Many factors can impact your enjoyment of field hockey. These factors include equipment, rules and scoring. Before you begin, it is important that you fully comprehend all aspects of the game. You can read this article for more information. Once you've learned these basics, you'll be ready to play.
Equipment
Special equipment is needed if you are going to play hockey on the field. There will be several pieces of equipment that you need, so it is important to have enough. Some equipment is better than other, so you need to ensure that you have the best equipment available. A good stick will help with your side to side motion and leg muscles. Other equipment that you may need is a speed ladder and some extra gear to store small things. The equipment you select will ultimately depend on your competition level and budget. It should be comfortable enough to allow for both productive and enjoyable play.
A field hockey hockey goal is one the most critical pieces of equipment. A field hockey goal is rectangular and has two upright posts joined at the top with a horizontal crossbar. The goalposts must measure 2 inches wide by 2-3 inches deep in order to allow the ball through. It should include a backboard, sideboards, and a platform. The backboard should measure at least 1.2m (3ft 11in) in depth.
Goals
You will want to be a positive force when playing field hockey. Your performance on the pitch can be affected by your negative attitude, even if you have more skill than your opponent. It is important to be positive in all aspects, but especially in field hockey. To be successful you must believe and trust in your abilities.
The goal consists two upright posts placed equidistantly from the middle of the backline. The posts are joined at the top by a horizontal bar. The posts should be at minimum 460 mm tall and the crossbar's lowest edge should be at the ground at at least 2.14 m (7 ft). Both the crossbars as well as the posts are rectangular in form and are made of white. The goal must be a minimum of 50 millimetres deep, and the penalty spot must be highlighted with a solid line.
Rules
Field hockey players must comply with certain rules. Field hockey players must not aim to strike the ball with their sticks or attempt to propel it or pick it up. Any of these actions may cause injury. Field hockey is fast-paced, so safety is paramount.
Headgear is an important rule in the game. The field players are not allowed to wear headgear. Goalkeepers must not wear any protective headgear, or shirts that are different from the ones they already have. The only exceptions are the players who must defend penalty corners.
Scoring
Field hockey players must be able power hit a ball with enough power to score goals. The goal of the game is to score more goals than the other team before the game ends. Most matches last 25 to 35 minutes, while high school varsity games typically last about 30 minutes. Some leagues allow a match to end in an overtime tie, while others require that the game be played again. In general, overtime is decided by the first team to score a goal.
Two penalty corners marks and one penalty spot make up the field hockey pitch. The penalty corner mark is a foot-long dash from the backline, while the long corner mark is 5.5 yards (5 meters) away. Field hockey teams often play on water-based artificial turf, although it is also possible for it to be played on regular astroturf.
Take control
Field hockey is all about the art of tackle. It is important to understand the rules and techniques in order to be a successful tackler. Proper body positioning is essential to a flawless tackle. Moving into a tackle should be done with your strong side and the attacker's weakness in mind. Effective tackles involve both hands. This provides more power behind the tackle, and allows for faster transitions into and out of a tackle. It's also important to match the speed and footwork of the attacker.
Tackling field hockey involves depriving an opponent of the ball. Field hockey players don't wear pads or helmets, unlike football and basketball. They play in groups of ten players. The game is played with a round plastic hockey ball held by a hockey stick.