Provincial Hockey Association Bans the Hockey Handshake Lineup

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TJ Tucker
December 21, 2023 (1:20 PM)

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The practice is as old as the game of hockey itself. Yet, a provincial hockey association says the handshake lineup at the end of each game is no more.

Hockey NL, the governing body for amateur hockey in Newfoundland and Labrador, has sent a memo to all teams and local associations saying the handshake lineup will be removed from all games after Christmas, saying there have been too many incidents between players and coaches during the tradition.

"We have had some issues with handshakes following games that have led to suspensions for players and coaches. The decision has been made to eliminate the end of game handshakes. Instead, prior to the game starting the home team will go to their bench. The visiting team will skate by the bench and do a glove tap/handshake wishing the home team a good game. Following the game both teams will be directed to their dressing rooms by the officials. This should be in effect for all games following the Christmas break. Please ensure all teams are aware of this change." - Hockey NL Memo

As you can likely imagine, this decision isn't sitting well with many. The handshake line is a show of respect from each team to the other, where you're expected to leave whatever happened on the ice behind. It's unfortunate there are those unwilling to do that. At the same time, there has to be a better solution than ending one of the greatest traditions in the game of hockey. It will be interesting to see if other provinces follow suit.