The GAA’s Standing Committee on the Playing Rules has issued a list of proposed experimental rule changes for Gaelic football.
In an effort to make Gaelic football a more attractive spectacle while reducing cynicism and defensive play, the GAA are making moves to tweak the rules.
After the implementation of the ‘mark’ and black cards in recent seasons, the association have released details of five proposed rule changes on Tuesday afternoon.
Handpass – To introduce a restriction of three consecutive passes of the ball with the fist or open hand by players of the team in possession.
Sideline Kick – That the ball shall be played in a forward direction from the kick.
Exception: In the case of a side-line kick being taken by an attacking player on or inside the opponents’ 13m line, the ball may be kicked in any direction.
The Mark – To extend the application of the Mark to the clean catching of the ball on or inside the 20m line from a kick delivered on or beyond the 45m line without it touching the ground.
In the case of a Mark being awarded to an attacking player on or inside the 20m line, the free, if availed of, shall be taken from the point on the 20m line directly in line where the Mark is awarded.
Sin-Bin – The penalty on the day for a Black Card Infraction or two yellow card infractions – an ordering off for ten minutes in a sin bin.
Kick-Out/Zoning – For a kick-out, two players only from each team shall be positioned between the two 45m lines.
The goalkeeper and a maximum of six players from each team shall be behind the respective 45m lines until the ball is kicked.
The ball from the kick-out shall travel beyond the 45m line before being played by a player of the defending team.
The proposed changes will be discussed throughout October among players, coaches, referees and officials, with a view for them to be implemented on a trial basis throughout the 2019 National Leagues. If approved, they will come into effect fully in the 2020 Championship.
