WHAT IS FIELD HOCKEY?

FIELD HOCKEY IS: INTRODUCING

• An Olympic Sport for men (since 1908) and women (since 1980).

• One of the most popular sports in the world, played in 137

countries.

• Known as just “hockey” everywhere but in the United States

and Canada.

• Played in more than 275 NCAA colleges in the United States,

and 150+ with club teams. The International Hockey Federation (FIH) is the international
governing body for the sport. Starting January 2019, the top nine
• A scholarship sport for women at many NCAA Division I and II men’s and women’s teams from around the world will compete in
universities. an exciting new professional hockey league.
• Played in 1,800+ United States high schools as a girls' fall sport.
FIH Pro League will provide, for the first time ever, a regular
• Exciting to play and watch, with outdoor and indoor games and calendar of must-see events played in packed stadiums across the
even a “beach” variation. world and throughout the year. Global hockey fans will be able to
watch their favorite sport on television and online.
• A sport for life! Enjoyed by people of all ages.
The U.S. Women’s National Team is thrilled to be competing in the
• Easy to learn and affordable, with minimal equipment needs. new FIH Pro League against other top nations: Argentina, Australia,
Belgium, China, Germany, Great Britain, The Netherlands and New
• A safe sport, with a low rate of serious injuries and concussions. Zealand.

• Fast! The ball speed can exceed 75 miles per hour. FIH Pro League will culminate with one nation being crowned Pro
League Champions and receiving the single largest financial prize
• Great exercise! Players can travel more than five miles in a in the sport.
single game.
Team USA will host eight home games in 2019!
• Fun! To get in the game and learn more about the sport, go to
usafieldhockey.com. For a game schedule and more information on ticket sales visit
usafieldhockey.com or fih.ch.

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 ABOUT USA FIELD HOCKEY
USA Field Hockey works to promote and develop the sport for future generations to enjoy.
Grow the Game. Serve Members. Succeed Internationally.

USA FIELD HOCKEY:

Is the national governing body (NGB) for the sport in the United States with more than 30,000 individual members and over 300 member
clubs. The headquarters is in Colorado Springs, Colo.

Has one of the top-20 ranked U.S. Women’s National Teams in the world, training at Spooky Nook Sports in Lancaster, Pa.

Fields a U.S. Men’s National Team ranked in the top-30 in the world, training in Moorpark, Calif. F
A
Has Junior and National Development Teams across multiple age divisions for men and women.

Fields U.S. Men’s and Women’s National Indoor Teams who compete at the highest level internationally.

C
Supports international competition for Masters (age 35+) men and women.

Hosts and sanctions year-round outdoor and indoor playing and development opportunities throughout the United States including:
• Futures: USA Field Hockey’s Olympic Development Pipeline with approximately 5,000 athletes annually.
•
•
Multiple National and Regional outdoor tournaments for players of all ages.
National Indoor Tournament, spanning three weekends, for ages U-10 through adult. T
S
Offers Coach Education for coaches of all levels, with coaching opportunities across the country.

Provides Umpire Education and training, and umpiring opportunities at tournaments.

Mandates background checks and SafeSport training for all coach and umpire members who work with children.

Has multiple programs and offerings to fuel and support grassroots growth including FUNdamental Field Hockey equipment grants and startup
assistance.

Join USA Field Hockey today!

To learn more, take advantage of member benefits, join the USA Field Hockey family, support the growth
of the sport or make a donation, visit www.usafieldhockey.com.
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 FIELD HOCKEY BASICS
BY THE NUMBERS STICK BASICS
There is no such thing as a left-handed stick.

11 Players per side Only push or hit with the flat side or edge of the stick.
(including goalkeeper)
Only goalies can use their body to stop and move the ball.

Halves
2 (four quarters for international play)
Good stick skills and passing are key to success.

MOVING THE BALL (offensive)

30 or Minutes each half Push - This skill is executed with player’s hands apart. The head of the

35 (15-minute quarters for international play) stick stays in contact with the ball as it is pushed and there is no backswing.
This allows for good control, quick movement and is used for accurate
passing or shooting.
5 or Minute halftime
10
Hit - A powerful motion where the stick is brought down swiftly from a
back swing and strikes the ball with a long follow through. The hit is fast
and favored for sending the ball long distances or for making a hard shot
on goal.

STOPPING THE BALL (defensive) Lift, Flick, Aerial - A skill in which the ball stays in contact with the head
of the stick as it is lifted into the air. There is no back swing. Lifts are used
primarily to raise the ball over long distances or as hard shots on goal.
Block Tackle - Player lowers the stick close to the
ground and uses the length of the stick to block a
ball’s advance. Using the entire stick widens the area Forehand Sweep - Commonly used on turf or a smooth playing surface,
available to intercept or steal the ball and slows the player lowers stick parallel to ground and sweeps the ball in a circular
offensive player’s motion. motion. A sweep allows for more power than a push, making it effective
for quick yet long hard passes and shots.
Jab Tackle - Player jabs the stick toward the ball with
left hand extended (flat side up), then quickly returns Reverse Sweep - Player uses the same motion as the forehand sweep
both hands and regains a balanced position. This with the ball starting on players left side. Player uses a different grip and
swift motion can disrupt the advance of the play and must use the side of the stick with the flat side up. This is an effective
possibly cause a loss of possession. motion for passing and shooting.
Reverse Tackle - Used when an offensive player Drag Flick - Considered a push, this specialty skill is used by advanced
is on a defender’s weak (left) side, defensive player players as a variant to the straight shot or hit on a penalty corner. It can
extends left arm out with stick inverted close to the be as powerful as a hit yet requires no back swing, making it especially
ground to slow the play, block the ball’s path and try deceptive. It’s an important skill to develop for high level competition.
to cause a loss of possession.

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 THE FIELD
When lining a field,
measure 16 yards from
7 each goal post and connect
with a straight line parallel
to the face of the goal.
5
1
60 YARDS
6
(58 METERS) 4
10 2
9
3
8
8 7
11
100 YARDS (91.40 METERS)
Field hockey is played on a rectangular field, 100 x 60 yards, called a pitch or field. Although traditionally played on grass or turf, the game has many
variations and can be enjoyed on any flat surface, even a beach. Internationally, field hockey is played on a water-based turf field that is watered regularly
to speed up the game and prevent the ball from bouncing.

Goals - Goals are 7 feet high, 12 inches wide and 4 feet deep. In addition to nets, Sideline - Boundaries along the length of the field marking the side of the
1 goals have an 18 inch board lining the bottom inside sides and back. The goal sits 7 field of play. If a ball is hit out, the opposing team brings it in with a pass or
just behind the end line, not on it. self-start. Players feet can be outside of sideline as long as the ball is inside or
on the line.
Stroke mark - Dash centered in front of each goal, 7 yards from the goal line
2 marking the position where a penalty stroke is taken. End line - Boundaries along the width of the field. Offensive hits that cross
8 this line result in defense getting the ball at 16 yards. Defensive hits that cross
Scoring circle or “D” - A solid, “near” semi-circle surrounding the goal 16 this line result in either a long corner or penalty corner, if deemed intentional.
3 yards from the goal. Note the top of the circle is flat across the face of the goal.
Only balls hit or deflected into the goal within this circle are a score. Defensive Corner mark - Short dashes 11 yards (10 meters) from the edge of each goal cage
fouls within the scoring circle result in a penalty corner. 9 that mark the place from which penalty corners may be inserted.
5-yard mark - A dash-lined semi-circle 5 yards outside the scoring circle. Penalty Defender mark - Short dash 5.5 yards (5 meters) from the edge of each goal
4 corners end when the ball crosses the 5-yard mark. 10 marking the closest position which a defender may stand to the inserter on a
penalty corner.
25-yard line - Intentional or repeated fouls from this line to the near end line
5 result in a penalty corner. 16-yard line - These 12 inch marks identify the 16-yard line where 16-yard free hits
11 are taken.
Center line - Solid line that divides field in half. The ball is taken from the
6 middle of this line at the beginning of each half and after a goal.

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 PLAYER POSITIONING
SAMPLE FORMATION (3-3-3-1) FORMATIONS
Although player positions have defined primary responsibilities, field hockey is
a fluid game and players have the flexibility to traverse the field. Defenders can
be viable scoring threats, midfielders help defend and score goals and forwards
fall back to aid the defense. Teamwork and communication are critical and more
important than positions or formations.

A coach often sets formations based on the skill and strength of the players and the
opposing team. Any formation is acceptable, and all positions are important. A coach
may opt to play four forwards (potentially a 4-3-3 formation with four forwards, three
midfielders and three defenders), a 3-4-3 with three forwards, four midfielders, three
backs, or even a 3-3-3-1 with a defensive “sweeper.”

POSITIONS
Forwards (Attackers or Strikers)
Offensive position whose primary responsibility is to advance
play toward the goal and convert the opportunities created with
fellow players into goals.

Midfielders (Middies)
Both an offensive and defensive position who acts as an initial
line of defense as well as advances the ball to the forwards and
opposing side of the field.

Defenders (Backs)
Defensive position whose primary responsibility is to protect the
goalkeeper, prevent opposing forwards from getting into scoring
position and advance the ball to the midfielders and forwards.

Sweeper (Cover or Back)

Some formations include one player who traditionally is
positioned either behind or in front of the defensive line and
whose primary goal is defense.

Goalkeeper (Goalie)
Defensive position whose primary responsibility is to prevent
opponents from scoring and to coordinate defenders in the
defense of the goal.

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 INDOOR FACTS
Indoor field hockey and traditional outdoor field hockey are two different but related games utilizing similar skills and tactics.
Many people play indoor to supplement their outdoor game, particularly in areas where outdoor play is not available year-round.

Indoor play is increasing significantly around the world at the youth and adult levels. The game is fun and fast, exciting to play and watch.

18 to 22 meters

Main differences in play: Main differences in equipment:

Indoor is played on a hard surface, such Indoor goals are smaller - 3x2x1 meters
as a gym floor, with sideboards. The ball compared to 4x2x1 meters for outdoor.
Penalty Spot
is played off the boards.
Side Boards/Planks
Indoor balls are slightly lighter. A regular
The indoor playing surface or “court” Shooting Circle stick can be used, but more advanced
is significantly smaller than an outdoor players prefer a special thinner and
field. lighter stick for indoor play.

36 to 44 meters
Indoor is typically played 6v6 unlike Players more frequently wear gloves
outdoor which is played 11v11. and shoes appropriate for indoor
surfaces.
Players cannot lift the ball in indoor,
except when taking a direct shot on Note that goalkeeping equipment,
goal. face/corner masks, shinguards and
mouth guards are the same for both
Indoor players must push the ball, indoor and outdoor.
hitting is not permitted.
7 meters
9m
ete
rs

1 meter

3 meters
For more information about indoor hockey, do-it-yourself board construction and a complete list of rules, go to usafieldhockey.com.
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 FOULS & UMPIRE SIGNALS
PENALTY CARDS
Field hockey uses a three card
system for player warnings and
suspensions for deliberately
dangerous play, unsportsmanlike
behavior and repeated violations.
GOAL SCORED 16-YARD HIT BACK OF STICK STICK OBSTRUCTION THIRD PARTY
OBSTRUCTION OBSTRUCTION GREEN Player must leave the
field for 2 minutes and
the team plays short
(no replacement).

YELLOW Player leaves for at

least 5 minutes (at the
discretion of the official)
and the team plays short.

RED Player leaves the game

DANGER PENALTY HIGH PENALTY PENALTY FREE HIT FOOT and cannot be replaced.
They may be suspended
CORNER CORNER HIT STROKE for subsequent games.

Danger - A broad rule that encompasses any action or situation in which a player
Goal Scored - Signaled when the ball entirely crosses the goal line as a result
puts other players in danger of injury. For example, tripping, wild swings or similar
of a hit or deflection by an offensive or defensive player within the scoring circle.
actions. Intentional acts could result in a card and/or a penalty stroke.

Penalty Corner - A scoring opportunity awarded to the offensive team when the
16-Yard Hit - A free hit awarded to the defense when ball goes over the end line defense commits a foul within the scoring circle, or an intentional foul within the
after last being touched by an offensive player. 25-yard line.

High Penalty Corner Hit - On the initial hit on a penalty corner, the ball must
Back of Stick - Called any time a player touches the ball with the back (rounded)
cross the goal line no higher than 18 inches for a goal to be scored. Drag flicks are
side of the stick.
not considered “hits” and can be higher.

Stick Obstruction - Called when a player hits or obstructs an opposing player’s Penalty Stroke - Awarded when a defensive player commits a penalty preventing
stick with their own when making a play on the ball. This can be called on an a goal or commits an intentional foul in the circle. The ball is placed on the 7-yard
offensive or defensive player. mark and one offensive player takes a free shot against the goalkeeper.

Obstruction - Called when a player possessing the ball uses their body to prevent Free Hit - Awarded when a foul is committed outside of the scoring circle (unless
an opposing player from making a play. The player with the ball cannot stop their intentional within the 25-yd line). Opposing players must stay at least 5 yards away
motion or push back and opposing player must be actively trying to get the ball. until the ball is hit or the player touches the ball once (self-starts).

Third Party Obstruction - Signaled when a player intentionally or unintentionally Foot - The most common penalty, called when the ball hits a player’s foot causing
uses their body to block an opposing player from access to the player possessing an advantage for their team. If there is no advantage, the umpire may choose to
the ball. hold their whistle and play on.

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 THE EQUIPMENT
STICKS
Field hockey sticks are rounded on one side and flat on the other. They come in a wide range of lengths to fit any size or age player. It’s important for a player
to use a stick that is comfortable in length. A stick that is too long will be difficult to maneuver. A stick that is too short may also be awkward and limit power.
There is no such thing as a left-hand stick. Beginner sticks are usually constructed of wood and are lightweight, less rigid and more forgiving, making it easier
for a beginner to stop and control the ball. As players develop, they will understand what kind of stick works best for them and move on to a more powerful,
composite stick. Stick length, style and weight is based on individual preference. This is just a general guide to appropriate stick length.

STICK SIZING AND SELECTION

Stick length, style and weight is based on individual preference, but this is a BALLS MOUTH GUARDS
general guide for beginners, based on player height.
Field hockey balls are made of Mouth guards are required to be worn
plastic. They are usually white to prevent dental injury.
or orange, although they can
37 - 37.5" 5' 10" and over be any color that contrasts
with the playing surface. Some SHINGUARDS
balls are smooth and some are
36 - 36.5" 5' 4" - 5' 9"
H dimpled to reduce aquaplaning
on wet surfaces. Hard plastic shinguards are traditionally
worn by all field players to protect

E
against balls and sticks hitting the shins.
35 - 35.5" 5' 1" - 5' 3"

S 34" 4' 7" - 5' I GLOVES GOGGLES

TS 32" 4' 4" - 4' 6" G Optional, worn to protect

hands, improve grip and stay
warm.
The National Federation of State High
School Associations (NFHS) mandates
that high school field hockey players

I I 30" 4' 1" - 4' 3"

H FACE/CORNER MASKS
in the United States wear goggles to
protect their eyes. The International
Federation of Hockey (FIH), National
CZ T Face/Corner masks are often
Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA)
and USA Field Hockey do not permit

KE 28" 4' and under wearing the goggles the NFHS requires,
worn by defensive players while but do allow other types of eye
defending penalty corners. The protection to be worn.
masks are removed and thrown
Many players like to measure appropriate stick length from the ground to out of play when the penalty
their hip bone. Before investing in a stick, consult with your coach, field corner play is over.
hockey equipment manufacturer or retailer. Most adults of any height
prefer sticks that are between 36-37.5”.

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 GOALKEEPING EQUIPMENT
CHEST PROTECTOR HELMET

MOUTH GUARD
STICK
Goalkeeper sticks are
slightly different from a THROAT
field player's stick. The
speciality curved blade
PROTECTOR
provides extra stopping
area for saves. A regular
stick can also be used. JERSEY
Goalkeepers must wear a
different colored jersey for
easy visual distinction.

BLOCKERS
& GLOVE ARM GUARDS

PANTS & GIRDLE

Girdle is worn under pants.
KICKERS
These are worn over shoes.
LEG GUARDS

Goalkeeper equipment must fit well enabling the goalkeeper maximum mobility and protection.

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 THE GOAL
An official field hockey goal is 2.1 meters (7 feet) high, 3.7 meters (12 feet) wide and 1.2 meters (4 feet) deep. 18-inch high boards line
the inside of the goal on both sides and the back, and a tight net lines the remaining space of the goal.

Goals may be constructed of different materials but are commonly made of aluminum or wood. They tend to be heavy, sitting flat on
the ground so they cannot tip. As a result, they often have wheels so the goals can moved by tipping and rolling.

When placing a goal onto a field, make sure the front edge of the goal sits outside the field, abutting the back of the goal line. The goal
should not be on the goal line, as a ball needs to completely cross the goal line to be considered a goal.

18-INCH BOARDS
The sound of the ball hitting the boards when a goal is scored is unique to field hockey. But many
ask, why do goals have boards?

The 18-inch boards on the inside bottom of the cage play an important role during penalty corners,
and the rule is often confusing to beginners. If, during a penalty corner, the first shot at goal is a
hit (as opposed to a push, flick or scoop), the ball must cross the goal line, or be on a path which
would have resulted in it crossing the goal line, at a height of no more than 18 inches (the height
of the backboard) before any deflection, for a goal to be scored.

The requirements of the rule apply even if the ball touches the stick or body of a defender before
the first shot at goal.

If the first shot at goal is a hit and the ball is, or will be, too high when crossing the goal line, it
must be penalized even if the ball is subsequently deflected off the stick or body of another player.

The ball may be higher than 18 inches during its flight before it crosses the goal line provided there
is no danger and provided it would drop of its own accord below 18 inches before crossing the line.

For second and subsequent hits at the goal and for flicks, deflections and/or scoops, it is permitted
to raise the ball to any height but this must not be dangerous.
Outdoor Goal

Goals for indoor field hockey are smaller. They are 3 meters (9.8 feet) wide, 2 meters (6.6 feet) high and a minimum of
INDOOR GOALS 1-meter (3.3 feet) deep. Goal sideboards and backboards are not mandatory. There are no hits in indoor field hockey.

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