I’ve not dreamt that, have I?!

[@williamdabney6593]

The unwritten rule of the internet don't like your own comment.

[@NinhLyUK]

That doesn't apply if you're the creator of the video, as it's part of the KZbin 'Best Practices' guidelines. Otherwise, yes.

[@egpx]

Ah Hilton Ruggles! I don't remember that particular incident you mentioned but I have very clear memories of a fight with his avowed enemy Ryan Kummu at Ayr. Both had been binned for fighting and as the penalties ended Kummu left the box and challenged Ruggles for more. Ruggles refused to leave the box so Kummu just dived in and attacked anyway. It's safe to say that Ruggles and Kummu never really got on. Not sure the code applied whenever they faced each other!

[@NinhLyUK]

@@egpx Ah yes, the penalty box fight. Now THAT I do remember! Those two really hated each other so nobody was actually surprised when it happened.

[@egpx]

Ninh Ly Not so many characters like those two in the sport nowadays, sadly. Code or no code there’s much less fighting. I’m sort of ok with that but part of my misses the pugilistic aspect of the sport.

[@MrEazyE357]

"Wanna duke? Ok. Good luck man." That was the most polite fight I've ever seen. 😆

[@NinhLyUK]

Gotta love Georges Laraque.

[@xxxmikeyjock]

Domi hugging his opponents after the fight is pretty crazy video as well

[@donaldubh5994]

my favorite in this montage was Jet's Lowry - I didn't see who he hit but it was rough and Lowry didn't mean it - thus no one jumped him but he knew it was coming and he stood up to the expected challenge - hockey is fast and mistakes are made but the real players know the line and will answer the bell when they cross it.

[@joefothergill6303]

You can tell ice hockey is popular in Canada

[@eddymaldonado7991]

@@joefothergill6303 we Canadian's invented hockey idiot

[@Rallarbusen]

Also: Respect the officials. When a linesman pulls you apart, the fight is over.

[@NinhLyUK]

Yes, that's correct.

[@RoseCityRebel]

Rallarbusen If only the officials would stop pulling people apart too early

[@benjismith2549]

Parker Oram it’s because you are still a child, you may be mature enough, but many kids do not know when to quit, so they guide you to the box.

[@dionr1168]

No, the fight is over when a coach throws in the towel!

[@estonista6560]

You mean ref?

[@harrison2636]

Rule 0: Under no circumstances at any time can a player use their skate as a weapon.

[@NinhLyUK]

Self-implied, but yes.

[@harrison2636]

Ninh Ly it was thought to be self implied to not use a helmet as a weapon in American Football as well... guess not.

[@Mystninja]

Happy Gilmore

[@jacobbiron9139]

Only real hockey players or real movie watchers know this lol

[@justnick7042]

Kassian broke this rule

[@matchstickgameplay]

"Be wary of pests" Proceeds to show a solid 30 seconds of Brad Marchand clips lol

[@NinhLyUK]

He's king pest.

[@dgb921]

You mean show a solid 30 of a RAT

[@MegaJiiRo]

Ratchand! True pest

[@Brian-xu9di]

I have been. A Bruins fan since the Bobby Orr days, and Marchand is a hell of a player. He is, however, a cheap shot artist and a chicken shit.

[@soccerndog3785]

It fits him perfectly.

[@Lebby-lc9co]

One thing that wasn’t said: If the goalie has the puck in their glove or pads, don’t poke or slash at it, you WILL get beaten up for it

[@NinhLyUK]

Yes, that's true.

[@rebecca4680]

Yeah, Ninh forgot one of the biggest rules: never, EVER, mess with the goalies. He said not to fight goalies, but it's more than that. Goalies are THE MOST protected because they're considered the most important. If goalies have the puck, DO NOT poke/slash at it, their teammates will come at you.

[@TylerAven10]

Ninh Ly Dont mess with a teams goalies after the whistle. Dont shoot at them, don’t hit goalies, don’t snow them. Expect minor scuffles or a full on fight if you do.

[@NinhLyUK]

No, I did actually mention to leave Goalies well alone. That said, when a goalie resorts to underhand tactics like Crosby, all bets are off.

[@friggo3869]

One time I forgot this rule and almost got beat’n the crap out of by 3 guys

[@Emper0rH0rde]

This should be mandatory viewing for every single person who says "fighting is ugly." Fighting is how the players *police* each other. Don't want to get beaten up? Don't cheap shot players on the other team.

[@NinhLyUK]

Yeah exactly. I think The Code serves a purpose in Ice Hockey. As Don Cherry indicated on Coaches Corner - if you take away the fighting, and you get hit with a stick ... what do you think you're going to retaliate with?!

[@Emper0rH0rde]

@@NinhLyUK If they took away fighting, then you would have players pretending to be hurt by players on the other team in order to gain an unfair advantage, like they do in another sport that's slightly more well-known throughout the world. Seriously, that's what would happen.

[@NinhLyUK]

I think that's just one of the side effects, yes.

[@gunman462]

Yes, i believe those snowflakes are very ignorant to the sport and are probably gender neutral at best

[@timothyng3226]

@@NinhLyUK the "code" is like Bushido or chivalry

[@ThePolarBearProductions]

The best thing in the sport. If the officials don’t see it, someone will.

[@NinhLyUK]

Exactly.

[@ThePolarBearProductions]

Side note. It’s a big no no to shoot the puck at the goal if the play was blown dead for any reason.

[@chadmarsh5356]

...that's the whole video in a 3 second phrase.

[@djsinkaz]

What official?

[@glenndsouza5447]

Everyone has a plan until they get licked in the face - Brad Marchand

[@NinhLyUK]

Precisely!

[@thedicepticons]

I watch him wiff on that shoot out shot sometimes just to smile at him in tears. I wish the likes of Scott Stevens were still in the league to lay him out the way he deserves.

[@CanMav]

@@thedicepticons You know full well that Stevens would have put Marshmallow through several panes of glass.

[@LGPanthers1]

@@thedicepticons Stevens would have massacred Marchand, and so would any enforcer from those eras. There's a reason he's the RAT

[@lakilakisorong8204]

hahahaha mannn im deaddd

[@tysonplett3328]

As a Canadian hockey fanatic, I think this video did an excellent job explaining the code! Well done!

[@NinhLyUK]

Thank you so much!

[@kyledesjardins4274]

Same here

[@Roof_Pizza]

Ditto.

[@TheProph7]

Agreed! There are still several examples I can think of, but this was definitely well done and covers quite a bit.

[@XMorbidReignX]

A slight amendment; at the Beer League level, loser buys beer for the victor after the game.

[@alankrapivner753]

Rule 12 should be amended to "You don't breathe on the goalie"

[@NinhLyUK]

I think that would apply exclusively to Brad Marchand. You know, given that he has a taste for human flesh and all that ...

[@glockadile7949]

Alan Krapivner well some goalies will feed you the waffle if you do shit to them but god save your soul if you fuck with Roy in anyway. You could start a fight with him and it’d be fine

[@Strawberry-12.]

Ninh Ly lol

[@ashereatsworld9408]

Alan Krapivner As a defenseman I take that to heart.

[@shawnfox445]

Rule 16, don’t point at Bob Probert.... Especially if you are a goalie

[@TegridyElite]

I've followed and played hockey my entire life and think you did an absolutely incredible job on summarizing "the code". I only noticed one rule missing that many enforcers mention when asked about "the code" and that is you never fight someone who is at the end of their shift on the ice. If you find them at the end of a shift, you can ask them to fight at a later time in the game and hopefully they oblige.

[@NinhLyUK]

Believe it or not, I never came across that one?! Thanks!

[@ironwolfgaming9632]

@@NinhLyUK that was the reason in the second Probert - Domi fight that Probert beat the crap out of him. The first fight was at the end of Proberts shift. Probert got the worst of it a bit- the second fight Probert literally put knots on his head.

[@razormc954]

And another Rule: Don't shoot the puck after the official blows the whistle

[@a-cell4564]

The Anonymous AcclerDew as a goalie, I will yell at you for this.

[@NinhLyUK]

I think that's more common sense. But I know some people that do this repeatedly.

[@decoytroy14]

That one’s an actual rule. You could get a penalty for that.

[@johnnythemachine6949]

It happened in the German League a few weeks ago. The Player was suspended for 9 games

[@gingerer64]

The picture in the background at 7:56 is from that exact thing. 11 players ended up in the box over it

[@AndrewGordonBellPerc]

Another important thing which is actually also in the rule book as well. You don't be the third man in. If two people are going you let them go, you don't grab their guy and have a two on one fight. This of course goes out the window if they keep on punching once someone goes down.

[@NinhLyUK]

Yes, good one!

[@petergeyer7584]

Also related to this, only players on the ice when a brawl starts can engage in that brawl. Players on the bench can cheer on their teammates, but they will not come onto the ice to join in. This is unlike baseball where, if a fight starts, it is expected that every player in the dugouts - and even the two bullpens - will empty out onto the field.

[@NinhLyUK]

Yes, I think you're right. Having said that, I have seen bench clearing in hockey before.

[@petergeyer7584]

@@NinhLyUK It used to happen, but the NHL really cracked down on it. I've seen all of the other code rules you listed broken a lot more frequently than the bench clearing rule.

[@jakflak]

Unless you cheap shot the star or goalie. Then the other team is going to pounce on you.

[@jamesjoshua3288]

"wanna duke? alright man, good luck." awesome

[@NinhLyUK]

Indeed.

[@bdog4280]

one player replied “ I’m at the end of a 40 second shift “ , he “replied next shift then O.K.” and skated away . Gentlemen playing a beautiful yet savage sport .🇨🇦

[@Evil.Totoro]

Great video, and an awesome explanation of fighting I Hockey. One of my classmates in University was a Japanese exchange student, he was puzzled by the whole idea of fighting, but the more he watched, the more he loved it. He finally equated it to modern day samurai, with the honour code, armour and sword.

[@NinhLyUK]

It really is! He's right.

[@joshuaneal7552]

Hockey is fucking beautiful in every way.

[@simonrancourt7834]

I'm a Star Trek fan. These are rules Klingon would fight by.

[@betterbuck]

I was skeptical when I heard the Brit narrating...but he was “spot on mate” ;) Keep fighting in hockey.

[@NinhLyUK]

Thanks. Not all Brits are clueless about ice hockey!

[@sachads5322]

Same.

[@Rysander1]

My only addition to this is that the Code really only applies after a certain skill threshold of the sport. If you are thinking about giving hockey a try, you do NOT have to worry about fighting or the Code. The majority of beer leagues are non-fighting, non-checking leagues. This is partly because you will never have the same kind of emotions playing on a team where everyone has to go to work the next day, and partly because the punishment for is too steep to warrant it. USA Hockey, the administration that most amateur Americans play under, gives out a game misconduct (booted) for fighting for a first offense, a misconduct plus a 3-game sussy for a 2nd infraction, and an indefinite sussy for a 3rd infraction. Not really worth it to stick for the dude you only see once a week for an hour. For most beginner and intermediate leagues, the guy who goes to games to blow off steam by trying to fight strangers, especially when he or she is not a very good skater to start with, is generally regarded as an asshole by both sides.

[@NinhLyUK]

Yes, I'd agree with that. I think this mainly applies to professional ice hockey, not really any beer or rec leagues as it pertains to fighting. However, the Code isn't just about fighting.

[@joshuawisbey8502]

So happy Gilmore

[@MaskSwabe]

Glad you clarified this... because I want to start playing hockey but I have a day job and family... don't want to go to work with missing teeth and broken nose!😅

[@janetracer]

I love how you are showing Zdeno Chára when talking about rule #6 "don't fight with someone significantly smaller than you". At 6' 9" it's hard for Chára not to follow that one. Love all your videos!

[@NinhLyUK]

Yes it is ... but fortunately people start on him most of the time, so by the code - he's clear. And thanks!

[@nickseitz668]

He was fighting Maroon though. Patty may be a bit shorter than Big Z but he outweighs him. I've stood next to Maroon on flat ground and as a big hockey player myself (6'5 and 290 lbs) he was an intimidating dude

[@FireoftheGreeks]

I love how you consider Maroon "small".....

[@m_m_m_beer8917]

Pierre Bouchard vs. Stan Jonathan.

[@clintonsmith9178]

For a casual hockey fan, that was quite informative and entertaining. Rock on!

[@NinhLyUK]

Thanks Clinton, appreciate that bro!

[@Danspy501st]

Ninh: "Rule number one: Dont talk about the code" *Makes a video about it* Jokes aside. Ice Hockey looks like a brutal game, but when looking at it, like the code, then it sure seems like it is a gentlement and fair game. Unlike something like armrican football or soccer

[@NinhLyUK]

I think there's an honour system within the sport of ice hockey that you don't find in many team sports, for sure!

[@Danspy501st]

@@NinhLyUK Yep. And the reason I dont want to play Ice Hocky XD Mainly because I cant really stand on ice, or use the ice skate things. I had tried. Nearly fail on my rear so many times

[@jacobthorson1749]

Daniel Jensen it was money that kept me from playing, it’s an expensive sport

[@bcdm999]

That there is a code doesn't necessarily mean that players follow the code. The Bertuzzi sucker punch that we see in this video was such a major breach that criminal charges were brought up, not to mention several civil lawsuits.

[@NinhLyUK]

You could argue that he paid the price for NOT following the code. That said, if you ask Bertuzzi - he maintains that he was within right to do that as per his interpretation of the code. Different guys all have a different idea on what it is.

[@brandontravisano904]

ninh, as a lifelong hockey diehard and someone who played the game for 15 years, this is one of the best youtube videos ive ever seen ever. pretty much sums it all up perfectly for those not in the know.

[@NinhLyUK]

Thanks Brandon, I appreciate that!

[@jacobbiron9139]

Love how when he brings up pests it’s just videos of Brad Marchand

[@NinhLyUK]

I think most people believe he's 'king pest', so it seemed like a relevant addition.

[@howardbaxter2514]

@@NinhLyUK everyone does. Everyone despises Marchand including his teammates.

[@ATMDPNKBJ]

Marchand is more than just a pest and a guarantee you if he played for your team you’d be ecstatic.

[@buttkick22]

Bryan you’re right he’s more than just a pest, he’s also the dirtiest player in the NHL and the biggest coward. Never answers the bell for his egregiously dirty play. He goes against the code in every single possible way (even matt cooke manned up and fought thornton). And please dont bring up points or ability as an excuse. Claude lemieux has multiple cups and could play. Ulf Samuellson was a good shut down defenseman with multiple cups. Doesn’t make anyone hate them any less or excuse how dirty they were (although they answered the bell more than rat boy as well)

[@hiddenpandas_]

Ah yes, the "Face Lick" a classic.

[@NinhLyUK]

I don't believe I've seen anyone else but Brad Marchand do that?!

[@a-cell4564]

Ninh Ly I don’t think any one else is that stupid.

[@NinhLyUK]

True that!

[@chadbrooks9763]

It'll draw a penalty now and I believe a fine too

[@sagentsnowman4186]

Ninh Ly I love for all the dirty plays u put Marchand as the video

[@canadiandancer1019]

"Be wary of pests" - literally burst out laughing at that one! Great video!:)

[@NinhLyUK]

It's true! And thanks!

[@justinlokere]

Rule 14: Pests *Shows Brad Marchand*... Edit: (I am a Bruins fan... I love his skills as a player, but the face licking and the slew-footing is a bit too far. To Marchand's "Credit", he doesn’t do the face-licking anymore.)

[@NinhLyUK]

Who else would I show? (Apart from Sean Avery).

[@cammcdougall9690]

@@NinhLyUK Esa Tikkanen, Ulf Samuelson, Darcy Tucker, Claude Lemieux.....but the nothing but Marchand bit cracked me up

[@Rysander1]

PK Subban

[@NinhLyUK]

@@cammcdougall9690 Nah, none of those are as entertaining (and irritating) as Marchand. Ulf Samuellson was close though. As was Matthew Barnaby ... boy what a jackass he was. He did a great job!

[@ofs82]

@@NinhLyUK Matt Tkachuk. You showed him for the turtling clip too. Realistically though, Marchand is the ultimate pest, and also fits under cat.3, as like Crosby he's a world class player (ok, not on Crosby's level, but he's more than held his own on a world class top line for years) who doesn't need to do all the shit he does, but he does. Pests get their retribution too, mind. James Neal kneed him in the head when he was down a few years ago. Same game Shawn Thornton got suspended for slewfooting Brooks Orpik and then punching him on the ground.

[@Erik-hi]

This is why hockey is such a great sport. You can literally try to smash another guy's face in one minute, and the next you're playing like nothing happened. The sportsmanship and respect is top tier

[@kyoshiroma]

I am a huge football fan (the real one), I dont know almost nothing about hockey but with this code now ice hockey has ALL MY RESPECT!!! The old football (before 1994) use to be that same way about fouls and fights.!! applause!!

[@NinhLyUK]

Yes, exactly!

[@Elliesbow]

As a former player I think you broke this down in a very good and simplistic manner!

[@boltactoinbarney]

This explanation was fantastic. Ive been a hockey guy my whole life. Played it when i was young and this carries through to all levels of hockey. Altgough at the grade school and high school level you will be suspended or worse for fighting. But there is always an oppertunity for a late hit or shifty things in place of fighting.

[@NinhLyUK]

Thanks bro, much appreciated. Yeah I think this really applies to all the adult leagues around the world, not necessarily younger leagues etc.

[@howardbaxter2514]

Great and very informative video. Non-hockey fans need to understand The Code and why fighting is permitted (to a certain extent) in hockey.

[@NinhLyUK]

Thanks very much!

[@Kehley82828]

To make this boring sport a little bit more exciting

[@tchop6839]

For rule #3, I would say it’s not so much that you’re not allowed to go for the star player, because any player apart from the goalie is fair game. It’s more that you as a player need to defend your key/star players, in order to protect your team as a whole (you need to keep them out of the box, protect them from injuries, support them mentally, and so on). It’s not the same as with goalies, with who it’s seen as just wrong and dishonorable to attack them unless you’re also a goalie

[@rebecca4680]

Agreed. Star players do get hit, and plenty at that, it's just that they rarely get hit super hard or dirty-hit. Star players are a bit more protected than the others because they are very important to the team and need to stay healthy, so if anyone does something dangerous towards the star (hard hit, dirty hit) a fight will happen. But if it's a relatively light, clean hit, then it will pass no problem.

[@NinhLyUK]

I think there was always a 'gentleman's agreement' to at least play cleanly on star players. But depending on the star (Gretzky) for example, it was league known that nobody touches the guy. Otherwise, McSorley comes after you!

[@sj4iy]

@@NinhLyUKCrosby was targeted and severely injured for years. #2 didn’t exist when he entered the league and he was nearly knocked out of the league from concussion. He had to defend himself. Which is why #3 is bullshit. He does need to do it because #2 isn’t followed.

[@ryanbesco8067]

George Laraque is so insanely underrated as an enforcer it’s crazy. Dude is so capable and respectful. You’d think he didn’t want to be what he is unless you spoke to his teammates. He fights because he can not because he has something to prove...

[@jhwaltz69]

Well done again, Ninh! I’m a big hockey fan and you did a great job covering this!

[@NinhLyUK]

Thanks John, much appreciated!

[@daca8395]

This is why I love hockey! Altho this is unofficial, it's still noble!

[@NinhLyUK]

Totally agree!

[@americadondenacenlosmejore885]

Great...

[@nevango0690]

You spelt noble wrong

[@daca8395]

@@nevango0690 possible! Thanks for correcting me. English isn't my native language

[@kevinkarbonik2928]

@@nevango0690 really?..... spelt?

[@radforduniversity6424]

This is, hands down, the best YT video I've seen in a very long time

[@hoofhearted7445]

I played minor hockey in Surrey BC in the late 70's and I cant tell you how many times we would storm the other teams dressing room BEFORE the game! The New westminster Bruins was our model. Damn I miss those days. That was some fun shit

[@NinhLyUK]

Wow, I've never heard of storming BEFORE the game?! Fun shit indeed!

[@hoofhearted7445]

@@NinhLyUK Look up the New Westminster Bruins if interested. Stan Smyl, Curt Fraser etc etc all coached by PUNCH Mclean. Yes Punch was his name so you can just imagine

[@NinhLyUK]

As a Leafs fan, I know all about Punch Imlach! Didn't know he coached that team though.

[@hoofhearted7445]

@@NinhLyUK I edired it , my bad I meant Punch McLean

[@NinhLyUK]

Ah right, gotcha.

[@georgeh4171]

Great video! As a fellow Brit and having just seen the video of the massive New York vs New Jersey brawl I had a lot of questions as I know nothing about Hockey 😂😂😂 This video answered them. We should allow fights in the Premier League!

[@bruinsfights1642]

Really good video. This is why hockey is awesome. The code keeps the players honest and actually makes the game safer.

[@NinhLyUK]

Thanks bro.

[@SirWulfrick]

"You want to square up? Ok. Cool. Good luck." ... Lmao.

[@NinhLyUK]

Gotta love Georges Laraque

[@Mcdavidsburner]

Great video! I wanted to write a couple more that I thought of😂 I feel like one other rule is that you always protect your goalie even if it’s over something little (snow spray, extra whack at the puck after the whistle, or even getting to close to the goalie). It’s why after the puck is blown, the teammates stand beside their goalie for a split second before leaving. And idk how much this applies as well but just like the stars, don’t go after the rookies unless they instigate or accept a fight.

[@theunknownstuntman4010]

Love your vids man, even sports I don't watch, when I found your channel a while back I binged watched all your "explain" vids. Your jokes on the rough sports that only certain types of people play, like Millwall, fans always makes me laugh. Keep it up man always entertaining

[@NinhLyUK]

Ah thank you bro! And yeah, Millwall is funny in any language. Cheers! :)

[@LoneWoIfPack19]

I love faceoff line brawls. If you don't want to fight you find the person on the other team who doesn't want to fight either put an arm around each other, and ask how he's been.

[@Seadragon77]

I don't know... that recent goalie fight in the last Edmonton-Calgary game was worthwhile. Still, can't go wrong with any fight from the Detroit-Colorado rivalry. Bad blood makes for great fights.

[@NinhLyUK]

I totally agree. Those old Colorado/Detroit fights were hella nasty.

[@imoffendedyouareoffended6803]

Yet not one clip

[@jtjr26]

Excellent video. As a life long hockey fan, I think you hit all the high points on this subject. The only thing I would add would be to try to get a puck aways from a goalie once it is covered can get you some attention and it is forbidden to kick other players for fear of cutting someone with a skate.

[@NinhLyUK]

Yes, that' right.

[@alexandertzortzakis9984]

Played hockey for 15 years plus through the semi pro levels. This was a very concise and accurate description of the code that we followed. We’ll done.

[@judeau9151]

I grew up playing hockey in Michigan and I can say no one actually ever says “the code”. It’s cheesy, so good call on the first rule you defined there haha.

[@NinhLyUK]

Thanks!

[@ranjithbalasubramanian1545]

Rule 1: there are no official record of the code Rest of the rules: *yes*

[@NinhLyUK]

They're not officially rules that you'll find in a rulebook!

[@cadburybunny]

Best fight is any and every Ron Hextall fight ... the man was a legend as a goalie and a terror if you antagonized him.

[@a-cell4564]

cadburybunny my inspiration for playing net, even though he retired before I was even born. Witnessing my grandfather’s old flyers game recordings on tape, man, I wanted to be him. Ended up closer to Hasek, ora at least my team and coaches keep saying that, but I still wear number 27. Man was a monster.

[@NinhLyUK]

Gotta love the Hex!

[@anthonylauro5711]

Felix Potvin begs to differ.

[@zern4483]

as a lifelong hockey player, this is one of the best explanations of the code that I've heard. it is the hardest thing to explain to non players

[@NinhLyUK]

Thanks! Be sure to help me out by sharing this video :)

[@chuxtin]

"Allowing" fighting (along with such a Code) would do wonders for many physical sports! Without it there's limited ways to blow off steam. Take football (American). With fighting not being tolerated, such a Code shouldn't need to exist hence one never manifesting. HOWEVER, sometimes shit DOES boil over and a fight DOES happen! With there being no guidelines to reference and few learning experiences, this often leads to nasty disrespectful spectacles, I.E. smashing someone in the head with a helmet or stomping someone (who is down) with cleats etc. Just saying that it's great for hockey to have this blowoff valve because, if not, there'd be skates to throats and sticks to faces lol.

[@NinhLyUK]

In short, yes I agree.

[@cygil1]

Australian Rugby League until the 2000s used to have a similar code, with punch ups tolerated as punishment for cheap shots. Now for whoever throws the first punch, it's a mandatory send-off, with the predictable increase in cheap shots.

[@howardbaxter2514]

Like you said, "fighting is a blowoff valve." It's important because it allows tensions to not boil too high where cheap shots are taking place, and it provides a very important checks and balances system within hockey. A ref can only do so much, so it is up to the players to ensure that the game is both "safe" (as safe as it can get for a brutal sport like hockey) and fair. In the end, some of the greatest players to play the game would not have been as nearly as successful if it wasn't for the allowance of fighting and "The Code".

[@Sal.K--BC]

The fact that fighting on skates is harder, balance-wise, is a big reason it still exists in hockey. Also, cuz of the penalty system as opposed to a system like red/yellow cards in football (soccer).

[@jediknight5600]

One of the modt accurate (and funniest) videos ive seen in a long time !

[@NinhLyUK]

Thanks.

[@yorkhawk3223]

Hockey fan here. You're doing such an excellent job with these.

[@NinhLyUK]

Thanks my friend, much appreciated!

[@bruceu5653]

Pretty good assessment from a fellah from the UK...you've got the basic spirit of things. Cheers from Canada!

[@NinhLyUK]

Thanks. Most of my family are from Toronto.

[@FreeJaffa92]

As a Las Vegas golden knights fan I appreciate how many of those clips featured Ryan Reeves aka “The GrimReever”.

[@NinhLyUK]

Ryan Reaves is a monster. I shoulda put Deryk Engelland in there too! Both heavyweight champions in my opinion!

[@aidanw9378]

You call your a fan yet you call them the Las Vegas golden knights?

[@FreeJaffa92]

Aidan W True i wasn’t thinking properly.

[@Rysander1]

Still hurts to see him off the Blues. Glad you guys give him the face time he deserves.

[@damonhynes]

Once a Blue, always a Blue!

[@carterobrien5233]

you always pop up on my recommendation every couple years and i’m so glad it was this video this time.

[@NinhLyUK]

Thanks!

[@Mountaineer3615]

Best video of yours yet!

[@NinhLyUK]

Thanks bro, much appreciated!

[@carterobrien5233]

beautiful video. Explains the true meaning behind the fighting in hockey instead of just bashing it for being to violent. hockey players don’t attack they protect.

[@NinhLyUK]

They certainly do!

[@sybrenroorda3865]

This also applies to Box/indoor lacrosse

[@NinhLyUK]

Apparently so, yes!

[@sybrenroorda3865]

@@NinhLyUK Well box LaX is just ice hockey with a net and on grass, so that's pretty obvious. Btw I absolutely love your content and really enjoy all your videos, keep up the great work. Love from NL (I also used your lacrosse video when I started playing a few months ago and it really helped, thanks)

[@NinhLyUK]

Nice one! Glad you like my videos and that you find them helpful! :)

[@seymourglass26]

@@sybrenroorda3865 I don't know if the rule has been updated, but when I played, you also were allowed to legally cross-check. It was brutal.

[@sybrenroorda3865]

@@NinhLyUK BTW, Just curious, have you ever thought about doing a rules of Drum Corps International? It's the major league of marching band and I think it might be interesting

[@kasuu5821]

For me this video is very helpful! I am an icehockeyfan since begin of the seventies. Today I explored this informations and finally understand the backgrounds of the fightings! Thank you very much, Ninh Ly! From now on I will have a profound perspective on it!

[@NinhLyUK]

Thanks bro!

[@Emper0rH0rde]

Rule #5: No sucker punches Unless the player you're sucker punching is being restrained by the referees, and he spits at you. Then HE instantly becomes the aggressor, and you become the victim.

[@NinhLyUK]

It's not a sucker punch, as if he chooses to spit - he's also choosing to get smacked in the face.

[@Emper0rH0rde]

@@NinhLyUK I'm referring to an incident, about which I am still bitter, in which a Washington Capitals enforcer was being restrained by the referees, and the player he had a beef with swooped in and sucker punched him. He had no way of defending himself, and he was sucker punched. The Caps enforcer spat in retaliation, and HE got ejected, and suspended for like five games - for, get this, intent to injure - while the player who sucker punched him didn't even get a major.

[@NinhLyUK]

I didn't see that one.

[@helletik3137]

the thing i find awesome about the code is that’s it’s never really taught, you just pick up on it as you age. that’s the beauty of the code

[@NinhLyUK]

Exactly.

[@kyledesjardins4274]

This video is perfect. I am an enforcer on my team not a professional Hockey player though. But I can say these are all on point even though they dont really exist, if you know what I mean.

[@NinhLyUK]

Exactly! Thanks very much.

[@davidj.thompson]

Excellent explanation! I think, although a bit tongue in cheek, it was spot on.

[@NinhLyUK]

Thanks David. Wouldn't have it any other way!

[@theguyemert9311]

Thank you ninh for doing more hockey videos

[@NinhLyUK]

No worries bro!

[@breakeroutlaw9959]

I've seen many fights in NHL goalie vs goalie and everything you mentioned in the code BTW the code for NHL is new to me glad you upload it, however in comparison the NFL don't have that code like the NHL because it's a free for all fight yes your teammate will stand up for you, all them will fight, penalties, and disqualify for fighting also most of them will keep their helmets on while they're fighting probably extra protection and I know they will try to pull their opponents helmet off.

[@NinhLyUK]

Yeah, it's a strange one - the code exists in hockey as a by product of the sport, even though they're not officially rules!

[@D0RYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYY]

as a former hockey player and current beer league player, you fucking nailed it

[@ryds2722]

Great stuff man ! Been playing for years and can’t agree more with the breakdown. Love the Crosby exception on #4 too 😅

[@wyattmchenry8931]

Seems very accurate good job

[@NinhLyUK]

Thanks bro!

[@TheRealSantaGaming]

Hockey players are simultaneously the meanest and nicest people

[@kelseywhitlatch173]

Automatic dislike for unfair criticism of Sidney Crosby. If anything, he retaliates not instigates and there’s a huge difference! I mean honestly you sound like just another one of the haters out there and clearly don’t watch him often

[@zathrasnotzathras655]

One of your best vids, Ninh. I think you cracked the code perfectly.

[@NinhLyUK]

Thanks!

[@ratedpending]

So, if someone breaks fighting code, do you fight them more?

[@rebecca4680]

No idea, but I reckon they'd become a social pariah. The code is kind of like cultural norms, break it and everyone thinks they're a coward, pathetic, etc.

[@NinhLyUK]

What @Rebecca said.

[@Jonathan2342]

You catch him with his head down and you put him through the boards

[@gunman462]

@@rebecca4680 Yes pro's live in a sort of bubble of hockey much like smug hollywood actors and they want to be respected so they respect the code

[@ironwolfgaming9632]

Sloofoot. Could end your career. Trust me if you don't want to fight and play straight you may get whacked a few times but they won't run you. If you don't know a sloofoot is coming behind a played and while they lean into a turn push the skate forward. This could have you go head first into the boards or a concussion from the ice and even a torn up knee. Sloofoot is the worst except a stick near the eyes.

[@markheavens2604]

Great video, I don't care who you are it's always nice to know someone has your back, thanks for putting this together.

[@NinhLyUK]

Thanks Mark, much appreciated!

[@cptbirtch99]

Love the channel. Great video!

[@NinhLyUK]

Thanks man, much appreciated!

[@masterwrong4933]

A fact that people who dislike fighting forget is that only 5% of concussions in the NHl happen die to fighting. Cheap shots, collisions are the main reason for concussions.

[@NinhLyUK]

Yes, that's actually correct.

[@charmin6657]

I loves how he has commented on almost every coment!

[@NinhLyUK]

I try and respond to honest questions with honest comments! :)

[@jamesshaver1431]

a few things that are either amendments or additions: 1. amendment to rule 4: Generally, the open season on a star only goes for the length of that game and only after the star has done something to warrant retribution. The only exception to this is if the star does something late enough in the game to not be open to retribution in the game. 2. if a whistle is blown and the team on offense shoots the puck after the whistle it's a fight on sight. It's considered bad form to shoot at a goalie who is in a relaxed position because of the whistle and their teammates will go after the player who shot the puck. 3. about brawling: although it is accepted there are lines (groups of players who consistently play together) that are meant to be the enforcers if not paired with a star in order to protect them. A coach may try to send a message at the beginning of a game to the opposition by putting out their enforcer line (AKA 4th line) in order to show they're going to be physical and ready to fight right at the beginning. This typically will be met with a line brawl. 4. Amendment to the bit about taking off your helmet: In today's NHL your helmet can be removed in the course of the fight but to remove your helmet willingly is outlawed by the league in order to appear more proactive about limiting brain injuries.

[@NinhLyUK]

Thanks for commenting. 1) Disagree. Crimes are not transient for anyone. If they're a punk like Crosby, they'll be hunted next game - star or not. 2) Yes. 3) Yes. 4) Yes, BUT this video isn't just about the NHL. It's about ice hockey in general. That said, the NHL are probably going the way of mandatory full face visors and cages, thus eliminating fighting completely. Thanks.

[@JouvaMoufette]

I am weird. I am the minority of people who enjoy hockey but never really enjoyed the fighting. I don't DISLIKE it, but I was never a big fan of it. That being said, this is a great video that outlines a lot of things. I especially liked the straight up example of the verbal agreement to fight. It's almost like some gentlemanly duel.

[@NinhLyUK]

Oh yeah, you gotta love it when they're polite about it. Georges Laraque, what a gentleman, eh?! And I understand if you don't like the fighting element. If you look at what damage it can cause, I think that puts you off it straight away. I try not to think too much about it.

[@petergeyer7584]

I generally agree too. But when you consider the damage that can be done by a dirty and out of control player, fighting keeps that in check to a degree while causing potentially much less physical damage to the participants.

[@NinhLyUK]

Yes, that's the argument that most hockey fans put up. That dirty and illegal hits do way more damage than controlled fighting does. Obviously people outside hockey will point to the Don Sanderson / Wade Belak / Derek Boogard examples and argue otherwise.

[@petergeyer7584]

@@NinhLyUK I would never say that fighting is not a risky or a harmless activity. But if a fight (or a threat of a fight) helps to prevent a boarding, a slashing or a spearing, I don't know any player who wouldn't opt for the fight 100% of the time. At least in a fight a player can defend himself. In those other cases, the player is defenseless.

[@NinhLyUK]

I'm not disagreeing with you at all. I'm just merely pointing out that there's two sides to everything.

[@Snowman-uc7zh]

I seriously needed this video thanks ninh!

[@peterstrianus1790]

You can totally feel that Ninh's favourite north american sport is hockey...and i agree.

[@NinhLyUK]

Totally!

[@GuerrillaSauce]

I love Hockey. It's the only (non-motor)sport I watch. Every person I talk to about it asks about "the rules". I have to say. Well, this is what offside means in Hockey. This is what icing is... and beyond that, it's kind of up to the officials. Yes, there are lots of penalties that could be called (boarding, cross-checking, etc.) but they're all also accepted as part of the game unless the officials decide otherwise. Everything else is down to "the code". What's that?! Well, my 1 sentence description is " if what you did could seriously injure another player, then you'll have to fight". It's a tough sport and everyone accepts that... but you don't intentionally take another player out without losing some teeth. Whether the officials saw it or not. It's a simple rule. Perhaps the only rule any sport needs?

[@NinhLyUK]

Perhaps, yes.

[@ericgermano2793]

Perhaps the most beautiful video I've ever seen.

[@NinhLyUK]

Thanks bro.

[@RoseCityRebel]

This was your best video yet

[@NinhLyUK]

Thanks man, I tried to make this dramatic as opposed to just educational or just comical.

[@raghavgoel1265]

So is this code like taught to ice hockey players when they start learning or do they get used to it while playing?

[@CastOfCons]

Raghav Goel You learn it growing up and playing it similar to how you know proper etiquette in your home

[@a-cell4564]

It’s not really taught, it’s just kinda there. If you do something wrong, we’ll call you out for it, if we believe it betrays the code. It’s more of a common sense, and honor, than taught. Does it uphold your team’s honor? Than the hockey gods finds it acceptable. You shall be cheered. If it doesn’t... well, I don’t like to even think about it.

[@raghavgoel1265]

@@a-cell4564 So if a newbie does something wrong can he be beat up?

[@NinhLyUK]

It's more rules that nobody teaches you, you just learn as a result of playing.

[@a-cell4564]

Raghav Goel more of a loss of the untouchable clause. Similar to superstars, rookies and goalies are not to be messed with. Unfortunately for them, if they have a less-than stellar track record, this rule isn’t followed. Other team can, yes. Your own team will likely just yell at you, and make you do more exercises at practice.

[@ryanpena3342]

I'm just now getting in to hockey after I went to a Knights game in Vegas a few weeks ago. This is so much better than watching NBA playoffs right now. Better late than never to the party.

[@mikeybpotts3915]

I might insert another rule after the one about not going after goalies: it’s generally not acceptable to go after rookies unless they instigate.

[@NinhLyUK]

Depends on the rookie. I remember when Gabriel Landeskog came into the league. After just a few games, he was a marked man league-wide.

[@alexchitikov9204]

Yep, see Ovechkin vs Svechnikov couple of years ago in play offs. P.S. i was at that game when Kovy tuned up Schenn, what a game!

[@leonardopereira6092]

Awesome video, man. Wish I had the chance to play hockey and "the non official rules" make me understand what's going on. It's not about hate, the urge to be agresive or something else. It's the heat of the moment (and if youre're classy enough), it's over. Hands downs, awesome video!

[@mojom7564]

As a female player that has played women’s and men’s mixed, I can tell you that if you mess with the baby of the team you’ll pay

[@lazygenerationoutdoors6072]

Hey bud, big hockey fan here. You did a swell job! This would be a video i would share to people who are uneducated about hockey and "The Code."

[@NinhLyUK]

Thanks bro, I appreciate that!

[@jpb620]

this video makes me want to make hockey my new favorite sport

[@NinhLyUK]

Do it bro. It's a fun game.

[@rossvincett7535]

You forgot one important rule of the code: an enforcer never disrespects the other fighter after the fight. Be it the "championship belt" motion around the waist, or the "put them to sleep" motion if you K.O. them, or slag them to the press. If you won, you say that "it was close, the guy is tough." If you lost, you own it and say the other guy "is really tough". If you KO someone, you say you got in a lucky shot. You don't embarrass the guy. Years ago, Stu Grimson of the Flames fought Dave Brown of the Oilers, a classic battle of Alberta bout, and got in some good shots, knocked Brown down, and was gloating a bit after to the press. Grimson was young, Brown was the older veteran, and Brown was not happy about Grimson's behavior. They played again a week later (Thank you hockey scheduling gods!) and Brown was ready this time. They danced, and when the dust settled, Grimson had a caved-in face. Brown broke Grimson's orbital bone in multiple spots which put him in the hospital. Karma.

[@MrxNiiggles]

Trying to get more into hockey and it’s so crazy/funny how different it is from baseball, football, or basketball lmao

[@NinhLyUK]

Oh yeah, it's definitely unique.

[@alexthegordonhighlander1159]

🏆 Awesome video! It took a Brit to make this video for us! Cheers! 🍻 I classify Ice Hockey as a "Combat Sport" & your video reveals all that Martial Honour! 👏 ...aside from Marchand and pests of course. 👏 🇨🇦💪

[@Percussius_]

This is why fighting should never leave the game.

[@dougieb777]

Gotta be the best sport in the world!!! It has it all... I'm from Aus so no ice here although I would had loved to have grown up playing this....

[@NinhLyUK]

I know right? It's a pretty cool aspect of the sport.

[@gingerer64]

finally someone who realizes the scuminess of crosby

[@NinhLyUK]

I think EVERYONE realises the scuminess of Sidney Crosby. I'm sure if he didn't play for the Penguins, Pittsburgh fans would say the same thing.

[@gingerer64]

@@NinhLyUK I guess that's true just most of my interactions about him are with penguins fans who get off to Crosby highlights

[@ashleyedwards3082]

As a fan just getting into Ice Hockey this is unbelievable 😂. It’s cool to just throw down. As a fan of football that would be such a fun way to decide disputes 😂

[@OneTeeGlory]

Most of these are accurate. However, there no longer are players who’s soul job it is to enforce the code. Enforcers have been phased out of the sport for a number of years now. However, the code still applies 100%.

[@NinhLyUK]

In the NHL yes. But this video isn't just about the NHL. And thanks!

[@OneTeeGlory]

Ninh Ly The NHL’s lead is being felt all over though. I’m far from playing at an NHL level and I can assure you guys who play 4 minutes a game just to go out and punch someone are dying. Not to say that fights don’t happen because they most certainly do, but 99% of the time I see a fight, both guys can actually play hockey at their level, they just need to fight at that time so they do. As someone who can fight pretty well, I love it. It’s nice to know that if I have to go with someone, I’ll be fighting an actual hockey player and not just a fridge on skates who couldn’t tell you what an F3 is.

[@kevinparks5220]

Thank you for sharing this. The sport of HOCKEY is the greatest game on the planet and I really apricate this post. I love HOCKEY with all of my heart...