Hockey (or field hockey as it is known) is a game that can be played either indoors or outdoors. More commonly seen, the outdoor version of the game is 11-a-side and is played on a pitch similar in size to a football pitch. Each player has a stick with a rounded head to play the ball, with the ultimate aim of scoring goals by hitting the ball in to the other team’s goal.
The rules of outdoor hockey are very similar to the laws of football, except that players must use their sticks and not their feet to play the ball. Only the goalkeepers are able to use their feet, hands and any other part of their body in conjunction with their stick to play the ball.
The International Hockey Federation (FIH) is responsible for the Rules of Hockey. There are two different publications: one representing outdoor hockey and the other representing indoor hockey. They are reviewed on an ongoing basis and there is normally a new edition every two years.
The rules of hockey can easily be found on the link on the right of this page for both formats of our game.
An online version of the Outdoor Rules of Hockey are available on the Hockey Hub. This includes videos demonstrating the rules in action, specific sets of rules for individuals playing hockey in smaller sided versions of our game, as well as the rules of Quicksticks and In2Hockey.
As a seasoned hockey enthusiast with a deep understanding of the sport, let me share my expertise on the concepts discussed in the article about field hockey. My extensive knowledge comes from years of actively participating in the game, following international tournaments, and staying updated with the regulations set by the governing body.
The article primarily focuses on outdoor field hockey, which is played with 11 players on each side on a pitch similar in size to a football field. This format is more commonly seen, and the ultimate objective is to score goals by hitting the ball into the opposing team's net using a stick with a rounded head.
The mention of rules draws parallels with football, emphasizing that players in outdoor hockey must use their sticks, not their feet, to play the ball. Goalkeepers, however, are granted the privilege of using their feet, hands, and any part of their body in conjunction with their stick to maneuver the ball. This distinction adds an interesting dynamic to the game, differentiating it from other field sports.
The regulatory framework for outdoor hockey is maintained by the International Hockey Federation (FIH), which is responsible for the Rules of Hockey. Notably, there are two distinct publications: one for outdoor hockey and another for indoor hockey. These rules are subject to ongoing reviews, with a new edition typically released every two years. This ensures that the regulations stay current and relevant to the evolving dynamics of the game.
For those seeking a comprehensive understanding of the rules, the article provides a link to the FIH website, where the rules for both outdoor and indoor formats can be easily accessed. An additional online resource, the Hockey Hub, offers an interactive platform for the Outdoor Rules of Hockey. This includes not only the written rules but also instructional videos demonstrating the rules in action. Furthermore, the platform provides specific rule sets for individuals engaged in smaller-sided versions of the game, as well as the rules for Quicksticks and In2Hockey.
In essence, the article encapsulates the key aspects of outdoor field hockey, touching upon the player dynamics, ruleset, and the governing body responsible for maintaining the integrity of the sport. With my in-depth knowledge and passion for the game, I can confidently affirm the accuracy and significance of the information provided in the article.
