Welcome to our guide on how to start a floor hockey game in 5 easy steps! If you’re looking for a fun and active way to spend time with friends or family, floor hockey is an excellent choice. This game can be played indoors or outdoors, making it versatile for any season or weather.
In this article, we will walk you through the process of setting up the game, choosing teams, and starting the game. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced player, our step-by-step guide will help you get started in no time!
So, grab your sticks and let’s get started! By the end of this article, you’ll have all the knowledge you need to start your own floor hockey game and impress your friends and family with your skills.
Table of Contents
Step 1: Set Up the Field
Before starting your floor hockey game, you need to make sure you have a suitable playing field. Look for a flat and smooth surface without any obstacles such as rocks or sticks. If possible, find an indoor rink or a cleared outdoor space. It’s crucial that the playing area is safe for all players.
Next, you need to mark the boundaries of the playing field with cones or other markers. The standard size for a floor hockey rink is 200 feet by 85 feet. However, if you’re playing on a smaller surface, adjust the size accordingly. Make sure to mark the center line and the goals with markers as well.
Once you’ve marked the playing area, make sure the goals are securely attached at each end of the rink. If you don’t have official goals, you can create your own by using cones or other objects as markers. Make sure that the goals are sturdy and don’t move during the game.
After setting up the goals, it’s time to ensure the playing surface is clean and free from any debris. Sweep the surface to remove any dirt or dust. If you’re playing on an indoor rink, make sure the surface is dry and free from any spills that could cause players to slip and fall.
Finally, make sure there’s adequate lighting if you’re playing indoors or if the game goes into the evening. Good lighting is crucial for players to see the ball and for referees to make accurate calls.
Determine the Size of the Field
Consider the playing space available: The size of your floor hockey field will depend on the space you have available. If you are playing in a gym or large indoor space, you may have more room to work with. If you are playing in a smaller area, you may need to adjust the size of your field accordingly.
Use guidelines: Many floor hockey leagues have specific guidelines for the size of the playing field. Check with your league or organization to determine the recommended size.
Choose a size: If you are creating your own field, choose a size that works for the number of players you have and the available space. A standard size for floor hockey is approximately 200 feet by 85 feet, but you can adjust this as needed.
Mark the boundaries: Once you have determined the size of your field, mark the boundaries using cones or other markers. This will help players stay within the designated playing area.
Make sure there is adequate space: It is important to ensure that there is enough space for players to move around comfortably. Leave ample room between the boundaries and any obstacles such as walls or bleachers.
Now that you have determined the size of your floor hockey field, you are ready to move on to the next step: gathering your equipment.
Mark the Boundaries and Goal Lines
Use cones or boundary markers to define the playing area. Mark out the sidelines and the goal lines with the markers. The size of the playing area can vary depending on the number of players and the available space.
Make sure the goal nets are properly anchored so they won’t move during the game. Use stakes to secure the goals to the ground or use sandbags to weigh them down.
Mark the center line and faceoff circles with a circle or another type of marker. The center line divides the field in half, while the faceoff circles are used to start the game and after each goal.
Ensure the safety of the players by padding any obstacles near the playing area, such as walls or pillars. Make sure there are no sharp edges or corners that could cause injury.
Check the playing surface for any hazards such as debris, cracks or uneven areas. Make sure the surface is flat and suitable for the players.
Once you have marked out the boundaries and goal lines, you are ready to move on to the next step.
Step 2: Gather Your Equipment
Sticks: Each player needs a stick to play floor hockey. You can purchase sticks at a sporting goods store or online. You should choose a stick that is the right height for the player.
Pucks: You will need a puck to play floor hockey. Floor hockey pucks are made of plastic and can be purchased at a sporting goods store or online. Make sure to have extra pucks on hand in case some get lost during the game.
Goals: You will need two goals for the game. The goals can be made of plastic, metal, or PVC. You can purchase goals at a sporting goods store or online. Make sure to secure the goals firmly to the ground.
Protective Gear: It is recommended that players wear protective gear, such as helmets, shin guards, and gloves, to prevent injuries. You can purchase protective gear at a sporting goods store or online.
Get the Right Sticks and Ball
Select the Right Stick: Floor hockey sticks are shorter than regular hockey sticks and come in both right and left-hand orientations. Choose the orientation that feels comfortable to you.
Choose the Right Ball: Floor hockey balls are typically made of plastic and have a hollow core. Choose a ball that is specifically designed for floor hockey as regular balls are too bouncy and can cause injuries.
Consider the Ball Color: It’s best to choose a ball that is brightly colored so that it’s easy to see during the game. This will prevent any collisions between players and the ball.
Get Extra Equipment: It’s always good to have extra sticks and balls on hand in case any equipment gets damaged or lost during the game.
Consider Protective Gear: While not required, wearing protective gear such as shin guards and eye protection can help prevent injuries during the game.
Step 3: Choose Your Teams
Decide on the Number of Players: Floor hockey is a team sport, and the number of players on each team can vary depending on the available players and the size of the playing field. Generally, teams consist of 6 players each, including a goalie.
Form the Teams: Divide the players into two teams, and ensure that they are evenly matched in terms of skill level. You can do this by assigning a captain to each team, who can then choose players one by one until all players are assigned to a team.
Choose a Captain: The captain is responsible for making decisions during the game, such as which players will be on the floor, and communicating with the referee.
Assign Positions: Each player on the team has a specific position to play, such as defense, offense, or goalie. Ensure that each player understands their position and is ready to play their role during the game.
Select Team Captains
Choosing team captains is an important aspect of any floor hockey game. The captains should be responsible, organized, and have good communication skills. They will be in charge of making sure their team is ready to play and following the game rules.
Consider selecting captains based on experience, leadership qualities, and knowledge of the game. It’s also a good idea to have captains who are skilled players and can lead by example on the field.
Make sure to communicate the responsibilities of the captains clearly and let them know what is expected of them during the game. Having strong captains can make the game run more smoothly and lead to a more enjoyable experience for all players.
Step 4: Decide on Game Rules and Time
Determine the Game Time: Decide how long the game will last. A standard floor hockey game is typically 20-30 minutes long, with two halves of equal length.
Set the Number of Players: Determine how many players will be on each team. The number of players on each team will affect the rules of the game, as well as the size of the playing area.
Establish Rules: Agree on the rules of the game before starting. These can include anything from the number of players on the court to the penalties for rule violations.
Discuss Scoring: Determine how a goal will be scored and how many points each goal is worth. Typically, a goal is scored by shooting the ball into the opponent’s net with the stick.
Agree on the Number of Players
Before starting the game, you need to determine the number of players for each team. The size of the field and the skill level of the players can affect the number of players on each team.
In most cases, a standard game of field hockey is played with eleven players on each team, including the goalie. However, if you have a smaller field, you may want to reduce the number of players on each team.
It’s important to have an even number of players on each team to ensure a fair game. If you have an odd number of players, consider using a rotating system where one player from each team sits out for a few minutes while the rest play.
Establish How Long the Game Will Be
Step 4 of setting up a game of field hockey is to decide on game rules and time. A crucial component of the rules is determining the length of the game. Depending on the level of play and the age of the players, games can last anywhere from 25 minutes to 70 minutes.
When deciding on game length, it is essential to consider the fitness level and endurance of the players. Longer games are better suited for experienced players who can handle the physical demands, while shorter games are better suited for younger or less experienced players.
In addition to game length, it is important to determine if the game will be divided into halves or quarters. Most games are played in two halves, but some leagues or tournaments may use four quarters instead.
Ultimately, the game length and structure should be agreed upon by both teams and communicated clearly to the players, referees, and spectators to ensure a fair and enjoyable game.
Step 5: Begin the Game!
Now that you have set up the field, chosen teams, and established the rules, it’s time to start playing! Make sure all players are in their proper positions and ready to go.
Remember to play fairly and respect your opponents. Follow the rules you agreed upon and play to the best of your abilities.
Keep an eye on the time so you can wrap up the game in a timely manner. If the game goes into overtime, be prepared to play a little longer.
Communicate with your team and stay focused on the game. Encourage each other and have fun!
After the game, congratulate the winning team and thank everyone for playing. Clean up the field and equipment, and plan for the next game.
Start with a Face-Off
Position players at their starting positions on the field. The referee will place the ball in the center of the field and blow the whistle to signal the start of the game. Two players from each team will take the face-off, trying to gain control of the ball by hitting it with their sticks. Once one team gains possession, the other team will be on defense and try to prevent them from scoring.
Play Until a Team Scores
After the face-off, the game is on! The teams should try to score points by shooting the ball into the opposing team’s net using their sticks.
The game continues until one team scores a predetermined number of points, or until the time runs out.
If the game ends in a tie, you can either play an overtime period, or declare the game a tie.
Remember, the team with the most points at the end of the game is the winner!
Don’t forget to have fun and play fair!
Frequently Asked Questions
What equipment do you need to start a floor hockey game?
To start a floor hockey game, you need a set of sticks, a ball or puck, and goals. Make sure to choose the right equipment suitable for the playing surface.
How many players do you need to start a floor hockey game?
Typically, a floor hockey game involves two teams with five players each. However, the number of players can vary based on the playing surface and team size preferences.
What are the basic rules of a floor hockey game?
The basic rules of floor hockey include no high-sticking, no body checking, and no using hands or feet to move the ball. It’s also essential to establish the duration of the game, penalties, and substitutions before starting the game.
How do you decide on teams for a floor hockey game?
There are different ways to choose teams for a floor hockey game, such as randomly assigning players, selecting team captains, or having a draft. You can also have players decide on teams themselves, but make sure it’s fair and balanced.
How do you begin a floor hockey game?
A floor hockey game begins with a face-off, which involves two players from each team facing off at center court. The game resumes once the ball is dropped, and players can then move freely and try to score goals.
What are some tips for starting a successful floor hockey game?
To start a successful floor hockey game, ensure you have the right equipment, establish clear game rules, and have a fair team selection process. Additionally, make sure to have a designated playing area and consider the skill level of the players to make the game enjoyable for everyone.