U16 INDOOR

Vermont FHC is excited to announce that we’ll be offering an indoor field hockey season this Winter, and we would love for you to join us! Indoor field hockey is slightly different than outdoor. Indoor is played on a rectangular sports hall floor measuring 40 m long and 20 m wide. Each team consists of 5 field players and 1 goalkeeper. The court is surrounded by boards along the perimeter, which helps keep the ball in play. The only area where the ball can go “out” is along the base line. A full indoor match is 40 minutes. A couple notable changes from outdoor field hockey are…

1. The side boards can be used to make passes and beat players

2. Lifting the ball is only permitted inside the circle when shooting on goal

3. Hitting, striking, or slapping the ball is not allowed. Players can only use push passes to move the ball across the court.

Indoor also requires some additional equipment. Indoor is played with an indoor stick. These sticks are thinner and lighter because you cannot hit the ball. Players also need indoor gloves and court shoes. Huge cushioned gloves are worn to help defend with knuckles on the court and prevent injury. Court shoes are helpful to provide traction on the court and prevent scuffing. Click this link to explore Longstreth’s indoor gear!

U16 athletes will have the option to play on either a tournament team or practice team. The tournament team will attend one tournament in Hampton NH (1 day) and one tournament in Fitchburg, MA (2 day).

All practices will take place at the University of Vermont and teams will be coached by University of Vermont Field Hockey Coaches and Players.