Basic Rules
How many players are on the field per team, including the goalkeeper?
11 players (10 field players + 1 goalkeeper)
What shape is the shooting circle (the “D”)
A semi-circle
Who is the only player allowed to use their body to stop the ball inside the circle?
The goalkeeper
What is awarded if a defender accidentally kicks the ball inside the circle?
A penalty corner
What restart is awarded if the ball crosses the sideline?
Sideline hit
What part of the stick are players not allowed to use to hit the ball?
The rounded/back side
How far is the penalty stroke spot from the goal line?
7 yards (6.4 meters)
Which position typically takes the push or hit on a penalty corner?
The injector
What card results in a 2-minute suspension?
When can a self-pass be taken?
Anytime on a free hit
How many halves are in a regulation high school game, and how long are they?
Two halves, 30 minutes each (sometimes 4 x 15 min quarters)
What protective equipment must all field players wear?
What is the main role of midfielders?
Link offense and defense, support both
What is considered dangerous play?
Examples: high ball into players, dangerous stick, tackling from behind
What happens if time expires while a penalty corner is in play?
The penalty corner must be completed
What is the minimum distance defenders must be from the ball during a free hit
5 yards
What are the dimensions of a standard field hockey goal?
12 x 7 feet
What is the difference between a forward and a striker?
Forward presses high; striker is central and focused on scoring
What happens if the goalkeeper fouls inside the circle?
Penalty stroke (if goal prevented) or penalty corner
What must happen before a goal can be scored from a penalty corner?
Ball must go outside the circle, then back in
When is a ball considered “out of bounds”?
When it completely crosses the sideline or backline
What determines if a goal is valid?
The ball must be touched inside the circle
How do indoor player roles differ from outdoor?
6 players per team, tighter formations, faster passes, no lifted hits
What’s the difference between a penalty corner and penalty stroke?
Corner = foul in circle not preventing a certain goal; Stroke = foul prevents a certain goal
During overtime, how many players are allowed per team?
7 players