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Publisher’s Note: The National Federation of State High School Associations is the only source of official high school interpretations. They do not set aside nor modify any rule. They are made and published by the NFHS in response to situations presented.
Dr. Karissa L. Niehoff, Publisher, NFHS Publications © 2024

SITUATION 1: Before the start of the game, the official notices that the goalkeeper for Team A is wearing a uniform without a number. The official asks the coach if the team can add numbers or if it has a goalkeeper uniform top that meets the rules. If not, the officials allow the game to be played and notify the state association. RULING: Correct procedure. COMMENT: If the team is unable to correct the uniform top or cannot verify state association approval of the uniform, the game shall be played, and the official shall notify the state association following the game. (1-8-1)

SITUATION 2: The game has already started and the official notices that the goalkeeper is missing the throat protector on the uniform. The official calls time-out and informs the coach that the goalkeeper needs to be properly equipped to remain in the game. If the goalkeeper is replaced, the official may resume play. RULING: Correct procedure. COMMENT: If the offending team is unable to provide a goalkeeper in compliance with the equipment requirement, then the offending team shall forfeit the game. (1-8-2)

SITUATION 3: During a penalty corner on a shot from the attacking team, the defending team’s goalkeeper’s helmet falls off as the goalkeeper dives for a save inside the circle. Because the ball is still in play and potentially dangerous, the official whistles the play dead and awards a penalty corner to the attacking team. RULING: Correct procedure. COMMENT: Loose equipment in the field of play that could result in dangerous play is a foul, and since this was inside the circle, a penalty corner is awarded to the attacking team. (8-1-1w)

SITUATION 4: A penalty corner is awarded, and prior to the whistle being blown, the inserter injects the ball into play. The official blows a whistle to stop play and reset the corner. RULING: Correct procedure. COMMENT: A penalty corner begins with an official’s whistle; therefore, play must be restarted. (10-2-1)

SITUATION 5: As players take the field, after coaches have verified players are properly attired and legally equipped, the official notices the home team goalkeeper's shirt does not have a visible number. The team cannot correct the issue. The official issues a green card to the goalkeeper and removes a field player to serve the suspension and notifies the state association after the game. RULING: Correct procedure. COMMENT: If the team is unable to correct the uniform top or cannot verify state association approval of the uniform, the game shall be played, and the official shall notify the state association following the game. The intent of the rules committee change was to permit the goalkeeper to remain in the game as this is not illegal or missing equipment. (1-8-1)