International Hockey Federation (FIH) has introduced some new rules for year 2011 in a bid to improve the game.
The Rules are issued by the Hockey Rules Board under the authority of the International Hockey Federation. The date of implementation for international competition is 1 January 2011, while the date of implementation at national level is under consideration
of National Association.
According to FIH all the hockey players and officials are liable to observe these rules:
Stress is on safety. In the light of these rules every player must keep in mind the safety of other players.
Relevant national legislation must be observed. FIH does not accept responsibility of any defect or non-compliance of facilities and is not legally accountable for any consequences resulting from the use of such equipments.
Verification conducted before a match related to facilities and equipment is limited to ensuring an overall appearance of compliance and sporting requirements.
Umpires perform their role in controlling the game and ensuring fair play.
The main purpose of the new guidelines is to simplify the game without altering its fundamental characteristics.
A new Rule has been introduced to bring together the penalties which apply for an offence during the taking of a penalty corner.
The Rule which used to say that “players must not force an opponent into offending unintentionally” is deleted because any action of this sort can be dealt with under other Rules. The part of Rule 13.1 which refers to a free hit awarded inside the circle
of defence has been simplified by deleting the option of taking the hit “anywhere inside the circle”.
Rule 7.4.c says that if the ball is intentionally played over the backline by a defender and no goal is scored, play is re-started with a penalty corner. If it is clear that the action is intentional, umpires should not hesitate to award a penalty corner.
Rule 9.7 specifies that when the ball is above the shoulder height of the player, he must not touch it with any part of the stick. For consistency and fairness, shoulder height should be strictly enforced.
Hockey is played according to rules given by FIH throughout the world to give this sport its clear identity as a consistent game. FIH introduces Tournament Regulations, which may sometimes vary the Rules of Hockey in order to enhance the profile of world
level competitions.
Such regulations will be only applied in specified and agreed tournaments and matches while all other hockey should be played exclusively in accordance with the Rules of Hockey.
Continental Federations and National Associations should have approval from FIH in case if they wish to implement Regulations for competitions within their jurisdiction including a Rule related matter.
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