Understanding Field Hockey Rules: Dimensions, Gameplay, and Regulations

Posted on Feb 14, 2025 in Physical Education

Field Hockey Rules and Regulations

Two field markings are present.
A central point should be set at the midpoint of the central goal area, measuring 4m x 5m.
This point must be marked 2.85m from the baseline, centered, and in relation to the band lines.
The goalkeeper’s area measures 1m x 2.5m and should be marked 0.65m from the posterior line.

Regular Playing Time: Three periods of 20 minutes each, with two 10-minute rest periods. Teams switch sides and areas during these breaks.
If the game is tied, there will be an additional 15 minutes split into two periods. The game stops for goals, penalties, timeouts, etc., lasting 3 minutes during regular play.
Overtime: If the game ends in a draw, overtime is played until one team scores. The time limit is 10 minutes extra.
If no goal is scored, the game proceeds to penalties.
Penalty Shootouts: Five players from each team participate in the penalty shootout. If the score remains tied after these shots, players continue to take turns until one team misses, resulting in a definitive outcome.

Players: Each team registers 20 players. During the game, 6 players can participate simultaneously on the field, with one designated as the goalkeeper. A minimum of 5 players and a goalkeeper must be on the field to start the match.
Substitutions: Players can be substituted at any time and an unlimited number of times during the game.
Referees: A match must be overseen by two referees with equal authority.
Control Table: A neutral delegate is responsible for the minutes and time control of the match.

Neutral Start: A neutral start (face-off) is used at the beginning of each period, as an initial start, and after a goal has been scored. When the game has been interrupted and neither team has the right to a band start or penalty throw, all players except those directly involved in the start must be placed at a minimum distance of 3cm.
Situations Leading to a Neutral Start: When the ball is involuntarily modified or cannot be played, or when the goalkeeper is involuntarily displaced and cannot be placed back in position within a reasonable time.
Band Start (Hit-In): This occurs when the ball leaves the playing field above the band. The start is performed from where the ball went out, 1.5m from the band, never behind the imaginary line that prolongs the band.
Situations Creating a Band Start: When the ball crosses the band line or when the ball touches objects above the playing field.
Free Hit: Occurs when a player commits a breach against the rules. The ball is put into play by the opposing team from the place where the infraction was committed, never behind the line prolonging the goalkeeper’s area.
Situations Creating a Free Hit: When a player raises or kicks the opponent’s stick, when a field player controls the ball with their foot or attempts to revive their club by hitting it with their foot, or when a field player raises the blade of their stick above their hip before or after hitting the ball.