How to Play Hockey
Objective:
The goal of hockey is to score more goals than the opposing team by hitting
the puck (in ice hockey) or ball (in field hockey) into their net.
Setup:
1. Teams:
o Ice Hockey: Two teams of 6 players each (1 goalkeeper and 5
skaters).
o Field Hockey: Two teams of 11 players each (1 goalkeeper and
10 field players).
2. Field/Rink:
o Ice Hockey: Played on an ice rink with boards surrounding the
playing area.
o Field Hockey: Played on a grass, turf, or artificial surface field.
3. Equipment:
o Ice Hockey:
Stick: Used to handle the puck.
Puck: A hard rubber disc.
Skates: Ice skates for movement.
Protective Gear: Helmet, gloves, pads, and a mouthguard.
o Field Hockey:
4. Stick: Used to hit the ball.
5. Ball: A hard plastic ball.
6. Shin Guards: To protect players’ legs.
7. Goalkeeper Gear: Helmet, leg guards, and padded gloves.
Basic Rules:
1. Starting the Game:
o The game begins with a face-off (ice hockey) or a pass-back
(field hockey) at the center of the rink/field.
2. Scoring:
o A goal is scored when the puck or ball completely crosses the
goal line into the net.
o Each goal counts as one point.
3. Gameplay:
o Players use their sticks to pass, shoot, and control the puck or
ball.
o In ice hockey, players can body check opponents to gain
possession of the puck.
o In field hockey, physical contact is not allowed, and the ball
cannot be hit with the rounded side of the stick.
Fouls and Penalties:
Ice Hockey: Penalties include tripping, slashing, and high-sticking, resulting in time in
the penalty box.
Field Hockey: Fouls include obstruction, stick interference, and dangerous play,
resulting in free hits or penalty corners.
Winning:
The team with the most goals at the end of the game wins.
If the score is tied, the game may end in a draw, or overtime and shootouts may be used
in knockout tournaments.
Who Can Play Hockey?
Gender: Hockey is played by both men and women. There are
separate leagues and tournaments for men’s, women’s, and mixed-
gender hockey.
Age: Hockey can be played by people of all ages, from young children
to seniors. Youth leagues, adult leagues, and recreational games are
widely available.
Skill Level: Beginners can enjoy casual games, while experienced
players can compete in local leagues, national tournaments, or even
internationally.
Formats of Hockey:
1. Ice Hockey:
o Played on an ice rink with 6 players per team.
o Popular in countries with cold climates, such as Canada, the USA,
and Russia.
2. Field Hockey:
o Played on a grass or turf field with 11 players per team.
o Popular in countries like India, Australia, and the Netherlands.
3. Inline Hockey:
o Played on a dry surface with inline skates, similar to ice hockey
but without ice.
4. Street Hockey:
o A casual version played on streets or in driveways, often with a
ball instead of a puck.
Tips for Playing Hockey:
Stick Handling: Practice controlling the puck or ball with your stick.
Passing: Work on accuracy and speed to deliver the puck or ball to
teammates.
Shooting: Focus on power and precision to score goals.
Skating (Ice Hockey): Improve your speed, agility, and balance on
the ice.
Teamwork: Communicate with teammates and understand your role
on the rink or field.
