BRIEFING NOTES FOR THE SEASON 2018/2019

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2 BRIEFING NOTES FOR THE SEASON 2018/2019 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 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 meetings. Please note some rules have been changed as well as some differing 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. i.e. Youth League Date Last Possible Cancellation Date Sunday 21 st October 2018 Friday 12 th October 2018 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. The UHU Youth Development Officer should also be contacted to confirm notification of changes also. (andrew.brown@ulsterhockey.com)

3 Requesting Additional Team Entries for a Blitz Ulster Hockey strongly recommends that you make sure you have an accurate number of teams for both and hockey from the start of the season. This allows the Youth Development Officer and host clubs to plan accordingly. Additional and 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. I.e. Youth League Date Last Possible Date of Adding Teams Sunday 14 th October 2018 Friday 5 th October 2018 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, 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. Youth League Date Last Possible Date of Adding Teams Sunday 14 th October 2018 Sunday 7 th October 2018 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

4 Umpiring of Games - Young Umpires 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: - Programme html Pitch and Squad Rulings Age Group No of Players Playing Area U15 Performance Year 10 and a side Full Pitch (Girls) U15 Development Year 10 and a side Full Pitch (Girls) (Extreme 8s) Year 8 and 9 8 a side ½ Pitch (Super 6s) P7 and under 6 a side 1/3 Pitch U9 (Fun 4s) P5 and Under 4 a side 1/8 Pitch Results There will be no results recorded for U9// 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 Development/Performance league results, Cup and Plate competitions and will be required to be submitted by the home team no longer than 1 day after playing the game to Anne Shiels (anneshiels@hotmail.com/ ) and the UHU Youth Development Officer (andrew.brown@ulsterhockey.com / ). This will then be used to update league tables and fixture matrixes. Fees A request for Union youth fees will be issued in due course. These fees will be charged per youth team entered to the youth league playing programme. 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.

5 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: (M) (H) Useful Contacts Role Name Telephone Number Administration Andrew Johnston Executive Manager Jill Poots Workforce Development Officer Active Clubs Jonathan McMeekin Laura McDermott & Ian Hughes om / Youth Development Andrew Brown Talent Coach Shirley McCay Public Relations Andrew Johnston Child Protection Designated Person Hilary Reid

6 Girls, & U15 YOUTH LEAGUE TEAM ENTRIES CLUB UNDER 15 PERF. UNDER 15 DEV. UNDER 13 UNDER 11 Ards Armagh Antrim 2 Ballyclare 1 1 Ballymena Ballymoney Ballynahinch Banbridge Bangor Belfast Harlequins 1 2 Castle LHC CI LHC Club KV Coleraine Cookstown TBC TBC TBC TBC Dromore Dungannon Instonians TBC TBC Larne Limavady Lisnagarvey Lurgan Mossley Newcastle Nomads NICS North Down TBC TBC TBC TBC Omagh Owls Parkview Pegasus Portadown Priorians Rainey Randalstown Raphoe Saintfield South Antrim Tullyvallen (friendly 1 matches only) Ulster Elks TBC TBC TBC TBC Please check that the above is correct. If there is a mistake, then please contact Ulster Hockey immediately.

7 DATES FOR YOUR DIARY UNDER 11 & 13 Girls Session 1: 30/09/18 Session 2: 21/10/18 Session 3: 25/11/18 WINTER BREAK Session 4: 24/02/19 Session 5: 24/03/2019

8 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. B. No Goalkeeper at this age group and teams can be mixed (boys and girls) C. For more info: (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 C. It is recommended that squads are made up of no more than 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 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.

9 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 ( Programme html) B. Two umpires per pitch are recommended, however one umpire per pitch is suitable. C. Each team should have a nominated umpire that is not a member of the coaching/supervisory staff. D. The umpires are responsible for all decisions and penalties. E. The umpire s decision is FINAL F. Ulster Hockey hold the right to remove anybody that is aiming abuse towards any officials at UHU youth hockey events 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 backwards or forwards 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 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 goalposts 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.

10 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 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 12 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.

11 RULE 13 PENALTY 1 v 1 SHOT & POWER PLAYS - A 1v1 penalty run shall be awarded for any one of the following reasons: A. An offence by a defending player inside the shooting zone that prevents the probable scoring of a goal. B. 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. Penalty runs are 1v1 s taken in line with the shooting area marker with the ball placed in the centre of the goals. D. 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. E. 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. F. The attacking player has 8 seconds from when they first move the ball to beat the defending player and score a goal. G. 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. H. 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. RULE 14 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.

12 C. RULE 14a 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. RULE 15 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. J. Coaches are expected to manage the discipline of their players

13 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 a maximum 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. 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. The pitch will be half of the full sized pitch for girls and boys. B. For the season circles will be added. The circle will have a radius of metres from the by-line 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 shooting zone line will be brought out to this line. All long corners will also be brought out to this line. 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. 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.

14 RULE 7 UMPIRES A. Young umpire programme will be in place for the 2018/19 youth season ( Programme html) B. Two umpires per pitch are recommended, however one umpire per pitch is suitable. C. Each team should have a nominated umpire that is not a member of the coaching/supervisory staff. D. The umpires are responsible for all decisions and penalties. E. The umpire s decision is FINAL. F. Ulster Hockey hold the right to remove anybody that is aiming abuse towards any officials at UHU youth hockey 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 or forwards 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 goalposts and under the cross-bar. B. Goals will not be awarded if the ball is struck outside the free 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 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 free zone also. D. The ball must travel 5 metres before entering the circle E. 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.

15 F. 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 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 12 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.

16 RULE 13 1 v 1 PENALTY SHOT A 1v1 penalty run shall be awarded for any one of the following reasons: I. An offence by a defending player inside the shooting zone that prevents the probable scoring of a goal. J. 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. K. Penalty runs are 1v1 s taken in line with the shooting area marker with the ball placed in the centre of the goals. L. 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. M. 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. N. The attacking player has 8 seconds from when they first move the ball to beat the defending player and score a goal. O. 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. P. 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. RULE 14 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. C. 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. 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 the bleeding has been suppressed or stopped. 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.

17 F. RULE 14a INCIDENTS D. 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. E. 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. F. RULE 15 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. J. Coaches are responsible for the conduct and discipline of their players

18 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 th June 2005 to be eligible (aged / 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 (andrew.brown@ulsterhockey.com) RULE 2 TEAMS 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 strongly recommended. C. For U15 performance games squads are limited to 16 players. D. For development games there is no limit, however UHU recommend 16 players to allow for sufficient pitch time. 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. RULE 3 SUBSTITUTIONS A. Substitutions are unlimited throughout the game. RULE 4 DURATION OF GAME A. One-off fixtures games between two teams will be minutes per half. Half time will be 5 minutes in length. RULE 5 THE PITCH A. Games will be played on full-sized hockey pitch. B. Goals should be positioned in the centre of each of the backlines as for 11v11 formats. 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.

19 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. 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. RULE 8 STARTING THE GAME / PASS BACK AWARD 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. 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 GAME RULES A. Normal rules of senior hockey will apply to the Under 15 programme as per issued by International Hockey Federation: t%20from%201%20february% pdf RULE 10 OWN GOALS A. Own goal ruling has been removed from all Youth League age categories for the season, therefore should not be awarded. RULE 11 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. E. 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. 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 the bleeding has been suppressed or stopped.

20 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. RULE 11a INCIDENTS G. 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. H. 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. I. RULE 12 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. YOUTH HOCKEY IS ABOUT FUN AND PARTICIPATION

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22 Host Schedule 2018 / 2019 Area Belfast Mid Ulster Newtownabbey North Down Southern Belfast Mid-Ulster Newtownabbey North Down Southern Belfast Mid-Ulster Newtownabbey North Down Southern Belfast Mid-Ulster Newtownabbey North Down Southern Belfast Mid-Ulster Newtownabbey North Down Southern Sunday 30 th September Sunday 21 st October Sunday 25 th November WINTER BREAK (INDOOR) Sunday 24 th February Sunday 24 th March (qualifier) FINALS DAY PLATE FINALS CUP FINALS Host Club NICS Coleraine Larne North Down Portadown Belfast Harlequins Priorians Ulster Elks Bangor Dromore Pegasus Rainey Castle Ards Lisnagarvey Club KV Ballymoney Randalstown South Antrim Banbridge CI Ballymena Mossley Ballynahinch Armagh

23 Girls and Youth Leagues Belfast Region Session 1: Sunday 30 th September Area: BELFAST Match Start Time TO BE CONFIRMED BY HOST CLUB Under 11 Belfast Region Time Pitch 1 Pitch 2 Pitch Match Start Time TO BE CONFIRMED BY HOST CLUB Under 13 Belfast Region Time Pitch 1 Pitch

24 Session 2: Sunday 21 st October Area: BELFAST Session 3: Sunday 25 th November Area: BELFAST Session 4: Sunday 24 th February Area: BELFAST Session 5: Sunday 24 th March Area: BELFAST

25 Girls and Youth Leagues Mid-Ulster Region Session 1: Sunday 30 th September Area: MID-ULSTER Match Start Time TO BE CONFIRMED BY HOST CLUB Under 11 Mid-Ulster Region Time Pitch 1 Pitch 2 Pitch Match Start Time TO BE CONFIRMED BY HOST CLUB Under 13 Mid-Ulster Region Time Pitch 1 Pitch 2 Pitch

26 Session 2: Sunday 21 st October Area: MID-ULSTER Session 3: Sunday 25 th November Area: MID-ULSTER Session 4: Sunday 24 th February Area: MID-ULSTER Session 5: Sunday 24 th March Area: MID-ULSTER

27 Girls and Youth Leagues Newtownabbey Region Session 1: Sunday 30 th September Area: NEWTOWNABBEY Match Start Time TO BE CONFIRMED BY HOST CLUB Under 11 Newtownabbey Region Time Pitch 1 Pitch 2 Pitch Match Start Time TO BE CONFIRMED BY HOST CLUB Under 13 Newtownabbey Region Time Pitch 1 Pitch 2 Pitch

28 Session 2: Sunday 21 st October 2018 Area: NEWTOWNABBEY Session 3: Sunday 25 th November 2018 Area: NEWTOWNABBEY Session 4: Sunday 24 th February 2019 Area: NEWTOWNABBEY Session 5: Sunday 24 th March 2019 Area: NEWTOWNABBEY

29 Girls and Youth Leagues North Down Region Session 1: Sunday 30 th September 2018 Area: NORTH DOWN Match Start Time TO BE CONFIRMED BY HOST CLUB Under 11 North Down Region Time Pitch 1 Pitch 2 Pitch Match Start Time TO BE CONFIRMED BY HOST CLUB Under 13 North Down Region Time Pitch 1 Pitch

30 Session 2: Sunday 21 st October 2018 Area: NORTH DOWN Session 3: Sunday 25 th November 2018 Area: NORTH DOWN Session 4: Sunday 24 th February 2019 Area: NORTH DOWN Session 5: Sunday 24 th March 2019 Area: NORTH DOWN

31 Girls and Youth Leagues Southern Region Session 1: Sunday 30 th September 2018 Area: SOUTHERN Lisnagarvey Match Start Time TO BE CONFIRMED BY HOST CLUB Under 11 Southern Region Time Pitch 1 Pitch 2 Pitch Match Start Time TO BE CONFIRMED BY HOST CLUB Under 13 Southern Region Time Pitch 1 Pitch

32 Session 2: Sunday 21 st October 2018 Area: SOUTHERN Session 3: Sunday 20 th November 2018 Area: SOUTHERN Session 4: Sunday 24 th February 2019 Area: SOUTHERN Session 5: Sunday 24 th March 2019 Area: SOUTHERN