Each week we will be providing a "Rule of the Week" for players and umpirs to develop their knownledge and skills of the game.

The full FIH rule book is attached below for anyone who is feeling adventurous

This week being the first edition there will be one rule and one explination of what tools umpires use throughout a game.

Rule 1 - Body, Stick & "third man" obstructions

The rule as listed in the rule book

9.12       Players must not obstruct an opponent who is attempting to play the ball.

Players obstruct if they:

– back into an opponent

– physically interfere with the stick or body of an opponent

– shield the ball from a legitimate tackle with their stick or any part of their body.

A stationary player receiving the ball is permitted to face in any direction.

A player with the ball is permitted to move off with it in any direction except bodily into an opponent or into a position between the ball and an opponent who is within playing distance of the ball and attempting to play it.

A player who runs in front of or blocks an opponent to stop them legitimately playing or attempting to play the ball is obstructing (this is third party or shadow obstruction). This also applies if an attacker runs across or blocks defenders (including the goalkeeper) when a penalty corner is being taken.

9.13 Players must not tackle unless in a position to play the ball without body contact.

Reckless play, such as sliding tackles and other overly physical challenges by field players, which take an opponent to ground and which have the potential to cause injury should attract appropriate match and personal penalties.

Umpires signals when calling body obstruction

               Obstruction: hold crossed forearms in front of the chest

               Third party or shadow obstruction: alternately open and close crossed forearms in front of the chest

               Stick obstruction : hold one arm out and downwards in front of the body half-way between vertical and horizontal; touch the forearm with the other hand

Applying the Rule as directed by FIH:

Rule 9.12: obstruction. Umpires should penalise shielding the ball with the stick more strictly. They should also look out for a tackling player who by pushing or leaning on an opponent causes them to lose possession of the ball.

Examples 

Umpires Tools

Umpires have a number of tools at their disposal. Their Whistle, their voice and their cards. This video below explains SOME of scenarios where each are used.