Starting field hockey and not sure about the rules? Here’s a quick guide to help you understand the basics — so you can play with confidence and enjoy the game.
1. No Foot Contact
You can't use your feet or body to control the ball. Only goalkeepers can block with their body inside the D.
2. Stick Rules
Only the flat side of the stick can touch the ball. No backhand stick tackles allowed.
3. Obstruction
You can’t block an opponent from the ball with your body. Stay clean with stick-to-stick defense.
4. Free Hits
Awarded for fouls. Opponents must stay 5m away when it’s taken.
5. Penalty Corners & Strokes
Awarded for defensive fouls inside the D. Special set plays where the attacking team gets a scoring opportunity.