Field Hockey Points of Emphasis - 2025
Penalty Corners
The penalty corner is a critical set piece in the sport of field hockey. Two points of emphasis were written by the rules committee to focus on this set piece.
Substitution on Corners
Substitutions during a penalty corner are not permitted from the time the penalty corner is awarded until after it has been completed. This rule ensures the integrity and flow of the game is maintained during these situations and applies to both field players and goalkeepers. Once the penalty corner is completed, substitutions can occur within the designated 10-yard substitution area. All players, including goalkeepers, must enter and exit the field through this area.
An exception is granted to ensure player safety if any player is injured during a penalty corner, in which case a substitution is allowed. Adhering to these substitution rules during penalty corners is crucial for maintaining fair play and the structured progression of the game. 10-3 PENALTIES 8a
Completion of Penalty Corner
A penalty corner is considered complete when:
A goal is scored
A free hit is awarded to the defending team
A penalty stroke is awarded. The game shall be prolonged to permit the completion of the penalty
The ball travels more than 5 yards from the circle
The ball is played over the end line and a penalty corner is not awarded
A defender commits a foul which does not result in another penalty corner.
It’s important to note that if a penalty corner is awarded at the end of the first three quarters the game shall continue to complete the penalty corner. If a penalty corner is awarded at the end of the game, the game shall continue to complete the penalty corner unless the scoring opportunity of the goal would not influence the outcome of the game. Only after completion of the penalty corner can substitutions occur. No substitutions are allowed when a penalty corner is retaken. 10-3 PENALTIES 8a
Intentionally Delaying the Game on a Corner:
Intentionally delaying the game is considered a foul. This includes teams taking an unreasonable amount of time to take their positions for the set-up of a penalty corner. Umpires are empowered to manage such infractions using various administrative tools. Penalties for intentionally delaying the game can include, cautioning the offending player, issuing a green card, suspending the player for a minimum of five minutes with a yellow card, or permanently suspending the player with a red card. These measures aim to maintain the flow of the game and ensure fair play.
Defining Obstruction:
Obstruction is defined as any action where a player uses their body or stick to prevent an opponent from attempting to play the ball. This includes shielding the ball, backing into an opponent or positioning oneself between the opponent and the ball without actively playing it.
Third party obstruction occurs when a teammate positions themselves between an opponent and the ball, preventing the opponent from making a play.
A stationary player receiving the ball is permitted to face in any direction. However, they must not move their body to shield the ball from an opponent who is within playing distance and attempting to make a legitimate tackle.
Obstruction is considered a foul and results in a free hit awarded to the opposing team.