BRITISH HORSEBALL ASSOCIATION
RULES AND RECOMMENDATIONS
FOR THE GAME OF HORSEBALL
2000
FIRST EDITION
Valid 1st January 2000 to January 2001
FOREWORD
Horseball is played between two teams of six riders who must pick up a ball from the ground without dismounting, and using a game of attack and defence attempt to score in goals at each end of a pitch.
The speed and vigour of the game requires the players to have a complete knowledge and understanding of the rules and to adhere to them strictly at all times.
Above all it must always be remembered that good sportsmanship is the foundation stone on which the game of Horseball is built and that the safety of both horses and riders is paramount.
If you are still unsure of the rules Ask the Ref !
CONTENTS
2.5 Pitch Markings
5.1 General
5.2 Substitutions
5.3 Team Captains
6.1 Licences
6.2 Equipment
7.1 General
7.2 Tack
9 OFFICIALS
9.2 Referee
10.1 General
10.2 Breaks in Play
10.3 Time Outs
11.1 General
11.2 Sudden Death Extra Time
11.3 League Competitions
11.4 Forfeit
11.5 Abandoned Matches
12.1 General
12.2 At the Start of Each Half
12.3 At the End of Each Half
13.1 General
13.2 Own Goals
13.3 Restarting the Game After a Goal
16 SEIZING THE BALL FROM AN OPPONENT
17.1 General
17.2 Priority of Pick-Up
19.2 Invalid Line-Out
19.3 Priority of Pick-up Following a Line-Out
22.1 General
22.3 Penalty 2
22.4 Penalty 3
25 BROKEN TACK
26 CARE OF HORSES
27 DANGEROUS AND UNSPORTSMAN-LIKE CONDUCT
28 TECHNICAL FOULS
29 DISCIPLINARY COMMITTEE
30 APPEALS
31 DOPING
32 ORGANISATION OF MATCHES
FIGURES
APPENDIX A - RECOMMENDATIONS FOR SCHOOLING AND RIDING PROCEDURES FOR HORSEBALL
1 SCHOOLING
2 HORSE MANAGEMENT BEFORE AND AFTER A MATCH
2.1 Equipment
2.2 Working in Before a Game
2.3 Working Down After a Game
2.4 Care of Horse's Legs
APPENDIX B - USEFUL NAMES AND ADDRESSES
1 MAIN OFFICE
2 BHA AREA REPRESENTATIVES
Southern and Home Counties
Midlands
West Country
East Anglia
APPENDIX C - REFEREE HAND AND FLAG SIGNALS
APPENDIX D - CODIFICATION OF ESTABLISHED PRACTICES
APPENDIX E - CHAIR REFEREE
RULES OF HORSEBALL
Any person taking part in a Horseball match is expected to be fully conversant with the rules and to accept unreservedly the contents, spirit and effect of the rules. Any person taking part in an official event must be licenced by the relevant federation of their country and will be subject to any additional rules laid down by their own National regulations.
Changes may be made to the rules during the course of the season; members will be informed in writing of any changes and the dates from which they come into effect by the FIHB to the ONHB
The pitch (Figure 1) is rectangular, with the following dimensions:
length
maximum 75 m
minimum 60 m
width
maximum 30 m
minimum 20 m
In any descriptions which follow, the term 'side' will be used to indicate the long side of the pitch, and the term 'end' will be used to indicate the short side of the pitch.
The pitch must be level and the surface soft, even, and non-slip in order to provide a safe and secure footing for the horses.
Pitches may be indoors or outdoors. If the pitch is outdoors it must be well drained in order that it remains playable in wet weather.
Bordering the pitch along each side is a security zone. This is an area between 3 m and 5 m wide along the length of each side of the pitch where the team trainer and grooms may sit and where the substitutes must wait.
For an indoor pitch if there is insufficient space for a security zone, the pitch should take the form of a manege with kicking boards along the sides (for the safety of horse and rider). In this case, space for the substitutes may be set aside elsewhere provided that there is quick and easy access to the pitch.
(Fig: Design of Goals)
The ends of the pitch must be made impassable using a barrier at least 1 m 60 high.
The boundary at each end of the pitch should be extended on each side to mark the end of the security zone and should have a minimum height of 1 m 20.
There is to be a net behind each goal in order to prevent the ball from going out of play. This net should be 4 m 50 high and should extend at least 5 m on each side of the goal.
The borders between the pitch and the security zone must be marked in a safe manner and must be passable along their entire length. A raised border of some kind is preferred in order to prevent the ball rolling out of play.
All borders must be safe for both horses and riders.
Along each side of the pitch flags or cones or other suitable marker will be used to indicate the centre line and the 5 m the 10 m and the 15 m penalty lines. There will also be indicators 0.5m from each side of the centre line and the 10 m line.
There are two goals (Figure 2), one positioned at the centre of each end of the pitch.
The goals are circular with an internal diameter of 1m and made from a material with a width of 6 cm. They are mounted vertically 2.50m from the end of the pitch with the base of the goal 3.50m from the ground. They may either be suspended or mounted on a frame. In the latter case, the base of the frame must not infringe the playing area.
The goals should be painted white, with a white net (4cm mesh).
Each team must present a regulation ball. The Referee decides which ball will be used.
The ball (Figure 3) is a light-coloured junior (size 4) football surrounded by a harness to which six leather handles are attached.
Dimensions: See page 7/22 International Rules for different ball sizes.
| Category | Senior
Junior |
Benjamin
Minime Cadet |
Moustique
Poussin |
| Ball | T4 | T3 | T2 |
| Circumference | 65cm | 60cm | 47cm |
| Longueur des anses | 41cm | 39cm | 30cm |
| Espace entre deux coutures | 20cm | 18cm | 15cm |
| Largeur du cuir | 18/20mm | 18/20mm | 16/18mm |
| Epaisseur du cuir | 6/8 mm | 6/8mm | 4/6mm |
| Total Weight | 6/700g | 5/600g | 4/500g |
A team is made up of six horses and six riders. Minimum of 3 riders. For Matches played on pitches smaller than official measurement there will be only 3 players per team.
Only 4 players from each team are allowed on the pitch at any one time.
Substitutes must remain within the security zone until a substitution is made.
All teams must be registered with the BHA.
Substitutions may only be made when there is a break in play (such as when a goal has been scored or when the ball has gone out of play) or during a time-out called by either team, or the referee. The substituted player can only come onto the pitch from the half which the player's team is defending.
There is no limit to the number of substitutions which may be made.
Substitutions can only come onto the pitch from the half of the pitch that corresponds to the half of the pitch they are defending.
Each team must have a team captain . He directs and controls his/her teams game.
The captain is the representative of the team and is the only person who may address the referee.
The captain is entitled to discuss the interpretation of the rules with the referee and ask for basic information regarding the state of the game; he must address the referee with courtesy.
All players must be members of the ONHB.
Any sponsorship showing on the horse or rider must conform to the Regulations of the country in which the event takes place
Riders must wear riding hats conforming to the appropriate European standard. Chin straps must be done up at all times.
Correct riding footwear must be worn.
Players in the same team must wear the same uniform. Shirts with black and white vertical stripes (5cm) are reserved for referees.
Players in a team are numbered 1 to 6 with each rider wearing a number on the back (20 cm) and on the chest (10 cm). Players may not change numbers during a game.
Spurs may be worn but must be of a type acceptable by the FIHB. Adhesive tape may not be used to secure spurs to boots. Spurs must be fitted correctly and must not exceed 3cm (maximum).
Whips may not be carried during the game nor in the warm up arena.
Players are recommended to wear back protectors.
Players may not wear jewellery. Rings may be worn provided that either gloves are worn or the rings are taped over in order to make them safe.
In the case of an injury or cut the Player must be examined by a Doctor and will not be allowed back on the pitch until the injury has been properly protected.
There are a maximum of six horses per team of which four can be on the pitch at any one time.. The minimum number of horses is 3 per team.
Each horse can only participate in one match a day. A horse can participate in more than one match a day provided that the length of each half of the match is less than 10 minutes.
Each horse in the team must be at least 4 years of age and have valid identification and vaccination certificates.
All riders must wear riding hats.
All horses including the Referees' horse are subject to the following conditions:-
Fulmer Bits are prohibited otherwise, there is no restriction on the choice of bit providing that it is of a type acceptable to the FIHB. Bitless bridles are acceptable provided that they are correctly fitted and correctly used.
Saddles should be General Purpose and Jumping. Western, Racing Plates, Side Saddles and all other saddles are not permitted.
Standing martingales (either rigid or elastic) are compulsory for all competitions.
Blinkers are not permitted.
Protection on all four legs (bandages or boots) is compulsory.
The use of over-reach boots on all four legs is compulsory. If any over-reach boot or boots is lost the Referee can send the player off. No substitution can take place until there is a break in play.
Studs (either fixed or removable) are permitted.
All tack used must be safe, be in good condition, and be correctly fitting and correctly fastened. If any article of tack breaks it must be replaced immediately: no substitution can take place until there is a break in play.
Pick-up straps should run through the loop on the martingale under the horse's belly, ie, they should not hang unrestricted underneath the horse.
Each team is permitted one groom per horse and one trainer in the security zone provided that they each wear a uniform in the colour of their team.
Trainers and grooms may not address the referee excepting for the trainer to request a time-out. If they do they can be excluded from the side of the pitch.
Except during time-outs or during the half time interval trainers and grooms may not leave the seats provided for them otherwise they may face exclusion. They may not enter the Chair Referee's Zone which is 5 metres to either side of and to the rear of the Chair. Non observance of this rule is a technical foul.
Each match is controlled by two referees, one on the pitch (on horseback) and one on the sideline (seated), who between them enforce the rules of the game.
For all FIHB organised matches, the FIHB will appoint the referees. For all international competitions the referees are chosen by the FIHB. All referees must be correctly licensed by their own ONHB and insured either by their ONHB or by themselves.
The referees must be impartial and have no connection with either team.
The seated referee sits in a central position in the security zone separated from the substitutes, grooms and trainers, preferably on a raised chair or platform.
During the match the seated referee will signal to the referee on horseback any infringements of the rules using a method agreed between them (such as a flag or two-way radio).
At any time during a match the mounted referee may call additional time-outs (which will not be charged to either team) to consult the seated referee.
In all cases the decision of the mounted referee takes precedence and is final.
Only the captain of each team may address the referee.
The referees are responsible for
· directing the match according to the rules
· checking the players' BHA membership
· checking horses' identification and vaccination certificates
· checking all equipment to be used in the match
· checking that any spurs being used are acceptable
· checking that an adequate medical service is present (the match may not start until this is in place).
The referees are empowered to make any decision concerning any infringements of the rules either on or off the pitch from the time of their arrival (which is to be at least 30 minutes before the start of the match) until the game sheet has been signed (by both referees and captains) and up to 30 minutes after the match.
The Referee's horse should be presented for veterinary inspection along with the players' horses. The horse can be provided by the Referee or by the organiser of the tournament. The organiser can decide to provide a horse or invite the Referee to provide a suitable horse.
The Supervisor is chosen by the FIHB
He chooses Referees for matches. He ensures that all competitions run smoothly and he can determine disputes concerning interpretation of the rules. He may not however, interfere with the refereeing during a match. He can ask the Referee to stop the match. He can remove a horse or a player after taking advice from the veterinary or a doctor as appropriate. The Supervisor:-
· Presides over the veterinary inspection.
· Establishes that the pitch is playable.
· Calls the Disciplinary Committee if appropriate.
· Receives new Rules.
· Controls the Horses Identification etc papers.
· Controls licences.
The vet stands on the same side as the chair referee. The vet is there to look after the welfare of the horses and can stop the game if a horse is injured. He consults with the mounted referee if the well being of any horse is in doubt.
Any horse taken off by the vet cannot resume play until the vet so confirms.
A match consists of two halves, each of 10 minutes duration, separated by a half-time period of 3 minutes.
In the case where a team must play more than one match in a day the organisers may reduce the length of each half. This decision will be made by the Supervisor with if necessary the advice of the veterinary surgeon.
The game-clock is controlled by an official time-keeper.
Each team may request one 30 second time-out in each half. Any time out not called cannot be carried forward.
A time-out may only be requested during a break in play.
The team captain or trainer must ask the referee for the time-out who will then ask the timekeeper to stop the game clock.
The referee may call additional time-outs which will not be charged to either team. This time-out may be of any length. There is no limit to the number of time-outs that a referee may take during a match.
The game clock will be stopped for the duration of a time-out.
The time-keeper will signal the end of the time-out period. The game clock will be re-started when the referee gives the signal for the game to re-start.
Breaks in play may occur for a number of reasons, such as when a goal has been scored, the ball has gone out of play, or a foul has been committed. The game clock will not be stopped as a result of these breaks.
The team scoring the most goals wins the match.
If a match is drawn but a winner is required then a period of 'sudden death' extra time will be played.
The sudden death period starts immediately after the end of the second half.
There will be a three minute break from the end of the second half to start the period of extra time, the referee will call a between two on the centre line.
The first team to score wins the match.
In league competitions the following points will be awarded:
match won = 3 points
match drawn = 2 points
match lost = 1 point
match forfeit = 0 points. In addition 8 will be deducted from the goal
or abandoned difference of the team forfeiting the match,
and 8 added to the goal difference of the
opposing team.
In the event of teams finishing on equal points, they are separated using the following formula:
· best goal average
· results of matches played between the tied teams (taking goal difference into account)
· most goals for
· most matches won
· least matches lost
· lowest number of yellow cards and/or P1s
· toss of a coin
If the teams are still level after the application of these rules the result will be considered a draw.
A team who does not present their horses for veterinary inspection will forfeit the match.
Any team which is not ready to start playing at the scheduled time will forfeiting the match. The final decision rests with the match organisers, but must be made with the agreement of the referees and the opposing team captain
A team in dispute must play the match as scheduled or be disciplined by the FIHB.
In the case of a major incident the referee may decide to abandon the match. In this case, if two thirds of the game time has elapsed the result will stand. If less than three quarters of the game time has elapsed and the match cannot be restarted within 30 minutes of the stoppage the match must be replayed. (ie, more than five minutes in the second half).
· A team may decide to concede a match at any point. In this case
· the team which concedes loses the match
· all goals scored by players of the winning team will be credited to them
· the goal difference of the winning team will remain un-changed unless it would be improved as a result of the goals scored in the match up to that point. In this case the goal difference of both teams is adjusted accordingly.
In a case where a team declares a forfeit the Committee can decide to annul their League Results.
At the start of each half one or other of the teams will attempt to pick up the ball.
The team who will pick up first is decided on the toss of a coin. The team winning the toss may either decide who will pick up first (the starting team) or which end they will defend. If the team winning the toss choose who will pick up first the other team may decide which end to defend. If the team winning the toss choose which end to defend the other team may decide who will pick up first.
Each team must present a Regulation ball to the Referee who will chose which to use.
On coming onto the pitch before the start of the game the teams must remain in their respective halves of the pitch. (ie, the half each team defends).
Teams change ends at half time.
At the start of the second half the other team will attempt to pick up first.
12.2 At the Start of Each Half
At the start of each half, the referee places the ball on the centre of 10 m penalty line of the team which is to pick up first. All members of the picking up team must be on the goal side of their 10 m line. The other team must all be to their side of the centre line.
The referee will only give the signal for the match to start when all players on both teams are stationary.
On the referee's signal, the players of the starting team (ie the team picking up) attempt to pick up the ball at a canter.
If a player crosses the 10m penalty line without picking up the ball, this player forfeits his/her attempt to pick up the ball.
If the first pick up is not made at the canter or if each of the picking up team misses the ball and crosses the 10 m line, the referee will award a Penalty 3 to the defending team to be taken at the centre of the pitch.
The players of the defending team must face their own goal and remain in their own half of the pitch until:
· one of the members of the attacking (ie starting) team crosses the centre line, or
· the ball carrier, once travelling towards the opponents goal turns back towards his/her own goal, or
· the ball falls to the ground
A Penalty 2 will be awarded to the attacking team (ie the team picking up) if any player on the defending team crosses into their opponents half of the pitch before they are permitted to do so.
The game clock will be started when the referee gives the signal for the match to start.
The timekeeper will signal the end of each half by a 3 second signal on the horn or buzzer. If for any reason the horn or buzzer fails the Chair Referee may use the whistle.
In all cases play will stop at the start of the signal to end the half.
If a shot from open play is attempted at the end of a half, the goal will only be allowed provided that the ball left the thrower's hands before the start of the signal to end the half.
If a P1 or P2 is awarded before the end of the half but is not taken before the signal to end the half, time will be allowed for the penalty to be taken. The penalty cannot be defended. In the case of a P2 only a direct shot at goal may be attempted from the 10 m line. In both cases no further action is allowed once the shot has been made.
A goal may only be scored when three passes have been made between three different players of the same team without the ball falling to the ground or changing possession. Deflection of the ball by an opponent does not constitute a change of possession and in this case the pass count will remain un-changed.
There is no restriction on how or from where the ball may be thrown.
A goal is only valid if the entire ball passes through the circle of the goal. (assuming three passes have taken place and no rules have been broken).
If the goal is invalid, but the ball remains in play, the game will continue, with the normal rules of priority of pick-up applying.
If a player shoots and scores in his/her own goal, a goal will be awarded to the opposing team. The three pass rule will not apply to an own goal.
13.3 Restarting the Game After a Goal
After a goal is scored, a line-out is awarded to the team conceding the goal at the mid-point of the side of the pitch. (This remains the case in the event of an own goal ie the line-out is awarded to the team scoring the own goal).
A pass is the interval between the ball leaving the hands of one player and being touched by a second player of the same team. Any touch of the ball is considered a pass between two players of the same team. Handing the ball to another player does not constitute a pass.
There must be three passes between three different players of the same team before a goal can be allowed. If the ball is dropped or it is intercepted the three pass count starts again. If a defending player touches the ball but doesn't intercept it and the ball is caught by an attacking player, the pass is regarded as good.
A player may not hold the ball for longer than 10 seconds before passing otherwise a P3 will be awarded to the opposing team at the point where the 10 second period expired.
There is no restriction on who the ball may be passed to.
There is no restriction on how the ball is passed.
Passes may be made forwards, backwards, or to either side.
There is no concept of off-side.
This is the action of bringing one's horse into contact with the ball carrier's horse in order to slow it down or put it off course and may be carried out by one or more players.
It is forbidden to tackle a player at an angle of greater than 45 degrees to that player's direction of movement; such action will be penalised by a P1 or P2 according to the severity of the offence. A contact can be effected by one or more players, only one can take the ball.
It is forbidden to tackle a player not carrying the ball. Such action will be penalised by a P2. However, there are no restrictions on following the movements of a player not carrying the ball provided that the player's freedom of movement is not hindered.
You cannot tackle a player by pushing him anywhere or using the horse as a "weapon". You can only tackle a player using the weight of your body and speed of your horse with your shoulder if your arm is against your body.
It is forbidden:-
· To restrain a player
· To push or restrain with the hands
· To punch with a fist, the forearm, the elbow or head butt whether defending or attacking.
It is forbidden to stand across the line of play of an opponent whether or not that player is carrying the ball. Such action will be penalised by a P2.
It is forbidden to tackle a player who is attempting to pick up the ball. Such action will be penalised by a P1. The player concerned may also receive a warning, a yellow card or a red card at the discretion of the Referee.
16 SEIZING THE BALL FROM AN OPPONENT
A player may attempt to seize the ball from the player who is carrying the ball, but may do so with one hand only.
Once an opposing player has seized the ball, the ball carrier may not transfer the ball to his other hand or attempt to hold the ball with both hands. Having seized the ball the player must return seated in the saddle quickly
If either player loses their seat in the saddle during the struggle he or she must release the ball immediately.
During the struggle for possession, no other player may interfere, but contact can be effected by more than one player but only one can attack the ball.
If any of the above rules is violated, a P3 will be awarded against the offending team at the point where the offence occurred.
If the player who had possession before the struggle for the ball took place retains possession, the number of passes made by that team remains the same, and the player may continue to hold the ball for a further 10 seconds before passing.
If neither player involved in the struggle for the ball is able to win possession, the referee will call a 'between-two'. The between-two will be given at the point on the touch-line perpendicular to point where the struggle for possession started.
If the Referee sees a fault he may signal to continue play and allow a short period to determine whether an advantage develops. If no advantage ensues he can return to the point of offence.
The ball must be picked up without dismounting.
The ball may be picked up with the horse moving at any gait. The ball may not be picked up while the horse is stationary. Such action will be penalised by a P3.
The player picking up the ball must do so quickly. If the player fails to pick it up the player must not slow down but must move quickly away from the ball to a distance of at least 5 m. The 5 m pick up zone must be avoided by players not involved in the pick up.
Players within 5 m of the ball may not change direction but must continue moving in a straight line away from the ball without slowing down until they are at least 5 m from the ball. A player who slows down or makes any attempt to change direction within 5 m of the ball will be penalized by a P3.
IT IS FORBIDDEN TO TACKLE A PLAYER WHO IS ATTEMPTING TO PICK UP THE BALL. SUCH ACTION WILL BE PENALIZED BY A P1. THE PLAYER CONCERNED MAY ALSO RECEIVE A WARNING, A YELLOW CARD OR A RED CARD AT THE REFEREES DISCRETION.
It is forbidden to intimidate in any way a player who is attempting to pick up the ball, including forcing the player to change direction in order to avoid a collision.
Once the ball has been picked up the player must immediately either return to a normal riding position or pass the ball.
Players may not interfere with the player who has picked up the ball in any way until the player has resumed a normal riding position. Such action will be penalized by a P1. The player concerned may also receive a warning, a yellow card or a red card at the Referee's discretion.
If it is impossible to pick up the ball whilst moving (eg, in the corner of the pitch) then the Referee will give a between two at the 15 metre line.
At any one instant one player is given priority to pick up the ball without interference.
The priority of pick-up is determined by the line of play. This is an imaginary line passing through the ball parallel to the sides of the pitch.
In the case where the ball is behind the line of the goal (ie within 2 m 50 of the end of the pitch), the line of play runs parallel to the end of the pitch.
For players who are within 5 m of the ball, the player who has priority to pick it up is determined using the following rules:
· the player who is closest to the ball provided that the player does not hinder his opponents
· if two or more players are at equal distances from the ball priority goes to the player travelling closest to the line of play
· if two players are at equal distances from the ball on the line of play, priority goes to the player whose team touched the ball last
· if in the line-out the ball drops or is hit to one side the priority direction is set by the Player (having priority as set out in rule 19.3(b)) who tries to pick the ball up first.
The ball is considered to have gone out of play when the entire ball has crossed the line or the horse of the player carrying the ball steps out of bounds. (ie, at least one foot goes out of bounds). (The inflatable barriers are considered as part of the pitch).
Play is re-started by a P3 awarded against the team who last had possession. The P3 is taken at the point where the ball went out of play. If the ball goes out of play between the goal and the 15 metre line, the P3 is taken on the 15 metre line. (This remains true even if the ball is kicked out of play by one of the horses).
If the ball goes out of play at the end of the pitch play is restarted by a line out on the 15m line, awarded against the team which caused the ball to go out of play.
A line-out will be awarded as a result of:
· a goal being scored. In this case the ball is thrown in by a member of the team conceding the goal.
· the ball going out of play at the end of the pitch (short side).
One or two players from each team line up in two parallel lines facing the touch-line. The two lines of players should be separated by a distance of 1 m. The first row of players must be at least 5 m from the side of the pitch.
The ball is thrown between the two lines of players by a member of the team which was awarded the line-out. This player stands at the side of the pitch with the ball in line with the centre line. There is no restriction on how the ball may be thrown. The players must all face the thrower.
The remaining players of each team must be at least 5 m down field from the players on the line, on their respective sides of the pitch, until the throw has been taken and may only play the ball after it has been caught or deflected by a player in the line-out.
The thrower must wait for the referee's signal before throwing in the ball and must take the throw-in within 3 seconds of the whistle.
The referee will allow the throw-in to be taken as soon as the thrower is ready, and one player from the thrower's team has taken up position on the line.
Before the referee's signal the players must remain in line. After the whistle is blown they may move directly forward provided that they do not come within 5 m of the side of the pitch. Players in the line must not come closer than 5 metres from the side of the pitch before touching the ball.. If they do, a P3 is awarded to the opposing team.
After the referee's signal the players may leave the line provided that no foul is committed against a player who does not have the ball. It is forbidden for a player on the line-out to turn around through 180o
The throw-in does not count as a pass (ie there must be three subsequent passes before a goal may be scored)
If either team causes an unnecessary delay of the game at a line-out or is slow coming to the line out, the referee will award a Penalty No 3 to the other team at the point where the line-out was to be taken.
If the referee deems the throw-in not straight, a line-out will be awarded to the opposing team at the same point. If the retaken line-out is also not straight, the referee will call for a between-two at the same point.
A line-out is invalid if:
· the thrower pretends to throw the ball but does not.
· the ball does not reach the first row of horses at least at stirrup height.
· the ball falls to the ground behind the second row of horses without being touched by one of the players in the line-out.
· the throw-in is not straight and is deliberately to the advantage of the thrower's team.
· if the ball hits the roof or part of the structure of the building.
In these cases the Referee will award a P3 against the team which caused the invalid line-out. The P3 to be taken on the centre line.
19.3 Priority of Pick-up Following a Line-Out
In the case where the line-out is valid but the ball falls to the ground, the priority of pick-up is as follows:
a) if the ball falls to the ground between the players in the line-out, the players in the line-out may attempt to pick up the ball, with the normal rules of priority of pick-up applying. If no player in the line-out picks up the ball, the referee will call a between-two at the point where the line-out was taken.
b) if the ball is deflected to one side of the line-out, priority goes to the players in the line-out on whose side the ball has landed. This advantage is lost (i) if there is no immediate attempt to pick up the ball, or (ii) after the first pick-up attempt (whether successful or not).
A between-two will be called either as a result of:
· inconclusive wrestling for the ball
· a re-taken line-out being invalid
· a fault which does not benefit or hinder either team.
The referee stands at the side of the pitch at a point perpendicular to the place where the cause of the between two occurred. One player from each team stands side by side in front of the referee at a distance decided by the referee. The players should be separated by a distance of 1 m and 5 m from the Referee. The referee throws the ball between the two players. There is no restriction on how the referee may throw the ball.
The remaining players of each team must be at least 5 m down field from the players on the line, on their respective sides of the pitch, until the throw has been taken and may only play the ball after it has been caught or deflected by a player in the line-out.
In the case where a between-two is called at a point beyond (ie goal side of) the 15 m line, the line-out will be taken on the 15 m line.
A between-two will be re-taken if the referee believes that he or she has inadvertently given advantage to one of the teams or if neither player lined up in front of the referee touches the ball.
All rules relating to the line-out apply to the "between-two".
A player who leaves the pitch during play can return.
A play who leaves the pitch (to repair tack or to tend an injury) must dismount. He can only return or be substituted during a break of play and from his own half.
The referee may award penalties against a team which infringes the rules. There are three kinds of penalty which may be given according to the nature and severity of an offence and can be accompanied by a red card or a yellow card depending on the severity of the offence:-
· penalty 1 (most severe)
· penalty 2
· penalty 3 (least severe)
In all cases one player from the offended team (which need not be the player offended against) takes the penalty.
The player taking the penalty must be stationary.
The other players of the offended team (ie the team taking the penalty) must remain behind the carrier of the ball until the penalty is taken. (This applies for all three penalty types).
In all cases the penalty may only be taken when the referee gives the signal.
A Penalty 1 (P1) is awarded as a result of a serious or un-acceptable infringement such as rough or dangerous play, or insulting the referee.
A player from the offended team stands behind the 5m penalty line in front of the opponent's goal and takes a direct shot at goal without moving. The horse of the penalty taker can be held by another team member.
Players of the offending team must remain behind their goal-line until the penalty has been taken and may not attempt to intercept the shot or defend in any way.
If the player taking the penalty fails to score and the ball stays in bounds, play continues normally with the normal rules of priority of pick-up and the three pass rule applying.
A Penalty 2 (P2) is awarded as a result of offences which are less serious but which none-the-less interfere with play or the safety of the game, such as obstruction or intimidation of an opponent.
The team has a choice of either a direct shot at goal from the 10 m line or passing the ball (three passes) from the 15 m line.
The decision of how the penalty will be taken should be made immediately by the attacking captain. The Referee must give a clear signal of the decision.
Players of the offending team must stand behind (ie goal-side of) their 5 m penalty line in the case of a direct shot or the 10 m line in the case of a three pass penalty until the penalty has been taken. In either case the offending team can defend.
If the player taking the penalty has a direct shot at goal and fails to score, play continues normally, with the normal rules of priority of pick-up and the three pass rule applying.
A Penalty 3 (P3) is awarded as a result of minor infringements.
If the P3 is awarded to the attacking team in the defenders half the P3 is taken on the centre line other than when the ball has gone out of play on the long side of the pitch. If the P3 is awarded to the defenders in the defender's half the P3 is taken at the place the offence was committed. A player from the offended team stands at the point where the offence occurred (as indicated by the referee) and passes the ball to another member of the team.
Players of the offending team must remain at least 5 m down field (ie towards their own goal) from the point at which the penalty is to be taken until the penalty has been taken.
In the case where the penalty is awarded at a point beyond (ie goal-side of) the 15 m penalty line, the penalty is taken at a point on the 15 m penalty line perpendicular to the point where the offence occurred.
The three pass rule applies before a goal may be scored.
In addition to penalizing a team as a result of an infringement of the rules the referee may also penalise individual players by giving:
· a verbal warning
· a yellow card, leading to immediate expulsion until half-time/full-time. A yellow card is always accompanied by a P1 or P2. A substitution is possible.
· a second yellow card. The player concerned may take no further part in the game, and cannot be substituted. The player will also serve a one match suspension with immediate effect.
· a red card. The player concerned may take no further part in the game and may not be substituted. The player will serve a minimum one match suspension with immediate effect and will also have his case reviewed by the disciplinary committee.
Any player who has been sent off with a yellow card goes to the Security Zone and dismounts. Any player with a second yellow or a red card must leave the pitch.
The game will not be stopped unless the referee considers the situation to be dangerous.
If the game is stopped, it will be re-started by a P3 awarded to the opposing team at the current point of possession (irrespective of who has possession).
A player on the ground may not interfere with play in any way.
If a player becomes un-horsed whilst in possession of the ball the referee will award a P3 to the opposing team at the point where the player became unhorsed.
If, during the game, a horse's tack breaks or becomes undone the game will not be stopped. The player affected may continue playing providing that, in the opinion of the referee, safety is not compromised. Alternatively the referee may ask the player to leave the pitch until the tack has been made safe. The player may be substituted, but only when there is a break in play. If the Referee sends off a player, a P3 will be awarded to the opposing team.
Any horse which does not, in the opinion of the referee, satisfy minimum requirements as to appearance and condition may be refused permission to play.
Any horse which receives a cut or graze (even superficial) must leave the pitch and receive attention.
The referee may at any time stop the match in order to check the condition of a horse. The referee may ask that a horse leaves the pitch if he or she believes it to be in distress or in need of attention.
A horse which has received attention may only return to the match with the express permission of the referee.
An injured horse or a horse in distress may only take part in a parade or prize-giving after having received the necessary attention and with the express permission of the referee.
The referee is free to take advice regarding the condition or suitability of a horse from a qualified veterinarian.
The referee's decision regarding the condition of a horse is final and may not be appealed against.
It is forbidden to hit a horse with the ball or the slack of the reins. Such action will be penalized by a yellow card.
It is forbidden to hit or hold an opponent's horse. Such action will be penalized by a yellow card
27 DANGEROUS AND UNSPORTSMAN-LIKE CONDUCT
It is forbidden for any player to:
- hit, kick, push, hold, intimidate or threaten an opponent or an opponent's horse
- pull or otherwise interfere with the tack of an opponent's horse
- hit the horse with the ball, the slack of the reins or with your hand.
- interfere with a player who is attempting to pick up the ball even to the extent of causing the player to change direction in order to avoid a collision
- cause an obstruction by standing across the line of play of an opponent (whether or not they are carrying the ball)
- swing the ball around in order to intimidate an opponent
- stand on the saddle
- cause an un-necessary delay of the game
In all these cases the referee is at liberty to take any action which he or she deems appropriate.
A technical foul is characterised by unsportsman-like conduct such as use of abusive language or gestures, or brutality to a horse, and may be awarded against players, substitutes, grooms or trainers either on or off the pitch.
Eg
· Addressing an official incorrectly.
· Bad language or offensive gesture.
· Inciting an opponent.
· Time wasting
· Changing numbers without telling the referee.
Depending on the fault, the referee has a discretion to award P1, P2, P3, yellow or red card or warning.
Technical fouls committed during the warm up, during the match, or during the half-time period, will be penalised as the referee sees fit.
The disciplinary committee will be comprised of the Supervisor and the match referees, and must include at least three members of a minimum of two different nationalities of the committee of the FIBH.
The role of the committee is to review and discipline offensive behaviour of players, grooms, or trainers involved in a match.
A player receiving a red card will have their case submitted automatically to the disciplinary committee. The committee will decide on what action is to be taken and will inform both the player and the team representative in writing.
A player will be ineligible to play until the committee has given its verdict.
A team or individual may appeal against the decision of the disciplinary committee. Any appeal must be lodged in accordance with the rules of the BHA/FIBH, etc.
A dope test may be carried out at any stage of a competition.
The general rules of the FEI are applicable to all incidents involving doping of horses.
Match organisers must ensure that the following staff and equipment are present:
· a secretarial office separated from spectators, within earshot of the seated referee. Persons present in this office should include a match secretary and a timekeeper. The following items should also be present
· a current copy of the rules
· an air horn or buzzer (to signal the end of each half and time-outs)
· 2 stopwatches
· an effective PA system
· a veterinarian
· a medical service (See annexe 3)
· a notice-board giving the names of all officials present and the start time of all the matches to be played
· a raised platform (1 m 50 ) or umpire's chair for the seated referee.
· seats or benches in the security zones for grooms and trainers horse (together with groom) for the referee. The referee must be presented with the horse at least 30 minutes before the start of the match. The referee has the right to refuse any horse which he or she believes to be unsuitable
At least 30 minutes before the start of the match the team captain or trainer must supply the match secretary with:
· the names and numbers of players
· the names of their horses together with their identification and vaccination certificates (photocopies are acceptable)
· the name of the trainer
· the name and number of the team captain
or risk forfeiting the match.
At the end of the match the two referees and team captains must sign the game sheet.
See article …..
All meetings organised by the FIHB or ONHB must have a vets inspection of all horses taking part. The inspection must take place according to the organiser's program.
The inspection is carried out by the vet and the Supervisor together. The horses are examined at the halt and at the walk and trot. The two (ie, the vet and Supervisor) can exclude a horse or order further inspections.
If the meeting takes place over more than one day, the Supervisor and vet will inspect the horses on each day.
Each team must produce the appropriate identification documents (including vaccination records).
APPENDIX A - RECOMMENDATIONS FOR SCHOOLING AND RIDING PROCEDURES FOR HORSEBALL
All horses vary in balance, speed, and ability but basic dressage schooling improves everything, including the rider. If a horse is broken in at 3 and ridden correctly, by the age of 5 it should be capable of performing pirouettes, counter canter, simple changes, and half pass, all of which are used during a game of Horseball. Older horses can be retrained to do the same.
There is no short cut to schooling horses to this standard. Most riders do not have sufficient depth of seat or effective enough legs. These will only improve if firstly riders accept the need to improve and secondly if they actually do something to improve both their own ability and that of their horse. Even one dressage lesson a month can help, but whoever you seek instruction from needs to have seen Horseball in order to be able to give the right kind of help, and should either be competing at elementary dressage level or hold at least BHSII.
This is of course a long term plan which is particularly important for those people buying horses now to use for Horseball. However, just because your horse is not is not working at this level, it does not mean it cannot be used for Horseball; just be more careful about turns and transitions. But remember, schooling should be done at home, not during matches.
The French horses at livery are schooled in dressage all week as well as being given wind fitness training similar to interval training. Remember however that many horses break down during interval training which is not supervised by professional trainers - of which there are very few.
2 HORSE MANAGEMENT BEFORE AND AFTER A MATCH
Packing List
(items in brackets are optional)
saddle
stirrups
2 girths
3 numnahs
pick-up strap
bridle
(standing martingale, breast plate)
4 exercise bandages, gamgee, tape or sewing kit
4 over-reach boots
sweat rug and surcingle
4 travel bandages and gamgee
grooming kit, scissors, shampoo
bucket, sponge, sweat scraper, towel
water and bucket for washing and drinking (leg towels)
feed (for eating or loading)
Animalintex, wound powder
(leg clay and paper sacks or leg ice)
shoeing tools
(hole punch)
2 lunge lines (for loading)
On The Horse
day rug or summer sheet (depending on the weather)
travel boots or bandages and gamgee
tail bandage (tail guard)
head collar and lead rope (poll guard)
hay net
straw, shavings, or rubber on the floor of the box
Tacking Up
Always check:
- stitching on stirrups, girths, and bridle
- bit for any sharp edges
- saddle is not down on the horse's withers
- all loose straps are secure in keepers
- all bandages. These should be applied evenly and fairly tightly over gamgee and should be slightly longer than normal (as for polo). Tapes should be stitched or taped over.
- tails. This is down to personal preference, but it is advisable to plait them up in order to avoid the possibility of riders becoming entangled while picking up the ball.
This would normally take approximately 30 minutes:
- at least 5 minutes walking, relaxed bending, suppling, and achieving obedience.
- at least 5 minutes rising trot and cantering off the horse's back (especially for TB types)
- at least 5 minutes dressage, lateral work, and transitions
- 10 to 15 minutes quiet team work at walk and trot, handling the ball
Remember that all horses are different, so these guide-lines are only general.
You should know your horse's normal number of breaths per minute - don't put him away until his breathing has returned to normal. The fitter your horse is, the less time it will take for your horse to recover. Active walking on a long rein is the b