FIH confirms Rule Amendment to attacking Free Hits with 23m area
February 18, 2016
The International Hockey Federation (FIH) has confirmed an amendment to the "Rules of Hockey" to clarify Rule 13.2 in relation to attacking Free Hits within the 23 meter area.
Following the amendment, the Rule now states that at all attacking Free Hits within the 23 metre areas, the ball cannot be played into the circle until it has travelled at least five metres or been touched by a defending player.
This amendment removes the possibility for the attacker to touch the free hit for a teammate to run on to and play the ball into the circle.
One additional piece of guidance has also been added in relation t the amendment. Following a time toppage after the award of an attacking free hit inside the 23 metres area, upon teh re-start, all players other than the player taking the free hit must be at least five metres from the ball.
Other than the above, the Rule and its interpretation remains exactly the same as before. The proposed adjustment is not seen as a kajor variance to the Rule, but a sensible clarification to avoid unfair and potentially dangerous play.
Hockey Ireland will adopt this Rule adjustment from Monday 22nd February 2016.
End.
Following the amendment, the Rule now states that at all attacking Free Hits within the 23 metre areas, the ball cannot be played into the circle until it has travelled at least five metres or been touched by a defending player.
This amendment removes the possibility for the attacker to touch the free hit for a teammate to run on to and play the ball into the circle.
One additional piece of guidance has also been added in relation t the amendment. Following a time toppage after the award of an attacking free hit inside the 23 metres area, upon teh re-start, all players other than the player taking the free hit must be at least five metres from the ball.
Other than the above, the Rule and its interpretation remains exactly the same as before. The proposed adjustment is not seen as a kajor variance to the Rule, but a sensible clarification to avoid unfair and potentially dangerous play.
Hockey Ireland will adopt this Rule adjustment from Monday 22nd February 2016.
End.
