While the exact origins of the sport a field hockey are not known, cultures throughout history have played ball and stick games similar to field hockey for thousands of years. The modern game of field hockey was begun in England in the 18th and 19th centuries. In 1901, Constance Applebee, an English physical education teacher, taught the game at women's schools within the United States. The equipment used in field hockey today very closely resembles that used more than 100 years ago. Improvements, such as better protective gear for goaltenders, have improved the sport considerably.
Playing Field
The playing field for field hockey is 100 yards long and 60 yards wide. It is divided by lines along its length every 25 yards. At each end of the field is the striking circle. This is a semicircle that is 16 yards from each goal. In international play, all matches are played on artificial turf that has been watered down. Goal cages are positioned at each end of the field and are centered to the width of the field. They consist of a frame made of metal the back and sides of which are covered with netting. Each cage measures 7 feet high, 12 feet wide and 4 feet deep.
Goalkeeper's Equipment
Goalkeepers wear protective headgear. This includes a full helmet with neck guard and a heavy-duty wire face cage for full-face protection. They also wear leg pads that must not exceed 12 inches in width. Hand protectors are also worn and must be within 14 inches long and 9 inches wide.
Ball
Field hockey balls are round and are made of a hard, dense, solid plastic. They are usually colored white, although other colors are available. The dimensions of the hockey ball can range from 8 13/16 inches to 9 1/4 inches in circumference. Hockey balls weigh 5 1/2 to 5 3/4 oz.
Hockey Stick
Originally made of mulberry wood, field hockey sticks are now manufactured from a variety of materials, including fiberglass, graphite, Kevlar and other composites. Field hockey sticks range from youth sticks that are 26 inches long to full adult sizes up to 38 inches and must weigh 18 oz. to 25.9 oz. The stick consists of a long tapered handle leading to a more flattened area with a curved end, called the toe. The playing side of a hockey stick is flat below the handle, while the back of the stick is slightly curved. Several types of toes are available. These include the "shorti" used for quick maneuverability, the "midi," which is somewhat longer and more curved to provide a larger hitting and stopping area, and the "hook," a larger curve providing maximum striking surface and a larger sweet spot.
Uniform
The uniform consists of a jersey, shorts, knee socks and athletic shoes. Players may also elect to wear a knit cap and leather or synthetic gloves. Uniform design, color and condition are regulated within sanctioned play.
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