Field hockey has long been a cherished sport, loved for its strategic play and intense competition. However, a new and exciting variation of the game, known as Hockey5s, is taking the sports world by storm. From urban spaces to the international stage, Hockey5s is fast, dynamic, and designed for maximum engagement.
Recently, Female Athlete News spoke with Marc Bakerman, USA Field Hockey’s LA28 and National Boys Development Manager, to learn more about this thrilling format. Here’s what you need to know about Hockey5s, its benefits, and its potential to revolutionize field hockey in the United States and beyond.
What Is Hockey5s? A Modern Take on a Classic Sport
Hockey5s is a condensed version of traditional field hockey, featuring fewer players, smaller fields, and simplified rules. Introduced during the 2013 Singapore Youth Olympic Games, this variation has rapidly gained popularity across more than 70 countries. It’s often compared to other condensed sports formats, such as basketball 3×3, rugby7s, and futsal.
Marc Bakerman describes Hockey5s as a game that bridges the gap between street sports and organized field hockey. “It connects local, street, urban participation sport with hockey – it’s a way to play field hockey in a small urban space,” he says. This accessibility is one of the key factors driving its success.
The Upcoming National Hockey5s Chocolate Cup
Excitement is building for the National Hockey5s Chocolate Cup, an event sanctioned by USA Field Hockey and hosted by FAN, LLC. Scheduled for July 2025, this tournament is set to draw teams from across the United States.
Registration for the event is already open and will close on May 1, 2025, or once all spots are filled. With its fast-paced gameplay and high-energy atmosphere, the Chocolate Cup promises to showcase the best of Hockey5s.
Why Should Players Pay Attention to Hockey5s?
Hockey5s is more than just a fun alternative to traditional field hockey; it’s a game-changer for athletes at all levels. According to Bakerman, the format offers numerous benefits:
Accessibility: Play it anywhere – all you need is a small urban space.
High Energy: With constant action, quick decision-making, and high scoring, the game is both fun and competitive.
Skill Development: Players experience more touches on the ball and faster-paced gameplay, enhancing their overall skills.
Versatility: It’s perfect for pick-up games, fostering community engagement and participation.
Can Hockey5s Become an Olympic Sport?
The Olympic Games have always been a platform for showcasing innovative and emerging sports. Hockey5s has already made its mark as a Youth Olympic Games sport, and Bakerman believes it has the potential to become a second Olympic discipline for hockey.
Drawing parallels to basketball 3×3, he notes that the short format complements rather than competes with traditional field hockey. Its inclusion in the Olympics would further elevate the sport’s global profile and attract new fans.
Will Hockey5s Replace Traditional Field Hockey?
One of the biggest questions surrounding Hockey5s is whether it will eventually replace the traditional 11-player format. According to Bakerman, this is unlikely. “There is no evidence of decline of the ‘traditional’ version of a sport where a short format has been introduced,” he explains.
In fact, condensed formats like Hockey5s often serve as a catalyst for growth across all variations of the sport. By introducing field hockey to new audiences and making it more accessible, Hockey5s could help both versions thrive.
The Vision for Hockey5s in the United States
Bakerman envisions a bright future for Hockey5s in the U.S., emphasizing its potential for domestic growth. Community-based initiatives and events, such as the AAU Junior Olympics, have already demonstrated the format’s appeal.
By expanding grassroots programs and fostering local participation, Hockey5s can play a pivotal role in developing the next generation of field hockey players.
Key Benefits of Hockey5s
To summarize, here are the standout benefits of Hockey5s:
Fast-Paced Gameplay: The smaller field and fewer players make for an action-packed experience.
Inclusive and Accessible: Anyone can play, anywhere.
Skill Enhancement: Players develop agility, decision-making, and technical skills.
Community Building: The format encourages local participation and fosters connections.
Olympic Aspirations: As a Youth Olympic sport, Hockey5s has the potential to reach new heights.
FAQs About Hockey5s
1. What makes Hockey5s different from traditional field hockey?
Hockey5s features five players per team, smaller fields, and simplified rules. It’s designed for faster gameplay and higher scores, making it more dynamic and accessible.
2. Where can I play Hockey5s?
You can play Hockey5s anywhere with a small, flat space, such as a park or urban area. The format is ideal for community settings and pick-up games.
3. Is Hockey5s only for youth players?
No, Hockey5s is suitable for players of all ages and skill levels. While it gained recognition at the Youth Olympic Games, its appeal extends to adults and professionals as well.
4. How does Hockey5s benefit goalkeepers?
The fast-paced nature of the game means more action for goalkeepers, helping them develop quick reflexes and decision-making skills.
5. Will Hockey5s become an Olympic event?
While it’s already a Youth Olympic sport, there’s potential for Hockey5s to be introduced as a second discipline for hockey at the main Olympic Games.
Conclusion
Hockey5s is revolutionizing field hockey by offering a fresh, accessible, and exhilarating format. Whether you’re a seasoned player or new to the sport, this dynamic variation has something for everyone.
As the National Hockey5s Chocolate Cup approaches, excitement is building for what promises to be a landmark event. With its potential to inspire a new generation of players and fans, Hockey5s is poised to leave a lasting impact on the field hockey community.
Explore the game, join the movement, and experience the thrill of Hockey5s for yourself!