Indoor Field Hockey

2005 FIH Indoor Rules of Hockey

Basics: Indoor hockey is played between two teams of six players (including the goalkeeper). Team rosters are limited to 12 players. Games consist of two, 20-minute periods. (25-minute games in the age-group divisions of USA Field Hockey's National Indoor Tournament) . Two umpires on the pitch officiate the match. A goal is scored when an attacker pushes, flicks or scoops into the opponent's goal from within the scoring circle.

Playing the ball: In indoor hockey, players may NOT "hit" the ball using a sweeping movement of the stick as is allowed in the outdoor game. Players must move the ball down the pitch using a "push" shot or deflection. In the circle, attackers may push, flick, scoop or deflect the ball in an attempt to score.

The definition of the push stroke states that the stick must be placed at or close to the ball before the ball is moved with both the ball and stick in contact with the floor.   "Slap shots" or long pushing or sweeping shots are not allowed

Playing Field: Smaller than an outdoor field, an indoor pitch is a min 18m (max 22m)  wide by min 36 meters ( max 44m)  long, divided by a center line. The shooting circle is a semi-circle measured out 9m from each goal post. Side-boards  mark the sidelines to help keep the ball in play.

Goal Cages: Goal cages are  smaller than in outdoor hockey, 2m high x 3m wide and a minimum of 1m deep

Ball: The requirements for the field hockey ball are the same for both indoors and outdoors. However, the dimpled ball used for outdoor, watered turf is not used on an indoor surface.

Made of solid plastic, the ball weighs between 5 1/2 ounces (156 grammes) and 5 3/4 ounces (163 grammes) with a circumference of 8 13/16 inches (224mm) to 9 1/4 inches (235mm). Usually white in color, other colors (red, yellow)   may be used as agreed.

Stick:  The stick requirements are the same for both indoor and outdoor hockey, however players often prefer a lighter, quicker stick specially made for indoor use. US Field Hockey's National Indoor Tournament Rules require the use of an indoor stick

The stick consists of a straight handle with a curved head. The lower part of the stick's left-hand (playing side) is smooth and flat. The back of the stick (right-hand side or non-playing side) is smooth and rounded for the entire length of the stick. The ball must be played with with the flat side of the stick. The stick cannot weigh more than 737 grams. (See The FIH Rules of Indoor Hockey for additional information on the Stick)

Changing sticks during a match

How to select a hockey stick