EuroHockey will use the latest FIH Rules trial relating to aerial balls in all EuroHockey club and nations competitions from March 1st 2025 onwards.
It follows a review of the FIH Rules which took place after the completion of the Paris2024 Olympic Games with a change to rule 9.10 regarding aerial balls being trialed in the FIH Pro League Season. If successful, it will be considered for adoption globally next year.
Rule Trial
Rule 9.10 being trialed (highlighted in bold)
“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 meters 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.”
The rationale behind this new rule is:
Previously the wording read “…received, controlled and is on the ground.” So, the need for the ball to be under control and on the ground is no longer required. As soon as the receiver touches the ball, the opponent can then engage within the 5m.
This change is to allow defenders to close down a receiver and compete for the ball once they have touched the ball, even inside the circle, rather than the current situation, in particular within the circle, which stops defenders being able to do anything about a shot at goal with a second touch if the ball is not yet on the ground. The initial 5m will still have to be respected in order to allow safe initial control of the ball, but once touched by the receiver the contest will be allowed.
The FIH is waiting either until the end of the HPL season (end June) or maybe sooner to decide if they make a rule change permanent.
If the rule change comes in, then our European nations tournaments will be played according to the new rule.
It is up to each National Association if they wish to implement the rule at this stage of the season.
