HOCKEY FUNDAMENTALS
In field hockey, mastering the basics is key. Dribbling lets you control the ball, passing sets up plays, and shooting scores goals. Positioning helps you defend and attack effectively. Agility and speed are crucial for moving swiftly on the field. And strong defense means tackling and intercepting well. By nailing these skills through practice, you’ll boost your game and your team’s chances of winning in field hockey.
LEARN HOCKEY BASIC
• Objective (The objective of hockey is simple – to hit the ball within the striking circle into your opponent’s net and score a goal.)
• Players and Teams (A hockey match is contested between 2 teams of 11 players. Up to 5 substitutes are allowed. Each team will normally include a goalkeeper and 10 outfield players.)
• Field of Play (Hockey matches are predominantly played on systhetic surfaces.)
• Starting a Match (All hockey matches are started with a push back from the centre spot.)
• Match Duration (A game is split into two halves, each lasting 35 minutes. There is a 5 minute half-time interval, or longer if agreed.)
• Scoring (Goals can only be scored from inside the shooting circle, a semi-circular area in front of the goals. Goals scored from outside this area are disallowed.)
• Using Hockey Stick (One of the basic rules of hockey is that you can only use the flat side of the stick to hit or control the ball.)
• Safety (Hockey is played with a hard ball and emphasis is placed on safety. Players must not play the ball dangerously or in a way which leads to dangerous play.)