What is a direct free hit in rink hockey?
I · Intermediate · Restarts and results · 7 of 7A direct free hit is taken from 7.40 m and a penalty from 5.40 m, one on one against a goalkeeper who must stay still on the goal line until the whistle. For a direct free hit the taker may start up to 3 m back; for a penalty they start still. Either may shoot or skate round the goalkeeper.
How it works
- Direct free hit: from 7.40 m, for a 10th team foul or a serious foul on a clear chance.
- Penalty: from 5.40 m, for fouls inside the offender's area.
- Goalkeeper: standing, front wheels on the line, stick flat, still until the whistle.
- Goalkeeper moves early: a yellow card; a retake if no goal.
- Second early move: a blue card and a period short-handed.
- Taker: may shoot or skate round the goalkeeper; no passing.
- Other players: in the other half's penalty area until the whistle.
- At the end of a period: one shot only; the clock reset to five seconds if needed.
The glossary has the direct free hit, the penalty (rink hockey), the penalty area, the goalkeeper (rink hockey), the yellow card (rink hockey) and the team foul.
Tricky cases
The taker starts before the whistle. What happens?
An indirect free hit to the other side from the same spot.
A defender moves early and the shot misses. Retake?
Yes, and the defender gets a yellow card.
Can the taker play the rebound off the goalkeeper?
Yes, once the ball has touched the goalkeeper, the goal or the barrier.
Can the shooter's own goalkeeper take a penalty?
Yes, keeping the leg pads on but taking off the helmet and gloves.
Why the rule exists
A free shot from the spot repays a foul that stopped a goal. Strict goalkeeper rules keep the duel fair.
Where it differs
| Where | What changes | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Direct free hit | 7.40 m, run-up up to 3 m | Art 28 |
| Penalty | 5.40 m, standing start | Art 29 |
| End of a period | One shot, no follow-up | Art 30.9 |
From the rule book
World Skate, Rink Hockey Rulebook 2027, Rules of the Game, Articles 28 to 30 with Clarifications 7 and 8. Checked 14 October 2026. Official document: the World Skate Rink Hockey Rulebook 2027.