A range of traditional, informal and social hockey opportunities are available to fit your aspirations, experience and lifestyle. Whether you want to play with your friends, play league hockey or just want to try something new and meet likeminded people for a friendly knockabout each week. There are hundreds of clubs across the country that above all provide a fun, social and welcoming experience.
Below you will find an overview of all the different ways you can play hockey.
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Club hockey is where most players get to play regularly and fall in love with the sport. With lots of clubs offering age and ability related opportunities, you can play hockey with your friends and against similar players. Many clubs have a range of teams meaning they can provide a suitable level for all, whether you want to play socially or more competitively.
A common feature of club hockey is regular training opportunities with appropriate matches, leagues and competitions that can take place locally, regionally and nationally depending on the desires and aspirations of each individual side.
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Often referred to as “Badgers or Vixens” some clubs provide opportunities for juniors to get their first taste of playing competitive 11-a-side hockey.
The team is largely made up of under 16s who are starting to transition into adult hockey and can consist of a mixture of boys and girls.
Up to two experienced adult players also play in the team to support the juniors on the pitch and teach them some of the important skills required and help them to become good effective team players.
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Small sided hockey is hockey’s version of 5-a-side football, with flexibility on the number of players in a team. With only a few simple rules that are easy to understand, and no need for goalkeepers, the game is quick to set up and play.
It aims to provide a more relaxed offering, and give players a fun and social hockey experience where they have more touches of the ball and more opportunities to learn, develop and practise their skills. It is also a good way for players to continue playing hockey on a more flexible basis when other commitments increase.
Small sided hockey can be delivered in a number of ways, as both the size of the playing space and the number of players in a team is flexible. Also, players of mixed experience and gender can easily play together and still have a great experience.
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From the age of 13, players can play in adult hockey games using the 11-a-side format that is the traditional version of hockey, with goalkeepers and full rules. Leagues and competitions take place locally, regionally and nationally. Most clubs have a range of teams meaning there can be a suitable level for all.
