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     Two teams of ten players are on the field at one time. Teams usually line up with one goalkeeper, three defenders, three midfielders, and three attackers. On face-offs, players must remain in their respective playing zones until one team gains possession of the ball. Also, teams must have at least four players in their defending half and three players in their attacking half of the field at all times of the game.  Any player may score a goal and every player must contribute on defense when necessary. Substitutions may take place any time during the game. Midfielders (or Middies) - As the main ballcarriers on the team, middies cover the entire length of the field playing both offense and defense. Their responsibilities are to bring the ball up the field into the attack zone to set up offensive plays and scoring opportunities with their attackers. Attackers - Positioned in the opposing goal area, they are typically the best stick handlers and are the primary goal scorers on the team.Together with the middies, the attackers work the ball offensively to set up scoring opportunities. Defenders - Play in the defending goal area around their goal crease. These players use longer sticks (shafts up to 72 inches) that enable them to better “poke check” the sticks of opposing ballcarriers. Defenders constantly check attacking players to prevent them from taking shots on their goal. They also work with their goalie to “clear” the ball from their defensive zone up to the midfielders. Goalkeeper (or Goalie) - Plays inside the “goal crease” in front of his team’s goal. He uses a larger headed stick (up to 15 inches wide) to best defend against oncoming shots. He is the only player allowed to touch the ball with his hands, but can only do so when blocking shots inside his goal crease. He may not control the ball with his hands, only with the stick. Entire contents copyright © 1997-2006, MomsGuide.com , Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction in any form for commercial re-use without prior written permission is forbidden. “Mom’s Guide to Sports” is a registered trademark of MomsGuide.com, Inc. |
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