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Hockey Rules

From England Hockey

Of particular note perhaps (as well as the new rules relating to free hits etc) are the clarification of the following, which have caused plenty of arguments in the pub after games:

Rule 9.7

Players must not play the ball with any part of the stick when the ball is above shoulder height except that defenders are permitted to use the stick to stop or deflect a shot at goal at any height.

When saving a shot at goal, a defender must not be penalised if their stick is not motionless or is travelling towards the ball while attempting to stop or deflect the shot. Only if the ball is genuinely hit while above shoulder height and a goal is prevented should a penalty stroke be awarded.

Rule 10.3 C

Goalkeepers wearing full protective equipment and players with goalkeeping privileges are permitted to use arms, hands and any other part of their body to push the ball away.

The action in rule c above is permitted only as part of a goal saving action or to move the ball away from the possibility of a goal scoring action by opponents. It does not permit a goalkeeper or player with goalkeeping privileges to propel the ball forcefully with arms, hands or body so that it travels a long distance.