WFA Law – Ball Height Rule Explained

The ball height rule is one of the most important safety laws in walking football. It exists to reduce the risk of injury and keep the game controlled and enjoyable for everyone.

This guide explains how the rule works, what counts as an offence and what happens when the ball goes above head height.

What Is Head Height?

In walking football, head height is defined as 1.83 metres or the height of the goal crossbar (whichever is lower). The crossbar must not be higher than 2 metres.

For the rule to be broken, the entire ball must rise above head height — not just part of it.

When the Ball Is Considered Dead

Once the ball fully passes above head height, it is normally deemed dead immediately and play stops, unless one of the special deflection situations below applies.

The referee has the final decision on whether the ball has exceeded head height.

What Counts as a Foul

A foul is given if:

• A player kicks the ball above head height

• The ball deflects off a player and rises above head height

• The ball is played off a barrier and rises above head height

An indirect free kick is usually awarded to the opposition.

Deflections Involving the Goal Frame

• If the ball hits the goal frame and goes above head height, it is not a foul

• Play stops immediately and the goalkeeper keeps the ball

• If the goalkeeper deflects the ball onto the goal frame and it then goes out of play, the game restarts with a corner or kick-in

Deflections Involving the Goalkeeper

• If the goalkeeper deflects the ball above head height during a save, it is not a foul

• The ball becomes dead and the goalkeeper keeps it

• If the ball then drops into the goal, the goal is awarded

• If the ball goes straight out of play, a corner or kick-in is given

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