Field Hockey Rules
1. During open field play...
- Don't impede me or my stick if I have the ball. You must PLAY THE BALL to obtain possession.
- I can't shield the ball with any part of my body as I adeptly take it down the field on the end of my stick.(This is obstruction)
- Running over a person who has the ball is not considered valid defense.
- "Setting a pick" is not valid in Field Hockey.(This is third man obstruction)
- I can't field the ball with my feet (or any other part of my body) or the rounded side of my stick.(This is advancing)
- I won't raise the ball or stick to a height that may hurt another person.
- I will not verbally, or physically abuse ANYONE before, during or after the match.
Penalty : The above offenses will, at the very least, result in a "free hit."
Play In the Scoring Circle: All of the above rules apply but the penalty is different.
If the circle's DEFENSE fouls: Offense, instead of a "free hit," takes a penalty (short) corner." This basically is a free shot on goal if it is executed properly. (read: shot on goal before defense can react appropriately)
- If the circle's OFFENSE fouls:Defense takes a "free hit" at the top of the circle.
If the infraction by defense prevents a SURE goal, then the penalty is indeed a free shot on goal! It's called a "penalty stroke" and it's quite dramatic. A selected player, from a set stance 7 yards from center cage, propels the ball toward the opponent's goalie protected cage. This is done with the clock stopped and is choreographed by the two game officials.
There is no such thing as "off sides" in Field Hockey.
There is an "advantage" consideration in officiating Field Hockey. So...if there is a foul and person who GOT FOULED immediately ends up with the ball (despite or as a result of the foul)...it's a "no call" and play continues without a whistle.
....oh yeah, there are more rules than just the above but, in a nutshell...
This Virginia Beach Field Hockey Site houses the league registration form, game results as well as useful information and links regarding training hints, athletic training tips as well as training equipment. Links are all aimed for better play in field hockey.
