Field Hockey – News, Tips and Community at Swindon Hockey Central
Welcome to the field hockey hub for Swindon. Whether you’re a seasoned player, a parent with a kid on the pitch, or just curious about the sport, you’ve landed in the right spot.
What’s happening in Swindon field hockey?
Our club runs weekly training sessions at the South Marston Sports Centre, open to all ages. The senior men’s team competes in the Wiltshire League, while the women’s side targets promotion in the South West Division. Check out our match schedule – you’ll find Friday night fixtures from September through March, plus a fun summer tournament every July.
Recent highlights include the under‑15 squad reaching the regional finals and the mixed‑gender friendly game that raised money for the local library. Keep an eye on our news feed for match reports, player spotlights and photo galleries from each game.
Getting started: Gear, skills and training tips
New to field hockey? The first thing you’ll need is a good stick. For beginners, a medium‑flex stick under 90 cm works well – it gives you control without too much power. Pair it with shin guards, a mouthguard and a pair of turf shoes that have good grip.
Basic skills are all about ball control. Spend a few minutes each day dribbling in a tight area; use the flat side of the stick to keep the ball low. When you’re comfortable with dribbling, practice the push pass – it’s the most reliable way to move the ball down the pitch. Remember to keep your eyes up; you’ll see openings faster.
Fitness matters too. Field hockey involves short bursts of sprinting mixed with longer jogging. A simple routine of 30‑second sprints, followed by 60‑second jogs, repeated ten times, builds the right stamina. Add a few agility ladder drills and you’ll be quicker on the ball.
Got a question about a specific technique? Our recent post “Can I use this as a street hockey stick if I put tape over it?” broke down how tape can improve grip, but for field hockey you’ll want a stick designed for turf. We also covered “How many defensemen are on a hockey team?” – the same defensive principles apply whether you’re on ice or grass.
For players aiming higher, the path to the USHL (United States Hockey League) is similar in mindset: consistent training, video analysis, and showing up for every practice. While the USHL focuses on ice hockey, the discipline translates well to field play.
Ready to join? Sign up at the club’s front desk or drop an email to our community coordinator. First‑timer sessions are free, and you’ll meet coaches who can tailor drills to your skill level.
Finally, don’t miss our annual “Field Hockey Open Day” in early May. It’s a great chance to try out gear, watch demo games and chat with seasoned players. Mark your calendar and bring a friend – the more the merrier.
Stay connected with Swindon Hockey Central for the latest field hockey updates, training tips and community events. Let’s keep the stick moving!
Artificial turf was introduced in field hockey for a number of reasons. Primarily, it offered more consistency than natural grass, reducing the impact of factors like weather on gameplay. In addition, artificial turf proved to be more durable, requiring less maintenance, and facilitated faster gameplay, which made matches more exciting for both players and spectators. Also, it minimized the risk of injuries due to uneven surfaces or slippery conditions. All in all, the introduction of artificial turf was a game-changer for field hockey.
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