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Gaelic Athletic Association

(Established 1884)

OFFICIAL GUIDE - PART 2

Containing Playing Rules of Hurling and

Football, revised and corrected up to date, and

published by authority of the Central Council.

This publication replaces all previous versions

published.

Croke Park, Dublin 3, July 2010.

Part 2

Contents

Page

The Field of Play Diagram

Rules of Specification

Rules of Control

The Playing Rules of Hurling

Line-Out Diagram

The Play

Set Play

Scores

Technical Fouls

Aggressive Fouls

Dissent

The Playing Rules of Football

Line-Out Diagram

The Play

Set Play

Scores

Technical Fouls

Aggressive Fouls

Dissent

Important Terms and Definitions

Index

The Field of Play

For Hurling and Gaelic Football

SUBSTITUTION ZONE

(See details)

13m

10m.min

80m (min) - 90m (max)

13m

20m

45m

65m

13m

20m

45m

65m

13m

45m (F)

65m (H)

13m

20m

< 13m > < 13m >

130m (min) - 145m (max)

6.5m

19 metres

14 metres

3.75m

13 m

2.5m

4.5m

GOAL AREA

7m (min)

65m

SUBSTITUTION ZONE

65m

---

------------

Centre Field

------------

Penalty Point

in Football;

11m from

centre of

goal-line

Penalty Point

in Football;

11m from

centre of

goal-line

Rules of Specification

RULE 1 - THE FIELD OF PLAY

1.1 The field of play shall be rectangular, and its

dimensions shall be as follows:

Length - 130m minimum and 145m maximum.

Width - 80m minimum and 90m maximum.

Exception

The dimensions may be reduced by local

Bye-Laws for Under 15 or younger grades.

1.2 (i) At distances of 13m, 20m, 45m (Football), and

65m (Hurling) from each endline, lines shall be
marked across the field parallel to the endline.

The intersections of these lines and of the
endlines with the sidelines shall be marked by
flags.

The midline of the field shall be marked parallel
to the endlines, and shall have a minimum
length of 10m.

Boundary lines are part of the field of play.

(ii) All lines on the field of play shall be 90 mm ±

13mm wide.

All lines shall be marked in white with a
suitable marking material.

1.3 (i) THE SCORING SPACE shall be at the centre

of each endline. Each shall be formed by two
goalposts, circular in cross section, which

shall have a height of not less than 7m above
ground level, and be 6.5m apart.

The inside edge of the endline shall be at a
tangent to the front edge of the base of the
goalposts (see diagram).

(ii) A CROSSBAR shall be fixed to the goalposts

at a uniform height of 2.5m above the ground.
The crossbar shall have a rectangular or
circular cross section.

When rectangular, it shall have a depth of
140mm + 10mm and a width not less than
50mm.

When circular, it shall have a uniform diameter
of 125mm + 5mm.

(iii) GOALNETS shall be securely fixed to the back

of the crossbar and the back of each goalpost.
The roof of the net shall be supported for a
horizontal distance of not less than 900mm, at
crossbar height, by a metal net support fixed
to the back of the goalposts.

The mesh of the net shall have a diagonal
length not exceeding 150mm for football and
50mm for hurling.

Exception

The dimensions of the

Scoring Space may

be reduced by local Bye-Laws for Under 15 or
younger grades.

1.4

TWO RECTANGLES of the following
dimensions shall be formed in front of each
scoring space.

(a) One rectangle, 14m by 4.5m, shall be

formed by two lines 4.5m long and at right
angles to the endline being marked 3.75m
from the inside of each goalpost, and the
ends of these lines being joined.

(b) A second rectangle, 19m by 13m, shall

be formed by two lines 13m long at right
angles to the endline being marked 6.25m
from the inside of each goalpost, and the
ends of these lines being joined.

of each rectangle, the other three lines
enclose the area of that rectangle.

1.5

A semi-circular arc of 13m radius, centred on
the mid-point of the 20m line, shall be marked
outside of each 20m line.

1.6

A point shall be marked 11m from the centre
of the goal-line, from which a penalty kick in
Football shall be taken.

1.7

SUBSTITUTION ZONE.

An area of the sideline, extending 5m. on
either side of the centre-line, shall be marked
as the Substitution Zone, and all the players
coming off/going on to the field of play in acts
of substitution/temporary substitution shall go

through this point, when given permission by
the Referee.

Exception

An injured player may leave the field at the
nearest point to him.

1.8

FLAGS: All flags used on boundary lines shall

have smooth rounded tops.

RULE 2 - THE PLAYERS

2.1

A team shall consist of fifteen players.

Exception

A County Committee may reduce the number
for non-Championship games.

2.2

A team may commence a game with thirteen
players but shall have fielded fifteen players,
inclusive of players ordered off or retired
injured, by the start of the second half.

In the event of failure to comply with this, the
game shall continue.

2.3

Players arriving late may join in the game
during a break in play but must report to the
referee before so doing.

2.4 (i) A maximum of five substitutions shall be

allowed during the playing of Normal Time.

(ii) A maximum of three Substitutions shall be

allowed during the playing of Extra Time.

(iii) Temporary Substitutions are also permitted

during the playing of both Normal Time and
Extra Time, as provided for in Rule 1.5(b) Rules
of Control - Injuries: Blood.

(iv) A Substitution is not allowed in the case of a

player ordered off in any circumstance, except
as permitted in Rule 2.6(d).

(v) A substitution may only be made during a

break in play, after the player has given a

substitution note to the Referee, or in the case

of a Inter-County Senior game, to the Sideline

Official. This shall also apply to a Temporary

Substitution allowed under Rule 1.5 (b), Rules

of Control - Injuries: Blood.

(vi) In Inter-County games, all substitutions and

temporary substitutions must be from players

on the official list submitted to the referee.

2.5

LIST OF PLAYERS

(i) Before all official games, the referee shall be

given a list of players, in duplicate and in Irish,
(except as provided for in Rule 1.7, Part 1),
giving full Christian names. The first fifteen
names appearing on a list shall be taken as
constituting the actual team, unless otherwise
clearly indicated.

Where extra time is being played, the Referee
shall be given either a list of the 15 players
starting the extra time, or a list clearly
indicating the changes made from that of the
finishing team in normal time. This list may be
in single form but shall otherwise comply with
the provisions above.

(ii) In Inter-County Games:

(a) The list of players shall be numbered from

1 to 24, and shall name the Clubs to which
the players belong.

Exception - In Inter-County Senior Games,

the list of players shall be numbered from 1
to not more than 26.

(Note: The Exception as worded shall be
effective from 1st January 2011.)

(b) All players shall be from the list submitted to

the referee prior to the game.

submitted to the referee prior to the game.

2.6

Players in Extra Time

(a) Any fifteen players may start Extra Time,

except as provided for in (b) and (d) below.

(b) In an Inter-County Game, any fifteen players on

the List submitted to the Referee prior to the
game, except as provided for in (d) below, may
start Extra Time.

players starting Extra Time, or a Note clearly
indicating the changes made from that of
the finishing team in Normal Time. This List/
Note may be in single form but shall otherwise
comply with the provisions of Rule 2.5 - List of
Players.

(d) A player ordered off in any circumstance in

Normal Time, may not play in Extra Time but
may be replaced.

(e) Substitutions/Temporary Substitutions shall

be allowed during the playing of Extra Time as
outlined in Rule 2.4(ii) and (iii).

(f) A Caution (Yellow Card) issued in Normal Time

shall carry over into Extra Time.

RULE 3 - TIME

3.1

A team shall take the field not later than the
time specified by the Committee-in-Charge for
Senior Inter-County Championships, National
League Finals, Inter-Provincial Championships
Finals, All-Ireland, Provincial and County
Senior Championships Finals, and not later
than five minutes before the appointed starting
time in all other games.

3.2

The playing time shall consist of two periods
of thirty minutes each, but time shall be added
on in each period for incidental or deliberate
delays.This shall be termed ‘Normal Time’.

Exceptions

(i) In Inter-County Senior Championship and

National League games, the playing time
shall consist of two periods of 35 minutes
each.

(ii) The playing time may be reduced by local

Bye-Laws for Under 15 or younger games.

3.3

An interval, not exceeding ten minutes, shall be
allowed at half-time, following which the teams
shall change ends.

Exception

In Inter-County Senior games, the interval shall
consist of a maximum of fifteen minutes.

3.4

In the case of Games not involving the
crediting of League Points, and subject to the
provisions of Rules 3.5 and 3.6 below:

(a) A Committee-in-Charge may decide prior to

the start of a Competition that if a Game in

all or some specific Round(s) ends in a draw,
Extra Time shall be played.

(b) A Committee-in-Charge, with the agreement

of the two Units involved, may also make a
decision prior to the date of a specific Game
that in the event of a Draw in that Game, Extra
Time shall be played.

further draw in a Replay.

(d) Extra Time shall consist of two periods of ten

minutes each way.

3.5

Unless the Management Committee of
Central Council otherwise permits on an
application by a Competitions Control
Committee, extra time shall be obligatory in the
following competitions - Inter-County Senior
Championships (excluding the Provincial and
All Ireland Semi Finals and Finals), Inter-County
Under 21 Championships (excluding All-Ireland
Finals), Inter-County Minor Championships
(excluding the Provincial and All-Ireland
Finals), Inter-County Intermediate Hurling,
Inter-County Junior Football, the knock-out
stages of the National Leagues, Inter-Provincial
Competitions, Oireachtas and other Inter-
County Tournaments, Inter-Club Provincial
and All-Ireland Championships (excluding the
Provincial and All-Ireland Senior Finals), the
Sigerson and Fitzgibbon Cups, and any other
games in subsidiary competitions

3.6

If a game in a knock-out Club Competition at
underage, up to and including Minor, ends in a
draw, two periods of Extra Time of ten minutes

each shall be played.

Exception - Extra time is not mandatory in
the first game of County Minor Championship
Finals.

3.7

When Extra Time is to be played there shall
be a maximum time space of ten minutes
between the end of Normal Time and the start
of Extra Time.

A half-time interval in Extra Time shall not
exceed five minutes, and teams shall not leave
the field for such intervals.

After a half-time interval, the Teams shall
change ends.

RULE 4 - EQUIPMENT

4.1 (i) Club teams shall wear their registered

distinctive colours in inter-club competitions.
Where there is a similarity of colours, the teams
shall change to their alternative registered
colour(s), approved by the County Committee.

(ii) County teams shall wear their registered

distinctive colours in Inter-County
competitions.

Where there is similarity of colours, the two
counties shall wear their registered alternative
colour(s) or other colours authorised or
directed by the Committee in Charge.

(iii) In all games, the goalkeeper shall wear a jersey

which is distinctive from his own team’s
and the opposing team’s colours.

4.2 (i) In all Hurling Games and Hurling Practice

Sessions, it is mandatory for all players to wear
a helmet with a facial guard.

(ii) A referee shall not allow a helmet to be worn in

a football game.

4.3 (i) The diameter of the Sliotar - not including the

rim (rib) - shall be between 69mm. and 72mm.

The mass of the Sliotar shall be between 110
and 120 grams.

The rim (rib) height shall be between 2.0mm.
and 2.8mm.

The rim (rib) width shall be between 3.6 mm.
and 5.4mm.

The thickness of the leather cover shall be
between 1.8mm. and 2.7mm. and shall not be
laminated with a coating greater than 0.15mm.

Sliotars will only be approved for use on the
basis of compliance with standards and tests
as set out by Central Council.

Approved Sliotars shall carry the G.A.A. mark
of approval.

Annual testing will be carried out, at an
independent and approved test centre, to
ensure that Sliotars continue to comply with
the standards set out only by the Central
Council.

The Central Council may adopt a single core
that shall be used by any manufacturer/
supplier who is approved to provide Sliotars for
use in official games.

(ii) The Football shall not weigh less than 480g.

and not more than 500g. and shall have a
circumference of not less than 68cm. and not

more than 70cm.

Exception - The dimensions may be reduced by local
Bye-Laws for under 15 or younger grades.

(iii) Footballs shall be approved for use on the

basis of compliance with standards and tests
set out by Central Council.

(iv) Sliotars/Footballs shall fully comply with the

Playing Gear and Equipment regulations as
ratified from time to time by Central Council.

4.4

The bas of a hurley at its widest point shall not
be more than 13cm.

4.5

An artificial tee of a standard approved by the
Central Council may be used for a kick-out in
football

Rules of Control

RULE 1 - CONTROL OF THE GAMES

MATCH OFFICIALS

Control of the Games shall be entrusted to a
Referee, four Umpires and two Linesmen who
shall decide on the field all matters affecting
play.

A Sideline Official shall be appointed for all
Inter-County Senior games.

1.1 POWERS OF THE REFEREE

The Referee’s decision on any question of fact
(except as provided for in Rule 7.3 (aa) (1) (vi),
Part 1, Official Guide) and in regard to time,
shall be final.

The referee shall have the following powers:

(i) To appoint a replacement referee, if he is

unable to act and unable to contact the
Secretary of the Committee in Charge.

Otherwise, the Secretary of the Committee in
Charge shall appoint a replacement referee.

(ii) To declare the ground or other conditions

unsuitable for play after consulting, where
feasible, with the Officials in Charge of the
fixture.

(iii) To consult with the umpires and/or linesmen

concerning infringements of the Playing Rules,
in particular rough or dangerous play, striking,
hitting or kicking. The referee may apply the
appropriate rule following such consultations.

(iv) To order a player with an injury involving

bleeding to leave the field of play for medical
and/or other attention.

(v) To over-rule a decision of a linesman or

umpire(s).

(vi) To award a score when the ball has been

prevented from going over the goal-line or
crossbar by anyone other than a player or the
referee.

(vii) To terminate a game because of outside

interference, or any other serious reason that
merits such action.

(viii) To terminate a game, having first given a three

minute warning to the captain or official in
charge of the team or the players involved, in
any of the following circumstances: -

(a) A player refusing to leave the field when
ordered off, or having been ordered off, rejoins
the game;

(b) A team or player(s) leaving the field either

without the referee’s permission, or
refusing to continue playing.

(ix) To order that all Players are correctly and

safely attired.

1.2

DUTIES OF THE REFEREE

(i) To control the game in accordance with the

Playing Rules.

(ii) To receive lists of players, sign them in Irish,

and give a copy to the opposing team before
the game.

(iii) To obtain the signature, full address, and

club of any player participating in the game,
if requested by a captain or responsible team
official.

(iv) To report any irregularities in respect of

dimensions, markings or unsatisfactory
condition of the field of play, and to report
any official protest made by a team captain
before the game in relation to irregularities in
dimensions or markings of the field of play.

(v) To ensure that all playing equipment conforms

with the Rules. This shall include that of a
player coming back on to the field under Rule
1.5 (b) Injuries: Blood.

(vi) To keep a record of scores, the names of

players injured, replaced, substitutes taking
part, temporary substitutes under Rule 1.5 (b)
Injuries : Blood, any instance of late fielding
or of exceeding the half-time interval, and the
intrusion of unauthorised persons onto the
field of play.

(vii) To record playing time, and to extend time in

each half for deliberate or incidental delay or
to allow for a free - awarded before time had

expired - to be taken. Should the defending
team commit a further foul before the referee
whistles for full-time, he shall further extend
the time to permit an additional free to be
taken, from which a score can be made,
provided no other player of the side taking the
free touches the ball.

(viii) To blow the whistle when a foul has been

committed or when the ball has gone out
of play. To blow the whistle or give a signal
to restart play. Once the referee has given
a decision and has sounded his whistle to
restart play, he shall not alter that decision.

(ix) To indicate the place from which all free kicks

or free pucks shall be taken.

(x) (a) To caution a player who commits a

cautionable foul/infraction, by taking his
name and showing him a yellow card,
which caution, unless (b) or (c) below has
been applied, shall carry over into Extra
Time, where played.

(b) To order off a player who commits a

second cautionable foul/infraction, by
showing him a second yellow card,
followed by showing him a red card.

ordering off foul/infraction by taking his
name (if not already taken) and showing
him a red card.

(xi) To present the ball to the Captain of the

winning team at the end of a Provincial or All-
Ireland Final.

1.3

COMMENCING PLAY

(i) The referee shall toss a coin for choice of ends

in the presence of the team captains. This
procedure shall be repeated for Extra Time,
where played.

(ii) Two players from each team shall stand one

behind the other on their own defensive side
of the halfway line, and shall face the referee,
for the throw in.

The other players, shall be in their respective
positions behind the 45m line (Football) or
65m line (Hurling).

(iii) The referee, facing the players, shall throw in

the ball over the heads of the players (Football)
and along the ground between the players
(Hurling).

(iv) Regulations (ii) and (iii) above shall also apply

for the start of the second half.

1.4

ENTRY TO FIELD OF PLAY/INCURSIONS -

One Team Official (Maor Foirne, who is an
assistant to the Bainisteoir), may move
alongside the sidelines and enter the field
of play during a break in play - through the
Substitution Zone - to make changes and/or
to give instructions to players.

This named official shall wear a yellow or
tangerine coloured bib/distinctive top which
shall have “MAOR FOIRNE” in clear large
letters. The Committee-in-Charge shall
determine and notify the colour to be used by
each Maor Foirne.

The Maor Foirne may not act as a water carrier
or hurley carrier. Selectors are permitted to act
as Maor Foirne. The Maor Foirne shall not be a
listed member of the Team Panel.

A break in play is when the ball has gone
out of play following a score or a wide or a
stoppage in play called by the Referee for
medical attention to an injured player.

The Referee may give his permission to a
Team Medical Officer or one authorised official
to enter the Field of Play to examine an injured
player.

1.5

INJURIES

(a) Injuries: General - Play shall not be stopped

for injury to a player, except in exceptional
circumstances to enable a seriously injured
player to be treated on the field or removed
from the field of play. All other Injuries shall be
treated off the field of play.

(b) Injuries: Blood - A player who is bleeding

or who has blood on any part of his body,
playing attire or playing equipment, as a result
of an injury sustained during play, shall on
the instruction of the Referee, immediately
leave the field of play to receive medical and/
or other attention. He shall not be allowed to
return to the field of play until the bleeding
has stopped, all blood has been cleaned off
and, where possible, the injured area has
been covered, any blood-stained playing attire

has been replaced and any blood-stained
equipment has been fully cleaned. In that
circumstance, a Temporary Substitute may be
used, and the following acts shall not count as
substitutions under Rule 2.4 (i) and (ii), Rules
of Specification.

(1) The use of the Temporary Substitute

for a player instructed to leave the field
under the Rule.

(2) The return to the field of play of the

injured (blood) player as a direct
replacement for the Temporary
Substitute.

(3) The return to the field of play of the

injured (blood) player as a replacement
for any other player if the Temporary
Substitute has previously been sent off
or substituted.

1.6

REPORT OF REFEREE

The Referee shall normally submit his report,
together with a copy of each team’s list(s) (as
specified in Rule 2.5, Rules of Specification.),
within a period of three days of the game, to
the Committee or Council in Charge. When the
Committee in Charge deems it necessary, the
report shall be submitted within 24 hours.

The Report should contain:-

- The result of the game.

- The names of the umpires and linesmen.

- The time each team took the field.

- The time the game started.

- If the interval was exceed, a statement of

the reason.

- The names of players injured, replaced, and

substitutes taking part.

- The name(s) of temporary substitutes under

1.5 (b) Injuries: Blood.

- The names of players cautioned or ordered

off, and the exact reason(s).

- The name of any official or spectator who

interfered during the course of the game.

- Any other breaches of the regulations.

Any errors/omissions in respect of the above
shall not invalidate the Report as a whole.

RULE 2 - UMPIRES

There shall be two goal umpires at each end of
the field of play. An umpire shall stand behind
each goalpost and behind the endline. The
umpires shall remain at the same end for the
duration of the game.

2.1

POWERS OF UMPIRES

The umpires shall decide if a score is made, or
if the ball has crossed the endline for a wide,
or for a 45m or 65m free, subject to Rule 1.1
(v) above.

2.2

DUTIES OF UMPIRES

(i) The umpires shall signal their decisions as

follows:

(a) A 45m free in Football or a 65m free in

Hurling by raising an arm upright, and then
pointing directly infield, at the place where
the ball passed over the endline.

(b) A wide by crossing both arms above the

head.

or a white flag for a point, in front of the
scoring space.

(d) A decision to disallow a score by crossing

the flags at the centre of the scoring
space.

(ii) The umpires shall bring to the notice of

the referee, during a break in play, any
instances of foul play in particular, rough or
dangerous play, striking, hitting, or kicking, or
unauthorised incursions onto the field of play,
which have not been noticed by the Referee.

RULE 3 - LINESMEN

There shall be one linesman on each sideline.
Linesmen shall change sides at half-time.
However, failure to do so will not affect the
result of the game.

3.1

DUTIES OF THE LINESMEN

(i) The Linesmen shall indicate by flag signal:

(a) when and where a ball crosses the sideline,

(b) which side is entitled to the sideline kick or

puck, and

(ii) When a ball is played across a sideline by

opposing players simultaneously, or when the
linesman is unsure which team played the ball
over the sideline, the Linesman shall so signal.

The Referee, facing the players, shall throw
in the ball between one Player of each Team,
13m from the sideline, directly infield from
where the ball crossed the sideline.

(iii) A Linesman’s decision is subject to Rule 1.1 (v)

above.

(iv) The Linesmen, where neutral, shall control the

operation of the Substitution Zone, and shall
assist the referee in regard to the introduction
of substitutes, and of temporary substitutes
under Rule 1.5 (b) Injuries: Blood. Where
linesmen are not neutral, these functions shall
be controlled by the Referee.

(v) The Linesmen shall bring to the attention

of the referee, during a break in play, any
instances of foul play, in particular rough or
dangerous play, striking, hitting, or kicking, or
unauthorised incursions onto the field of play,
which have not been noticed by the Referee.

RULE 4 - SIDELINE OFFICIAL

A Sideline Official shall officiate at Inter-
County Senior games.

4.1

Duties of Sideline Official

(a) To receive substitution notes giving the name

and number of a substitute or temporary
substitute and the name and number of the
player being substituted or replaced.

(b) To record and report all substitutions and

The Playing Rules

of Hurling

Play

Fair Play

Foul Play

The Play

Set Play

Scores

Technical

Aggressive

Dissent

The Rules of Hurling

Rules of Fair Play

RULE 1 - THE PLAY

1.1

The ball is in play once it has been thrown in
or pucked, after the referee has given a signal
to start or restart play, and it remains in play
until:

(a) the referee signals a stop;

(b) the ball has passed completely over any

boundary line or strikes any flag marking
the boundary lines;

over any boundary line or is touched in play
by anyone other than a player.

1.2

The ball may be struck with the hurley when it
is on the ground, in the air, released from the
hand or lifted with the hurley.

1.3

A player may run with the ball balanced on or
hopping on his hurley.

1.4

A player may catch the ball, play it on his
hurley, and bring it back into his hand once. A
player who has not caught the ball may play it
from the hurley into his hand twice.

1.5

The ball may be struck with the hand, kicked,
or lifted off the ground with the feet.

1.6

The ball may not be touched on the ground
with the hand(s), except when a player is
knocked down or falls and the ball in his hand
touches the ground.

1.7

When a player is in possession of the ball it
may be:

(a) Carried in the hand for a maximum of four

consecutive steps or held in the hand for
no longer than the time needed to take four
steps.

(b) Released and struck with a definite striking

action of a hand.

1.8

Player(s) may tackle an opponent for the ball.

1.9

Provided that he has at least one foot on the
ground, a player may make a shoulder to
shoulder charge on an opponent-

(a) who is in possession of the ball, or

(b) who is playing the ball, or

direction of the ball to play it.

When he is within the small rectangle, the
goalkeeper may not be charged but he may be
challenged for possession of the ball, and his
puck, kick or pass may be blocked. Incidental
contact with the goalkeeper while playing the
ball is permitted.

1.10

For a run-up to a free puck, sideline puck,
or puck-out, a player may go outside the
boundary lines, but otherwise players shall
remain within the field of play.

1.11

A player may hold up his hurley or hand(s) to
intercept a free puck.

RULE 2 - SET PLAY

2.1

The referee, facing the players, starts the
game and restarts it after half-time by throwing
in the ball between two players from each
team, who shall stand one behind the other in
their own defensive sides of the half-way line.
All other players shall be in their respective
positions behind the 65m lines.

2.2

After a foul, play is restarted by a free puck or
a throw-in where the foul(s) occurred.

Exceptions

(i) In the case of fouls by defending players

within the rectangles, the following shall apply:

A penalty puck shall be awarded for an
Aggressive Foul within the large rectangle.
The penalty puck shall be taken from the
centre point of the 20m line. A free puck
from the centre of the 20m line shall be
awarded for a Technical Foul within the
large rectangle.

(ii) A free puck, awarded for a foul by a

defending player inside his own 20m line
but outside the large rectangle, shall be
taken from the 20m line opposite where the
foul occurred.

(iii) When a player is fouled immediately after

he plays the ball away, and a score results,
it shall stand. Otherwise, the referee shall
award a free puck from where the foul
occurred or, if more advantageous, from
where the ball lands or crosses the sideline.

With the option of a free being awarded

from where the foul occurred being
retained, the rule shall apply in the
following circumstances as outlined:-

(a) If the ball lands over the endline, a free

shall be given on the 20m line opposite
the place where the ball crossed the
endline;

(b) If the ball lands inside the opponents’

20m line, a free shall be given from the
20m line at the point where the ball
crossed this line.

(iv) Where otherwise specified in the penalties

listed in Rule 4, Sections 14, 15, 16, 17, 18,
19, 27, 28, 29, 30, 34; Rule 5, Sections 16,
36; Rule 6.4.

(v) When play is restarted by throwing in

the ball after a foul(s) within 13m of the
sideline, the throw in shall be given 13m
from the sideline and directly infield from
where the foul(s) occurred.

(vi) When play is restarted by throwing in the

ball after a foul(s) between the endline and
the 20m line, the throw-in shall be given
on the 20m line, opposite where the foul(s)
occurred, subject to the Provisions stated
in (v) above.

All players, except the player taking the free
puck (excluding penalties), shall be 20m
from where the free puck is being taken or
all players, except those two contesting the
throw-in, shall be 13m from where the throw-in
is awarded.

2.3

A penalty puck shall be taken at the centre
point of the 20m line and the semi-circular arc,
and only three defending players may stand
on the goal-line. All other players, with the
exception of the player taking the puck, shall
be outside the 20m line, and shall not cross
the 20m line or the arc until the ball has been
struck. If a defending player(s) fouls before
the ball is struck and a goal does not result,
the referee shall allow the penalty puck to be
retaken.

2.4

When opposing players foul simultaneously,
play is restarted by throwing in the ball.

2.5

For all free pucks, including penalties, the ball
may be struck with the hurley in either of two
ways:

(a) Lift the ball with the hurley at the first

attempt and strike it with the hurley.

(b) Strike the ball on the ground.

If a player taking a free puck or penalty fails
to lift the ball at the first attempt, or fails to
strike it with the hurley, he must strike it on the
ground without delay. Only when he delays,
may a player of either side approach nearer
than 20m. except in the case of penalties.

2.6

When the ball is played over the endline by
the team attacking that end or after a score,
play is restarted by a puck-out from within the
small rectangle.

The player taking a puck-out shall take the ball
into his hand, but should he miss his stroke,
the ball may be struck on the ground or may

be raised with and struck with the hurley, but
not taken into his hand again before striking
it. The player taking the puck-out may strike
the ball more than once before another player
touches it.

All players shall be outside the 20m line until
the ball has been struck except the goalkeeper
and the player taking the puck-out - if other
than the goalkeeper.

The ball shall travel 13m before being played
by another player of the defending team.

2.7

When the ball is played over the endline and
outside the goalposts by the team defending
that end, a free puck shall be awarded to
the opposing team on the 65m line opposite
where the ball crossed the endline.

2.8

When a team plays the ball over the sideline, a
free puck from the ground shall be awarded to
the opposing team at the place where the ball
crossed the sideline. If opposing players play
the ball simultaneously over the sideline, or if
the officials are not sure which team played
the ball last, the Referee, facing the players,
shall throw in the ball between one player from
each team, 13m from the sideline and directly
infield from where ball crossed the sideline. A
ball that strikes a sideline or corner flag shall
be treated as having crossed the sideline. A
player on the team awarded a sideline puck
shall place the ball on the sideline at the place
indicated by the linesman. All players except
the player taking the sideline puck, or the
two players contesting the throw-in, shall be

at least 13m from the ball until it is struck or
thrown in.

If a player taking a sideline puck fails to strike
the ball at the first attempt, he shall not delay
in making a second attempt. Only when the
player delays his second attempt to strike the
ball may a player from either side approach
nearer than 13m.

2.9

If in exceptional circumstances play is stopped
by the Referee to enable a seriously injured
player to be treated on the field or removed
from the field of play, play shall resume in one
of the following manners:-

(i) If a Team is in possession when the play

is stopped, the play shall resume with a
free puck to that Team from the position
at which the play was stopped, unless the
play was stopped inside the opponents’
20m line in which case the free shall be
awarded from the 20m line opposite the
point where the play was stopped. A score
may not be made directly from such free.

(ii) If neither Team is in possession when the

play is stopped, a throw-in shall be given at
the position where the play was stopped,
subject to the provisions in Exceptions (v)
and (vi) of Rule 2.2

2.10

If the ball touches any non-player during play,
play is restarted by throwing in the ball at the
place concerned, but if the ball touches any
non-player from a free puck, the free shall be
retaken.

RULE 3 - SCORES

3.1

goal is scored when the ball is played over

the goal-line between the posts and under the
crossbar by either team.

point is scored when the ball is played over

the crossbar between the posts by either
team.

A goal is equivalent to three points.

The team with the greater final total of points
is the winner.

Exceptions

A player on the team attacking a goal who is in
possession of the ball may not score;

(i) by carrying the ball over his opponents’

goal-line, or

(ii) with his hand(s).

3.2

A score may be made by striking the ball in
flight with the hand(s).

3.3 (a) A score shall be allowed if, in the opinion

of the referee, the ball was prevented from
crossing the goal-line by anyone other than a
player or the referee.

(b) If part of the goal-posts or crossbar is

displaced during play, the referee shall award
the score which he considers would have
resulted had a part not been displaced.

3.4

If a defending player plays the ball through his
own scoring space in any manner, this shall
count as a score.

Rules of Foul Play

RULE 4 - TECHNICAL FOULS

4.1

To overcarry or overhold the ball.

4.2

(a) To throw the ball.

(b) To handpass the ball without it being

released and struck with a definite striking
action of a hand.

4.3

To lift the ball off the ground with the knees.

4.4

To lie on the ball.

4.5

To touch the ball on the ground with the
hand(s), except when a player falls or is
knocked down and the ball in his hand
touches the ground.

4.6

To catch the ball more than twice before
playing it away.

4.7

To release the ball with the hand and catch it
without playing it with the hurley.

4.8

To drop the hurley intentionally, or to throw the
hurley in a manner which does not constitute a
danger to another player.

4.9

To tip an opponent’s hurley in the air or to tip
it up with hurley or foot, for the purpose of
allowing the ball to pass through.

4.10

For an attacking player to enter opponents’
small rectangle before the ball enters it during
the play.

Exceptions

(i) If an attacking player legally enters the

small rectangle, and the ball is played

from that area but is returned before the
attacking player has time to leave the area,
provided that he does not play the ball
or interfere with the defence, a foul is not

committed.

(ii) When a point is scored from outside the

small rectangle and the ball is sufficiently
high to be out of reach of all players, the
score shall be allowed even though an
attacking player may have been within the
small rectangle before the ball - provided
that the player in question does not
interfere with the defence.

4.11 (a) For a player on the team awarded a free puck

to stand or move nearer than 20m to the ball
before it is struck.

(b) For a player on the team awarded a sideline

puck to stand or move nearer than 13m to the
ball before it is struck.

puck to be inside the 20m line or the arc
before the ball is struck.

4.12

For a player attacking a goal to carry the ball
over opponents’ goal-line.

4.13

For a player on the team attacking a goal, who
is in possession of the ball, to score with the
hand(s).

PENALTY FOR ABOVE FOULS - Free puck

from where the foul occurred, except as

provided under Exceptions of Rule 2.2.

4.14

To be inside opponents’ 20m line before a
puck-out is taken after a wide.

PENALTY - Free puck from the defenders’

20m line opposite where the foul occurred.

4.15

To take the puck-out from outside the small
rectangle.

PENALTY -

(i) Cancel Puck-Out

(ii) Throw-in ball on the defenders’ 20m line

opposite the scoring space

4.16 (a) For a player on the team defending a

penalty puck, with the exception of the three
defending players on the goal-line, to be inside
the 20m line or the semi-circle before the ball
is struck.

(b) For any of the three players defending a

penalty on the goal-line to move nearer than
20m to the ball before the ball is struck.

PENALTY - If a goal is not scored, the

referee shall allow the penalty puck to be

retaken.

4.17 (a) For an opposing player to be nearer than 20m

to the ball before a free puck is struck.

(b) For an opposing player to be nearer than 13m

to the ball before a sideline puck is struck.

PENALTY FOR THE ABOVE FOULS - Free

puck 13m more advantageous than the

place of original puck - up to opponents’

20m line.

4.18

To delay an opponent taking a free puck or
sideline puck by hitting or kicking the ball
away, not releasing the ball to the opposition,
or by deliberately not moving back to allow the
puck to be taken.

4.19

To interfere with a player taking a free puck
or sideline puck by jumping up and down,
waving hands or hurley, or any other physical
or verbal interference considered by the
referee to be aimed at distracting the player
taking the puck.

Exception

A player holding his hands or hurley upright
shall not constitute an interference.

PENALTY - Free puck 13m more

advantageous than the place of original

puck - up to opponents’ 20m line.

4.20

To reset the ball for a free/penalty/sideline
puck without the referee’s permission after the
whistle has been blown for the free/penalty/
sideline puck to be taken.

4.21

To play the ball again after taking a free/
penalty/sideline puck before another player
has played it, unless the ball rebounds off the
goal-posts or crossbar.

4.22

To foul a free puck by making a second
attempt to lift the ball, to hop the ball on the
hurley, or to take the ball in the hand.

4.23

For the player taking a sideline puck to
attempt to lift the ball with his hurley.

4.24

To make a divot for the purpose of teeing up
the ball for a free puck or sideline puck.

4.25

To advance the ball deliberately from the place
at which a free puck or sideline puck is to be
taken.

4.26

To waste time by delaying a free puck or
sideline puck awarded to own team.

PENALTY FOR THE ABOVE FOULS -

(i) Cancel free puck or sideline puck.

(ii) Throw in the ball where the foul

occurred, except as provided under

Exceptions (v) and (vi) of Rule 2.2.

4.27

For the player taking the puck-out and, having
missed a stroke, to take the ball into his hand
a second time before striking.

4.28

To be inside own 20m line when one’s team is
taking a puck-out except as provided in Rule
2.6.

4.29

For another player on the team taking the
puck-out to play the ball before it has travelled
13m.

4.30

To waste time by delaying own puck-out.

PENALTY FOR ABOVE FOULS -

(i) Cancel puck-out.

(ii) Throw in the ball on defenders’ 20m line

opposite the scoring space.

4.31

For a player(s) from each team to foul
simultaneously.

Penalty - Throw in the ball where the

foul(s) occurred, except as provided under

Exceptions (v) and (vi) of Rule 2.2.

4.32

To deliberatley go outside the boundary lines
to gain an advantage except as permitted by
Rule 1.10.

Penalty-Free puck from where the foul

occurred.

4.33

To interfere with the goalposts to distract
opponents or to gain an advantage.

PENALTY FOR THE ABOVE FOULS-

Caution offender; order off for second

cautionable offence.

4.34

When a team commits a Technical Foul, the
referee may allow the play to continue if he
considers it to be to the advantage of the
opposing team. He shall signal that advantage
is being played by raising an extended arm
upright. Once he allows play to continue, he
may not subsequently award a free for that
foul. He shall apply any relevant disciplinary
action.

RULE 5 - AGGRESSIVE FOULS

Category II Infractions

5.1

To strike or to attempt to strike an opponent
with arm, elbow, hand or knee.

5.2

To strike or to attempt to strike an opponent
with a hurley, with minimal force.

5.3

To kick or to attempt to kick an opponent, with
minimal force .

5.4

To behave in any way which is dangerous to
an opponent.

5.5

To spit at an opponent.

5.6

To contribute to a melee.

5.7

To use abusive language to a Referee, Umpire,
Linesman or Sideline Official.

Category III Infractions

5.8

To strike or to attempt to strike an opponent
with the head.

5.9

To strike an opponent with a hurley, either with
force or causing injury.

5.10

To attempt to strike an opponent with a hurley,
with force.

5.11

To kick an opponent either with force or
causing injury.

5.12

To attempt to kick an opponent with force.

5.13

To stamp on an opponent.

5.14

To inflict an injury recklessly on an opponent
by means other than those stated above.

5.15

To assault an opposing Team Official

Category IV Infractions

5.16

To interfere with a Referee, Umpire,
Linesman or Sideline Official - minor physical
interference e.g. laying a hand on, pushing,
pulling or jostling.

5.17

To use threatening language to a Referee,
Umpire, Linesman or Sideline Official.

5.18

To use threatening or abusive conduct towards
a Referee, Umpire, Linesman or Sideline
Official.

Category V Infractions

5.19

To strike or attempt to strike, or any type of
assault on, a Referee, Umpire, Linesman or
Sideline Official.

PENALTY FOR ABOVE FOULS -

(i) Order offender off.

(ii) Free puck from where Foul occurred, except

as provided under Exceptions of Rule 2.2.

5.20

To commit any of the fouls listed in Rule 5.1,
5.2, 5.3, 5.4, 5.5, 5.8, 5.9, 5.10, 5.11, 5.12,
5.13 and 5.14 against a team-mate.

PENALTY -

(i) Order offender off.

(ii) Throw in the ball where the Foul

occurred, except as provided under

Exceptions (v) and (vi) of Rule 2.2

5.21

To commit any of the fouls listed in Rule 5.1,
5.2, 5.3, 5.4, 5.5, 5.8, 5.9, 5.10, 5.11, 5.12,
5.13 and 5.14 on an opponent on the field
prior to the start of a game or at half time.

PENALTY - Offender shall be treated as

ordered off and shall not participate (or

further participate) in the game.

Note- Once the Referee has received the

list of players, or a subsitution/temporary

replaement slip which includes the

offender’s name, the player may not be

substituted.

For Information Purposes only -

Suspensions for the above Infractions are
governed by Rule 7.2 - Infractions, Official
Guide, Part 1.

As a guide, the suspensions, in part, are
outlined below:

Category II

Minimum; 4 weeks Suspension in the same Code and
at the same Level, inclusive of the next Game in the
same Competition of that Competition Year, even if
that Game falls outside the Suspension time period.

Category III

Minimum: 8 weeks Suspension in the same Code and
at the same Level, inclusive of the next Game in the
same Competition of that Competition Year, even if
that Game falls outside the Suspension time period.

Category IV

Minimum: 12 weeks Suspension in all Codes and at all
Levels.

Category V

Minimum: 48 weeks Suspension in all Codes and at all
Levels, with offender’s Team liable to Disqualification,
where appropriate.

5.22

To pull down an opponent.

5.23

To trip an opponent with hand(s), foot, or
hurley.

5.24

To threaten or to use abusive or provocative
language or gestures to an opponent.

5.25

To engage in any form of rough play.

5.26

To make ‘a pull’ with the hurley from behind
and around the body of an opponent that is
not consistent with an attempt to play the ball.

5.27

To use the hurley in a careless manner.

5.28

To throw a hurley in a manner which
constitutes a danger to another player(s).

PENALTY FOR ABOVE FOULS -

(i) Caution offender; order off for second

cautionable foul.

(ii) Free puck from where the foul occurred

except as provided under Exceptions of

Rule 2.2.

5.29

To pull or take hold of a faceguard or any other
part of an opponent’s helmet.

5.30

To attempt to achieve an advantage by
feigning a foul or injury.

PENALTY FOR ABOVE FOULS -

(i) Caution offender; order off for second

cautionable foul.

(ii) If play has been stopped for the foul, a

free puck from where play was stopped,

except as provided under Exceptions of

Rule 2.2.

5.31

To threaten or to use abusive or provocative
language or gestures to a team-mate.

PENALTY FOR ABOVE FOULS -

(i) Caution offender; order off for second

cautionable foul.

(ii) Throw in the ball where the foul

occurred, except as provided under

Exceptions (v) and (vi) of Rule 2.2.

5.32

To hold an opponent with the hand(s)

5.33 (a) To charge an opponent in the back or to the

front.

(b) To charge an opponent unless:-

(i) he is in possession of the ball, or

(ii) he is playing the ball, or

(iii) both players are moving in the direction of

the ball to play it.

giving an advantage to a team-mate.

PENALTY FOR THE ABOVE FOULS -

(i) Free puck from where foul occurred,

except as provided under Exceptions of

Rule 2.2.

(ii) Caution offender for committing any of

the above fouls a second time; order

off for a further repetition or for other

cautionable foul.

5.34 (a) To push an opponent with the hand(s) or

hurley.

(b) To hold an opponent’s hurley or pull it from his

hands.

5.35 (a) To charge (in a manner otherwise permissible

on an opponent) the goalkeeper in his small
rectangle.

(b) For a player in possession of the ball to charge

an opponent.

5.36

To use the hurley to obstruct an opponent

5.37

To strike an opponent’s hurley unless both
players are in the act of playing the ball.

Penalty for the above Fouls –

(i) Free Puck from where Foul occurred,

except as provided under Exceptions of

Rule 2.2.

(ii) Caution offender for persistently

committing such Fouls. Order off

for further repetition or for other

Cautionable Foul.

5.38

For a player to retaliate between the award
of a free to his team and the free puck being
taken.

PENALTY -

(i) Cancel free puck.

(ii) Throw in the ball where the original foul

occurred, except as provided under

Exceptions (v) and (vi) of Rule 2.2.

(iii) Apply any other relevant penalty of Rule

5.39

For a player(s) from each team to foul
simultaneously.

PENALTY -

(i) Throw in the ball where the fouls

occurred, except as provided under

Exceptions (v) and (vi) of Rule 2.2.

(ii) Apply any other relevant penalty of

Rule 5.

5.40

When an Aggressive Foul is drawn to the
referee’s attention by an umpire or linesman,
the referee may apply the appropriate penalty
as per Rule 5, and shall restart play as per
Rule 2.

5.41

When a team commits an Aggressive Foul,
the referee may allow play to continue if he
considers it to be to the advantage of the
offended team. He shall signal that advantage
is being played by raising an extended arm
upright. Once the referee allows the play to
continue, he may not subsequently award a
free for that foul. He shall apply the relevant
penalty.

RULE 6 - DISSENT

6.1

To challenge the authority of a Referee,
Umpire, Linesman or Sideline Official.

PENALTY - Caution the offender; order off

for second cautionable foul.

6.2

To fail to comply with a Referee’s instruction to
wear a helmet with a facial guard.

Penalty - Caution the offender; order off if

he persists.

6.3

To refuse to leave the field of play, on the
instruction of the Referee, for attention, after
an injury involving bleeding.

Penalty - Caution the offender; order off if

he continues to refuse.

6.4

To show dissent with the referee’s decision to
award a free puck to the opposing team.

PENALTY - The free puck already awarded

shall be taken 13m more advantageous

than the place of original free puck, up to

the opponents’ 20m line.

Further dissent on an occasion shall be

considered as a breach of Rule 6.1 and

shall be penalised accordingly.

6.5 (a) To refuse to leave the field of play when

ordered off.

(b) To rejoin the game after being ordered off.

PROCEDURE

First give a three minute warning to the

team captain or the official in charge of the

team, or the player(s) involved, and then, if

the player(s) refuse(s) to comply, terminate

the game.

6.6

A team or a player(s) leaving the field without
the referee’s permission or refusing to
continue playing.

PROCEDURE - as in Rule 6.5

Any player willing to continue shall give his

name to the referee.

The Playing Rules

Gaelic Football

Play

Fair Play

Foul Play

The Play

Set Play

Scores

Technical

Aggressive

Dissent

The Rules of Football

Rules of Fair Play

RULE 1 - THE PLAY

1.1

The ball is in play once it has been thrown in
or kicked after the referee has given a signal to
start or restart play, and it remains in play until:

(a) the referee signals a stop;

(b) the ball has passed completely over any

boundary line or strikes any flag marking
the boundary lines;

over any boundary line or is touched in play
by anyone other than a player.

1.2

When the ball is on the ground, it may be
played by any part of the body except the
hand(s). It may be lifted off the ground with the
feet.

Exceptions

(i) The goalkeeper may play the ball on the

ground with his hand(s) inside his own
small rectangle.

(ii) Any player who falls or is knocked to the

ground while in possession of the ball may
fist or palm the ball away on the ground,
and may score by so doing.

(iii) The ball may not be lifted off the ground

with the knees.

1.3

When the ball is not on the ground, it may be
played by any part of the body.

1.4

When a player is in possession of the ball, it
may be:-

(a) carried for a maximum of four consecutive

steps or held in the hand(s) for no longer
than the time needed to take four steps;

(b) played from the foot to the hand(s) -toe-

tapped;

tap;

(d) changed from one hand to the other once,

with the original holding hand maintaining
contact until the change is completed;

(e) played away with:

(i) a fist

(ii) an open hand-in which instance there

shall be a definite underhand striking
action

(f) released for a kick, a toe-tap or a pass with

a fist or an open hand.

The ball may be knocked from an opponent’s
hand(s) by flicking it with the open hand.

1.5

When the ball has not been caught, it may be
bounced more than once in succession.

1.6

Player(s) may tackle an opponent for the ball.

1.7

Provided he has at least one foot on the
ground, a player may make a shoulder to
shoulder charge on an opponent:-

(a) who is in possession of the ball, or

(b) who is playing the ball other than when

kicking it, or

direction of the ball to play it.

When he is within the small rectangle, the
goalkeeper may not be charged but he may
be challenged for possession of the ball, and
his kick or pass may be blocked. Incidental
contact with the goalkeeper while playing the
ball is permitted.

1.8

A goalkeeper may move along his goal-line
when a penalty kick is being taken.

1.9

For a run-up to a free kick or kick-out, a player
may go outside a boundary line.

For a sideline kick, a player shall kick the ball
from outside the boundary line.

Other than as stated above, players shall
remain within the field of play.

1.10

A player may hold up his hands to intercept a
free kick.

RULE 2 - SET PLAY

2.1

The Referee, facing the players, starts the
game and restarts it after half-time, by
throwing in the ball between two players
from each team, who shall stand one behind
the other in their own defensive sides of the
half-way line. All other players shall be in their
respective positions behind the 45m lines.

2.2

After a foul, play is restarted by a free kick or a
throw-in where the foul(s) occurred.

EXCEPTIONS

(i) In the case of fouls by a defending player

within the rectangles, the following shall
apply:

A penalty kick shall be awarded for an
Aggressive Foul within the large rectangle
or any foul within the small rectangle.
The penalty kick shall be taken from the
ground at the centre point of the 13m line.
A free kick from the centre of the 13m line
shall be awarded for a Technical Foul by a
defending player within the large rectangle
but outside the small rectangle.

(ii) A free kick awarded for a foul by a

defending player inside his own 13m line
but outside the large rectangle shall be
taken from the 13m line opposite where the
foul occurred.

(iii) When a player is fouled immediately after

he plays the ball away and a score results,
it shall stand. Otherwise, the referee
shall award a free kick from where the
foul occurred or, if more advantageous,
from where the ball lands or crosses the
sideline. With the option of a free being
awarded from where the foul occurred
being retained, the rule shall apply in the
following circumstances as outlined:-

(a) If the ball lands over the endline, the

free kick shall be given on the 13m
line opposite the place where the ball
crossed the endline;

(b) if the ball lands inside the opponents’

13m line, a free kick shall be given from
the 13m at the point where the ball
crossed this line.

(iv) Where otherwise specified in the penalties

listed in Rule 4 Sections 14, 15, 16, 17, 18,
19, 20, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 37;
Rule 5, Sections 13, 30; Rule 6.3.

(v) When play is restarted by throwing in

the ball after a foul(s) within 13m of the
sideline, the throw-in shall be given 13m
from the sideline and directly infield from
where the foul(s) occurred.

(vi) When play is restarted by throwing in the

ball after a foul(s) between the endline and
the 20m line, the throw-in shall be given
on the 20m line opposite where the foul(s)

occurred, subject to the provisions stated
in (v) above.

All players except the player taking the free
kick shall be at least 13m from where the
free kick is awarded, or, all players
except those two contesting the throw-in
shall be at least 13m from where the throw-
in is awarded.

2.3

A penalty kick shall be taken from the ground
at a point 11m from the centre of the goal-
line, and only the defending goalkeeper may
stand on the goal-line. All other players, with
the exception of the player taking the kick,
shall be outside the 20m line and the arc, be
at least 13m from the ball, and shall not cross
the 20m line or the arc until the ball has been
kicked. The goalkeeper may move along his
line, but may not advance from the goal-line
until the ball has been kicked. If a defending
player fouls before the ball is kicked and a
goal does not result, the referee shall allow the
penalty kick to be retaken.

2.4

When opposing players foul simultaneously,
play is restarted by throwing in the ball.

2.5

A free kick, other than a penalty kick, may
be taken from the hands or from the ground.
A player having indicated his option to the
referee shall not be permitted to change his
decision. The ball shall be stationary when a
free kick is taken from the ground.

2.6

With the Referee’s consent, a free kick may be
taken immediately.

Exceptions

A penalty kick and a free kick awarded to a
team from their opponents’ 13m line.

2.7 (a) When the ball is played over the endline by

the Team attacking that end, or after a score
is made, play is restarted by a kick-out off the
ground from the 13m line and within the large
rectangle.

If the goalkeeper is not taking the kick-out, he
shall stay in the small rectangle, and all other
players, except the player taking the kick-out,
shall be outside the 20m line and 13m from
the ball, until it has been kicked.

The player taking a kick-out may kick the
ball more than once before any other player
touches it but may not take the ball into his
hands.

The ball shall travel 13m before being played
by another player of the defending team.

(b) The Player taking the kick-out after the ball

goes wide or a score shall have the option of
using a standard tee as approved by Central
Council.

2.8

When the ball is played over the endline and
outside the goalposts by the team defending
that end, a free kick off the ground shall be
awarded to the opposing team on the 45m line
opposite where the ball crossed the endline.

2.9

When a team plays the ball over the sideline, a
free kick from the hand(s) shall be awarded to

the opposing team from outside the boundary
line from the place where the ball crossed
the sideline. If opposing players play the ball
simultaneously over the sideline, or if the
officials are not sure which team played the
ball last, the Referee, facing the players, shall
throw in the ball between one player from each
team 13m from the sideline and directly infield
from where the ball crossed the sideline. A
ball that strikes a sideline or corner flag shall
be treated as having crossed the sideline. All
players except the player taking the sideline
kick, or the two players contesting the throw-
in, shall be at least 13m from the ball until it
has been kicked or thrown in.

2.10

(i) If a Team is in possession when the play

is stopped, the play shall resume with a
free kick to that Team from the position at
which the play was stopped, unless the
play was stopped inside the opponents
13m line in which case the free shall be
awarded from the 13m line opposite the
point where the play was stopped. A score
may not be made directy from such a free.

(ii) If neither Team is in possession when

the play is stopped, a throw-in shall be
given at position where the play was

stopped, subject to the provisions stated in
Exceptions (v) and (vi) of Rule 2.2

2.11

If the ball touches any non-player during play,
play is restarted by throwing in the ball at the
place concerned, but if the ball touches any
non-player from a free kick, the free kick shall
be retaken.

Exception

(i) As provided in Rule 3.3 (a).

(ii) If the ball has been prevented from going

over a boundary line by a non-player other
than the referee, it shall be treated as
having crossed the line, and the referee
shall make the appropriate award.

RULE 3 - SCORES

3.1

goal is scored when the ball is played over

the goal-line between the posts and under the
crossbar by either team.

point is scored when the ball is played over

the crossbar between the posts by either
team.

A goal is equivalent to three points.

The team with the greater final total of points
is the winner.

Exceptions

A player on the team attacking a goal and who
is in possession of the ball may not score: -

(i) by carrying the ball over his opponents’

goal-line;

(ii) a goal with his hands except as provided in

Rule 1.2 Exception (ii);

(iii) a point with his open hand(s), but may

score a point by fisting the ball.

3.2

A score may be made by striking the ball in
flight with the hand(s).

3.3 (a) A score shall be allowed if, in the opinion

of the referee, the ball was prevented from
crossing the goal-line by anyone other than a
player or the referee.

(b) If part of the goalposts or crossbar is

displaced during play, the referee shall award
the score which he considers would have
resulted had a part not been displaced.

Rules of Foul Play

RULE 4 - TECHNICAL FOULS

4.1

To overcarry or overhold the ball.

4.2 (a) To throw the ball.

(b) To handpass the ball without:

(i) It being Fisted

(ii) It being struck with an open hand with a

definite underhand striking action.

4.3

To lift the ball off the ground with the knees.

4.4

To lie on the ball.

4.5

To touch the ball on the ground with the
hand(s), except as provided in Rule 1.2.

4.6

To bounce the ball more than once
consecutively after catching it.

4.7

To play the ball up with the hand(s) and catch
it again before it touches the ground, another
player, or goal-posts.

4.8

To wrest the ball from an opponent who has
caught the ball.

4.9

For an attacking player to enter opponents’
small rectangle before the ball enters it during
play.

Exception

(i) If an attacking player legally enters the

small rectangle, and the ball is played
from that area but is returned before the

attacking player has time to leave the
area, provided he does not play the ball
or interfere with the defence, a foul is not
committed.

(ii) When a point is scored from outside the

4.10 (a) To change the ball from one hand to the other,

without the original holding hand maintaining
contact until the change is completed.

(b) To change the ball from one hand to the other

more than once, unless the ball is bounced or
toe-tapped between the changes.

4.11 (a) For a player on the team awarded a free kick

or a sideline kick to be less than 13m from the
ball before it is kicked.

(b) For a player on the team awarded a penalty

kick to be inside the 20m line or the arc before
the ball is kicked.

4.12

For a player attacking a goal to carry the ball
over opponents’ goal-line.

4.13

For a player attacking a goal who is in
possession of the ball to score a goal with
his hand(s) or a point with his open hand(s),
except as provided in Rule 1.2 Exception (ii).

PENALTY FOR ABOVE FOULS - Free kick

from where the foul occurred except as

provided under Exceptions of Rule 2.2.

4.14

To be inside opponents’ 20m line before a
kick-out is taken.

PENALTY - Free kick from defenders’ 20m

line opposite where the foul occurred.

4.15

When within own small rectangle to be less
than 13m from the ball for opponents’ free
kick.

PENALTY - Penalty kick.

4.16 (a) For a player on the team defending a penalty

kick, with the exception of the goalkeeper, to
be inside the 20m line or the arc before the
kick is taken.

(b) For the goalkeeper defending a penalty kick

to move nearer than 11m before the kick is
taken.

PENALTY -

If a goal is not scored, the referee shall

allow the penalty kick to be retaken.

4.17

For an opposing player to be nearer than 13m
to the ball before a free kick or a sideline kick
is taken.

PENALTY - Free kick 13m more

advantageous than place of original kick -

up to opponents’ 13m line.

4.18

To delay an opponent taking a free kick or
sideline kick by hitting or kicking the ball away,
not releasing the ball to the opposition, or
deliberately not moving back to allow a quick

free kick to be taken.

4.19

To interfere with a player taking a free kick
or sideline kick by jumping up and down,
waving hands, or any other physical or verbal
interference considered by the referee to be
aimed at distracting the player taking the kick.

Exception

A player holding his hands upright shall not
constitute an interference.

PENALTY - FOR THE ABOVE FOULS - Free

kick 13m more advantageous than the

place of original kick - up to opponents’

13m line.

4.20

For an opposing player to be less than 13m
from the ball before a kick-out.

PENALTY - Free kick 13m more

advantageous than place of original kick-

out.

4.21

To reset the ball for a kick-out/free kick/
penalty from the ground, without the referee’s
permission, after the whistle has been blown
for the kick-out/free kick/penalty, to be taken
from the ground.

4.22

To play the ball again after taking a free kick/
penalty/sideline kick before another player has
touched it, unless the ball rebounds off the
goal-posts/crossbar.

4.23

To make a divot for the purpose of teeing up
the ball for a free kick or kick-out.

4.24

(a) To advance the ball deliberately from the

place at which a free kick or sideline kick is
to be taken.

(b) To take a sideline kick from a position not

outside the boundary line.

4.25

To waste time by delaying the taking of a free
kick or sideline kick awarded to own team.

PENALTY - For the Above Fouls

(i) Cancel free kick or sideline kick.

(ii) Throw in the ball where the foul

occurred except as provided under

Exceptions (v) and (vi) of Rule 2.2.

4.26

To use a kicking tee illegally.

PENALTY - For the Above Foul

(i) Disallow any resultant score

(ii) Throw in the ball where the foul

occurred except as provided under

Exceptions (v) and (vi) of Rule 2.2.

4.27

For a player taking a kick-out to take the ball
into his hand(s) before another player has
played it.

4.28

To be inside own 20m line when one’s team is
taking a kick-out, except as provided in Rule
2.7.

4.29

For another player on the team taking a kick-
out to play the ball before it has travelled 13m.

4.30

For a player on the team taking a kick-out,
other than the player taking the kick, to be less
than 13m from the ball when it is kicked.

4.31

To waste time by delaying own kick-out.

4.32

To take the kick-out after a wide or after a
score other than from the 13m line within the
large rectangle.

PENALTY FOR THE ABOVE FOULS -

(i) Cancel kick-out.

(ii) Throw in the ball on defenders’ 20m line

in front of scoring space.

4.33

For a player(s) from each team to foul
simultaneously.

PENALTY - Throw in the ball where the

fouls occurred except as provided in

Exceptions (v) and (vi) of Rule 2.2.

4.34

To deliberatley go outside the boundary lines
to gain an advantage except as provided in
Rule 1.9.

PENALTY - Free kick from where the foul

occurred.

4.35

To interfere with goalposts to distract
opponents or to gain an advantage.

PENALTY FOR THE ABOVE FOULS -

Caution offender; order off for second

cautionable foul.

RULE 5 - AGGRESSIVE FOULS

Category II Infractions

5.1

To strike or attempt to strike an opponent with
arm, elbow, hand or knee.

5.2

To kick or attempt to kick an opponent, with
minimal force.

5.3

To behave in any way which is dangerous to
an opponent.

5.4

To spit at an opponent.

5.5

To contribute to a melee.

5.6

To use abusive language to a Referee, Umpire,
Linesman or Sideline Official.

Category III Infractions
5.7

To strike or attempt to strike an opponent with
the head.

5.8

To kick an opponent either with force or
causing injury.

5.9

To attempt to kick an opponent, with force.

5.10

To stamp on an opponent.

5.11

To inflict injury recklessly on an opponent by
means other than those stated above.

5.12

To assault an opposing Team Official.

Category IV Infractions

5.13

To interfere with a Referee, Umpire,
Linesman or Sideline Official - minor physical
interference e.g. laying a hand on, pushing,
pulling or jostling.

5.14

To use threatening language to a Referee,
Umpire, Linesman or Sideline Official.

5.15

To use threatening or abusive conduct towards
a Referee, Umpire, Linesman or Sideline
Official.

Category V Infractions

5.16

To strike or attempt to strike, or any type of
assault on, a Referee, Umpire, Linesman or
Sideline Official.

PENALTY FOR THE ABOVE FOULS -

(i) Order offender off.

(ii) Free kick from where the foul occurred

except as provided under Exceptions of

Rule 2.2.

5.17

To commit any of the fouls listed in Rule 5.1,
5.2, 5.3, 5.4, 5.7, 5.8, 5.9, 5.10 and 5.11
against a team-mate.

PENALTY -

(i) Order offender off.

(ii) Throw in the ball where the foul

occurred except as provided under

Exceptions of Rule 2.2.

5.18

To commit any of the fouls listed in Rule 5.1,
5.2, 5.3, 5.4, 5.7, 5.8, 5.9, 5.10 and 5.11 on an
opponent on the field prior to the start of the
game or at half-time.

PENALTY - Offender shall be treated as

ordered off and shall not participate (or

further participate) in the game.

Note - Once the Referee has received the list of
players, or a substitution/temporary replacement slip
which includes the offender’s name, the player may
not be substitued.

For Information Purposes only

Suspensions for above Infractions are governed by
Rule 7.2 - Infractions, Official Guide, Part 1.

As a guide, the suspensions, in part, are outlined
below:

Category II

Minimum: 4 weeks Suspension in the same Code and
at the same Level, inclusive of the next Game in the
same Competition of that Competition Year, even if
that Game falls outside the Suspension time period.

Category III

Category IV

Minimum: 12 weeks Suspension in all Codes and at all
Levels.

Category V

Minimum: 48 weeks Suspension in all Codes and at all
Levels, with offender’s Team liable to Disqualification,
where appropriate.

5.19

To pull down an opponent.

5.20

To trip an opponent with hand(s) or foot.

5.21

To threaten or to use abusive or provocative
language or gestures to an opponent.

5.22

To block or attempt to block with the boot
when an opponent is kicking the ball from the
hand(s).

5.23

To prevent or attempt to prevent an opponent
from lifting or kicking the ball off the ground by
striking an opponent’s hand, arm, foot or leg
with the boot.

5.24

To engage in any other form of rough play.

PENALTY FOR THE ABOVE FOULS -

(i) Caution the offender; order off for

second cautionable foul.

(ii) Free kick from where the foul occurred

except as provided under Exceptions of

Rule 2.2.

5.25

To attempt to achieve an advantage by
feigning a foul or injury.

PENALTY FOR ABOVE FOUL -

(i) Caution offender; order off for second

cautionable foul.

(ii) If play has been stopped for the foul, a

free kick from where play was stopped,

except as provided under Exceptions of

Rule 2.2.

5.26

To threaten or to use abusive or provocative
language or gestures to a team-mate.

PENALTY -

(i) Caution the offender. Order off for

second cautionable foul.

(ii) Throw in from where the foul occurred

except as provided under Exceptions (v)

and (vi) of Rule 2.2.

5.27

To hold an opponent with the hand(s).

5.28

To use the fist on or around the body of an
opponent for the purpose of dispossessing
him of the ball.

5.29 (a) To charge an opponent in the back or to the

front.

(b) To charge an opponent:

(i) who is not in possession of the ball, or

(ii) is in the act of kicking the ball, or

(iii) both players are not moving in the direction

of the ball to play it.

giving an advantage to a team-mate.

PENALTY FOR THE ABOVE FOULS -

(i) Free kick from where the foul occurred

except as provided under Exceptions of

Rule 2.2.

(ii) Caution offender for committing any of

the above fouls a second time. Order

off for a further repetition or for other

cautionable foul.

5.30

To push an opponent with the hand(s).

5.31

(a) To charge (in a manner otherwise

permissible on an opponent) the
Goalkeeper in his small rectangle.

(b) For a player in possession of the ball to

charge an opponent.

Penalty for the above Fouls –

(i) Free Kick from where Foul occurred,

except as provided under Exceptions of

Rule 2.2.

(ii) Caution offender for persistently

committing such Fouls. Order off

for further repetition or for other

Cautionable Foul.

5.32

For a player to retaliate between the award of
a free kick to his team and the free kick being
taken.

PENALTY -

(i) Cancel free kick.

(ii) Throw in the ball where the original

foul occurred except as provided

under Exceptions (v) and (vi) of Rule

2.2.

(iii) Apply any other relevant penalty of

Rule 5.

5.33

For a player(s) from each team to foul
simultaneously.

PENALTY -

(i) Throw in the ball where the fouls

occurred except as provided under

Exceptions (v) and (vi) of Rule 2.2.

(ii) Apply any other relevant penalty of

Rule 5.

5.34

When an Aggressive Foul is drawn to the
referee’s attention by an umpire or linesman,
the referee may apply the appropriate penalty,
as per Rule 5, and shall restart play as per
Rule 2.

5.35

When a team commits an aggressive foul,
the referee may allow play to continue if he
considers it to be to the advantage of the
offended team. He shall signal that advantage
is being played by raising an extended arm
upright. Once he allows play to continue, he
may not subsequently award a free for that
foul. He shall apply the relevant penalty.

RULE 6 - DISSENT

6.1

To challenge the authority of a Referee,
Umpire, Linesman or Sideline Official.

PENALTY - Caution the offender; order off

for second cautionable foul.

6.2

To refuse to leave the field of play, on the
instruction of the Referee, for attention, after
an injury involving bleeding.

Penalty - Caution the offender; order off if

he continues to refuse.

6.3

To show dissent with the referee’s decision to
award a free kick to the opposing team.

PENALTY - The free kick already awarded

shall be taken 13m more advantageous

than the place of original kick - up to

opponents’ 13m line.

Further dissent on an occasion shall be

considered as a breach of Rule 6.1 and

shall be penalised accordingly.

6.4 (a) To refuse to leave the field of play when

ordered off.

(b) To rejoin the game after being ordered off.

PROCEDURE

First give a three minute warning to the

team captain, or the official in charge of the

team, or the player(s) involved, and then, if

the player(s) refuses to comply, terminate

the game.

Important Terms and

Definitions - Football

and Hurling

The following list of Definitions of Terms used in the
Playing Rules forms an integral part of these rules.

1. BOUNCE

For a player who has caught
the ball to play the ball against
the ground with his hand(s)
and to catch it on return to his
hand(s) again.

2. CATCH

To gain control of the ball
with the hand(s) in a way
which prevents it falling to the
ground.

3. CAUTION

To take a player’s name and
show him a yellow card.

4. CHARGE

Provided he has at least one

(Fair)

foot on the ground, a player
may make a shoulder-to-
shoulder charge on an
opponent (a) who is in
possession of the ball, or (b)

In Hurling

- who is playing

the ball;

In Football

- who is

playing the ball other than
when kicking it, or (c) both
players are moving in the
direction of the ball to play it.

5. DELAY

Deliberately taking too much

(Deliberate)

time to retrieve the ball, or

to restart play, or any action
which unduly delays the
restart of play.

6. DIVOT

An elevation formed from the
surface of the pitch for the
purpose of teeing up the ball
on the ground.

7. FOUL

- Aggressive

To physically or verbally abuse
any player or official.

- Dissent

To disagree openly with any
official about any decision.

- Technical

To ‘foul’ the ball, or any other
foul that is not aggressive or
dissenting.

8. HANDPASS

(a) Football

When in possession, the ball
may be played away with:

(i) a fist

(ii) an open hand - in which

instance there shall be a
definite underhand striking
action.

The striking hand shall not

be in contact with the ball
before delivering the strike.

When both hands are

involved, the ball may be
struck off a holding hand by
the other hand or released
from the holding hand and
struck with the other hand.

When one hand is involved,

the ball may be released
from the holding hand and
struck with the same hand.

The releasing of the ball,

when used, is considered
an integral part of the
fisted/open Handpass.

(b)

Hurling

The ball shall be released
and struck with a definite
striking action of a hand.
The releasing of the ball is
considered an integeral part of
the handpass.

9. IN FLIGHT

The ball is deemed to be in
flight, once it is off the ground,
having been played away
within the Rules of Fair Play.

10. LIFT

To use the foot or feet to raise
the ball from the ground to the
hand(s).

11. OVERCARRY

To take more than four steps
while holding the ball in the
hand(s).

12. OVERHOLD

To hold the ball longer than is
required to take four steps.

13. PLAY THE BALL

To touch the ball. The last
player touching the ball before
it crosses a boundary line
shall be considered the last
person playing it.

14. ‘PULL’

To swing the hurley to play or

(FAIR)

attempt to play the ball.

15. TACKLE

Any attempt to dispossess
or reduce the advantage of
opponent within the Rules of
Fair Play. With the exception
of the charge (fair), the tackle
is aimed at the ball not the
player.

16. THROW

When the ball, held in the
hand(s), is played away
without a definite striking
action.

17. THROW-IN

To throw the ball up over the
heads of one player from each
team (Football), or to throw
the ball along the ground
between one player from each
team (Hurling). For the start of
the game and the restart after
half-time, the throw-in shall
be between two players from
each team.

18. TOE-TAP

To release the ball from the
hand(s) to the foot and kick it
back into the hand(s).

19. WREST

To attempt to dispossess an
opponent who already has
a (firm) hold on the ball, by
grabbing the ball to take it
from him.

Index

(Note: References in this Index are to Rule-Numbers, NOT

page-numbers except where page-numbers are given.)

PART I

Rules of Specification

(pages 5 to 15)

Arc the 1.5.

Boundary lines: see Field of Play

Colours
  Club 4.1 (i)
  County 4.1 (ii)
  Goalkeeper’s jersey 4.1 (iii)

Crossbar: see Field of Play

Equipment 4
  Artificial Tee 4.5
  Club Colours 4.1 (i)
  County Colours 4.1 (ii)
  Exceptions to Dimensions 4.3
  Football, Weight/Dimensions 4.3 (ii)
  Goalkeeper’s Jersey, Colour 4.1 (iii)
  Hurling Ball, Weight/Dimensions 4.3 (i)
  Hurley 4.4

Hurling Helmet 4.2
Endlines: see Field of Play
Extra Time: see Time

Field of Play 1
  Boundary Lines 1.2 (i)
  Crossbar, Location/Dimensions 1.3 (ii)
  Dimensions 1.1
  Endlines 1.2 (i)
  Exceptions (to Dimensions) 1.1, 1.3
  Flags 1.2 (i), 1.8
  Goalnets (Locations, Support, Mesh) 1.3 (iii)
  Goalposts (Height, Space between) 1.3 (i)
  Lines (width & marking) 1.2 (ii)
  Midline 1.2 (i)
  Penalty (Football; 11m Point marking)  1.6
  Scoring space
    Location, Formation 1.3 (i)
    Rectangles 1.4
    Shape 1.1
  Flags: see Field of Play
  Football 4.3 (ii)

Goalkeeper, Jersey Colour 4.1 (iii)
Goalnets: see Field of Play
Goalposts: see Field of Play

Half-time intervals, see Time
Helmet 4.2
  Facial Guard Mandatory 4.2(i)
  Prohibited in Football 4.2(iii)
  Standards of Helmet 4.2(ii)

Hurley, width of bas 4.4
Hurling ball 4.3 (i)

Lines: see Field of Play
List of Players: see Players

Midline: see Field of Play

Players 2
  Exception 2.1
  Late Arrivals 2.3
  List of Players 2.4(vi), 2.5

General Rule 2.5 (i)

Inter-County Games 2.5 (ii)

  Players in Extra Time 2.6
  Substitutions 2.4; see also Part 2 of Index.
  Team

of 15 2.1

of 13, when permitted 2.2

Temporary Substitutions 1.6. 2.4; see also Part 2 of Index.
Playing Time: see Time

Referee
  Hurling Helmet 4.2
  List of Players 2.5
  Substitutions 2.4
  See also Parts 2, 3 and 4 of Index

PART 2

Rules of Control

(Pages 16 to 26)

Commencing Play 1.3
To toss coin for choice of ends 1.3 (i) (Referee)
To throw in the ball (procedures) 1.3 (ii) and (iii) (Referee)

Entry to Field of Play/Incursions 1.4
Team Official entering Field of Play 1.4
To give permission to enter Field of Play 1.4 (Referee)

Infraction 1.2

Injuries 1.5
  General 1.5 (a)
  Play to be stopped only in exceptional circumstances 1.5 (a)
  Blood 1.5 (b)
  Definition of Blood Injury 1.5 (b)
  To instruct player to leave Field of Play 1.5 (b) (Referee)
  Circumstances in which Temporary Substitute may be
  used 1.5 (b)

Linesmen 3
  Duties 3.1
  To signal sideline ball 3.1 (i)
  To throw in the ball 3.1 (ii)
   Subject to being over-ruled by Referee 3.1 (iii) and 1.1 (v), Con-

trol

To control the operation of the Substitution Zone (where neutral)

3.1 (iv)

To bring to attention of Referee instances of foul play 3.1 (v)

Match Officials 1
Control of the Games 1

Referee 1
  Powers 1.1
  Referee’s decision shall be final
  (Except as provided for in Rule 7.3 (aa) (1) (vi), Part 1), 1.1
  To appoint replacement referee 1.1 (i)
  To declare conditions unsuitable 1.1 (ii)
  To consult with umpires and or linesman 1.1 (iii)
  To order blood-injured player to leave field of play 1.1 (iv)
  To over-rule linesmen or umpires 1.1 (v)
  To award a score 1.1 (vi)
  To terminate a game 1.1 (vii) and (viii)
  To order that all players ae correctly and safely attired 1.1 (ix)
  Duties 1.2
  To control game in accordance with Playing Rules 1.2 (i)
  To receive lists of players 1.2 (ii)
  To obtain signature of any player (if requested) 1.2 (iii)
   To report irregularities in respect of pitch dimensions, markings,

conditions 1.2 (iv)

  To ensure that playing equipment conforms with the Rules 1.2 (v)
  To record specified information 1.2 (vi)
  To record and manage playing time 1.2 (vii)
  Use of the whistle 1.2 (viii)
  To indicate places of frees 1.2 (ix)
  To caution a player 1.2 (x) (a)
  To order off a player 1.2 (x), (b) and (c)
  To present ball to captain of winning team 1.2 (xi)

Report of Referee 1.6
To submit report within three days or twenty four hours (if re-

quested) 1.6

Contents of Report specified 1.6

Sideline Official 4
  Duties 4.1
  To receive substitution notes 4.1 (a)
   To record and report all substitutions and temporary substitu-

tions 4.1 (b)

To display numbers of players being substituted 4.1 (c)
To display the additional amount of time to be played 4.1 (d)

Umpires 2
  Location 2
  Powers 2.1
  To decide if a score is made 2.1
  To decide if wide ball 2.1
  To decide if 45m or 65m free 2.1
  Subject to being over-ruled by Referee 2.1 and 1.1 (v),
  Control
  Duties 2.2
  To signal 45m or 65m frees 2.2 (i) (a)
  To signal wide-ball 2.2 (i) (b)
  To signal a score 2.2 (i) (c)
  To signal a score disallowed 2.2 (i) (d)
  To bring to attention of Referee instances of foul play 2.2 (ii)

PART 3

Playing Rules of Hurling

(Pages 27 to 52)

  Abusive Language to a Referee, Umpire, Linesman or Sideline
  Official 5.6
  Abusive/Threatening Language/Gestures to Opponent/
  Team-mate, 5.24, 5.31
  Advantage Rule 4.34, 5.41
  Aggressive Fouls
  Against Team Mate 5.15
   At Half-Time (and Prior to Start) commission of certain

Aggressive Fouls 5.21

Generally 5
Arc the 2.3, 4.11 (c)

Ball
  Advancing from where free, etc. to be taken 4.25
  Attempting to Lift (sideline puck) 4.23
  Balanced/Hopping on hurley 1.3
  Carrying over Opponents’ line 4.12
  Catching - more than twice 1.4, 4.6
  Handpass without definite striking action 4.2(b)
  In Play (defined) 1.1
  Lifting with knees 4.3
  Lying on 4.4
  Making divot for 4.24
  Overcarrying/Overholding 4.1, Definded page 84
  Played from hurley to hand 1.4
  Played over sideline 2.8
  Playing again after free/penalty/sideline puck 4.21
  Playing before travels 13m 4.29
  Release 1.2, 4.2, 4.7; Definition of Handpass 8(b), page 84
   Resetting for free/penalty/sideline puck without permission after

whistle 4.20

Standing/Moving too near when own team awarded

free/sideline puck 4.11

Standing/Moving too near when opponents awarded

free/sideline puck 4.17

  Striking the ball, generally 1.5
  Striking for free/penalty puck 2.5
  Struck with hurley (when ball may be) 1.2
  Tackling opponent for 1.8
  Taking into hand second time before striking puck-out 4.27
  Throwing 4.2 (a)
  Touched on Ground with hand 1.6
  Touching non-player 2.9
  Touching on Ground with hand (and exception) 4.5

Behavior dangerous to opponent 5.4
Boundary lines, going outside (and exceptions) 4.32

Catch (defined) Page 82
Caution (defined) Page 82
Challenge of a Referee, Umpire, Linesman or Sideline Official
authority (and penalty) 6.1
Charge (Fair) (defined) Page 82
Charging Opponent 5.33, 5.35
Commission of certain fouls
Against Team-mate 5.20
Against Opponent (start/half-time) 5.21

Defender too close to penalty puck 4.16
Definitions: see pages 82-85
Delay (defined) Page 82
Delaying opponent taking free/sideline puck 4.18
Dissent 6
Dissent Re Injury involving bleeding 6.3
Dissent Re Wearing Helmet 6.2
Dissent with decision to award free puck (and penalty) 6.4, 6.1
Divot (defined) Page 83

Divoting making forbidden 4.24

Facial Guard / Helmet - to take hold of opponent’s 5.29
Fair Play (Rules of) 1 - 3, Playing Rules of Hurling
Feigning Foul/Injury 5.30
Field of Play, when permitted to go outside 1.10
  see also Part I of Index
Foul
  By Defender within Rectangles 2.2
  Defined page 83
  On player after ball played and score resulting 2.2
Foul Play (Rules of) 4 - 6, Playing Rules of Hurling
Free Puck
  After ball over sideline 2.8
  Delaying Opponent 4.18
  Fouling a Free Puck (second attempt) 4.22
  How ball is struck 2.5
  Interception of 1.11
  Interference with taking of 4.19
  Opposing player too close 4.17

Goal, when scored 3.1
Goalkeeper
Challenge of 1.9
Jersey Colour: see Part I of Index
Goalposts, interference with 4.33

Handpass 1.7(b), 4.2 (b), Defined - 8 (b), - Page 84
Helmet with Facial Guard - to pull or take hold of 5.29
Holding Opponent with the Hand(s) 5.32
Hurley
  Bas, width of: see Part I of Index
  Dropping 4.8
  Holding Opponent’s Hurley or Pulling it from his hand(s) 5.34 (b)

  Striking Opponent’s Hurley 5.37
  Tipping of Opponent’s Hurley 4.9
  Throwing 4.8
  Use of, in specified foul play 5.23,5.26, 5.27, 5.28, 5.34, 5.36,
  5.37

In Flight (defined) Page 84
Infliction of Injury Recklessly 5.14
Inside 20m line before puck-out taken 4.14, 4.28
Interference with Goalposts to distract/gain advantage 4.33
Interference with player taking free/sideline puck

(and Exception) 4.19

Interference with a Referee, Umpire, Linesman or Sideline

Official 5.16

Kicking/attempting to kick opponent 5.5, 5.6, 5.7

Leaving field without referee’s permission: see Referee
Lift (defined) Page 84

Melee, to contribute to 5.6

Overcarry (defined) Page 84
Overhold (defined) Page 84
‘Own Score’ allowable 3.4

Penalties 2.3, 2.5
Penalties for Aggressive Fouls - After 5.19, 5.20, 5.21, 5.28, 5.30,
5.31, 5.33, 5.37, 5.38, 5.39
Penalties for technical fouls- after 4.13, 4.14, 4.15, 4.16, 4.17,
4.19, 4.26, 4.30, 4.31, 4.33
Penalty puck (generally) 2.2, 2.3
Defender too close 4.16 (b)
Play 1
Play (of ball) (defined) Page 84
Point, when scored 3.1

Puck-out:
After Score or Wide 2.6

Being inside opponents’ 20m line before taken 4.14

Being inside own 20m line before taken 4.28

Delaying 4.30

  Taking Ball into Hand a second time 4.27
  Taking from outside small rectangle 4.15
  To play ball before it has travelled 13m (by defender) 4.29
  Pull, ‘fair’ (defined) Page 84
  Pulling Down an Opponent 5.22
  Pushing Opponent with the Hand(s) or Hurley 5.34(a)

Referee
  Advantage Rule/Signal 4.34, 5.41
  Application of Penalty, etc. when aggressive foul drawn to
    attention by umpire/linesman 5.40
  Procedure on player(s) leaving field without permission 6.6
  Procedure on player(s) refusal to leave field 6.5 (a)
  Starting/Restarting Game 2.1, 2.2
Refusal to leave field when ordered (and procedure for referee)
6.5(a)
Refusal to continue playing (and procedure for referee) 6.6
Restart of game, after ‘wide’ or score 2.6
see also Starting
Retaliation between award of free and free puck 5.38
Rough play (any form) 5.25

Scores 3
Allowable 3.1, 3.2, 3.3, 3.4.
Not Allowable:
Player on attacking Team carrying ball over Opponents’ goal-
line 3.1 Exception (i), 4.12
Player on attacking Team, in possession of the ball, to score
with the hand(s) 4.13
Set Play 2
Shoulder-to-shoulder charge 1.9

Simultaneous fouls by opposing players 2.4, 4.31, 5.34
Small rectangle
Taking puck from outside 4.15
When entry allowed/forbidden 4.10
Spitting at an Opponent 5.5
Stamping on Opponent 5.13
Starting/Restarting Game (and exceptions) 2.1, 2.2, 2.4, 2.6, 2.7,
2.8, 2.9, 2.10
Striking/Attempting to Strike Opponent (with arm, elbow, hand, or
knee) 5.1
Striking/Attempting to strike Opponent with head 5.8
Striking/Attempting to Strike Opponent (with hurley) 5.2, 5.9, 5.10
Striking (incl. attempt), a Referee, Umpire, Linesman or Sideline
Official 5.19
Striking opponent’s hurley unless both in act of striking ball 5.37
Suspensions 5.

Tackle (defined) Page 85
Tackling Opponent for Ball 1.8
Team Official - for player to assault opposing Team Official 5.15
Team-mate, fouls against 5.20
Technical Fouls 4
Threatening or Abusive conduct/threatening language to a
Referee, Umpire, Linesman or Sideline Official 5.17, 5.18
Throw (defined) Page 85
Throw-In (defined) Page 85
When given for fouls within 13m of the sideline 2.2 (v)
When given for fouls between endline and 20m line 2.2(vi)
Tripping opponent: 5.23

Use of hurley in specified foul play 5.23, 5.26, 5.27, 5.28, 5.34
(a) and (b), 5.36, 5.37,

Wasting time (free or sideline puck) 4.26.

PART 4

Playing Rules of Gaelic Football

(Pages 53 to 81)

Abusive/Threatening Language/Gestures to Opponent/Team-mate
5.21, 5.26
Advantage Rule 4.36, 5.35
Aggressive Fouls
  Against team-mate 5.17
  At Half-time (and prior to start) 5.18
  Generally 5
Arc the 2.3, 4.11 (b) 4.16 (a)

Ball
  Advancing from where free/sideline kick, to be taken 4.24
  Bounced 1.4 (c), 1.5, Defined page 82
  Bouncing more than once after catching 4.6
  Carried/Held in hand(s) 1.4 (a)
  Carrying over opponents’ line 3.1
  Catching after Playing 4.7
  Changing from hand to hand 1.4 (d)
  Changing from one hand to other 4.10
  Fisted/Palmed on ground 1.2 (ii)
  Handpassing without definite striking action 4.2 (b)
  In play (defined) 1.1
  Knocked from Opponent’s hands 1.4
  Lifting with Knees 1.2 (iii). 4.3
  Making Divot for 4.23
  Not on ground, how playable 1.3
  On Ground, how playable 1.2
  Overcarrying/Overholding 4.1, Defined page 84
  Palmed; see Fisted
  Played from Foot to Hand(s) 1.4 (b)
  Played over endline by defender (45m free) 2.8
  Played over boundary line 1.1 (b)

100

  Played over endline by attacking team 2.7 (a)
  Played over sideline 2.9
  Playing again after free kick/penalty/sideline kick 4.22
  Playing before travels 13m 4.29
  Play Up and catch again 4.7
  Possessed by player, how playable 1.4
  Release 1.4(f); Definition of Handpass 8(a), page 83
  Resetting for kick-out/free kick/penalty without

permission after whistle 4.21

  Scoring permitted if struck in flight with hand(s) 3.2
  Standing/Moving too near when own team awarded

free/sideline kick 4.11(a)

Standing/Moving too near when opponents awarded

free/sideline kick 4.17

  Striking Flag 1.1 (b)
  Struck with open hand(s)/fist 1.4 (e)
  Throwing 4.2 (a)
  Toe-tapped 1.4 (b), 1.4 (c)
  Touched on Ground with hand 4.5
  Touching non-player 1.1 (c), 2.10
  Touching on ground with hand(s) 4.5
  Wresting from opponent 4.8, Defined page 85
Behavior dangerous to opponent 5.3
Bounce (defined) page 82
Blocking with Boot 5.22
Boundary lines, going outside 1.9, 4.34
  Sideline Kick 1.9, 4.24 (b)

Catch (defined) page 82
Caution (defined) page 82
Challenge of a Referee, Umpire, Linesman or Sideline Official
authority (and penalty) 6.1
Charge (Fair) (defined) page 82
Charging opponent 5.29, 5.31
Commission of certain fouls
Against Team-mate 5.17

101

Against Opponent (start/half-time) 5.18
Cross-bar displaced 3.3 (b)

Defender too close to penalty kick 4.16
Definitions: see pages 82 to 85
Delay (defined) page 82
Delaying opponent taking free/sideline kick 4.18
Dissent
Generally 6
Dissent Re Injury involving Breeding 6.2
With Decision to award free kick (and penalty) 6.3, 6.1
Divot (defined) page 83
Divot-making forbidden 4.23

Fair Play 1 - 3
Feigning Foul/Injury 5.25
Field of Play: see Part I of Index
Fist, use of on /around body of opponent to dispossess 5.28
Foul
By defender within rectangles 2.2
Defined page 83
By defender within 13m line 2.2
On player after ball played and score resulting 2.2
Foul Play 4 - 6
Free kick 2.5
After ball over endline by defending team 2.8
After ball over sideline 2.9
Defender within own small rectangle, too close 4.15
Delaying opponent 4.18
How to kick 2.5
Immediate taking, with referee’s consent 2.6
Interception of 1.10
Interference with taking of 4.19

Goalkeeper

102

Challenge of 1.7
Incidental Contact with 1.7
Jersey Colour: see Part I of Index
Moving along goal-line while penalty being taken 1.8
Playing ball on ground with hands 1.2 (i)

Handpass 1.4 (e) and (f), Definition 8(a), page 83
Holding Opponent with the Hand(s) 5.27

Infliction of Injury Recklessly 5.11
In-flight (defined) Page 84
Inside 20m line before kick-out taken 4.14, 4.28
Interference with Goalposts to Distract/Gain Advantage 4.35
Interference with player taking free/sideline kick

(and Exception) 4.19

Interference with a Referee, Umpire, Linesman or Sideline Official
5.13

Kicking/attempting to kick opponent 5.2, 5.8, 5.9
Kick-out
  After score or wide 2.7 (a)
  Being inside opponents’ 20m line before taken 4.14
  Being inside own 20m line at taking of 4.28
  Being less than 13m from ball before kick 4.20, 4.30
  Delaying 4.31
  Taking ball into hands 4.27
   Taking of after score or wide other than from 13m line and within

large rectangle 4.32

Taking from outside small rectangle after wide 4.32
To play ball before it has travelled 13m (by defender) 4.29

Leaving Field without referee’s permission: see Referee
Lift (defined) page 84

Match Officials’ Authority (challenge to): see Challenge
Melee, to contribute to 5.5

103

Options to player fouled 2.5
Overcarry (defined) page 84
Overhold (defined) page 84
‘Own score’ allowable 3.4

Penalty kick
Defender/Goalkeeper too close 4.16 (a) and (b)
Generally 2.3
Penalties for Aggressive Fouls - after 5.16, 5.17, 5.18, 5.24, 5.25,
5.26, 5.29, 5.31, 5.32, 5.33
Penalties for Technical Fouls - after 4.13, 4.14, 4.15, 4.16, 4.17,
4.19, 4.20, 4.25, 4.26, 4.32, 4.33, 4.34, 4.35
Play 1
Play (of ball) (defined) page 84
Point, when scored 3.1
Preventing opponent from lifting/kicking ball 5.23
Pulling down opponent 5.19
Pushing opponent with hand(s) 5.30

Referee
Advantage Rule/Signal 4.36, 5.35
Application of penalty etc. when aggressive foul drawn to
attention by umpire/linesman 5.34
Consent to immediate taking of free kick 2.6
Procedure on player’s leaving field without permission 6.5
  Procedure on player’s refusal to leave field 6.4
  Signalling play to stop 1.1 (a)
  Starting/Restarting game 2.1, 2.2
Refusal to leave field when ordered (and procedure for referee)
6.4 (a)
Refusal to continue playing (and procedure for referee) 6.5
Rejoining game after ordered off 6.4 (b)
Restart of game
  see Starting
  When ball played over endline by attacking team 2.7 (a)
Retaliation between award of free and free kick 5.32

104

Rough play (any form) 5.24

Scores 3
  Allowable 3.1, 3.2, 3.3, 3.4
  Not Allowable:
  Player on attacking team carrying ball over opponents’ goal-line
3.1 Exception (i), 4.12
  Player on attacking team, in possession of ball, scoring a goal
with hand(s) or a point with open hand(s) (and Exception) 3.1
Exception (ii) and (iii), 4.13
Set Play 2
Shoulder-to-shoulder charge 1.7
Simultaneous fouls by opposing players 2.4, 4.33, 5.33
Small rectangle
Charging/challenging goalkeeper in 1.7
When entry allowed/forbidden 4.9
Spitting at an Opponent 5.4
Stamping on Opponent 5.10
Starting/Restarting Game (and Exceptions) 2.1, 2.2, 2.4, 2.6, 2.7,
2.8, 2.9, 2.10, 2.11
Striking/Attempting to Strike Opponent (with arm, elbow, hand or
knee) 5.1
Striking/Attempting to strike opponent with head 5.7
Striking (Incl. Attempt) a Referee, Umpire, Linesman or Sideline
Official 5.16
Suspensions 5.

Tackle (defined) page 84
Tackling opponent for ball 1.6
Team Official - for Player to Assault Opposing Team Official 5.12
Team-mate, fouls against 5.17
Technical fouls 4
Tee - Artificial 2.7 (c), 4.26
Threatening or abusive conduct/threatening language to a
Referee, Umpire, Linesman or Sideline Official 5.14, 5.15
Throw (defined) page 85