High School Field Hockey Field Dimensions
If you are interested in playing field hockey at the high school level, it is essential to have a good understanding of the field dimensions. A standard field hockey field has specific measurements that must be adhered to during matches. In this article, we will outline the official high school field hockey field dimensions, including markings, goals, and other important details for players and coaches.
Field Dimensions
A standard high school field hockey field measures 100 yards by 60 yards (91.44 meters by 55 meters). The field is divided into three distinct areas: the defensive, midfield, and attacking areas. The defensive area extends from the end line to the 25-yard line, while the attacking area extends from the attacking 25-yard line to the end line. The midfield area is the space between the two 25-yard lines.
The goal is situated in the center of each end line and is 7 feet high and 12 feet wide (2.13 meters by 3.66 meters). A shooting circle with a radius of 16 yards (14.63 meters) surrounds each goal. A dotted line marks the top of the circle, with two hash marks halfway between the top of the circle and the sideline. The central line divides the field in half and is marked by a line that runs from sideline to sideline.
Field Markings
Field markings are essential for players, coaches, and officials to understand the game's flow and where specific actions occur. The field markings include:
- The sideline - this marks the edge of the playing area
- The end line - this marks the end of the field and where the goals are situated
- The shooting circle - the area around the goal that restricts where players can shoot from
- The penalty corner mark - the spot where penalty corners are taken from
- The 25-yard line - marks the start of the defensive and attacking areas
- The central line - divides the field in half
Other Field Equipment
In addition to the field measurements and markings, there are other pieces of equipment on the field that players and officials need to be aware of, including:
- The goals - 7 feet high and 12 feet wide
- The ball - a hard, plastic ball about the size of a tennis ball
- The sticks - field hockey sticks are typically made of wood, composite materials, or fiberglass and range in length from 28 to 38 inches
- The goalkeeper's equipment - goalkeepers wear protective gear, including helmets, leg guards, chest protectors, and gloves
Conclusion
Understanding the dimensions of a high school field hockey field is essential for players, coaches, and officials. A standard field hockey field measures 100 yards by 60 yards and is divided into three distinct areas. The field markings, including the sideline, end line, shooting circle, penalty corner mark, 25-yard line, and central line, are also essential for understanding the game's flow. In addition to the field dimensions and markings, players and officials need to be aware of other equipment on the field, including the goals, ball, sticks, and goalkeeper's equipment.
