New year, new rules

From 1 January 2012, new IFNA Official Netball Rules come into force throughout England, affecting all Gloucestershire Netball matches.

There are some changes that may not impact county league level, however the changes to Rule 7 Stoppages will affect everyone.

In addition to the August 2010 changes that allowed coaching during stoppages, the new rules see changes to the Blood Policy, making blood stoppages distinct from a normal stoppage for injury or illness.

Louise Travis, IFNA Umpire, who officiated at the 2010 World Championship believes that from an umpiring perspective "the changes are welcomed, and they will assist in ensuring the rules are applied consistently."

In conjunction with the changes, IFNA have released a new (green) rules book, which is now available to order.

Sian Foley, Team Manager of Yorkshire Jets and coach of the Grammar School at Leeds said "it is important these changes, like all the rules, are fresh in the players' and coaches' minds so they can be adhered to appropriately."

You can find out more about the changes, or order a new rule book from the Rules & Protocols page in our Officiating section.