Field hockey traces its roots back to ancient Egypt and Persia, but it wasn’t until the 19th century that the modern game emerged. England established the first official rules in 1886, paving the way for the sport’s global popularity.
PITCH AND EQUIPMENT
A standard field hockey pitch is 100 yards long and 60 yards wide, featuring shooting circles at each end. The ball, typically made of hard plastic, weighs between 155 and 163 grams. Players must wear shin guards, mouth guards, and cleats. Hockey sticks, made of wood or composite materials, must meet specifications set by the International Hockey Federation (FIH).
RULES
The objective is to score more goals than the opposing team. The game begins with a push-back from the center, and each team consists of 11 players, including a goalkeeper. Players move the ball using their sticks and are not allowed to use their feet or obstruct other players. Fouls result in free hits for the opposing team.
TYPES OF FOULS
- Foot foul: Using feet to control the ball.
- Obstruction: Blocking the path of another player.
- Stick foul: Hitting another player’s stick instead of the ball.
- Dangerous play: Actions that could cause injury.
- Backsticks: Hitting the ball with the rounded side of the stick.
PENALTY CORNERS AND FREE HITS
Penalty corners are awarded for fouls inside the shooting circle, allowing the attacking team to take a free hit. Whereas penalty strokes are awarded for severe fouls, with the attacker taking a free shot at the goal.
PLAYER POSITIONS
- Goalkeeper: Protects the goal and clears the ball.
- Defenders: Prevent opponents from scoring.
- Midfielders: Bridge between offense and defense.
- Forwards: Responsible for scoring goals.
- Sweeper: Specialized defensive position.
SCORING
A goal is scored when the ball is hit into the opposing team’s goal from within the shooting circle. Penalty strokes and penalty corners are other scoring situations that can occur during a game.
MATCH DURATION
A game consists of two 35-minute halves, with a 10-minute halftime break. If the game is tied, a penalty shootout determines the winner.
Field hockey is a dynamic sport that requires skill, strategy, and teamwork. Whether you’re a player or a spectator, the excitement of field hockey is sure to captivate you.
