The IIHS International Inline Hockey Series is excited to announce the launch of its new Winter Series competition, debuting with a fresh 3-on-3 game format.

Inspired by the International Ice Hockey Federation’s (IIHF) initiative to expand hockey to areas without full-sized rinks (60m x 30m), the 3-on-3 format allows for flexibility in rink size and layout, fostering greater accessibility to the sport worldwide.

At IIHS, we recognize that much of today’s inline hockey is played year-round on smaller rinks, typically 40m x 20m or less. This is in contrast to the larger rinks available mainly in summer or non-ice seasons. The Winter Series, our first 3-on-3 competition series, offers an exciting new challenge for players and a fresh, fast-paced experience for spectators.

General Rules

• Format: 3-on-3
• Rink Size: 40m x 20m or smaller
• Nets: Ice hockey-sized
• Number of Players on the Rink: One goalie and three skaters per team, 3-on-3 with goalies
• Offside: No offside rule
• Game Length: Two 10-minute stop-clock periods
• Referees: Two referees per game
• Playoff Rules: Dependent on tournament and division
• Additional Rules: Refer to the IIHS Regulations, Guidelines, and Rules document

3-on-3 X

The 3-on-3 X playing rules are designed specifically for the IIHS Winter Series and reflect the fast-paced, small-rink reality of modern inline hockey. This format emphasizes speed, skill, and creativity.

These rules introduce unique elements such as a progressive game start, penalty-shot enforcement for minor penalties, and double-goal scoring in the final minutes, all intended to keep the game dynamic and engaging from start to finish. The objective is to reduce stoppages, avoid long power plays, and ensure that every player remains actively involved in the game.

IIHS 3on3 X Playing Rules LINK