Hockey NL is clarifying its position on handshake rules, now saying the change will be on a trial basis.

The move, first noted in a memo to provincial associations on Wednesday, involves eliminating the post-game lineup and handshake for male teams.

Female players will continue with that tradition while boys will move to a pre-game skate-by and glove tap from the benches in the new year.

The change has ignited a storm of controversy, with parents and even the premier weighing in, calling the post-game handshake a teaching moment on the meaning and value of sportsmanship, and asking Hockey NL to reconsider the decision and seek alternatives while continuing “this time-honored tradition.”

Former NHLers are also divided on the issue, with retired pro Darren Langdon opposing the change, and former NHLer and St. John’s Maple Leaf Andrew McKim in favour of it.

Hockey NL, meanwhile, says the new protocol was proposed by an official during a disciplinary hearing following a recent post-game fight, arguing it was more important to eliminate the opportunity altogether at the end of a game.

“They pointed to the example of soccer conducting their handshake protocol and sportsmanship gesture prior to the game as a point of reference,” Hockey NL said in a statement issued Friday afternoon, adding all members of the minor council “viewed a trial of a pre-game handshake protocol as an opportunity to enhance sportsmanship.”

Hockey NL says the goal is to “inform” whether the shift in the handshake rules will become a long-term practice and part of overall programming.

“This is new and it is different, but it is like what is seen in other sports,” stated the organization, adding it could eventually be extended to female divisions.

No one from Hockey NL has been available for an interview on the matter.