FIH Face Mask PCD Regulation Changes

Late January, the FIH released a statement informing National Associations of an addition to the FIH Regulations, with immediate effect, making it mandatory to wear face masks when defending penalty corners in all FIH competitions (indoor and outdoor).

Hockey ACT have made the decision to adopt the mandatory wearing of face masks when defending penalty corners across all competition grades for both Indoor and Outdoor Hockey from the U12’s through to all senior grades across Hockey ACT and its regional affiliates commencing on Monday 10 March 2025. It is recommended that members adopt this early in any current competitions. 

Additionally, face masks will be mandatory for all Hockey ACT and Canberra representative teams regardless of the rules of the competition that the players are participating in.

In the Hockey ACT Capital League and Super competitions (CL1, CL2, CL18’s, Super Indoor & Junior Supers Men & Women) all face masks worn by field players must be of a cage design to ensure appropriate protection for the players at that standard.

Local competition rules will be updated regarding failure to wear a mask. No player will be permitted to defend on penalty corners without the correct face mask. Failure to have adequate face masks will see teams defending penalty corners with reduced players.

Face masks are considered personal safety equipment similar to shin pads and mouth guards and as such will be the responsibility of the individual to provide the adequate safety equipment. Hockey ACT also encourages players to consider other protective equipment such as gloves and boxes when defending penalty corners.

Examples of appropriate face masks by grade can be found HERE.