Field hockey involves two teams of 11 players attempting to shoot a ball into the other team's goal. Players use short sticks with hooked heads to dribble, pass and shoot. The stick measures 9 inches in circumference and features a plastic outer coating over a composite core. While field hockey teams require no set positions, most teams employ one goaltender along with an assortment of attackers, midfielders and defenders. The player's position will often dictate the kind of stick used.
Attackers
In field hockey, the attacking players, or forwards, provide most of the offense, racing upfield to threaten the other team's goal. Effective attackers prefer lightweight sticks weighing between 19 and 20 oz. to maneuver quickly in tight areas. Shorter, lighter sticks allow for quicker ball dribbling and snappier shots. Attackers also favor sticks with smaller heads, with the shorter hooks creating a more centered sweet spot for improved shot accuracy and power.
Midfielders
Since they spark the transition from defense to offense, midfielders need sticks that allow them to excel at both aspects of the game. A typical midfielder will carry a stick with an average weight of 21 oz., making it light enough to jump into the attack but sturdy enough to defend onrushing opponents. Midfielders will often use slightly longer sticks and larger head hooks than attackers to further aid their defensive responsibilities.
Defenders
Defenders, sometimes called backs, carry heavier, longer sticks to disrupt opposing attacks. A typical defender's stick will weigh up to 24 oz., with the extra weight making it more rigid and powerful when challenging for ball possession. While attackers often use sticks 36 inches or shorter in length, defenders will opt for sticks of 38 inches to provide extra reach. The defender's stick head will also be a larger, more dramatic J-shape for more stopping area to intercept passes and block shots.
Goaltenders
Like defenders, field hockey goalies wield heavier, longer sticks to provide the most surface area possible. Goalies care about stopping and deflecting shots, not passing, dribbling or shooting. Some goalies will even use kinked sticks. Instead of a traditional straight shaft, these kinked sticks feature a pronounced curve above the head to further expand the stopping surface. Such curves also make it easier to settle the ball against the ground. Goalie sticks will even feature special weight distribution and balancing to compensate for the goaltender holding the stick with just one hand.
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