HockeyHKUS 25-26 Circular No. 3 - Important Updates to Rule Implementations

This circular outlines three important updates to rule implementations, issued in alignment with the latest FIH guidance. Please review the following details carefully and ensure they are applied in all upcoming matches.

1)      Mandatory wearing of facemasks when defending PCs

As previously communicated by HockeyHK on 10th September, the wearing of facemasks for defenders during penalty corners is now mandatory for all divisions.

Please note that time will only be stopped for Premier Division.

For other divisions, umpires should allow sufficient and reasonable time for the defenders to wear the facemasks.

All protective equipment must be removed as soon as possible after the PC concludes and before the defenders leave the 23 m area.

Appropriate penalties should be applied by the umpires for any breach of these requirements.

2)      In alignment with FIH, the revised trial Rule 9.10 regarding aerial balls

Rule 9.10

“Players must not approach within 5 metres of an opponent receiving a falling raised ball until it has been touched by the receiver. The ball may be intercepted within 5 metres but outside of playing distance provided it is done safely.

The initial receiver has a right to the ball. If it is not clear which player is the initial receiver, the player of the team which raised the ball must allow the opponent to receive it.”

Case 1:      opponent is 5m away when the initial receiver first touches the ball so legitimately closes down the space -> PLAY ON

Case 2:      opponent is within 5m when the initial receiver first touches the ball and closes down the space -> FREE-HIT / PC in the circle

Key Principles Behind the Rule

 •       Safety First

           Ensures player safety and minimizes dangerous situations.

•        Encourage Attacking Play

           Promotes a dynamic and entertaining style of hockey.

•        Fair Contest

           Allows defenders to engage with the receiver immediately after the ball is touched, while maintaining safe distance during the aerial ball’s descent.

3)      Unsafe interceptions are generally in​terpreted as non-intentional foul so will lead to a:

• Free hit in the 23m

• PC in the circle

We strongly encourage all umpires and convenors to familiarize themselves and their players, coaches, and officials with the changes ahead of the new season.

Should you have any questions or require further clarification regarding the rules, please do not hesitate to contact the Umpires’ Section.

Thank you very much for your attention.

Kind Regards,

Marco YEUNG

HockeyHKUS Committee