Body checks allowed in the PostFinance Women's League

At the Women's League meeting on May 3, the representatives accepted a significant rule change concerning physical contact: the body checks will be allowed as of the upcoming 2025-26 season. With this adjustment, Switzerland joins other countries such as Sweden, where more intensive physical play is a reality in women's ice hockey, the press statement reads.

The change affects rule 101.1, “Illegal Hit in Women's Hockey”, which has repeatedly led to different interpretations. Although physical contact was already permitted in certain game situations, the boundary to a punishable check was often unclear. The revised rule 101.1 now stipulates that checks are allowed according to the same guidelines as men's ice hockey, except for “open-ice hits”.

The new interpretation of the rules applies in the PostFinance Women's League, including in the league qualification between the PFWL and the SWHL-B. In the National Cup, the new interpretation will only be applied when two PFWL teams play each other directly. In all other games, the previous rule 101.1 continues to apply.

Lara Stalder, captain of EV Zug and long-time member of the Swiss national team, is enthusiastic: "The adjustment of the rules on body play, as in Sweden, brings more clarity, prepares players better for international competitions and shows an important step in the further development of women's ice hockey in Switzerland. It is also important for Olympic preparation and helps to reduce injuries, as it leads to more attention and body tension during the game."