England Hockey League regulations: high-level overview for club members and players

What they are

• Season-by-season rules that govern how the national England Hockey League (EHL) and Area leagues run, alongside the FIH Rules of Hockey and EH policies (discipline, safeguarding, anti-doping).

The essentials to know

• Structure and governance: EHL is run nationally; eight Areas run regional leagues under aligned rules to keep standards consistent.
• Eligibility and registration: Players must be correctly registered in GMS, meet transfer deadlines, comply with nationality/visa rules where relevant, and follow Fair Selection when moving between teams.
• Fixtures and results: Fixture dates are set with reserve dates; there are clear rules for postponements/abandonments, electronic team sheets, kit requirements, and timely results entry in GMS.
• Discipline: Standard sanctions apply for in-game and off-field breaches, with fines, forfeits, or points deductions possible, and a defined appeals process.
• Promotions/relegations: Published formats, points systems, tie-breaks, and movement between divisions provide transparent season outcomes.

Why it matters

• Fairness: Ensures competitive integrity through consistent selection and eligibility.
• Safety and welfare: Integrates key policies to protect participants.
• Compliance: Avoids avoidable fines, forfeits, or points deductions by meeting admin and deadline requirements.
• Smooth operations: Accurate registrations, team sheets, and results keep matchdays efficient and the league running smoothly.
• Clarity: Everyone knows the pathway and expectations for the season.

For full details, consult the current season’s Regulations HERE

Everyone playing for KHHC should be aware of these regulations, not just the Captains. Please take the time to familiarise yourself with them.

Dont forget to be kit ready as well! whilst playing kit is on its way to us, you can get your orders in for leisurewear in the Akuma Club Shop! There are also items on our PH shop and being added. Be sure to get your orders in!

Lastly, there is our partnership with Opro! They offer discounts on the site and you can also purchase your own KHHC gum shield! Check this article out HERE for more details.