The 2005 version of the Rules of Hockey we sent you recently contain only a small number of updated rules clarifications and no significant changes but we wish to give you advance notification of a change to the stick specification from 2006.

The FIH is concerned that the extent of the bow/rake of some sticks has increased significantly over the last few years.  The main reason appears to be that it enables some players to increase the power with which they can flick the ball especially for shots at goal.  This has raised concerns that such powerful flick shots can be dangerous.

A reduced limit to the stick bow/rake will curb some of this power without detracting from dribbling and other attractive ball control skills.

On the advice of its Equipment Committee and its Hockey Rules Board, the FIH Executive Board has therefore specified that in the 2006 Rules of Hockey the depth of the stick bow/rake will be limited to 25mm.

For international hockey these rules come into force from 1 January 2006.  However, as you will be aware in relation to all rules changes, individual National Associations have discretion to decide the date of implementation for matches within their jurisdiction.  If you so wish, you may therefore delay implementation for levels of the game where other sticks are likely to continue to be used.

You are asked to consider this matter, to decide the date of implementation within your National Association and to notify your members and clubs of your intention. 

If you have any questions about this change in the Rules please contact Roger Webb, Secretary to the FIH Hockey Rules Board in the first instance.   He can best be contacted by email (R.L.Webb@open.ac.uk).

Thank you and kind regards,

Peter L. Cohen

Hon. Secretary General