Sheffield Rules (1861)

1. Kick off from middle must be a place kick.

2. Kick out must not be from more than 10 yards out of goal.

3. Fair Catch is a catch from any player, provided the Ball has not touched the ground, or has not been thrown direct from touch, and entitles to a free kick.

4. Charging is fair in case of a place kick (with the exception of a kick off) as soon as the player offers to kick, but he may always draw back, unless he has actually touched the Ball with his foot.

5. Pushing with the hands is allowed, but no hacking or tripping up is fair under any circumstances whatsoever.

6. No player may be held or pulled over.

7. It is not lawful to take the Ball off the ground (except in touch) for any purpose whatever.

8. Holding the ball (except in the case of a free kick) or knocking or pushing it on is altogether disallowed.

9. A goal must be kicked, but not from touch, nor by a free kick from a catch.

10. A Ball in touch is dead, consequently the side that touches it down must bring it to the edge of the touch, and throw it straight out at least six yards from touch, so that it touch the ground before coming into contact with any player.

11. That each player must provide himself with a red and dark blue flannel cap. One colour to be worn by each side during play.

Other amendments approved in 1861

 * That the ball be thrown into play at the place where it goes into touch.
 * That the term "kick-out" apply to any case where the ball goes behind without going through the goal-post.
 * That a flag be placed on each side of the goal-posts, at four yards distance, in a straight line.
 * That a kick-out be only in cases where the ball goes behind the post in a line with the goal-posts.