Regel 43 Checking From Behind

A check from behind is a check delivered to a vulnerable Player who is not aware of the impending hit, therefore unable to protect or defend themself from such a hit and contact is made on the back part of the body.
A Player who hits an opponent from behind into the Boards, the Goal Net, or on open ice in any manner (i.e., high-sticking, cross-checking, etc.) shall be penalized according to this rule.
When a Player being bodychecked, intentionally turns their back towards an opponent and puts themself in a vulnerable position immediately before a bodycheck, to create a “checking from behind” situation, no penalty for “checking from behind” shall be assessed. However, other penalties may still be assessed.

This foul is considered serious and dangerous, therefore there is no option to award a Minor Penalty for “Checking from Behind”.

The Referee, at their discretion, shall assess a Major Penalty and an automatic Game Misconduct Penalty to a Player guilty of “checking from behind” an opponent, and who recklessly endangers the fouled Player.

If deemed appropriate, Supplementary Discipline can be applied by the Proper Authorities at their discretion.
→ Rule 28 – Supplementary Discipline

This rule is identically described under Rule 24.8 – Infractions