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Indoor hockey is a ball sport that is mainly practiced in Europe. It is a variant of regular hockey, but, as the name suggests, is played indoors (in a hall). Moreover, the rules of the game are different from ordinary hockey. Indoor hockey is mainly played in the Dutch hockey league in the winter months of December, January and February.
What we discuss in this comprehensive post:
The history of indoor hockey
Did you know that indoor hockey originated in a game that was already played 5000 years ago in what is now Iran? Wealthy Persians played a game much like polo, but on a horse. Unfortunately, the less wealthy people, such as children and laborers, had no money to own and ride horses. Therefore, a need arose for a game that could be played without horses. That's how it came about hockey as we know it now, but without the horses.
From wood to modern materials
Over the years, the material with which hockey was played changed. In the beginning the sticks were made entirely of wood, but later more materials were used. Nowadays there are sticks made of plastic, carbon and other modern materials. This makes the game faster and more technical.
From field to hall
Indoor hockey was created later than field hockey. In the Netherlands, the number of indoor hockey players grew steadily in the 1989s and 1990s. Since 2000, the indoor hockey competition has been organized by the districts. Due to the often overcrowded field hockey program, the Dutch national teams did not participate in international indoor hockey competitions from 6 to XNUMX. But nowadays indoor hockey is becoming extremely popular next to field hockey. It is played on a smaller field with beams on the sides and a team of XNUMX players. The game requires even more technique, tactics and cleverness than on the field, but also discipline. Mistakes can be quickly punished by the opposing team. The game is a guarantee for many goals and spectacle and a great way to enormously develop your technique and speed as an athlete.
Indoor hockey today
Nowadays, the KNHB indoor hockey competitions for 6's, 8's, juniors and seniors. These are played in the months of December, January and February. Please note that the first and last weekend of the Christmas holidays can also be played. The competition will be played over 5-6 match days. On a match day (Saturday or Sunday) you play two matches at one location. Just like on the field, selection and width teams are formed. Usually width teams enter the hall as one team from the field. Selections are held for selection teams that play hall competitions. All players wear the same uniform and must wear indoor shoes with white soles. It is recommended to purchase a special indoor hockey stick and an indoor glove.
Indoor Hockey Rules: What you need to know not to be sent off the field
One of the most important rules of indoor hockey is that you can only push the ball, not hit it. So if you think you can make a nice shot like in field hockey, think again before you do. Otherwise you risk a yellow card and a time penalty.
Close to the ground
Another important rule is that the ball cannot rise more than 10 cm from the ground, unless it is a shot on goal. So if you want to make a nice lob, you have to do it on the field. In indoor hockey you have to stay low to the ground.
No lying players
A field player may not play the ball lying down. So if you think you can make a nice slide to win the ball, think again before you do. Otherwise you risk a yellow card and a time penalty.
Maximum 30 cm up
An assumption of the ball may bounce up to a maximum of 30 cm without hindering the opponent. So if you think you can take the ball high, think again before you do. Otherwise you risk a yellow card and a time penalty.
Whistle, whistle, whistle
Indoor hockey is a fast and intense game, so it is important that the umpires enforce the rules properly. If you think a violation has been committed, blow the whistle immediately. Otherwise, you risk the game getting out of hand and cards being dealt.
Play together
Indoor hockey is a team sport, so it is important that you work well with your teammates. Communicate well and play together to beat the opponent. And don't forget to have fun!
Conclusion
Indoor hockey is a ball sport that is mainly practiced in Europe. It is a variant of field hockey, but is played indoors. Moreover, the rules of the game are different from field hockey.
In this article I explained to you what it is, how it works and what you should pay attention to when choosing a club.
