Can You Hurdle In High School Football

Can You Hurdle in High School Football? A Comprehensive Guide

Meta Description: Wondering if hurdling is allowed in high school football? This article explores the rules surrounding hurdling, its potential benefits and risks, and offers advice for players and coaches.

High school football is a game of strategy, strength, and skill. But one question frequently pops up among players and coaches: is hurdling allowed? The short answer is complex – it depends on the specific situation and interpretation of the rules. While there isn't an explicit rule prohibiting hurdling, the practice is generally discouraged and often penalized due to its inherent risks and the spirit of the game. This article will delve into the nuances of this often-debated topic.

Understanding the Rules and Their Interpretations

The National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) rules, which govern most high school football in the US, don't directly address hurdling. However, several rules indirectly impact its legality and practicality:

• Illegal Forward Pass Interference: If a player attempts to hurdle a defender who's in a position to make a tackle on a pass play, this could be interpreted as illegal forward pass interference. The action could be seen as obstructing the defender's attempt to make a play on the ball.

• Illegal Clipping: Hurdling can sometimes resemble clipping, which is an illegal block below the waist. If the hurdler's leg makes contact with a defender's lower body, a penalty is highly probable.

• Unnecessary Roughness: The most common penalty applied to a hurdling attempt is unnecessary roughness. Referees often deem the act unnecessarily risky and potentially harmful, leading to a flag. This penalty is subjective and depends largely on the referee's interpretation of the situation.

• Fair Catch Interference: If a hurdling attempt occurs during a fair catch, it's almost certainly going to be penalized as interference.

The Risks and Rewards of Hurdling

While a spectacular play, hurdling carries significant risks:

• Injury: The most prominent risk is injury to both the hurdler and the defender. A poorly executed hurdle can result in a twisted knee, ankle sprain, or worse for the player attempting the maneuver. The defender also faces the potential for injury from a collision.

• Loss of Position: Even if successful, hurdling can cost a player valuable field position. The time spent executing the hurdle can allow defenders to recover and make a tackle.

• Penalty: As discussed, the likelihood of a penalty is high, potentially negating any gained yardage.

The rewards are minimal compared to the risks. While it might look impressive, it rarely provides a significant advantage. The additional yardage gained often isn't worth the risk of injury or penalty.

Best Practices: Alternatives to Hurdling

Instead of hurdling, players should focus on fundamental football techniques:

• Proper Blocking Techniques: Learning effective blocking strategies is far safer and more effective for advancing the ball.

• Effective Running Style: Developing agility, speed, and proper running form improves the chance of escaping tackles without resorting to risky maneuvers.

• Reading the Defense: Understanding defensive schemes and positioning can help players find gaps and avoid unnecessary contact.

• Ball Security: Prioritizing ball security is crucial in high school football and overrides the desire for any risky plays like hurdling.

Conclusion

In high school football, while not explicitly outlawed, hurdling is highly discouraged. The inherent risks, the high probability of penalties, and the limited potential rewards make it a strategy with little to no benefit. Players and coaches should prioritize safe and effective techniques that uphold the integrity of the game and minimize the risk of injury. Focusing on fundamental skills and strategic gameplay is always the best approach.