The average weight of a field hockey stick is about 21 oz (600 g). Many forwards choose lighter sticks that are easier to maneuver. Many players also carry at least 2 sticks in case they play different positions. Every stick has a flat side and a rounded side. The flat side is the part you use to strike the ball. The ball is plastic and about the size of a golf ball.
You can get gear online or at most sporting goods stores. If you have soccer shin guards, they can be a good starting point as you learn the game. Goalies also need a lightweight arm and leg padding as well as a caged helmet. Most players don’t start off in goal, so consider learning the game as an outfield player before you decide on becoming a goalie. Gloves are optional pieces of equipment. Many players like wearing them for additional protection.
If you have soccer cleats, start with those. The cleat studs are longer but still provide plenty of traction on the field. When you get more involved with field hockey, you can then choose specialty field hockey cleats.
This basic grip is great for dribbling and controlling the ball. Roughly align your thumb with the curl at the end of the stick. Wrap your fingers around the grip, but be prepared to move them on occasion as you play. There is no such thing as a “lefty” stick. You can switch your hand positioning, but most left-handed players hold their sticks the same way as right-handed players.
Avoid leaning forward. Bend at the waist and keep your knees bent a little so you don’t injure your back. You keep this crouched position most of the time on the field. The only time you stand up straight is if you’re sprinting after a ball or standing in place.
Try to keep the ball in the same position relative to your body at all times. Avoid letting the ball get too close or too far from your body, or else it will be hard to control. If it gets away from you, move towards it instead of bending your back.
If you don’t lean the stick forward slightly, the ball may roll over it and get past you. Trapping the ball allows you to control it so your passes and shots are more accurate. Be gentle when receiving the ball. Pretend it’s an egg. Instead of breaking if you bump it too hard, the ball will roll away and the other team will get it. To practice, have someone else pass the ball to you until you feel comfortable stopping it.
Dribbling this way is excellent for keeping the ball in your possession as you move. Remember to always tap the ball with the flat side of the stick. Even experienced players can have a hard time mastering this technique. Try dribbling in place first. Once you have mastered that, walk up the field while dribbling.
A sweep pass or push is a basic pass that provides plenty of control and accuracy when you need to get the ball to a teammate. Keep 1 foot close to the ball and 1 foot behind you. When you move to hit the ball, bring your back foot forward to generate power. A sweeping pass is similar to how you would hit a ball in mini-golf. Follow through with your swing, but don’t try to slap the ball. Remember that you are pushing the ball towards the target. A variation is to dig your stick underneath the ball, then lift it up and push it towards your target.
Use your legs to maintain your balance and generate force. Avoid leaning forward more than you need to to reach the ball. The hook pass allows you to get to balls out of your reach. It probably won’t feel as accurate as sweep passes at first, so keep practicing!
Swinging your club this way is similar to driving a ball far in golf or cricket. For more accuracy, push the ball on the ground instead of trying to hit it with power. Remember that you can only shoot the ball by hitting it with the flat part of your stick while inside the scoring circle.
Forwards score goals, defenders block goals, and midfielders do a little of both. Try to pick a position that fits you best. You may even get to play multiple positions sometimes.
Make sure you only shoot with the flat side of the stick as well. The rounded side cannot be used at all.
A short corner is basically a power play in sports like hockey, indoor soccer, or lacrosse. For very bad fouls, such as trying to harm another player, the referee may award a penalty stroke. A player for the offense takes a 1-on-1 shot against the goalie.
Remember that, during a game, you run while holding and using your stick. Run with it in practice so you can get used to carrying it in a match.
Try asking a coach for help or sign up with a recreational team. Many colleges also have field hockey programs. Remember that even the best players start somewhere. Practice often, but have fun playing.
If you can’t find a team, you can always try organizing your own in your community.
