Hockey!
Everything you need to know...
Simple Stuff about Hockey...
Hockey it a game played on astro-turf (although originally on field) and includes 11 player (full size game) who have hockey sticks. Working as a team they pass and run with the ball and try to score at the oppositions goal at the opposite end of the pitch.
Players on a Hockey team
A hockey pitch...
This image shows the basic markings on the pitch. At the ends of the pitch are the two goals. In front of these goals are semi-circles these are called the 'D' (this is the area you have to be in to be able to score a goal). There is also three lines on the pitch that divide it up: the half way line and the two '23' lines. As well as these there are the side lines and the back lines (behind the goals) that boarder the pitch. In addition there are marking that help players to know where to take the ball from if it has gone off-side or a goal has been scored etc.
For Hockey you need...
- a gum shield (as it can be dangerous as the ball is very hard)
- shin pads (again for safety to protect your shins)
- a hockey stick (this is essential to move the ball around and to play the game)
- a ball (you do not necessarily have to own one as it would be supplied by a club or school/college/university, although again is essential)
- (a pitch or venue to play on)
- suitable clothing for running (e.g. skort, shorts jogging-bottoms, t-shirt etc.)
- trainers (or even better is you are playing on astro-turf, astro-turf shoes.
Players...
There many different formations tat can be made on a hockey pitch. A regular team is made up from 9 out-field player and a goalie (as shown in the image). As you can see the goalie wears lots of extra padding as well as a face mask to protect them.
Main Rules and Regulations...
There are lots of rules that you will learn while playing hockey as you become more experienced. Here are a few main rules you need to know to get you started:
- You must wear a gum shield and shin pads (field players)
- You can only touch the ball with the flat-side of your hockey stick
- You cannot touch the ball with your feet or the rest of your body
- The ball must stay within the pitch
How to get started...
Different ways to pass:
England Hockey: Passing Tips
How to score a goal:
England Hockey: Goal Scoring Tips
How to create space:
England Hockey: Creating Space Tips
How to defend:
Defending
Now have a look at GB's preformance in the women's final at the Olympics...
England vs Australia - Full Match Final - Women's Hockey World League London [30/6/13]