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The Euro Hockey League has continued its reputation as the most innovative competition in world hockey by trialling yet another rule variation for the 2011-2012 season.
In the past, a number of game-changing concepts began life in the EHL before either being adopted universally or used in FIH World Level events by the International Hockey Federation. These include the two minute Green Card suspension and the “Self Pass”, which is arguably the most significant change to the sport since the removal of the offside rule two decades ago.
This season, the Euro Hockey League continues to push the boundaries by adjusting the rules regarding playing the ball above the shoulder.
Under the FIH Rules of Hockey 2011, Rule 9.7 states that “Players must not play the ball with any part of the stick when the ball is above shoulder height except that defenders are permitted to use the stick to stop or deflect a shot at goal at any height.”
The new Euro Hockey League ruling allows a player to “stop, receive and / or deflect the ball in a controlled manner in any part of the field when the ball is above the shoulder”. However, players must not play the ball dangerously or in any way that leads to dangerous situations for any player. The change is expected to add an extra element of excitement to this fantastic tournament.
A number of other adjustments to the rules and regulations have also been made to bring the tournament in line with FIH events. To see the full regulations and changes, please visit the Euro Hockey League website – www.ehlhockey.tv .
Euro Hockey League Media Release
