SALT LAKE CITY — The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has added a new section to its General Handbook formally addressing Church ball, ending decades of disputes settled primarily through raised voices, passive-aggressive handshakes and appeals to whichever bishop happened to be watching.
Section 38.12 establishes one official rule for all ward and stake athletic activities: “No blood. No foul.”
Church leaders said the streamlined policy reflects the long-standing spirit of fellowship, fitness and controlled hostility that has defined cultural-hall basketball for generations.
Additional guidance reportedly clarifies that bruises are not injuries, screens may be administered with priesthood authority, and any player calling more than two fouls in a game may be reassigned to keep score.
The update takes effect immediately, just in time for tournament season.
