International Hockey Federation Rule Changes for 2009

Throughout our lives we watch or hear about one type or sport or another. We also hear about different changes in the rule book. With so many rule changes, the sport is a different game than when it was first founded. Field hockey is no different.

The International Hockey Federation sets the rules and regulations of field hockey. The first set of rules were established in 1875/1876. The original rules remained in effect until 1886 when changes were made. Since then there have been changes almost every year.

The rules which were established for 2007-2008 have remained the same. There are very few changes in the international field hockey rules for 2009. The changes that were made were to make it a more interesting game for the spectators. With so many whistle blows and game delays, the IHF made changes to make field hockey a faster sport.

The first change deals with passing the ball. Prior to this year, a player, after passing the ball, could not touch it again until another player touched it. The Mandatory Experiment introduced this year. This change in the rules allows the player to pass the ball to himself. Before this rule came into effect, a player could not touch the ball again until another team member touched it.

The other change has to do with the free hits rule. A free hit is awarded when a team or player commits an offense. Some of these offenses are dangerous play, interference, obstruction, illegal play and using a body part or the back of the stick to contact the ball.

Changes to the free hit rule prevent players from dangerously playing the ball. The International Hockey Federation was concerned of how hard the ball was hit into the scoring circle. A hard hit ball presented a serious risk of injuries. One change was made if an offense occurred within 5 meters of the scoring circle. In this case the free hit is awarded 5 meters away. The ball has to travel 5 meters before it can enter into the scoring circle. However, if the ball is touched by either team before it travels that distance, then it can be played into the circle.

Field Hockey has seen many changes to the rules of the game since the International Hockey Federation first established the rules. However, when changes need to be done, the members on the extensively discuss and review the rule changes. Therefore, making changes to the rules is not an overnight process. While rule changes might be an annoyance, they are there to make sure people play fairly and safely. Field hockey can be a dangerous sport if people play with no regards for the rules. Any changes in the rules are for the better for both the players and the spectators.

Reference:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Field_hockey