Guidance - Goalkeepers and the Sliding Tackle

Goalkeepers and the sliding tackle. The following guidance has been produced following consultation with an FIH Pro League umpire and match manager. North West Hockey Officiating have issued this guidance so umpires penalise dangerous play and prevent injury. This is not a new rule, the rule has not been implemented correctly and NWHO feel the need to publish guidance due to a serious injury, that occurred in the first half of the season which NW have only just been made aware of.

It is expected that goalkeepers will go to ground within their circle to defend the goal (this includes when tackling an attacker who is in possession of the ball). However, when going to ground goalkeepers must do so in a manner which is safe and does not endanger other players. Goalkeepers who use excessive force which endangers a player, whether they play the ball first or not, should be penalised with a penalty stroke (in line with rule 12.4b)  and a personal penalty should be applied. This would most likely consist of a yellow card and 10 minute suspension (similar to other physical fouls). When attackers are running at pace and goalkeepers are sliding to make a challenge it is expected that there will be some level of contact. Umpires should judge whether the goalkeeper made a legitimate attempt to play the ball first in a safe manner or endangered the attacker.