Where are free hits taken, and how does the 5-metre rule work?

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Accepted Answer

When a free hit is given (FIH Rule 12.2): to the opponents for an offence by any player between the 23-metre areas; by an attacker inside the 23-metre area they're attacking; or an unintentional offence by a defender outside the circle but inside their own 23-metre area. Where (13.1): Close to the offence: within playing distance, with no significant advantage gained. Be more precise inside the 23-metre area. A defence free hit within 15 m of the back-line may be taken up to 15 m out, in line with the offence, parallel to the side-line. One awarded in the circle may be taken anywhere in the circle. How (13.2), which also covers centre passes and restarts after the ball goes out: Ball stationary. Moved with a hit, push, flick or scoop. It may be raised straight away with a push, flick or scoop, but not intentionally with a hit. Opponents at least 5 m away. One inside 5 m must not interfere or try to play the ball; if they're not influencing play, the free hit needn't be delayed. Clarified for 2027: an opponent who was inside 5 m when the free hit was taken must not play or try to play the ball until they're 5 m away, or the ball has travelled 5 m or been touched by a defender who can legitimately play it. The offence is where they interfere. Attacking free hit inside the 23-metre area: all players except the taker, attackers included, must be 5 m away (except the shadowing rule within 5 m of the circle). Ball out of play (Rule 7): Over the side-line: restart where it crossed. Over the back-line off an attacker: up to 15 m from the back-line, in line with where it crossed. Unintentionally off a defender, or deflected by a goalkeeper: on the 23-metre line in line with where it crossed. Intentionally off a defender: penalty corner.