Categories Hockey Rules

Field Hockey Rules: How To Play Hockey

Field hockey stems from the same hockey group that we all know about. Field hockey, as the name suggests, is played in various regions of the ground, like the ground, watered turf, as well as on some indoor surfaces. Hence, the name, field hockey.

In this article, let’s discuss the essential guide to field hockey.

Basic rules of field hockey

  • The hockey ball can only be hit with the flat side of the hockey stick, for it to be considered as a goal.
  • Hockey players are never allowed to use their feet. This rule excludes the goalkeeper. They’re only required to control the ball with their hockey stick, without using any other body part.
  • There are various ways to score a goal – from the penalty shot, field goal, or a penalty stroke. For those of you wondering what a field goal is – it is the goal scored in the open play area, only from inside the striking circle, which is located opposite to the opponent’s goal area. At the same time, if it is hit anywhere from outside that area, it is not considered a goal.
  • The hokey players are not allowed to manhandle any of the other players on the field, since it is a non-contact sport. If it happens, then the opponents are entitled to a free hit or a penalty corner.

Field hockey umpires

The field hockey umpires are of two types on the field, and each one is responsible for each half on the pitch. They’re liable to control the players and show them the card if necessary in case the players breach any rules or regulations. This could include misconduct, dangerous or rough gameplay or even an intentional offence. The umpires can show three cards- the green, yellow or red cards

  • Green card: It is an official warning which says not to break the rules
  • Yellow card: This indicates that the hockey player needs to be sent off the pitch at least for 5 min, as a result of an offence.
  • Red card: It is shown in case of a serious offence – like an early shower.

fouls

Types of fouls on the field hockey

Like any other game, a game of hockey can follow different types of foul play. Some of the basic ones are enlisted below:

  • Obstruction: When a players’ body or stick is used to prevent the opponent, it is called obstruction
  • Third-party obstruction: When the hockey player comes in between the ball and the player, which a teammate takes the ball forcefully from the player.
  • Advancing: This is shown when a player pushes or handles another opponent vigorously
  • Backticks: This offence committed when a player uses his rounded back from the hockey stick.
  • Sticks: Any player who raises his stick against another player or an opponent, dangerously is entitled to this foul play.
  • Undercutting: If the player hits the ball dangerously, it is called undercutting.

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