What springs to mind if you hear the word hockey? Also known as field hockey, it is a popular sport in countries such as the Netherlands, Australia, England, and Germany. There is a lot to know as far as field hockey is concerned. So, here are some essential facts to know about the sport.
Known as Hockey Outside of North America
Field hockey is one among many types of games under the umbrella of “hockey.” These include; ice hockey, roller hockey, street hockey, and sledge hockey. Outside North America, such as in the UK, field hockey is known just as hockey.
Hockey is a Global Sport
Hockey games are one of the most watched sporting events in the world. This means that it is among the most popular sports. In fact, it is the third most popular sport, behind soccer and cricket.
Played Using Right Handed Sticks
It is worth noting that field hockey players are only allowed to use one side of the stick. Players are only permitted to use the flat side of the stick. Notably, there are no left-handed hockey sticks.
Rules Violations
Hockey players have to play by the rules. Trivial violations can be pardoned. However, other minor infractions can be punished with a green and yellow card, which results in either a 2-minute or a 5-10 minute suspension respectively. A red card, on the other hand, means that the player is dismissed from the game.
It is Holland’s National Sport
Hockey is Holland’s national sport. As such, you can be sure that the number of Dutch who play hockey exceeds those of any other game, and this is evidenced by their success in global tournaments, especially their women’s national team.
It can be Played Indoors
Conventional hockey is played with 11 players per team. It can also be played indoors on a hardwood surface with smaller dimensions and six players in each side. Indoor hockey is very dynamic and fast-paced.
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