FOOTY 9s MATCHES PLAYED ON RUGBY FIELDS
FULL VERSION
Please find below the official Laws of the Game, for Footy 9s matches played on Rugby Fields.
LAWS OF THE GAME
CONTENTS
Introduction
A. This Publication
B. Application
C. Nature and Object of Footy 9s
D. Purpose of Laws
1. Definitions and Interpretations
2. Controlling Body
3. Playing Field and Goal Posts
4. The Ball
5. Teams and Players
6. Player’s Equipment
7. Starting the Match
8. Scoring
9. Kicking In
10. Marking the Ball
11. Ball Disposal
12. Ball Possession
13. Physical Contact
14. Free Kicks
15. Ten Metre Penalty
16. Play On and the Advantage Rule
17. Jump Ball
18. Umpires
19. Reporting Players & Officials
20. Match Time
21. Corner Kicks
Introduction
A. This Publication
This publication contains the Laws of Footy 9s as administered and controlled by Australian Football International (AFI). It applies to all matches played on rugby fields.
B. Application
These Laws apply to bodies playing matches utilising these Laws. Controlling bodies may make appropriate modifications consistent with the spirit of these laws for under-age competitions.
C. Nature and Object of Footy 9s
Footy 9s is a game played between two teams competing in accordance with these Laws. The objective of each team playing Footy 9s is to win by scoring more goals than the opposing team. The winner of a Match of Footy 9s is the team which has scored the greater number of goals at the conclusion of the Match. A Match is drawn when each team has the same number of goals at the conclusion of the Match.
D. Purpose of Laws
These Laws explain how a Match of Footy 9s is played and seek to attain the following objectives:
(a) to ensure that the game of Footy 9s is played in a fair manner and a spirit of true sportsmanship; and
(b) to prevent injuries to Players participating in a Match so far as this objective can be reasonably achieved in circumstances where Footy 9s is a body contact sport.
1. DEFINITIONS AND INTERPRETATIONS
Unless the context requires otherwise, the following terms shall have the following meanings:
AFI: Australian Football International.
AFI Affiliates: a league, association or body responsible for the organisation and conduct of Matches of Australian Football and which is affiliated to AFI.
‘All Clear’: the verbal and visual instruction given by a field Umpire for the goal Umpire to signal and record a Goal.
Arena: means the Playing Field and all of the area between the Playing Field and the perimeter fence, including any break in the perimeter fence.
Attacking Team: the Team where the football is in their forward half of the Playing Field.
Boundary Line: the white rectangular line drawn on the ground to identify the Playing Field. The side line is the longer line and the goal line is the shorter line.
Central Zone: the area on the Playing Field between the two 40 metre lines.
Charge or Charging: the act of a Player colliding with an opposition Player where the amount of physical force used is unreasonable or unnecessary in the circumstances, irrespective of whether the Player is or is not in possession of the football or whether the Player is within 5 metres of the football.
Controlling Body: a Controlling Body includes:
(a) AFI;
(b) AFI Affiliates; and
(c) any league, association or body responsible for the organisation and conduct of Matches of Footy 9s, who has determined to play such Matches in accordance with these Laws.
Correct Disposal or Correctly Dispose: a Kick or Handball of the football by a Player.
Defending Team: the Team where the football is in their defensive half of the Playing Surface.
Footy 9s: the game played between two Teams competing in accordance with these Laws.
Free Kick: giving possession of the football to a Player on the occasions described in Law 14.
Goal: the recording of one point when the ball is kicked through the Goal Posts without being touched by another player.
Handball: the act of holding the ball in one hand and disposing of it by hitting it with the clenched fist of the other hand.
Interchange Players: the Players of a Team who are not on the Playing Field but who are listed on the Team Sheet and available to replace a Player on the Playing Field.
Kick or Kicking: in relation to disposing of the ball, means making contact with the ball with any part of the Player’s leg below the knee.
Kick In Zone: the area on the Playing Field between the Goal Posts and the 10 metre line.
Legal Tackle or Legally Tackled: a tackle by a Player where:
(a) the Player being tackled is in possession of the football; and
(b) that Player is tackled below the shoulders and above the knees.
For the avoidance of doubt, a Legal Tackle may be executed by holding (either by the body or playing uniform) a Player from the front, side or behind, provided that a Player held from behind is not pushed in the back.
Mark: the act of catching the ball, provided it has been kicked a minimum of 10 metres without touching the ground or being touched by another player.
Match: the contest of Footy 9s played between two Teams.
‘No Score’: the verbal and visual instruction given by a field Umpire for the goal Umpire to signal that a Goal has not been scored.
Official: includes but is not limited to an officer, coach, assistant coach, trainer, runner, employee or any person performing any duties (paid or unpaid) for or on behalf of a Team.
Out of Bounds: where the ball passes completely over the Boundary Line. If any portion of the ball is on or above the Boundary Line, the ball is not Out of Bounds.
Out of Bounds On the Full: means the ball, having been Kicked, passes completely over the Boundary Line without touching the ground within the Playing Field.
Playing Field: the field of play inside the Boundary Line, excluding the area between such lines and the perimeter fence.
‘Play On’ or ‘Touched Play On’: the verbal and visual instruction given by a field Umpire in the following circumstances to indicate that play will continue:
(a) a Free Kick or Mark will not be awarded;
(b) a Player has failed to dispose of the ball when directed to do so by the field Umpire;
(c) a Player has attempted to dispose of the ball other than in a direct line over The Mark.
Possession of the Ball: a designation to a Player who:
(a) is holding or otherwise has control of the ball; or
(b) is in the act of bouncing the ball.
Prior Opportunity: a designation to a Player in Possession of the Ball who:
(a) is balanced and steady; or
(b) attempts to evade or fend an opponent; or
(c) has taken a Mark or been awarded a Free Kick; or
(d) has driven their head into a stationary or near stationary opponent.
Prohibited Contact: contact between Players which is described in Law 18.3.
Protected Area: the area described in Law 17.2 for a Player bringing the football back into play after a No Score , or 20.1.2 for a Player awarded a Mark or Free Kick.
Rough Conduct: any conduct against an opposition Player which in the circumstances is unreasonable, as described in Law 18.7.
Ruck: the designated Player from each Team who engages in the initial contest of the ball following a throw-up.
Shepherd: the act of a Player using the body to push, bump or block an opposition Player who does not have possession of the ball and who is no further than 5 metres away from the ball.
Team: the group of Players competing against another group of Players in a Match of Footy 9s.
Ten Metre Penalty: the act of advancing the position on the Playing Field by 10 metres towards the centre of the Goal Line, where a Player has been awarded a Free Kick.
The Mark: the position on the Playing Field where a Player may stand after an opposition Player has been awarded a Free Kick or Mark.
Throw: shall be given its ordinary meaning, but also includes the act of propelling the ball with one or both hands in a scooping motion. A Player does not throw the ball if the Player hits, punches or taps the ball without taking Possession of the ball.
Timekeeper: the person appointed by a Controlling Body (or Teams) to keep the time of a Match.
Umpire: any of the field or goal Umpires officiating a Match.
These Laws shall apply to all Matches of Footy 9s organised and conducted by a Controlling Body. A Controlling Body includes:
(a) AFI;
(b) any league, association or body responsible for the organisation and conduct of Matches of Footy 9s, who has determined to play such Matches in accordance with these Laws; and
(c) a league, association or body responsible for the organisation and conduct of Matches of Footy 9s and which is affiliated to AFI (“AFI Affiliates”).
3. PLAYING FIELD AND POSITIONS
Footy 9s has been created and designed to be played on Rugby Fields throughout the world, using the existing posts and field markings.
3.1 The Playing Field shall be rectangular in shape, 100-110 metres in length, and 65-70 metres in width.
3.2 The Playing Field will use the same markings as a standard Rugby field.
3.3 A line known as the Boundary Line shall mark the boundary of the Playing Field. The longer line shall be called the side line. The shorter line shall be called the goal line.
3.4 The ball will be thrown up directly over the middle of the 50 metre line to start the match. This line is known as the center line.
3.5 Two Goal Posts, connected by a Cross Bar, shall be placed at each end of the Playing Field.
3.6 After an attacking team misses a shot for goal, the ball shall be brought back into play by a defending player, kicking the ball from the area between the Goal Posts and the 10 metre line.
4.1 Footballs shall be oval in shape and made of rubber, leather or other suitable material. They shall conform to the shape and standard specification approved by AFI.
4.2 For senior matches all footballs must be full size and of good quality.
4.3 The Home Team shall provide a minimum of two footballs to the Umpire before the commencement of the Match.
4.4 Red footballs shall be used for day matches, whilst yellow footballs shall be used for night matches.
5.1 Each Team shall consist of 9 players on the Playing Field – 3 Forwards, 3 Centers and 3 Backs.
5.2 In regular Matches each Team can have no more than 4 interchange players. For major tournaments each Team can have no more than 6 interchange players.
5.3 At the start of a Match and after the scoring of a Goal, players must line up in their respective positions, which are:
(a) Forwards – between the Goal Posts and the 20 metre line;
(b) Centers – between the two 40 metre lines; and
(a) Backs – between the Goal Posts and the 20 metre line.
5.4 If a player leaves their designated area before the ball leaves the Umpire’s hand in the act of being thrown up, a Free Kick will be awarded to the opposition on the center of the 50 metre line.
5.5 Prior to the commencement of play the team manager of each Team shall hand to the Umpire a list of names and numbers of the players comprising the Team and indicating the captain and interchange players who will not take part in the Match at its commencement.
5.6 At any time during the course of the match, one of the players not then taking part in the Match may be interchanged with one of the participating players.
6.1 No player shall be permitted to play in a Match with apparel or protective equipment which may cause injury to their opponents. This shall include:
6.1.1 Bootstuds or plates considered dangerous.
6.1.2 A finger ring or other jewellery.
6.1.3 Surgical applications or guards.
6.2 The Umpire may inspect players’ boots, hands and guards prior to the commencement of play or at any time prior to the conclusion of the Match. The Umpire shall have the sole prerogative to determine whether apparel or protective equipment has the potential to cause injury.
7.1 Prior to the commencement of play, the Umpire shall:
7.1.1 Consult the Timekeeper as to their readiness to commence.
7.1.2 Inspect and approve the ball(s) to be used.
7.2 The Umpire shall toss the coin with the captains for the choice of goal.
7.2.1 At the conclusion of each half, the Teams shall change ends.
7.3 To commence play at the start of each half, the Umpire shall hold the ball aloft, blow their whistle and throw the ball up in the air. Match timing shall commence on the sound of the whistle.
7.4 After a Goal has been scored, the ball shall be returned to the field Umpire and thrown up directly over the middle of the 50 metre line to re-start the match. This is known as the Jump Ball.
7.5 A maximum of 3 players of each Team is permitted in the Central Zone area for the Jump Ball. No officials are permitted in the Central Zone for the Jump Ball.
7.6 The Jump Ball shall be contested by one player of each Team who shall take up a position in their Team’s defensive half. Neither of these players shall enter their Team’s attacking half until the ball leaves the Umpire’s hand in the act of being thrown up.
7.7 In the event of a breach of this Law by a player or official, the Umpire shall award a Free Kick to a player of the opposing side on the center of the 50 metre line.
7.8 When a Goal is scored the ball shall be brought back to the center of the Playing Field as quickly as possible.
8.1 A Goal shall register one point. The Team scoring the greater number of Goals shall win the match. If the Goals are equal, the match shall be drawn.
8.2 When a ball crosses the goal line, the field Umpire shall give the goal Umpire an ‘All Clear’ signal if there have not been any incidents in play which the Umpire intends to penalise.
8.3 A score cannot be registered unless the field Umpire calls or indicates ‘All Clear’ to the goal Umpire.
8.4 A Goal shall be scored when the ball is kicked through the Goal Posts by a player of the attacking Team.
8.4.1 A Goal shall be scored if, when being kicked by a player of the attacking Team, the ball strikes one of the Goal Posts or Cross Bar and continues through the Goal Posts.
8.4.2 A Goal shall not be scored if, when being kicked by a player of the attacking Team, the ball touches any other player on the Playing Field prior to being kicked through the Goal Posts.
8.4.3 If the ball strikes a Goal Post or Cross Bar and bounces back into the Playing Field, the umpire shall call ‘Play On’ and play shall continue.
8.5 The goal Umpire shall be the sole judges of Goals and their decisions are final.
8.5.1 Upon receiving ‘All Clear’ from the field Umpire, the goal Umpire shall indicate a Goal has been scored by extending both arms away from their body and raising both thumbs.
8.5.2 Upon receiving ‘No Score’ from the field Umpire, the goal Umpire shall indicate a Goal has not been scored by holding both arms above their head in a crossed position.
9.1 The area on the Playing Field between the Goal Posts and the 10 metre line is known as the Kick in Zone.
9.2 When the attacking Team attempts to score a Goal and misses, a player of the defending Team shall kick the ball into the field of play from within the Kick in Zone.
9.3 The ball must be kicked before the ball completely crosses the 10 metre line.
9.4 When the ball is being kicked in, no other player is allowed in the Kick in Zone.
9.5 If the ball is not brought into play correctly, the Umpire shall throw the ball up over the center of the 10 metre line.
9.6 The ball shall not be kicked in until all other players, both attacking and defending, are behind the 10 metre line.
9.7 If a player will not kick the ball in when directed to do so by the Umpire, the Umpire shall call play on.
KICK OVER HALF WAY
10.1 A Mark is the act of catching the ball from the kick of another player, provided it has been kicked a minimum of 10 metres, the ball being held a reasonable time and not having been touched in transit from kick to catch.
10.2 A Mark shall be awarded to a player who crosses the boundary line from the Playing Field but controls the ball before it has passed completely over the boundary line.
10.3 A Mark shall be allowed when the ball is caught and controlled on the boundary line.
10.4 When a player takes a Mark or is given a Free Kick, an opponent is permitted to stand on The Mark or spot where this occurrence took place.
10.5 Only one opponent may stand on The Mark.
10.6 No other player is allowed within a corridor which extends from 5 metres either side of The Mark to 5 metres either side of, and a 5 metres radius behind, the player with the ball. This corridor is known as the Protected Area.
10.7 In the event of an opponent encroaching over the mark when a player is kicking for goal and a Goal is kicked, the Umpire shall give the ‘All Clear’ and the Goal shall be registered. If a Goal has not been kicked, the player shall be given the option of another kick, and The Mark shall be advanced 10 metres.
11.1 The ball may be either kicked or handballed. It cannot be thrown.
11.2 A player shall handball the ball by holding the ball in one hand and hitting it with the clenched fist of the other hand. If the ball is not handballed correctly, a Free Kick shall be given to the nearest opponent.
11.3 A player may kick the ball by making contact with the ball below the knee.
11.4 A player who takes a Mark or who is awarded a Free Kick shall play the ball from directly behind the spot where the Mark or Free Kick was awarded. The 10 metre Protected Area shall apply. If the player attempts to play the ball other than in a direct line over The Mark, the Umpire shall call ‘Play On’ and the ball shall immediately be in play.
11.5 If there is no player on The Mark, the ball may be moved in any direction.
11.6 When a player is kicking for goal from a Mark or Free Kick, the kick shall be taken along a direct line through The Mark to the center of the Goal Posts.
11.7 The ball shall be deemed to be brought into play when any portion of it is on or above the Boundary Line.
11.8 If a player taking their kick from outside the Boundary Line after having been awarded a Mark or Free Kick, and attempts to play on outside the Boundary Line, the Umpire shall give the player another kick to put the ball into play.
12.1 A player may hold the ball for any length of time provided they are not held by an opponent.
12.2 If a player runs with the ball, they must bounce it or touch it on the ground every 10 metres from the commencement of their run, whether running in a straight line or turning and dodging.
12.3 If a player with the ball bounces it, they are deemed to be in possession of the ball.
12.4 If a player runs with the ball and handballs it over an opponent’s head and catches it, they must, within 10 metres of commencing their run or striking the ball on the ground, bounce it or touch the ground with it or dispose of the ball.
12.5 A player who lies on or is over the ball is deemed to be in possession of the ball.
13.1 A player may be fairly met or checked by an opponent by the use of the hip, shoulder, chest, arms or open hand provided the ball is not more than 5 metres away.
13.2 A player may be pushed in the chest or side or shepherded by an opponent provided the ball is not more than 5 metres away.
13.3 A player in possession of the ball may fend off a prospective tackler by pushing them with an open hand in the chest, shoulder or side.
13.4 A player in possession of the ball may be tackled and grasped in the area below the top of the shoulders and on or above the knee. The tackle may be from front, side or behind provided that the tackle from behind does not thrust forward the player with the ball.
Procedures
13.5 Procedures for administering this law are as follows:
13.5.1 A player in possession of the ball who has had a reasonable time (prior opportunity) to dispose of the ball must, when legally held by an opponent firmly enough to retard their progress, dispose of the ball by a kick or handball within a reasonable time of being held, otherwise a Free Kick shall be awarded against the player for failing to dispose of the ball in a legal manner.
13.5.2 The Umpire shall throw the ball up when the player with the ball has the ball held to their body by an opponent, unless the player has had a reasonable time to dispose of the ball prior to being tackled, in which case a Free Kick shall be awarded for holding the ball.
13.5.3 A player who elects to dive on the ball and/or drag the ball under them when they are on the ground, will be penalised for holding the ball if they do not immediately hit the ball clear when held legally.
13.5.4 A player not in possession of the ball when held by an opponent, shall be awarded a Free Kick.
13.5.5 When a player claims a Mark, the ball having been touched in transit, and retains possession when held by an opponent, the Umpire shall not award a Free Kick but throw the ball up if they are satisfied that the player did not hear their call of ‘Play On’.
13.5.6 The Umpire shall allow play to continue if a player is bumped and the ball falls from their hands.
13.5.7 The Umpire shall allow play to continue when a player’s arm is knocked, causing them to drop the ball.
13.5.8 The Umpire shall allow play to continue if a player has their arms pinned to their sides, causing them to drop the ball.
13.5.9 The Umpire shall allow play to continue if a player is pulled by one arm or swung, causing the ball to fall from their hand.
14.1 The spirit of the laws relating to Free Kicks is:
14.1.1 The player who makes the ball their sole objective shall be given every opportunity to gain possession of the ball.
14.1.2 The player who has possession of the ball and is held by an opponent shall be given a reasonable time to kick or handball the ball.
14.1.3 All breaches of the Laws shall be penalised whether the ball is dead or in play. The Umpire shall blow their whistle for the awarding of a Free Kick. Unless otherwise specified, the player nearest to the opponent who commits a breach of the Laws shall receive a Free Kick.
Advantage Rule
14.2.1 If the Umpire has blown their whistle for a Free Kick, they may cancel such a Free Kick by calling ‘Play On, Advantage’ if the side offended against will be penalised by enforcing the Free Kick.
14.2.2 Should the Umpire cancel a Free Kick he may reverse the decision if it is obvious that it is not to the advantage of the Team concerned.
14.2.3 A player awarded a Free Kick must go back to the spot where the breach occurred before being allowed to kick or play the ball. If such player kicks or plays the ball without complying with this law, the Umpire shall stop play and enforce compliance.
14.2.4 A Free Kick shall be awarded against a player who throws or hands the ball to another player while the ball is in play.
14.2.5 When a player who has taken a Mark or been awarded a Free Kick is, in the opinion of the Umpire, unable to dispose of the ball through accident or the deliberate action of an opponent, the Umpire shall award a Free Kick to the nearest player of the same Team at the time the incident occurred. The kick shall be taken at the spot nearest to where the incident occurred.
14.2.6 If a player has been awarded a Free Kick or a Mark, and before the kick is taken a further breach of the Laws is made by a player on the same side as the first offender, the Umpire shall blow their whistle and direct the Free Kick to be taken by a teammate at the spot where the subsequent breach took place, if doing so will penalise the offending Team. Where a subsequent breach is committed by a teammate of the player taking the kick, a Free Kick shall be given to the nearest opponent at the spot of the original free kick, if doing so will penalise the offending Team.
14.2.7 If a breach of the Laws is committed, regardless of the position on the field, the Free Kick is to be taken at the spot where the infringement occurred, or where the ball is at the time, whichever would be the greater penalty for the offending Team.
14.2.8 A Free Kick shall be given if a player infringes any of the Laws between the time the Umpire blows their whistle and throws the ball up.
Free Kicks – Throwing the Ball Up
12.3 Free kicks for infringements concerning the umpire throwing the ball up will be awarded against the player who:
12.3.1 Crosses the 50 metre line when the umpire is in the act of throwing the ball up at the start of the match, the start of each quarter, and after a goal has been scored.
12.3.2 Interferes with an opponent from the time the ball has been thrown up in the central zone until the ball subsequently makes contact with a player or the ground.
12.3.3 Unduly interferes with the throwing up of the ball by the umpire or deliberately interferes with an umpire during the progress of the match.
Free Kicks – Interfering with Opponents
12.4 A free kick will be awarded against a player who interferes with an opponent in the following manner:
12.4.1 Interferes with an opponent from the time the ball goes out of bounds, until the ball, after being kicked in by a player, makes contact with a player or the ground.
12.4.2 When a goal is kicked by a player, and while the ball is being kicked or is in transit a breach of the laws is made by an opponent, the umpire shall give the “All Clear” signal and the goal shall be registered.
12.4.3 After the ball has been kicked and an infringement occurs, and the ball does not score a goal, the option of another kick shall be given to the player who originally kicked the ball at the spot from where the kick originated.
12.4.4 If a breach of the Laws is made by a player of the attacking side, the umpire shall not signal “All Clear” but must award a free kick, to the nearest player of the defending team.
12.4.5 If a player is fouled immediately after scoring a goal and after the umpire has given the “All Clear”, the umpire shall award such player a free kick at the spot where the offence took place. Another score may then be registered without the ball having been thrown up in the central zone or kicked in.
12.4.6 If a breach of the laws is committed against a player who has disposed of the ball, and this occurs after the ball has been kicked or handballed, a penalty free kick (“Downfield”) shall be awarded to a player of the team offended against at the spot where the ball first touched the ground, a player, was marked or went out of bounds. If the awarding of such a free kick will penalise the team offended against, the free kick shall be given to the player who originally kicked the ball.
12.4.7 Trips or kicks, attempts to trip or kick or slings an opponent, or when not in possession of the ball, kicks in a manner likely to cause injury to an opponent, or strikes or attempts to strike an opponent with either hand or arm or deliberately with the knee.
Free Kicks – Out of Bounds
12.5 A free kick shall be awarded against a player who kicks, handballs or forces the ball out of bounds, whether deliberate or not.
12.5.1 The free kick shall be taken at the spot where the ball went out of bounds across the boundary line or adjacent to the goal posts.
12.5.2 When kicking in from the kick in zone, if the ball is kicked out of bounds without it having been touched by any player, a free kick shall be given at the spot where the ball went out of bounds.
12.5.3 This rule applies whether the ball has been forced out of bounds either along the ground or out on the full.
Free Kicks – Illegal Contact
12.6 A free kick shall be awarded against the player who checks or tackles an opponent in the following manner:
12.6.1 Catches hold of an opponent below the knee or by the neck or head, which includes the top of the shoulder.
12.6.2 Charges an opponent.
12.6.3 Pushes an opponent from behind in any way, except when legitimately going for a mark, a player may interfere with an opponent from behind.
12.6.4 Pushes, bumps or shepherds an opponent in the face, head, neck or in the shoulder.
12.6.5 Pushes, bumps or shepherds an opponent who is in the air for a mark.
12.6.6 Shepherds an opponent when the ball is more than 5 metres away or is out of play.
12.6.7 Deliberately holds back or throws an opponent after that opponent has kicked or handballed the ball. No free kick shall be given if the player, unable to release his hold at once, throws the opponent down.
Free Kicks – Interference with Play
14.7 A free kick shall be awarded against a player who interferes with play as follows:
14.7.1 If the ball is in transit towards goal from a kick or Mark and an opponent shakes the Goal Post, the Umpire shall give the player the option of another kick if, in the Umpire’s opinion, the opponent’s action could have affected the result.
14.7.2 If a teammate shakes the Goal Post, the Umpire shall award a free kick to the nearest opponent at the spot from where the ball was kicked.
14.8 A Free Kick shall be awarded against a player who deliberately wastes time by not allowing the ball to be brought into play, when directed to do so by the Umpire.
14.9. A Free Kick shall be awarded against a player who uses abusive, insulting or obscene language to an Umpire or behaves in an abusive, insulting or obscene manner towards an Umpire.
15.1 A 10 metre penalty will be applied in instances where the actions of a player encroach over The Mark, waste time and/or delay the play or where a player uses abusive, insulting or obscene language to an Umpire or behaves in an abusive, insulting or obscene manner towards an Umpire where an opposition player has been awarded a Mark or Free Kick.
15.2 When the Umpire applies a 10 metre penalty, the player receiving the penalty shall not be permitted to play on. The mark shall then be advanced 10 metres in a direct line with the center of the goal. The player receiving the penalty shall be given free access to take up a position behind the advanced mark. When the Umpire is satisfied the player has taken up a correct position, they will instruct the player they are free to play the ball, irrespective of whether an opponent is standing on The Mark.
15.3 A 10 metre penalty shall have the same implication as a Free Kick.
15.4 If a Free Kick or Mark has been awarded and a player of the opposing team runs through the 10 metre Protected Area, unless accompanying or following an opponent within two metres, a 10 metre penalty shall be awarded.
15.5 Where a 10 metre penalty advances The Mark to the center of the goal line, the kick shall be taken from directly in front of the Goal Posts.
15.6 Where a Free Kick is awarded for intentionally tripping, a 10 metre penalty shall automatically apply.
The field Umpire shall call and indicate ‘Play On’ and the ball shall immediately remain in play in any of the following circumstances:
16.1 When an Umpire, or any official or player, is struck by the ball while it is in play.
16.2 When the ball, having been kicked, is touched while still in transit.
16.3 When the ball is caught from a kick of another player, that travels less than 10 metres.
16.4 When a player who has taken a Mark or been awarded a Free Kick, attempts to run, handball or kick otherwise than over The Mark.
The Umpire shall throw the ball up (also known as a Jump Ball) in the following circumstances:
17.1. At the start of the Match, at the start of each half and after each Goal has been scored.
17.2 When in doubt as to which player has taken a Mark.
17.3 When a defending player, in kicking in from within Kick In Zone, fails to correctly bring the ball into play, the ball to be thrown up over the center of the 10 metre line.
17.4 In a scrimmage where players are struggling for possession of the ball.
17.5 When a player claims a Mark, the ball having been touched, and retains possession of the ball when held by an opponent, the Umpire will throw the ball up if they are satisfied the player did not hear their call of ‘Play On’.
Appointment of Umpires
18.1 The controlling body shall appoint for each Match one or two field Umpires and two goal umpires. There are no boundary umpires. The field Umpire shall have full control of play and shall award free kicks in accordance with the Laws.
Replacement of Umpires
18.2 When any Umpire, before or during the progress of the game, becomes incapable through sickness, injury or accident in performing his duties, a substitute shall be chosen according to arrangements made by the controlling body.
Inspection of Players Equipment
18.3 Prior to the commencement of play, or during play, the Umpire may inspect the boots, hands and guards of players.
Time On
18.4 The Umpire shall indicate to the Timekeeper when “Time On” is to be added due to a major delay in play, and shall indicate that “Time On” has ended when satisfied that play is ready to recommence.
Out of Bounds
18.5 The field Umpire shall be the sole judge of when the ball is out of bounds.
18.6 To be out of bounds, the ball must be completely outside the Boundary Line. If any portion of it is on or above the Boundary Line, the ball is still in play.
18.7 When the ball has completely crossed the Boundary Line, whether along the ground or out of bounds on the full, the umpire shall blow their whistle and award a Free Kick to the nearest opposition player at the spot where it crossed the line.
Goal Umpires
18.8 Goal Umpires shall keep a record of all goals scored in a match.
18.9 Goal Umpires shall signal and record a goal upon receiving the ‘All Clear’ from the field Umpire.
19.10 If the goal umpire is unable to decide if the ball has been kicked through the Goal Posts, they may consult the field Umpire before making a decision.
19. REPORTING PLAYERS AND OFFICIALS
19.1.1 Umpires may report any player or official who during the progress of the Match commits a reportable offence.
19.1.2 Umpires may report an offending player without taking into consideration whether the offending player received provocation or not.
19.1.3 Umpires may caution a player but must not at any time threaten a player.
Reportable Offences
19.2 A player or official who commits the following offences may be reported:
19.2.1 Unduly interferes with, or assaults, or uses threatening language to an Umpire or behaves in a threatening manner towards an Umpire.
19.2.2 Assaults another player or official.
19.2.3 Intentionally kicks or attempts to kick an opponent or official.
19.2.4 Deliberately wastes time.
19.2.5 Uses abusive, insulting or obscene language to an Umpire or behaves in an abusive, insulting or obscene manner towards an Umpire.
19.2.6 Uses abusive, threatening or insulting language.
19.2.7 Intentionally trips or attempts to trip an opponent by foot or leg.
19.2.8 Strikes or attempts to strike a player or official with their hand or arm.
19.2.9 Engages in unduly rough play by committing a breach of the Laws against an opponent in a deliberate and violent manner.
Reporting Players
19.3.1 When an Umpire intends to make a charge against a player, they shall notify the player concerned as soon as reasonably possible after the incident. If such a charge relates to an incident arising in the first three quarters the Umpire shall notify the player not later than the commencement of the next quarter.
19.3.2 Where a charge is laid in the final quarter, if the Umpire is unable to notify the player during the course of the Match, notification on the official report sheet handed to team officials at the conclusion of the Match will suffice.
19.3.3 Umpires shall make themselves thoroughly familiar with the offences which must be reported and report all offending players.
19.3.4 After reporting a player or players, Umpires must not at any time enter into any conversation with club officials or players relating to any incident of the Match or any charges made against a player.
Reporting Procedures
19.4.1 The controlling body shall provide Umpires with report sheets on which they shall enter particulars of any charge or charges they make against players or officials. This shall be completed during or immediately after the conclusion of a Match.
19.4.2 The controlling body shall adopt By-Laws to determine the procedures for lodgement, notification and processing of such reports.
Player Disqualification
19.5.1 The controlling body may disqualify for any term, players or officials who have been reported for and found guilty of breaches of the Laws.
19.5.2 The controlling body may delegate this power to any person or body or persons duly constituted in accordance with its rules for the purpose of investigating any report of a player made in accordance with these Laws.
19.5.3 Any player disqualified for committing an offence against these Laws shall not be permitted to play in any match under the control of AFI or its affiliates.
Order Off
19.6.1 A player who is reported by the Umpire under laws 17.2.1 – 17.2.4 shall be ordered from the field for the remainder of the Match.
19.6.2 A player reported by the Umpire for a second offence under Laws 17.2.5 – 17.2.18 shall be ordered from the field for the remainder of the Match.
19.6.3 The controlling body shall determine the period of time, if any, to elapse before a player ordered off may be replaced.
19.6.4 The controlling body may authorise the Umpire to order a player from the field, for a period of time, for a first offence under Laws 17.2.5 – 17.2.18.
19.6.5 The Umpire shall signal that a player has been ordered off, by pointing to the interchange area with an outstretched arm. The player shall leave the ground immediately.
19.6.6 In the event of a player failing or refusing to leave the ground when ordered off, they shall be reported for misconduct, the match shall terminate and their team shall forfeit.
Duration of the Game & Intervals
20.1.1 All Matches shall consist of two 20 minute halves i.e. a total of 40 minutes playing time.
20.1.2 At half time the players may leave the Playing Field for not more than 5 minutes, and the match must recommence not later than 10 minutes after the conclusion of the first half.
20.1.3 The Timekeeper shall indicate the end of each half by sounding the siren and the football shall be deemed dead and play shall cease when the Umpire hears the first sound of the siren.
20.1.4 The Umpire shall signify that the siren has been heard by blowing their whistle and holding up both hands above their head.
20.1.5 When a player has been awarded a Mark or Free Kick prior to the first sound of a siren, the player will be permitted to take their kick.
20.1.6 The duration of Matches and intervals may be varied by a Controlling Body.
Timekeepers
20.2.1 The controlling body shall appoint a Timekeeper, or in the absence of such arrangements, the home Team shall appoint a Time keeper, whose duties shall be:
20.2.2 To sound a siren at the start and finish of each half.
20.2.3 To add time on to the playing time of the half as required under these Laws.
Time On
20.3.1 The Timekeeper shall add ‘Time On’ when directed to do so by the Umpire when there is undue delay in play, such as a serious injury or lost ball.
20.3.2 The Timekeeper shall stop adding time on when instructed by the Umpire, or when the football is obviously in play.
20.3.3 The Umpire shall adopt the following procedure for indicating ‘TimeOn’ to the Timekeeper.
20.3.4 To indicate the commencement of the time added period, the Umpire shall blow their whistle and raise one arm above their head.
20.3.5 To indicate that the time added period has elapsed, the Umpire shall again blow their whistle and raise one arm above their head.
21.1 If a member of the attacking Team knocks the football over the Goal Line, a member of the defending Team shall bring the football back into play via a kick, from directly in front of the Goal Posts.
21.2 However, if a member of the defending Team is deemed to have deliberately knocked the ball over the Goal Line, a Free Kick (corner kick) will result.
21.3 The corner kick will take place at the intersection of the Goal Line and Side Line i.e. the corner of the Playing Field.
21.4 Opposition players must be no closer than 10 metres from the player taking the corner kick.
21.5 The player taking the corner kick has two options – to kick the football to a teammate or to attempt a shot for goal.
21.6 As soon as the player taking the corner kick steps into the field of play, the Umpire shall call play on.
