WFA Law – Other Infringements Explained

This section of the WFA Laws of the Game covers a number of important offences that help keep walking football safe, fair and enjoyable. These rules focus on dangerous movements, incorrect restarts and actions that give players an unfair advantage.

Heading the Ball

Outfield players are not allowed to deliberately head the ball. Doing so will result in a foul being awarded to the opposing team.

Infringements During Stoppages

If a player commits an offence while the game is stopped, they may receive a formal warning as part of the disciplinary “totting up” process.

Examples include:

• Moving through the goal area to gain an unfair position for a restart

• Running into space early before a kick-in, corner or goal kick

The restart will still take place as originally awarded.

Tackling Rules

A foul is given if a player:

• Slide tackles or slide blocks

• Tackles from behind (even without contact)

• Tackles from the side rather than directly from the front

These rules reduce injury risk and encourage fair challenges.

Handball

Any outfield player who deliberately handles the ball commits a foul. Only goalkeepers may use their hands — and only inside their goal area.

Restart Offences

A foul is committed if a player:

• Takes a restart while the ball is moving

• Does not follow referee instructions

• Takes a kick-in while the ball is not behind the pitch line

Use of Barriers

Players must not hold onto barriers to shield the ball or block opponents unless doing so to prevent a collision or maintain balance.

Playing While on the Ground

Outfield players may not deliberately play the ball while any part of their body (other than their feet) is touching the pitch.

Goalkeeper Delivery

Goalkeepers must release the ball using an underarm roll, below-the-waist throw, or kick from the ground. Drop-kick volleys are not allowed.

Part of the official WFA Walking Football Rules Hub:
👉 /walking-football-rules/