HKHA 17-18 Circular no. 1 - Implementation of Rules of Hockey 2017 and Exception to Rule 9.7

To:   Convenors of Affiliated Clubs (Men's, Women's, Youth and Mini Clubs)
        Umpires and Coaches

CC: HKHA Council Members
       HKHA Sections’ Committee Members

Dear club convenors, coaches and umpires,

The FIH Rules of Hockey 2017 have taken effect since 1 January 2017 for all international competitions.  National Associations have the discretion to decide the date of implementation at national level.  As in the past, the Association decided that the new rules should take effect at the beginning of a new league season. 

You can find the FIH’s press release, summary of adjustments to the Rules of Hockey 2017, and the full version of Rules of Hockey 2017 from the link to the FIH’s website below.

http://www.fih.ch/news/fih-releases-rules-of-hockey-2017/

The Council at its last meeting decided to implement the Rules of Hockey 2017 with effect from 1 September 2017 with the following exception on Rule 9.7.  

"Rule 9.7 states players may stop, receive and deflect or play the ball in a controlled manner in any part of the field when the ball is at any height including above the shoulder unless this is dangerous or leads to danger. "

After considering the danger aspect, skill level required and international trend, the Council resolved that Rule 9.7 will ONLY be implemented in matches by men's and women's teams in the Premier Division and Division One.   All the other teams at Division Two or lower, Youth and Mini shall continue to observe the rule that players must NOT play the ball when the ball is at a height above the shoulder UNLESS a player who is defending a shot on goal, can make a save by deflecting the ball away at any height without causing danger.

If you have any question, please feel free to contact us.

Regards

Ernest LI
Hon. Secretary General