Gaelic Athletic Association: Official Guide Part 2

Introduction

• Established in 1884.
• This Guide contains the playing rules of Hurling and Gaelic Football.
• Replaces all previous versions, effective March 21st, 2020.

Contents Overview

• Field of Play Diagrams
• Rules of Specification, Control, and Playing Rules for both Hurling and Football.
• Important Terms and Definitions.

The Field of Play

• Dimensions: Length 130m–145m; Width 80m–90m.
• Specific markings at 13m, 20m, 45m (Football), and 65m (Hurling).
• Goalposts: 7m height, 6.5m apart.
• Substitution Zone: 5m area on either side of midline.

Rules of Specification

The Field of Play

• Rectangular field with specific dimensions.
• Scoring space defined by goalposts and crossbar.
• Two rectangles in front of scoring space with specified dimensions.
• Substitution zone defined for player changes.

The Players

• Team consists of 15 players.
• Substitutions: 5 during normal time, 3 in extra time.
• Temporary substitutions allowed for injuries (blood).

Time

• Senior games: 70 minutes (2 halves of 35 minutes).
• Interval: 10 to 15 minutes at halftime.
• Extra-time: Mandatory in certain competitions.

Equipment

• Distinctive team colors required.
• Mandatory gear: Helmets in Hurling, Mouthguards in Football.

Rules of Control

Match Officials

• Referee, 4 Umpires, 2 Linesmen oversee the game.
• Sideline Official in Inter-County games.

Powers of Referee

• Final decision-maker for play and time.
• Can consult with officials and use Hawk-Eye for scoring.
• Authority to stop game for safety or rule breaches.

Duties of the Referee

• Control the game as per playing rules.
• Record scores and other critical events.
• Ensure players adhere to equipment rules.

Playing Rules of Hurling

Rule 1: The Play

• Ball is in play until signaled otherwise or crosses boundary.
• Players may strike ball with hurley or hand under specific conditions.
• Tackling must be aimed at the ball, not the player.

Rule 2: Set Play

• Game starts with a throw-in by the referee.
• Free pucks awarded for fouls, with special conditions for penalties.

Rule 3: Scores

• Goal (3 points) scored under crossbar between posts.
• Point scored over crossbar between posts.

Rules of Foul Play

• Technical fouls include overcarrying, throwing the ball.
• Aggressive fouls range from tripping to striking opponents.
• Penalties vary from free pucks to player ejections.

Playing Rules of Gaelic Football

Rule 1: The Play

• Ball in play till stopped by referee or crosses boundary.
• Ball may be carried, kicked, or passed under specific rules.
• Tackling aimed at ball, not player.

Rule 2: Set Play

• Game initiation with throw-in.
• Free kicks awarded for fouls.
• Penalty kicks from 11m for certain fouls.

Rule 3: Scores

• Goal (3 points) is under crossbar; point is over.
• Certain hand scores allowed only as points.

Rules of Foul Play

• Technical fouls include overcarrying, improper handpass.
• Aggressive fouls cover striking, rough play.
• Penalties range from free kicks to suspensions.

Important Definitions

• Key terms defined: Bounce, Catch, Charge, Foul, Handpass.
• Cards used: Yellow (Cautionable), Black (Cynical), Red (Ejection).

This document provides comprehensive rules for the playing and administration of Hurling and Gaelic Football, ensuring fair play and consistency across competitions.