New GAA Committee Eyeing Three Gaelic Football Rule Changes

Over the last number of years, the GAA has made a habit out of introducing news rules in the sport.

Both Gaelic football and hurling have undergone a number of law changes over the last few seasons, some of which have had a real impact on the game. Of course, many feel that the Association should go even further.

Gaelic football, in particular, could do with a refresh. Many feel that the game at the highest level is becoming rather stale, with far too many inter-county matches proving to be less than pleasing on the eye.

Teams are entitled to approach the game in whatever manner they feel will set them up for success, but the GAA should be looking to ensure that the sport is also entertaining.

That was seemingly the thinking when they assembled the Football Review Committee headed by Jim Gavin a number of months ago, with that group now considering a number of possible rule changes.

The Irish Examiner are reporting that the Football Review Committee are currently looking at three rule changes for Gaelic football:

Awarding two points for long-range scores
Requiring that three players from both teams remain in each half at all times
A clock/hooter to end all games

All of these rules are ones that have been suggested by numerous figures within the GAA down through the years, but it now seems as though they are gaining serious traction.

Awarding two points for long range shots would encourage teams to shoot more from distance, as well as disincentivising defending sides from sitting deep and not putting pressure on the ball.

Allowing a maximum of 12 players from both teams in each half would also open up more space in the final third, something that would allow for more attacking play. The hooter is something that has been part of Ladies football for a number of years and has been widely regarded as a success.

It remains to be seen if these rule changes are implemented, but it seems clear that the GAA are open to making some sizeable changes to Gaelic football in the near future.