Pickup unwritten Defensive rules?
I recently returned to Hockey after a 23 year break. I played minnesota A level hockey in the 90s when the game had much more hitting. I have noticed that if I play hard 100% defense, some of the offense players get upset.
For example, in my last game a forward is driving wide and trying to cut into the net, I was skating side by side with him and when he cut in there was some shoulder contact. I wouldn't consider it checking just competitive contact, regardless he is the one who skated into me. He was still able to get a shot off but hit the side of the net. He then turned around and two handed me across my ankle and told me to chill out. I will note he was probably the best player there.
I have experienced similar situations about a dozen times over the last year. I never purposely hit anyone and try to avoid all contact, but it happens sometimes. Most of the time no contact is made and some forwards act like I am just supposed to let them walk in. Then get upset when I don't let them. Am I in the wrong here? Should I back off? A lot of the games me going 100% still puts me below average for the skate.
Edit to add. The shoulder contact was very minor. Not likely anyone was going to fall from it. Some of you seem to think it was dangerous play. It was not remotely dangerous. I'd like to reiterate that he skated into me. Also the guy running it saw it and asked if I was OK and told the other to knock it off.
I'd also add this wasn't a ref. But I play in multiple reffed leagues only get penalties about 1 every 20 games and never for things like my example. Only for accidental trips or hooks