briefing notes for the season 2019/2020 · 2019. 9. 4. · team colours each club should ... (super...

BRIEFING NOTES FOR THE SEASON 2019/2020 FOA: Club Youth Officers Introduction If you are continuing in office with your club, thank you for your service to your club and Ulster Hockey. If you are taking office of Youth Officer for the first time we wish you well for the incoming season and hope that this document will be of assistance to you throughout the year. Should you have any queries throughout the season please do not hesitate to get in touch at any time. NB. Please ensure the relevant persons within your club are advised of the information below, particularly if you have a number of coaches and managers working across the underage groupings. Competition Formats & Rules The Ulster Hockey Youth Formats and Rules have been passed through the Executive Manager for implementation in the 2019-20 playing season. All Youth hockey played under the auspices of the Ulster Hockey Union should adhere to the requirements of the rules document. Finalised rules documents will be issued alongside fixtures in the relevant boys and girls handbooks which will be circulated following the outcomes of discussion at the pre-season consultation meeting. Please note rules differ slightly depending on the particular age category. Inability to fulfil a fixture If your club is unable to fulfil a fixture or attend a regionalised youth league blitz you should inform the regional host co-ordinator immediately via telephone contact (this will normally be the youth officer of the host club – contact details for all youth officers have been included in the consultation pack). Clubs with foreseen circumstances that will prevent them from attending youth league fixtures should notify the host coordinator and Ulster Hockey no later than the Friday of the week previous. E.g. Clubs who persistently do not notify their unavailability/inability to travel should be reported to Ulster Hockey immediately and their future involvement in the youth league will be reviewed appropriately. Contact details for all youth officers can be found in the Pre-season Consultation Pack. This should be of assistance when having to make contact in this discussed case. Andrew Brown should also be contacted to confirm notification of changes also.

Youth League Date Last Possible Cancellation Date

Sunday 20th October 2019 Friday 11th October 2019

Requesting Additional Team Entries for a Blitz Additional U11 and U13 teams can participate in a particular blitz at the host-coordinator’s discretion if sufficient notice is provided. Host coordinators have the right to refuse entry for additional teams if nine days’ notice is not provided or if an additional team would result in a significant increase in pitch time. E.g. Notification of Fixtures Fixtures are the responsibility of the HOST CLUB. Ulster Hockey will endeavour to help in this process as it can be time consuming. However, to allow the Youth Development Officer to work on other areas within youth hockey host clubs must take on this responsibility. Fixtures for blitzes must be released a full week prior to the event. This is to allow sufficient time for clubs to make sufficient arrangements for both travel and to check the availability of both players, coaches and volunteers. Match Times All teams should arrive at their allocated venue in time to warm up and be ready to play for the time specified on the programme or as agreed by the host club. This should include enough time to allow for your goalkeeper to be kitted up. All teams should strictly adhere to their allocated time slots (i.e. to be off the pitch before the next match is due to start). If you are running late on the day please inform the host club immediately via verbal communication. Repeated lateness and slowness to get to pitches will jeopardise your involvement in the youth league programme. Team Colours Each club should register the kit colours for each of the junior teams taking part in the youth leagues. Clubs will be required to play in these colours. All youth officers should familiarise themselves with opposing team colours. If a clash of kit colours should arise, all players of the second named team will be required to wear indicative sports bibs of a contrasting colour. Youth officers and team coaches are requested to carry a set of indicative bibs Umpiring of Games Two umpires should take control of the youth games where possible, particularly for Under 15 performance games. Clubs should assign a designated umpire that is not a coach to umpire their team games on the day.

Youth League Date Last Possible Date of Adding Teams

Sunday 20th October 2019 Friday 11th October 2019

Youth League Date Last Possible Date of Adding Teams

Sunday 20th October 2019 Sunday 13th October 2019

- Young Umpire Programme

Ulster Hockey in partnership with Ulster Umpires Association, Irish Hockey Umpires Association and Hockey Ireland are running a Young Umpires programme for the new season. Please find the link below with all the information needed about this programme:

- http://www.ulsterhockey.com/Young-Umpires-Programme--7141.html

Eligibility of Players All club members must be appropriately registered within each Ulster Hockey program across all age groups, regardless of whether they participate in youth leagues or not.

1. Players are only permitted to participate for one club in the Ulster Hockey Youth League Programme, i.e. players cannot play for two clubs in the youth league programme and this additionally applies for those who train/play with two different age groups at two different clubs.

2. It is agreed that this season that age groups for teams will go by school year i.e. U11 (P7 & under) U13 (Year 8 & 9) U15 (Year 10 & 11)

3. Players turning 15 throughout the season will be permitted to play in the youth leagues. 4. Ulster Hockey strongly encourages the monitoring of player training and playing by youth officers, coaches,

teachers and parents to prevent over-playing particularly at the Under 15 age group. NB: Clubs can seek exceptions to rule 2 where a player does not play school hockey or their school offers few playing opportunities. Clubs seeking to take this forward should do so in writing to Ulster Hockey prior to any involvement of the player concerned in the UHU U15 Club League, outlining the reasons for seeking an exception. The submission made will then be assessed by Ulster Hockey and a decision made accordingly. Ulster Hockey under the Code of Ethics has a duty to care for young hockey players. These measures are in place to prevent talented young players from over playing, experiencing burnout or drop out of the sport, whilst promoting fair opportunities of players playing below representative level. While it is recognised clubs may wish to play their 'best team' it is expected that players play within their age groups and experience appropriate competition for their individual development. Pitch and Squad Rulings

Age Group No of Players Playing Area

U15 Tier 1 & Tier 2

Year 10 and 11 11 a side / 8 a side

Full Pitch / 3/4 pitch

U13 (Extreme 8s) Year 8 and 9 8 a side 1/2 Pitch

http://www.ulsterhockey.com/Young-Umpires-Programme--7141.html


Results There will be no results recorded for U11/U13 blitz days. An appropriate competitive conclusion will be arranged for the relevant age groups at the end of the programme (finals day). Scores will be recorded for U15 league (tier 1 & tier 2), cup and plate competitions and will be required to be submitted by the deadline determined by Ulster Hockey. Fees A request for Ulster Hockey youth fees will be issued in due course. These fees will be charged per youth team entered to the youth league playing programme and concluding finals day. Child Protection & Code of Conduct The Ulster Hockey Union is fully committed to safeguarding the wellbeing of its participants. Every individual in hockey should at all times, show respect and understanding for participants’ rights, safety and welfare and conduct themselves in a way that reflects the principles of the organisation and the guidelines contained in the Code of Ethics and Good Practice for Children’s Sport. In working with young people in hockey our first priority is the welfare of young people and we are committed to providing an environment that will allow participants to perform to the best of their ability, free from abuse, neglect, bullying and intimidation. If you have any queries regarding child protection then please contact – Hilary Reid – Ulster Hockey Union Designated Child Protection Officer Tel: 07802 381444 (M) 028 9074 5380 (H) Email: [email protected] Useful Contacts

Role Name Email Telephone Number

Administration n/a [email protected]

02890701417

Executive Manager Marc Scott [email protected] 07889363477

Workforce Development Officer

Jonathan McMeekin [email protected]

07912320225

Participation and Club Development Officer

Ian Hughes [email protected]

07921211018

Youth Development

Andrew Brown [email protected] 07850-59139

Talent Coach Shirley McCay [email protected] 07712304204

Public Relations Andrew Johnston [email protected]

02890701417

U11 (Super 6s) P5, P6 & P7 6 a side 1/3 Pitch

U9 (Fun 4s) P5 and below 4 a side 1/8 Pitch

mailto:[email protected]






Child Protection Designated Person

Hilary Reid [email protected] 07802381444


Boys U11, U13 and U15 Youth League Team Entries

CLUB

UNDER 11 UNDER 13 UNDER 15

Annadale

Antrim

Armagh

Ballymoney

Ballynahinch

Banbridge

Bangor

CI

Cookstown

Instonians

Lisnagarvey

Lurgan

Mossley

NICS

North Down

Newcastle Nomads

Portadown

Raphoe

Saintfield

South Antrim

TOTAL

Please check that the above is correct. If there is a mistake, then please contact Ulster Hockey immediately.

DATES FOR YOUR DIARY

UNDER 11 & 13 Boys

Session 1: 29/09/19

Session 2: 20/10/19

Session 3: 24/11/19

Session 4: 08/12/19

WINTER BREAK

Session 5: 26/01/20

Session 6: 23/02/20

FINALS DAYS

Under 11s: 15/03/20

Under 13s: 29/03/20

RULE 1 – AGE QUALIFICATION

A. Players MUST be in primary school as of the day of the blitz / tournament.

RULE 2 – TEAMS

U9 (FUN 4s)

A. The game is played between two teams. They shall each have a maximum of 4 players permitted on the pitch at any one

time. This can be a mix of boys and girls

B. No Goalkeeper at this age group and teams can be mixed (boys and girls)

C. For more info: http://www.ulsterhockey.com/SiteDocuments/Coach%20Education/Resources/phase1fun4s1.pdf

U11 (SUPER 6s)

A. The game is played between two teams. Each team shall have a maximum of six players on the pitch at any one time

B. Team are encouraged to play with a goalkeeper however goalkeepers are NOT compulsory. Teams are permitted to play

with six outfield players only

C. It is recommended that squads are made up of 10 players to allow for sufficient game time

D. Teams must be separated by gender at Super 6s

RULE 3 – SUBSTITUTIONS

A. Substitutions are unlimited throughout the game.

RULE 4 – DURATION OF GAME

A. Games will be played for 8-12 minute duration straight. There will be no half time or changing of sides.

B. 2-3 minutes will be scheduled to get to your next game.

RULE 5 – THE PITCH

A. For U9s the pitch will be split into 1/8’s

B. For U11 the pitch will be split into thirds

C. Scoring Zone Markers should be placed at a third of the total pitch length.

D. Corners will be played from the scoring zone to coincide with the rule change at senior hockey. Not from the centre of the pitch but off to the left or right coinciding with were the ball went off the pitch.

RULE 6 – PLAYER EQUIPMENT & CLOTHING

A. It is strongly recommended that shin-protectors and mouth guards are worn by all outfield players at all times (inclusive

of training sessions/games).

B. No player shall wear any equipment that may be dangerous to themselves or other players.

http://www.ulsterhockey.com/SiteDocuments/Coach%20Education/Resources/phase1fun4s1.pdf

C. The use of appropriate footwear for the playing surface (trainers or turf shoes) and suitable warm clothing (track-suit) are

encouraged.

D. Goalkeepers must wear a full padding, kickers, pads, abdominal protector, chest guard, protective gloves and a full

helmet AT ALL TIMES - no helmet no game.

RULE 7 – UMPIRES

A. Young umpire programme will be in place for the 2018/19 youth season (http://www.ulsterhockey.com/Young-Umpires-

Programme--7141.html)

B. Two umpires per pitch are recommended, however one umpire per pitch is suitable. Each team should have a nominated

umpire that is not a member of the coaching/supervisory staff.

C. The umpires are responsible for all decisions and penalties.

D. The umpire’s decision is FINAL.

RULE 8 – STARTING THE GAME / PASS BACK AWARD

A. The first named team on the fixture schedule will provide the ball for the game.

B. The first named team will be awarded pass back to start the game. A coin toss with captains is therefore not required.

C. The game will start with a push or hit from the centre of the pitch. The ball can travel either backwards or forwards.

RULE 9 – STARTING AND RESTARTING THE GAME

A. The game is started with a pass back taken from the centre of the centre line. It follows the umpires whistle indicating the

start of the game or after a goal has been scored. The ball may be raised immediately using a push, flick or scoop but

must not be raised intentionally using a hit.

B. Each team must be positioned in their own half of the pitch and the opposing players must be a minimum of 5 metres

from the ball until the centre pass is played.

C. The ball can be played forwards, backwards or sideways.

D. The taker can use a self-pass (i.e. pass the ball to themselves). The pass must involve two very distinct actions i.e. the

taker must first tap it forwards, sideways or backwards and then play it a second time either to pass it or to dribble it.

RULE 10 – SCORING A GOAL

A. A goal is scored when the ball has been struck by, or deflected off, an attacking player, or touches the stick or body of a

defending player, while it (the ball) is in the shooting zone. It must cross completely over the goal-line between the goal-

posts and under the cross-bar.

B. Goals will not be awarded if the ball is struck outside the scoring zone and does not touch an attacker’s stick.

C. A goal cannot be scored directly from a free hit / auto-pass. The ball must travel at least 3 metres by the attacking player

before a shot can be made by the player taking the auto-pass. This will apply at long-corners and side-line balls within the

scoring zone also.

D. If a player takes an auto-pass and dribbles past one or two players, he/she is entitled to score, provided the ball has

travelled at least 3 metres.



E. All players except the striker must be 5 metres from the ball at free hits and corners and the ball must move at least 1

metre from all free hits, side line balls etc., when using an auto-pass.

RULE 11 – OWN GOALS

A. Own goal ruling has been removed from all Youth League age categories for the 2019-20 season, therefore should not be

awarded.

RULE 12 – BALL OUTSIDE THE FIELD OF PLAY

Over the side-line:

When the ball passes completely over the side-line it shall be put back into play in any direction by a hit, push, scoop or self-pass

taken by an opponent of the player who last touched it. The ball may be raised immediately using a push, flick or scoop but must

not be raised intentionally using a hit. This is called a side-line hit-in.

A. Until the hit-in is taken, no opposition player shall be within 5 metres of the ball.

Over the back-line off an attacking player:

B. When the ball passes over the back-line off one of the attacking players and no goal is scored, the game is re-started with

a hit to the defence. This is called a hit-out. The ball can be hit, pushed, scooped or a self-pass can be played. The ball

may be raised immediately using a push, flick or scoop but must not be raised intentionally using a hit.

C. It is to be taken level with the top of the shooting zone and in line with the place where it crossed over the back-line.

Over the back-line off a defending player:

D. If the ball is played over the back-line by a defending player and no goal is scored, the game is re-started with a long

corner to the attacking team. The corner can be hit, pushed, scooped, or a self-pass can be played. The ball may be raised

immediately using a push, flick or scoop but must not be raised intentionally using a hit. A shot at goal cannot be taken

directly from a long corner.

E. The corner should be taken at the scoring zone coinciding with where the ball left the pitch. Not on the side line. F. No player, other than the taker, shall be within 5 metres of the ball until it is played.

RULE 13 – FREE HIT

A. Free hits are to be taken where the offence occurred. The ball can be hit, pushed, scooped or a self-pass can be played.

The ball may be raised immediately using a push, flick or scoop but must not be raised intentionally using a hit.

B. The ball must be stationary at a free hit.

C. Until the free hit is taken, all opposition players must be a minimum of 5 metres from the ball.

D. Opponents who remain within 5 metres when the free hit is taken must not interfere with the play until they have moved

5 metres away from where the free hit was taken, or the ball has moved 5 metres. Running alongside the taker

(channelling) should be penalised as interference.

Free-Hit: Infringement within the shooting zone

E. If the free hit is awarded to attacker within the shooting zone it must be taken back out to the edge of the shooting zone

in line where the infringement happened. All players except the taker must be a minimum of 5 metres from the ball.

F. If the free hit is awarded to a defender in the shooting zone then a hit out will be taken in line with the start of the

shooting zone.

RULE 14 – PENALTY 1 v 1 SHOT & POWER PLAYS

A. Penalty runs are 1v1’s taken in line with the shooting area marker with the ball placed in the centre of the goals.

B. Apart from one defending player (a GK or an outfield kicking back) and the penalty run taker, all other players must be

beyond the half-way line.

C. One defending player should be positioned on or behind the goal-line, and is not permitted to move until the ball has

been played by the attacking player.

D. The attacking player has 8 seconds from when they first move the ball to beat the defending player and score a goal.

E. Other attacking and defending players are not permitted to enter the restricted zone until the 8 seconds have been

completed or a goal has been scored.

F. If the defending or attacking player fouls during the act of playing the penalty run, the following should be awarded:

-attacking player fouls: a hit out to the defence.

-defending player fouls deliberately: Penalty goal (goal automatically awarded to attacking team).

-defending player fouls accidentally: re-take penalty run.

A 1v1 penalty run shall be awarded for any one of the following reasons:

G. An offence by a defending player inside the shooting zone that prevents the probable scoring of a goal.

H. An intentional offence in the shooting zone by a defending player against an opponent who has possession of the ball or

an opportunity to play the ball.

Following a penalty shot, play is re-started with a centre pass (if a goal has been scored). If no goal is scored or the allocated time

runs out, play is re-started with a hit out to the defence taken at the top of the shooting zone.

RULE 15 – ACCIDENTS

If the game is temporarily suspended because of an accident or injury where no offence occurred it shall be re-started with a bully

close to the spot where the accident occurred.

A. Players must stand square of each other and prior to playing the ball and following the umpires whistle, they shall tap the

ground with their stick once and tap each other’s stick above the ball once.

B. All non-involved players must be a minimum of 5 metres from the ball.

A. Players who are cut or bleeding will be required to leave the pitch immediately and shall not be allowed to return until

the bleeding has been suppressed or stopped.

B. It is imperative that ALL accidents are recorded in full using the UHU Code of Ethics. You can find this form in the link

below.

C. http://www.ulsterhockey.com/SiteDocuments/Youth%20Leagues%20U13%20and%20U15/2016-17%20Season/UHU%20Code%20of%20Ethics%20for%20Young%20People%20Apr13.pdf

RULE 15a – INCIDENTS

A. An incident differs from an accident as this is something that may have happened intentionally. Bullying, Physical or

Mental abuse are all examples of incidents.

B. It is imperative that ALL incidents are recorded using the UHU Code of Ethics. Please find the document in the link. Here

you will find both an accident and incident form.

C. http://www.ulsterhockey.com/SiteDocuments/Youth%20Leagues%20U13%20and%20U15/2016-

17%20Season/UHU%20Code%20of%20Ethics%20for%20Young%20People%20Apr13.pdf

RULE 16 – FAIR PLAY

A. Rough or dangerous play shall not be allowed, nor any behaviour which in the opinion of the umpire, amounts to

misconduct.

B. Players must not intentionally use any part of their body to play the ball

C. Players must not play any high ball with the stick held at above shoulder height unless they are attempting to prevent a

goal from being scored (i.e. to defend a shot on goal). The shot must be on target.

D. Players must not use the rounded side of the stick when playing the ball and when striking the ball. The stick must in no

way cause danger, nor lead to dangerous play, or be intimidating to any opponent.

E. Players must not play in any way that is dangerous.

F. Players must not kick the ball.

G. Players must not obstruct by running between an opponent and the ball, thereby unfairly preventing the opponent from

playing the ball. Neither must they use any part of their body or stick to obstruct a player.

H. Players must not hold, charge, kick, shove, intentionally trip, or strike any player or umpire.

I. Coaches and spectators must remain respectful at all times. Challenges to decisions should be directed courteously and if

possible through the team captain.

http://www.ulsterhockey.com/SiteDocuments/Youth%20Leagues%20U13%20and%20U15/2016-17%20Season/UHU%20Code%20of%20Ethics%20for%20Young%20People%20Apr13.pdf




RULE 1 – AGE QUALIFICATION A. Players MUST be in year 8 or 9 as of the day of the blitz / tournament.

RULE 2 – TEAMS

A. The game is played between two teams. They shall each have a maximum eight players permitted on the pitch at any one

time.

B. The use of a GK at UH blitzes is not compulsory. You may play with 8 outfield players.

C. On finals day however it is COMPULSORY

D. It is recommended that squads are made up of 12 players to allow for sufficient match time for all.

E. Teams must be separated by gender for Youth League tournaments and mini-hockey qualifiers, i.e. teams cannot consist

of a mixture of boys and girls for competitive matches and finals days.




A. Games will be played for 8-12 minute duration straight. There will be no half time or changing of sides.

B. 2-3 minutes will be scheduled to get to your next game.


A. The pitch will be half of the full sized pitch for girls and boys.

B. The circle will have a radius of 14.63 metres from the by-line (15 steps either side of the posts, 15 steps out form the

centre of the goal and join)

C. Free Zone Markers should be placed at a third of the total pitch length. All frees that occur inside the circle and beyond

the free zone line will be brought out to this line. All long corners will also be brought out to this line.






encouraged.



RULE 7 – UMPIRES

A. Young umpire programme will be in place for the 2018/19 youth season (http://www.ulsterhockey.com/Young-Umpires-

Programme--7141.html)

B. Two umpires per pitch are recommended, however one umpire per pitch is suitable. Each team should have a nominated

umpire that is not a member of the coaching/supervisory staff.

C. The umpires are responsible for all decisions and penalties.

D. The umpire’s decision is FINAL.


A. The first named team on the fixture schedule will provide the ball for the game.

B. The first named team will be awarded pass back to start the game. A coin toss with captains is therefore not required.


RULE 9 – STARTING AND RESTARTING THE GAME

A. The game is started with a pass back taken from the centre of the centre line. It follows the umpires whistle indicating the

start of the game or after a goal has been scored. The ball may be raised immediately using a push, flick or scoop but

must not be raised intentionally using a hit.

B. Each team must be positioned in their own half of the pitch and the opposing players must be a minimum of 5 metres

from the ball until the centre pass is played.

C. The ball can be played forwards, backwards or sideways.

D. The taker can use a self-pass (i.e. pass the ball to themselves). The pass must involve two very distinct actions i.e. the

taker must first tap it forwards, sideways or backwards and then play it a second time either to pass it or to dribble it.

RULE 10 – SCORING A GOAL

A. A goal is scored when the ball has been struck by, or deflected off, an attacking player, or touches the stick or body of a

defending player, while it (the ball) is in the circle. It must cross completely over the goal-line between the goal-posts and

under the cross-bar.

B. Goals will not be awarded if the ball is struck outside the circle and does not touch an attacker’s stick.

C. A goal cannot be scored directly from a free hit / auto-pass. The ball must travel at least 5 metres by the attacking player

before a shot can be made by the player taking the auto-pass. This will apply at long-corners and side-line balls within the

scoring zone also.

D. If a player takes an auto-pass and dribbles past one or two players, he/she is entitled to score, provided the ball has

travelled at least 5 metres.

E. All players except the striker must be 5 metres from the ball at free hits and corners and the ball must move at least 1

metre from all free hits, side line balls etc., when using an auto-pass.



RULE 11 – OWN GOALS

A. Own goal ruling has been removed from all Youth League age categories for the 2019-20 season, therefore should not be

awarded.

RULE 12 – BALL OUTSIDE THE FIELD OF PLAY

Over the side-line:

A. When the ball passes completely over the side-line it shall be put back into play in any direction by a hit, push, scoop or

self-pass taken by an opponent of the player who last touched it. The ball may be raised immediately using a push, flick or

scoop but must not be raised intentionally using a hit. This is called a side-line hit-in.

B. Until the hit-in is taken, no opposition player shall be within 5 metres of the ball.

Over the back-line off an attacking player:

C. When the ball passes over the back-line off one of the attacking players and no goal is scored, the game is re-started with

a hit to the defence. This is called a hit-out. The ball can be hit, pushed, scooped or a self-pass can be played. The ball

may be raised immediately using a push, flick or scoop but must not be raised intentionally using a hit.

D. It is to be taken level with the top of the free zone and in line with the place where it crossed over the back-line.

Over the back-line off a defending player:

E. If the ball is played over the back-line by a defending player and no goal is scored, the game is re-started with a long

corner to the attacking team. The corner can be hit, pushed, scooped, or a self-pass can be played. The ball may be raised

immediately using a push, flick or scoop but must not be raised intentionally using a hit. A shot at goal cannot be taken

directly from a long corner.

F. The corner should be taken at the free zone coinciding with where the ball left the pitch. Not on the side line. G. No player, other than the taker, shall be within 5 metres of the ball until it is played.

RULE 13 – FREE HIT

A. Free hits are to be taken where the offence occurred. The ball can be hit, pushed, scooped or a self-pass can be played.

The ball may be raised immediately using a push, flick or scoop but must not be raised intentionally using a hit.

B. The ball must be stationary at a free hit.

C. Until the free hit is taken, all opposition players must be a minimum of 5 metres from the ball.

D. Opponents who remain within 5 metres when the free hit is taken must not interfere with the play until they have moved

5 metres away from where the free hit was taken, or the ball has moved 5 metres. Running alongside the taker

(channelling) should be penalised as interference.

Free-Hit: Infringement within the shooting zone

E. If the free hit is awarded to attacker within the circle it must be taken back out to the edge of the free zone in line where

the infringement happened. All players except the taker must be a minimum of 5 metres from the ball. The ball must

move a minimum of 5 metres (in any direction) before it can be directly played into the circle. It cannot be directly hit or

pushed into the circle.

F. If the free hit is awarded to a defender in the shooting zone then a hit out will be taken in line with the start of the

shooting zone.

RULE 14 – 1 v 1 PENALTY SHOT

I. Penalty runs are 1v1’s taken in line with the shooting area marker with the ball placed in the centre of the goals.

J. Apart from one defending player (a GK or an outfield kicking back) and the penalty run taker, all other players must be

beyond the half-way line.

K. One defending player should be positioned on or behind the goal-line, and is not permitted to move until the ball has

been played by the attacking player.

L. The attacking player has 8 seconds from when they first move the ball to beat the defending player and score a goal.

M. Other attacking and defending players are not permitted to enter the restricted zone until the 8 seconds have been

completed or a goal has been scored.

N. If the defending or attacking player fouls during the act of playing the penalty run, the following should be awarded:

-attacking player fouls: a hit out to the defence.

-defending player fouls deliberately: Penalty goal (goal automatically awarded to attacking team).

-defending player fouls accidentally: re-take penalty run.

A 1v1 penalty run shall be awarded for any one of the following reasons:

O. An offence by a defending player inside the shooting zone that prevents the probable scoring of a goal.

P. An intentional offence in the shooting zone by a defending player against an opponent who has possession of the ball or

an opportunity to play the ball.

Following a penalty shot, play is re-started with a centre pass (if a goal has been scored). If no goal is scored or the allocated time

runs out, play is re-started with a hit out to the defence taken at the top of the shooting zone.




C. Players must stand square of each other and prior to playing the ball and following the umpires whistle, they shall tap the


D. All non-involved players must be a minimum of 5 metres from the ball.

D. Players who are cut or bleeding will be required to leave the pitch immediately and shall not be allowed to return until


E. It is imperative that ALL accidents are recorded in full using the UHU Code of Ethics. You can find this form in the link

below.

F. Contact UHU Youth Development Officer ([email protected])


D. An incident differs from an accident as this is something that may have happened intentionally. Bullying, Physical or


E. It is imperative that ALL incidents are recorded using the UHU Code of Ethics. Please find the document in the link. Here


F. Contact UHU Youth Development Officer ([email protected])



misconduct.













RULE 1 – AGE QUALIFICATION

A. Players are only permitted to participate for one club in the Ulster Hockey Youth League Programme, i.e. players cannot

play for two clubs in the youth league programme and this additionally applies for those who train/play with two different

age groups at two different clubs.

B. Players participating in any U15 program must be born within the 1st July 2004 – 20th June 2006 to be eligible (aged 13-15

/ in school years 10 and 11). Players born previous to this date will be eligible to play adult club hockey as they will have

passed their 15th birthday.

C. Players turning 15 throughout the season will be permitted to play in the youth leagues

D. Burnout is a very real issue and it is up to the club to look after the over playing of their young players

E. For more information on overplaying please get in touch with Ulster Hockey ([email protected])

RULE 2 – TEAMS

A. For the 2019-20 season U15 boys will play:

- 11 aside for Tier 1 League and Cup matches

- 8 aside for Tier 2 League matches and Plate matches

TIER 2 / PLATE – Team Rules

B. On 8 a side league days teams are permitted to have 8 players on the pitch at any one time

C. The use of a goalkeeper is compulsory

D. The pitch size will be 3/4 the size of a normal hockey pitch

TIER 1 / CUP - Team Rules

A. The game is played between two teams. They shall each have a maximum eleven players permitted on the pitch at any

one time.

B. The use of a goalkeeper is compulsory.

C. Teams must be separated by gender for Youth League tournaments and mini-hockey qualifiers, i.e. teams cannot consist

of a mixture of boys and girls for competitive matches and finals days.




A. One-off fixtures games between two teams will be 20-25 minutes per half. Half time will be 5 minutes in length.



A. Tier 1 and Cup games will be played on full-sized hockey pitch.

B. Tier 2 and Plate games will be played on 3/4 of the size of a full pitch with throw down lines used for the circle






encouraged.



RULE 7 – UMPIRES

A. Two umpires per pitch are required. Each team should have a nominated umpire that is not a member of the

coaching/supervisory staff.

B. The umpires are responsible for all decisions and penalties.

C. The umpire’s decision is FINAL.

D. A ZERO TOLERANCE WILL BE TAKEN FOR ANY PHYSICAL OR VERBAL ABUSE TOWARDS UMPIRES


A. The home named team on the fixture schedule will provide the ball for the game.

B. A coin toss with both team captains will take place to determine the award of pass back to start the game.


RULE 9 – GAME RULES

A. Normal rules of senior hockey will apply to the Under 15 programme as per issued by International Hockey Federation:

B. http://fih.ch/media/13164482/fih-rules-of-hockey-2019-final.pdf




E. Players must stand square of each other and prior to playing the ball and following the umpires whistle, they shall tap the


F. All non-involved players must be a minimum of 5 metres from the ball.

G. Players who are cut or bleeding will be required to leave the pitch immediately and shall not be allowed to return until


http://fih.ch/media/13164482/fih-rules-of-hockey-2019-final.pdf

H. It is imperative that ALL accidents are recorded in full using the UHU Code of Ethics. You can find this form in the link

below.

I. Contact UHU Youth Development Officer ([email protected])


G. An incident differs from an accident as this is something that may have happened intentionally. Bullying, Physical or


H. It is imperative that ALL incidents are recorded using the UHU Code of Ethics. Please find the document in the link. Here


I. Contact UHU Youth Development Officer ([email protected])



misconduct.















Blitz Dates & Host Clubs

Sunday 29th September 2019

Area Host Club

Belfast Instonians

Northern Cookstown

Southern Ballynahinch

Sunday 20th October 2019

Belfast CI

Northern Lisnagarvey

Southern Portadown

Sunday 24th November 2019

Belfast Annadale

Northern North Down

Southern Armagh

Sunday 8th December 2019

Belfast NICS

Northern Bangor

Southern South Antrim

Sunday 26th January 2020

Belfast Belfast Harlequins

Northern Antrim

Southern Banbridge

Sunday 23rd February 2020

Belfast Mossley

Northern Ballymoney

Southern Ballynahinch

U11 FINALS DAY 15th March 2020

U13 FINALS DAY 29th March 2020

Boys U11 and U13 Youth Leagues – Belfast Region

Session 1: Sunday 29th September 2019 Area: BELFAST Host:

U11 U13

TOTAL

Session 2: Sunday 20th October 2019 Area: BELFAST Host:

U11 U13

TOTAL

Session 3: Sunday 24th November 2019 Area: BELFAST Host:

U11 U13

TOTAL

Session 4: Sunday 8th December 2019 Area: BELFAST Host:

U11 U13

TOTAL

Session 5: Sunday 26th January 2020 Area: BELFAST Host:

U11 U13

TOTAL

Session 6: Sunday 23rd February 2020 Area: BELFAST Host:

U11 U13

TOTAL

Boys U11 and U13 Youth Leagues – Northern Region

Session 1: Sunday 29th September 2019 Area: NORTHERN Host:

U11 U13

TOTAL

Session 2: Sunday 20th October 2019 Area: NORTHERN Host:

U11 U13

TOTAL

Session 3: Sunday 24th November 2019 Area: NORTHERN Host:

U11 U13

TOTAL

Session 4: Sunday 8th December 2019 Area: NORTHERN Host:

U11 U13

TOTAL

Session 4: Sunday 26th January 2020 Area: NORTHERN Host:

U11 U13

TOTAL

Session 4: Sunday 23rd February 2020 Area: NORTHERN Host:

U11 U13

TOTAL

Boys U11 and U13 Youth Leagues – Southern Region

Session 1: Sunday 29th September 2019 Area: SOUTHERN Host:

U11 U13

TOTAL

Session 2: Sunday 20th October 2019 Area: SOUTHERN Host:

U11 U13

TOTAL

Session 3: Sunday 24th November 2019 Area: SOUTHERN Host:

U11 U13

TOTAL

Session 4: Sunday 8th December 2019 Area: SOUTHERN Host:

U11 U13

TOTAL

Session 5: Sunday 26th January 2020 Area: Host:

U11 U13

TOTAL

Session 6: Sunday 23rd February 2020 Area: Host:

U11 U13

TOTAL

BRIEFING NOTES FOR THE U15 SEASON 2019/2020 Introduction For the 2019/2020 season there will be an U15 league in place. This will be split as such:

- Tier 1 will be 11 a side and will also compete in the U15 Cup - Tier 2 will be 8 a side played on 3/4 of the size of a full pitch and will also compete in the Plate

Competition Formats & Rules The Ulster Hockey Youth Formats and Rules have been passed through the Executive Manager for implementation in the 2019-20 playing season. All Youth hockey played under the auspices of the Ulster Hockey Union should adhere to the requirements of the rules document. Finalised rules documents will be issued alongside fixtures in the relevant boys and girls handbooks which will be circulated following the outcomes of discussion at the pre-season consultation meeting. Please note rules differ slightly depending on the particular age category. Inability to fulfil a fixture If your club is unable to fulfil a fixture you should inform the opposing club immediately via telephone contact (this will normally be the youth officer of the host club – contact details for all youth officers have been included in the consultation pack). Clubs with foreseen circumstances that will prevent them from attending youth league fixtures should notify the opposing club and Ulster Hockey no later than the Friday of the week previous to the proposed fixture date. Clubs who persistently do not notify their unavailability/inability to travel should be reported to Ulster Hockey immediately and their future involvement in the youth league will be reviewed appropriately. Contact details for all youth officers can be found in the Pre-season Consultation Pack. This should be of assistance when having to make contact in this discussed case. Andrew Brown should also be contacted to confirm notification of changes also.

Tier 1 Cup draw

Tier 2 Plate draw