Secondary School Delivery

The In2Hockey format of the game has been designed specifically for children aged 10 – 14, to give them the best and most appropriate age related experience of the game. It is designed to be easier for schools to provide and is accompanied by resources and equipment to help to make the game as easy as possible for teachers to deliver, even if they have little hockey knowledge. In2Hockey follows on from hockey’s introductory 4-a-side game Quicksticks. It can be introduced as a 6-a-side game without goalkeepers, or played as a 7-a-side game with goalkeepers.  

The 6-a-side version can be played on various surfaces and uses adapted equipment and simplified rules to make this possible. Overall, In2Hockey aims to develop hockey skills and techniques and to provide a gradual progression into the 11-a-side game. 

Key differences at a glance: 

Further information and guidance can be found in the In2Hockey Advisory Guidelines, where pitch dimensions, pitch markings and key safety points are also provided. The Advisory Guidelines and latest rules for 6 and 7-a-side and further resources and information are available online at the Hockey Hub.

Small sided hockey is hockey’s version of 5-a-side football, with no set rules about the number of players in a team. Team sizes and playing space can be adapted to suit the number of players and the size of the playing area you have available. It is generally best for teams to be made up of between 4-8 players, so it provides players with an enjoyable experience of the game, more touches of the ball and more opportunities to develop and practice their skills. It’s a great way to deliver hockey to those who are new to the sport or wanting an informal experience. It can be played indoors or outdoors, using a bigger, lighter ball, which new players find easier to control and less intimidating than traditional hockey balls. With a few simple rules that are easy to pick up and no need for goalkeepers the game is quick to set up and play. 

As players of mixed ability, experience and gender can play together, small sided hockey is great for both curricular and extra-curricular activity as an alternative way of delivering hockey. 

To find out more click here.

11-a-side is the traditional version of hockey, with goalkeepers and full rules. This is the version of the game favoured by schools with suitable facilities and established hockey delivery. 

From age 13 upwards, the ability and experience levels of players can vary greatly depending on whether they have played hockey before, and if so, what their level of experience is. When considering which version is right for your school and your players it is important to ask yourself the following questions:  

• What facilities do we have available to play on? 
• Are the players enjoying and/ or engaged in the activities/the game? 
• Are all the players being challenged appropriately? (is it too difficult, too easy, one-sided)  

The use of the delivery resources on Hockey Hub will continue to help you adapt your teaching to ensure it meets the needs of the players. There is also a great section on the rules of the 11-a-side game, including an interactive quiz.