Field hockey is a team sport with two teams of eleven players aiming to score by hitting a small ball into the opponent's goal using a hockey stick. The team with the most goals wins.
Field and Dimensions:
The rectangular field hockey pitch is about 91.4 meters long and 55 meters wide, with shooting circles around each goal and a center line dividing the field.
Basic Rules and Gameplay:
- Starting Play: Each half and goal restart with a center pass.
- Stick Skills: Players use their stick to pass, dribble, and shoot, essential for possession and defense.
- Scoring: Goals are scored by hitting the ball completely over the goal line.
- Defending: Players tackle and intercept using sticks and positioning.
- Penalties: Fouls lead to free hits, penalty corners, or strokes.
- Positions: Players are assigned as forwards, midfielders, defenders, or goalkeepers to execute strategies.
Key Skills:
- Dribbling: Controlled ball movement through opponents.
- Passing: Quick and accurate ball distribution.
- Shooting: Precise shots at goal.
- Tackling: Legal challenges for ball recovery.
- Aerials: Lifting the ball over opponents.
- Reverse Stick: Using the stick's backside for shots or passes.