Updated rules from January 1

A useful link here to the rules with effect from January 1, 2007. The link is a PDF so be patient.

The main changes are: The requirement to have a goalkeeper on the field at all times during play has been modified. The change permits teams more flexibility about what sort of goalkeeping option to adopt. It also takes account
of the possibility that a team does not have a fully-equipped goalkeeper available or simply wishes to play only with field players. The change mainly affects rules 2.2, 4.4 and 10.1 but there are also other changes especially if a team chooses to play only with field players. In relation to these changes, it is important to understand that a team either has a goalkeeper on the field (with full protective equipment or only with protective headgear) or is playing entirely with .eld players in which case no player has goalkeeping privileges. The HRB has observed that field players are increasingly wearing face protection especially when defending a penalty corner. The note to rule 4.2 has therefore been modified.

During 2006, a change to the rules was published to prohibit hitting the ball hard on the forehand with the edge of the stick. This is fully incorporated in this set of rules as rule 9.6. There is an important note to this rule explaining when the edge of the stick can be used on the forehand to play the ball safely. The note to rule 9.7 should also be studied carefully because it explains that a defender must not be penalised if they are genuinely trying to play the ball in a legitimate way when saving a shot at goal at any height.

Similarly, the note to rule 9.11 is intended to make the consequences of a ball striking the foot, hand or body clearer. Associated with its review of goalkeeping options, the HRB also considered the ways in which a goalkeeper is permitted to play the ball. The changes reflected in rule 10.2 permit a goalkeeper more flexibility when defending their goal.