Question:
Rule 4.1.2 states that a split pack is not a legal pack, so does that therefore mean that blockers are considered out of play and cannot block or assist? Or is rule 4.3.2.3 the answer?
Answer:
During a split pack, there is no legal pack defined, therefore any blocking or assisting is “out of play” and therefore illegal, the same as if it were out of bounds or outside the legal Engagement Zone. During a split pack the only thing skaters can legally do is reform a legal pack.
Rule 4.3.2.3 makes specific reference to a legal pack, so this rule only applies when there is a legally defined pack. The legal Engagement Zone extends from 20’ behind the rearmost pack member to 20’ in front of the foremost pack member, between the inside and outside track boundaries.