Field hockey pits two teams of 11 players against each other in a contest to see who can score the most goals within a set amount of time divided into two halves. Players score goals by hitting a ball past the goaltender into the goal with the flat side of the stick, according to the University School of Milwaukee Middle School. Players run and dribble the ball with their sticks, and defenders try to prevent the offense from taking shots. Physical conditioning is imperative, as the field is 60 by 100 yards.
Learn the Basics
Step 1
Grip the stick with a standard grip or a hitting grip. According to The Wonderful World of Field Hockey website, the standard grip has one hand up high on the stick and one hand low. The hitting grip has one hand on top of the other so the player can take a big backswing and smack the ball.
Step 2
Hit the ball with the flat, front, side of the stick to pass or shoot the ball.
Step 3
Dribble the ball by lightly tapping the ball forward as you run.
Execute the Other Skills
Step 1
Receive passes with the stick perpendicular to the ground, and pull back on the stick as if you are catching the ball, according to the Revere, Massachusetts, Public Schools website.
Step 2
Defend ballhandlers by using tackling techniques like the straight-on where you jab with your stick, or the left-foot lunge, where you bend the left leg and cut in front of the ball handler.
Step 3
Dodge defenders when handling the ball by scooping the ball with the curved part of the stick, or by reversing hands on the stick and hitting it the opposite way while dribbling.
Tips and Warnings
- Wear the right footwear to be able to make quick cuts and movements. Practice dodging moves on your free time to get better at them.
- Field hockey sticks can cause shin injuries, wear protection. Make sure you are in the best physical condition possible before playing field hockey.
Things You'll Need
- Cleats
- Field Hockey Stick
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