HOCKEY
Basic Dimensions of the Field
Length: 91.40 meters
Width: 55.00 meters
Goal Area: A semi-circle known as the "circle" with a 14.63-meter radius
Penalty Spot: 6.40 meters from the goal line
Backline: The shorter boundary line
Sideline: The longer boundary line
23-meter line: A line 22.90 meters from the backline
Rules of the Game
1. Composition of Teams
Each team consists of a maximum of 16 players, with 11 players on the field at any
time.
Teams may have either:
A goalkeeper wearing protective gear, or
Only field players, with no goalkeeping privileges.
Substitutions are unlimited, except during a penalty corner.
1. Match Duration
The game consists of four quarters of 15 minutes.
There are 2-minute breaks between quarters 1 & 2 and 3 & 4.
A 5-minute halftime break is observed after the second quarter.
2. Starting and Restarting Play
A coin toss determines which team chooses to attack or start with the ball.
Play is restarted with a center pass after goals or the start of each half.
3. Scoring
A goal is scored when the ball is played inside the circle and crosses completely over
the goal line.
4. Ball Out of Play
If the ball crosses the sideline, a free hit is awarded to the opposite team.
If the ball crosses the backline:
If an attacker last touched it: The defense gets a free hit from 15 meters in front of
the goal.
If a defender intentionally plays it out: A penalty corner is awarded.
1. Fouls and Penalties
Obstruction: A player cannot shield the ball from an opponent.
Dangerous Play: Raised balls, body checks, or aggressive tackles are not allowed.
Foot Fault: The ball cannot be intentionally played with the foot.
Stick Interference: Players cannot use their sticks to block or hook an opponent's
stick.
Penalties:
Free Hit: Given for minor offenses.
Penalty Corner: Given for defensive infractions inside the circle.
Penalty Stroke: Awarded if a goal-scoring opportunity is illegally stopped.
2. Penalty Corner Execution
The ball is placed on the backline, at least 10 meters from the goalpost.
At least five defenders (including the goalkeeper) start behind the backline.
Attackers must be outside the circle until the ball is played.
The first shot must stay below 460mm unless it is a flick or scoop.
3. Penalty Stroke
A one-on-one contest between an attacker and the goalkeeper.
The ball is placed on the penalty spot.
The attacker must push, flick, or scoop the ball into the goal.
Umpiring & Control
Two umpires control the game.
Green Card: Warning (2-minute suspension).
Yellow Card: Temporary suspension (minimum 5 minutes).
Red Card: Permanent removal from the game.
Teaching Considerations
Equipment Needed:
Sticks, balls, protective gear for goalkeepers, team uniforms.
Drills & Activities:
Passing, dribbling, penalty corner drills, match simulations.
Assessment:
Observing rule knowledge, fair play, and gameplay skills.
