Step1
Set up teams of 11 players each, which will be split into offensive and defensive positions. Game play usually consists of two 30-minute halves.
Step2
Remember that the point of the game is to put the ball in the opponent's goal. Field hockey is a passing game, where the ball is moved via passing, dribbling and hitting.
Step3
Set up the field with a goal on either end. There should be a striking circle in front of each goal, like a penalty box. Goals are scored when the ball goes into the goal after touching the stick of a player in the striking circle.
Step4
Mark a midfield circle at the half line. This is where the ball is put into play after each goal and at the beginning of each half. The game is started by passing the ball back to a teammate.
Step5
Get to know the different offensive positions. The forwards are the offensive front line and do the majority of the attacking. The midfielders offer attack support for the offense.
Step6
Learn the defensive positions. The midfielders, in addition to supporting the offense, also serve as the first line of defense. The fullbacks are the primary defenders. The goalkeeper is in charge of keeping the ball out of the goal.
Step7
Familiarize yourself with the different penalties that you can face for unsafe stick handling (see "eHow to Avoid Penalties in Field Hockey"). The referee can award free hits for intentional or unintentional fouls, so saying you didn't mean to won't save you from losing possession of the ball.
From there:
1. Get equipment, at least a stick and a ball. There are plenty of brands, shop around and find a stick that's of a comfortable weight and height for you, not just one that's pretty. Shin and/or ankle guards are a good idea, too. see stuff you need at bottom for list.
2. Get a grip. With your left hand, grip your stick at the top with knuckles lined up and thumb pointing down towards the hooked bit of the stick, roughly aligned with the bit that's pointing up. Hook thumb around handle if desired (people have been known to break 'em on collision). Your right hand should grip your stick at a point lower on the stick that is comfortable to you. You should be able to stand with the hooked tip grazing the ground, the flat end facing out.
3. Remember that your left hand does the guiding of the stick, your right hand is there for support.
4. Take a stance. Left foot pointing front, right foot back support. Bend your knees slightly, aim for the ball, which should be in line with your left foot or slightly before it, but not ahead. It is important to remember to not bend your back so much as keep your KNEES BENT. Otherwise, you will be very sore the next day!
5. Trap the ball. Many people put their sticks down, parallel to the ground (to maximise obstructive surface area), but with practice you'll be able to just get behind the ball. To stop the ball, as it's coming towards you, move backwards, to slow the ball before stopping it. Just keeping the stick still often means the ball will roll over the stick, and hitting the ball will often cause it to go haywire in a completely different direction.
6. Perfect the Indian dribble or reverse stick. When the ball is on your left, twist the stick with your left hand so that the flat side is again facing out correctly. Let go of your right hand as you twist, grip again once stick is in position. Make sure you never touch the ball with the rounded side of the stick; always use the flat side. Anything else and you'll be a pretzel.
7. Hit it! Move your right hand closer to your left hand (i.e. up) (but note: this isn't golf), the ball should be in line with your forward foot. There are several different types of shots:
* Slap-shots: choke down your right and pretend you're playing cricket. Be careful though, sometimes the ball can go a different direction to the way you're intending it too if you're not experienced with hitting. Only hit the ball in a desperate circumstance, or when you're shooting for a goal.
* Pushes: grip should be between that for a hit and a slap-shot; ball should be right in front of the flat side of your stick, which should be somewhere around your back foot. Transfer weight from back foot to front foot, lean into it and push. A push is often used for passing, as it is swift and easy.
* Hook variation: place stick almost parallel to ground, hooked portion curving lovingly around the ball. Ball and hook end of stick should be behind back foot. Transfer weight from back foot to right foot, pull hard then push in one smooth motion.
* Flicks: hands in slap-shot grip, dig edge of stick beneath ball, much as you would toe scoop a soccer ball, lift and push, transferring weight from back foot to front foot.
8. Get comfortable with your gear. Bounce the ball along the flat length of your stick. Dribble it down corridors. Walk it. Figure-eight it. Everything helps. The more you practice, the better you get!! Remember that.
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