2014-15 Field Hockey Rules Changes and Points of Emphasis

Rule 8-1-1h was added to minimize risk. It states: "Players must not intentionally raise the ball from a hit except for a shot on goal." Previously, there was nothing in the rules book that prohibited a player from "chipping" the ball into the air during play or from a free hit.

Another significant rules change was made to the bully, or the restarting play after any stoppage (injury, unintended whistle, etc.). Rule 5-2-1b1 now states, "The bully shall take place at or near where play on the ball ended at least 16 yards from the end line, 5 yards from the sideline and 5 yards from the circle."

Other rules changes include the following:

• Rule 1-7-4 now restricts goalkeepers from making a play outside the 25-yard area, except when taking a penalty stroke


• Rule 5-2-1b5 further clarified that a bully should be taken 5 yards outside the circle


• Rule 9-1-3 was deleted and combined with 9-1-2, which now states that if the defense is awarded a free hit within 16 yards of the end line or in the circle, the hit may be taken anywhere in line with the violation up to 16 yards from the inner edge of the end line. Opposing players must be at least 5 yards away from the spot where taken

Points of Emphasis

1. Proper Use of Equipment - Shinguards "should cover the front of the leg from the ankle to just below knee in length" They are being substituted by small youth size soccer shinguards.

2. Field Markings

3. Sideline Encroachment -"...table scorer and timekeeper all have key roles in the game and need to be...unencumbered of clutter and needless bodies blocking their view of the field."

We are playing federation rules, NFHS.  5 yards on free hits.

Be respectful of the officials. Only captains may question them.

Review the rules posted on the blog regarding corners, self-pass option, and indirect circle entry, etc.

For safety reasons on the short field, no driving at all and no lifting the ball in the circle with the exception of the striker putting the ball in play on the corner. Lifts outside the circle will be called if deemed dangerous or intimidating.

Shin-guards and mouth-guards are a must for safety sake.