Hockey 5s is growing: is your pitch ready for it?

Field hockey is evolving. Both literally and figuratively. One of the most striking developments is Hockey 5s. A fast, compact game format that is gaining ground worldwide. SKOR is closely following this trend and is introducing a new product to its range: boarding for Hockey 5s. In this blog, you will read what this form of hockey entails, where it originated, why it is interesting for clubs and municipalities, and how we can help prepare your sports facility for the future.

Where does Hockey 5s come from?

Hockey 5s was developed by the International Hockey Federation (FIH) in response to the need for a faster, more accessible, and versatile form of hockey. Its first major international application was at the Youth Olympic Games in 2014 and 2018. Since then, its popularity has grown worldwide.

The main reasons behind its development:

• Suitable for urban sports locations
• Lower cost than a full field
• Appeals to younger target groups
• Ideal for countries where hockey is still emerging

In 2024, the FIH even organized the first official Hockey5s World Cup in Oman. A milestone in the further development of this game format. The Dutch men's team was crowned the winner of this tournament, demonstrating that Hockey 5s is taken seriously at the highest level, even from a sporting perspective.

Why are more and more clubs and municipalities choosing Hockey 5s?

In addition to advantages such as less space usage, lower construction costs, and higher game intensity, Hockey 5s also perfectly aligns with the changing needs of (ex-)hockey players. KNHB research shows that many hockey players quit because:

1. They didn't like their team or didn't feel welcome
2. Hockey took up too much time
3. They switched to more flexible sports like fitness or running

This is precisely where Hockey 5s offers a suitable answer. This game format requires less playing time, involves fewer obligations, and can be flexibly used for clinics, training sessions, or events, for example. Moreover, the dynamic nature of the game ensures more action and less waiting time, which makes it extra attractive for athletes looking for an intensive but accessible way to stay active.

In addition, 46% of ex-hockey players indicate that they find flexible forms of hockey attractive, and 35% are even considering an active return. With Hockey 5s, you are literally responding to the wishes of the future.

What does Hockey 5s demand from your accommodation?

A new game format requires a suitable sports environment. The good news: Hockey 5s can easily be implemented on an existing 11-a-side artificial turf pitch. This makes this game format accessible and quickly deployable for clubs and municipalities that want to use their accommodation multifunctionally.

For a good setup of a Hockey 5s pitch, some adjustments are necessary. These include specific pitch dimensions of 20 by 40 meters, adapted markings (such as a center line, quarter lines, and a penalty spot), and sturdy boarding that keeps the ball in play and ensures quick rebounds.

SKOR Boarding: three variants for every situation

For setting up a Hockey 5s field, SKOR offers three different boarding systems, each suitable for a specific application. These solutions have been carefully selected based on quality, safety, and applicability in diverse sports environments.

• The Hockey 5s Urban Flex is an excellent choice for recreational use. This lightweight boarding is suitable for training situations, clinics, and flexible use.
• The Hockey 5s Pro is suitable for official matches and complies with the guidelines for FIH Class 1 and Class 2. This variant offers the right balance between robustness and mobility.
• The Hockey 5s Pro Elite is a heavy-duty version, developed for permanent installations and intended for locations where the boarding is used long-term and intensively.