Hockey is played on pitches of different sizes, depending on the age group and level of play. In this blog, we discuss the dimensions of the six-a-side hockey pitch, the eight-a-side hockey pitch, and the regular match pitch, including run-off areas and markings.
Six-a-side hockey pitch
For 6-a-side hockey, existing pitches are typically used, with the game played on a quarter-pitch. The sidelines serve as goal lines. This allows four smaller 6-a-side pitches to be laid out on one hockey pitch.
Another option is to lay out a specific mini-pitch. It is recommended to use a pitch with the following dimensions:
- 55 meters long x 23 meters wide.
When constructing an artificial turf 6-a-side pitch, it is not strictly necessary to maintain a run-off area of 4 meters behind the backline and 2 meters next to the sideline. A slightly narrower run-off area is acceptable.
Eight-a-side hockey pitch
The eight-a-side hockey pitch measures 55 meters long x 46 meters wide. This pitch can be created by dividing a match pitch into a half-pitch, with the game played between the sidelines, the centerline, and the backline.
Run-off areas
For player safety, there must be an obstacle-free run-off area around the pitch:
- Minimum 4 meters behind the backline.
- Minimum 2 meters next to the sideline.
No obstacles such as fences, gates, or dugouts are allowed within the run-off area. Preferably, the entire playing surface, including the run-off strips, should consist of the same material. Paving up to a maximum of 0.50 meters wide near the fence is permitted.
Markings
All lines on the pitch are 7.5 cm wide and clearly visible.
- Sidelines: 91.40 meters long.
- Backlines: 55 meters long.
- Centre line: across the width of the playing field.
- 23-meter lines: run across the width of the field at 22.90 meters from the backlines.
- Short markings: 30 cm long lines at various strategic points, such as 14.63 meters and 5 meters from the backline.
- Penalty spots: with a diameter of 15 cm, placed 6.40 meters from the goal line.
Shooting circles and practice circles
In front of each goal, within the pitch, there is a shooting circle, consisting of:
- A 3.66-meter line, 14.63 meters from the backline.
- Two quarter-circles that extend to the backline.
- A broken line at 5 meters from the edge of the circle, applied for practice purposes.
Since April 1, 2009, it has been mandatory to apply these broken lines to new pitches or during renovation.
Practice circles
Clubs can choose to add a practice circle for additional training opportunities. Some features:
- Broken line of maximum 5 cm wide.
- Different color from the pitch markings, for example, white instead of yellow.
- Practice circles are useful for goalkeeper training and penalty corner drills, but they make a pitch unsuitable for official international matches.
Multifunctional Markings
Hockey pitches should, in principle, only have official hockey markings. Additional markings for other sports are only allowed with dispensation from the national federation board. For international matches under the auspices of the FIH and EHF, only pitches with hockey markings may be used.
The dimensions and markings of hockey pitches are carefully determined to ensure a safe and fair playing environment. Depending on the age group and skill level, pitches are divided into different formats, ranging from six-a-side and eight-a-side hockey to the regular match pitch. When constructing and renovating pitches, mandatory markings, run-off areas, and material choices must be considered to ensure an optimal playing experience.
