Clipping within the free-blocking zone will now result in a penalty on the high school level following a decision by the National Federation of State High School Associations Football Rules Committee.

The decision to eliminate clipping in the free-blocking zone was the most significant of three rules changes recommended by the NFHS Football Rules Committee during its January meeting in Indianapolis. All rules changes were subsequently approved by the NFHS Board of Directors.

The elimination of clipping from high school football is the latest attempt to reduce the risk of injury made by the sport at that level.

Clipping, defined as blocking below the waist from behind, is now illegal anywhere on the field at any time in high school. The free-blocking zone is defined as a rectangular area extending laterally four yards either side of the spot of the snap and three yards behind each line of scrimmage.

USA Football’s Youth Football Rules Book eliminates all blocks below the waist whether from the front or back.

“At that age, there is no reason for low blocking,” USA Football Rules Editor and former Big Ten referee Bill LeMonnier said. “Along with the potential for injury to the player being blocked, low blocks can result in the offensive player exposing the crown of his helmet to contact.”

USA Football’s Youth Football Rules Book is free on both the App Store and through Google play for all Apple and Android phones.