|
|
Indoor Hockey |
Field Hockey |
|
Game Duration |
35 minutes |
70 minutes (4x17.5 min) |
|
Number of Players |
12 total |
16 total |
|
Field |
Hall |
Artificial turf |
|
Dimensions |
Between 36x18m and 44x22m |
91x55m |
|
Side of the field |
Boards on the long sides of the field |
Sideline around the entire field |
|
Equipment |
Indoor stick, indoor shoes, indoor gloves, and indoor ball |
Field stick, field shoes, field ball |
|
Playing the ball |
Pushing only |
Hit, flat, and push |
|
Height of the ball |
Max 10 cm high (higher for goal attempts) |
Can be high as long as it's not dangerous |
|
Keeping distance |
3 metres |
5 metres |
|
Penalty Corner |
Defenders behind the baseline (on the non-pass side) |
Defenders behind the goal line and baseline |
The end of the year is approaching. Which means indoor hockey is already in full swing. This indoor form of hockey requires good preparation before the ball can start rolling. In this blog, we'll refresh your memory and ensure you're well-prepared for the indoor hockey season!
Main differences between field and indoor hockey
Although the game is still played with a stick and a ball, there are significant differences between the outdoor and indoor variants. The game is faster, the spaces are smaller, and technique plays an even greater role. The materials and rules also differ, making good preparation essential. In the table below, we've clearly outlined the biggest differences.
Field setup for indoor hockey
Indoor hockey is played in a sports hall on a much smaller pitch than outdoors. An official indoor hockey pitch has a length between 36 and 44 meters and a width between 18 and 22 meters, depending on the available sports hall. The pitch is completely demarcated with hockey sideboards, which are essential for the dynamic of the game.
The sideboards:
- Ensure fast and precise passing along the side
- Enable rebounds (a characteristic element of indoor hockey)
- Create clear pitch boundaries
Pre-match checks are important: are the sideboards straight, stable, and snugly together? Damaged or warped sideboards affect the game. A well-laid sideboard setup forms the basis for a safe indoor hockey pitch. At the end of a match day, hockey sideboards are cleared away to free up the hall for other activities. A hockey sideboard trolley offers the ideal solution for storing all sideboards. This way, you keep all materials neat and organized.
Special indoor hockey goals
Indoor hockey goals differ from field hockey goals and are fully adapted to the compact nature of indoor play. An indoor hockey goal has the official dimensions of 3 meters wide and 2 meters high. This makes it smaller than a field hockey goal.
In addition, the goals are:
- Lighter in construction
- Often equipped with foldable net supports so they can be easily stored
- Suitable for intensive use in sports halls
- In some cases, multi-functional for other indoor sports, such as handball and futsal
Player equipment
For indoor hockey, you need different equipment than for field hockey.
Indoor Hockey Stick
An indoor hockey stick is:
- Lighter
- More flexible
- Thinner in the blade
This provides more control and allows for quick movements. In indoor hockey, the ball is often pushed and rarely hit, making these lighter sticks perfectly suited to the game.
Indoor Shoes
Indoor hockey shoes have:
- A non-marking, usually light, sole to prevent streaks
- Extra grip for quick turns
- Good cushioning for the hard sports floor
Gloves mandatory
Unlike field hockey, an indoor glove is mandatory. This offers protection to fingers, thumb, and hand during low ball reception, rebounds off the board, and defensive actions close to the ground.
Mobile Grandstands for Indoor Sports
During the indoor field hockey season, games are played in sports halls that host multiple sports and events. This makes mobile grandstands an ideal solution. Unlike permanent grandstands, mobile installations can be quickly set up, moved, and stored away, without compromising space in the hall.
This offers clubs and facility managers maximum flexibility. For big matches, you can easily create extra seating for supporters, while for training sessions or other activities, you can completely clear the floor again.
Key rules of indoor hockey
The rules differ from field hockey in a few important ways. A few key points:
- No hitting, only pushing
- The ball must stay low (max. 10 cm high when passing and receiving)
- The sideboards are part of the game: rebounding is allowed
- No rough physical challenges
- Goalkeepers have a smaller range of action than outdoors
- You play in teams of 6 players (5 field players + goalkeeper)
Completely ready for a sporty indoor hockey season
With the right preparation, materials, and organization, every team and every club starts the indoor hockey season strong. From indoor hockey goals and stable hockey boards to complete player equipment. Everything contributes to a smooth indoor season.
A well-equipped hall makes all the difference. This way, you are not only prepared for the winter months, but you also ensure that everyone can enjoy the best that indoor hockey has to offer. Good luck this season!
Frequently asked questions
We have listed the frequently asked questions about indoor hockey for you here.
What is the difference between field hockey and indoor hockey?
The difference between field hockey and indoor hockey lies primarily in the smaller playing field, the use of boards, and the fact that you are not allowed to hit the ball indoors, only push it. This makes the game faster and more technical.
How big is an indoor hockey pitch?
An indoor hockey pitch is between 36–44 metres long and 18–22 metres wide. The exact dimensions depend on the available sports hall.
What equipment do you need for indoor hockey?
For indoor hockey, you need an indoor hockey stick, indoor shoes, and a glove with finger protection. Additionally, hockey boards and indoor hockey goals are required for a safe playing setup.
What are the official dimensions of an indoor hockey goal?
An indoor hockey goal is 3 meters wide and 2 meters high. These goals are lighter than field hockey goals and are often collapsible.
What do hockey boards do in indoor hockey?
Hockey boards enclose the field and allow the ball to bounce. They make the game faster, more dynamic, and safer.
Are you allowed to hit in indoor hockey?
No, hitting is not allowed in indoor hockey. You may only push, which keeps the game technical and controlled.
