For: Goalkeeper CIWS

Overview

Usually special rules apply to the goalkeeper that do not apply to the other players. These rules are often instituted to protect the goalkeeper, being an obvious target for dangerous or even violent actions. In certain sports, such as ice hockey and lacrosse, goalkeepers are required to wear special equipment like heavy pads and a face mask to protect their bodies from the impact of the playing object (e.g. a puck).

In some sports, goalkeepers are considered almost the same as the other players in terms of rules; in soccer, for example, the keeper is allowed to play the ball with his feet just as any other player. In other sports, goalkeepers may be limited in the actions they are allowed to take, or limited to playing within a certain area of the field; in the NHL, for example, goalkeepers may not play the puck in the restricted areas behind the net.

Association football

Main: Goalkeeper (association football)

The goalkeeper is the only player who may use his or her hands and arms to play the ball, and may do so only within the penalty area. Goalkeepers are required to wear a distinctive color jersey, separate from either team's regular jersey color, so the referee can easily identify them. There are no other specific requirements, but goalkeepers are usually allowed to wear additional protective gear such as a padded jersey or pants. Most goalkeepers also wear gloves to protect their hands and enhance grip of the ball, and like every player on the pitch, they are required to wear shin guards.

The goalkeeper is allowed to catch the ball, and also to punch or deflect the ball away from the goal. The goalkeeper generally has a significant advantage on a ball high in the air, as he can raise his arms and play the ball before an attacker can attempt a header. When the keeper picks up the ball, he is allowed to kick it or throw it, or to place it on the ground and play it with his feet. Once the ball is picked up, it must be put back into play within a few seconds(normally 6), and the goalkeeper may not take more than 4 steps without touching the ball back to the ground; however, referees often use their discretion as long as the keeper is not obviously attempting to waste time. Once the keeper establishes possession of the ball, opposing players are not allowed to attempt to play the ball and must give the goalkeeper room to attempt a kick.

One key rule is that the goalkeeper is not allowed to pick up a ball which is kicked directly to him by one of his teammates (the keeper is still allowed to play the ball with his feet). This is known as the "back-pass" rule in Law 12 of the Laws of the Game and an infringement results in an indirect kick to the other team. The referee has some discretion in making this call; for example, a ball which is merely deflected by a teammate may still be picked up by the goalkeeper. Also, the rule applies only to a ball which is actually kicked. A ball which is headed or otherwise not kicked may be picked up by the goalkeeper without penalty. The back-pass rule has been followed in international soccer and in most professional and amateur leagues since the early 1990's, but leagues for younger players may choose not to enforce the rule.