If your daughter is just starting her journey in field hockey, you’re probably wondering what equipment she needs to get started. Field hockey is a fun and fast-paced sport that requires specific gear for safety and performance. Here’s a complete guide to the essential equipment your beginner daughter will need for field hockey, ensuring she has everything required to play comfortably and safely.
1. Field Hockey Stick
The most essential piece of equipment in field hockey is, of course, the stick. Choosing the right stick for your beginner daughter is crucial, as it affects her control, power, and comfort while playing.
- Length: The length of the stick should be appropriate for her height. A common rule is to make sure the stick reaches just above her hipbone when she’s standing. You can also measure from the floor to her hip for a precise length.
- Material: Beginner sticks are often made of wood or a composite of fiberglass and plastic. Wooden sticks are more forgiving and great for beginners who need to focus on ball control and dribbling.
- Weight: A lighter stick is ideal for a beginner. It allows your daughter to move the stick more easily, giving her better control as she learns basic skills.
2. Shin Guards
Field hockey involves a lot of running and stick contact, which means shin guards are vital for protection. Shin guards are worn under long socks to provide a layer of padding against accidental hits from the ball or stick.
- Coverage: Look for shin guards that provide ample coverage for the shins, from the ankle to just below the knee. They should fit snugly to provide maximum protection without hindering movement.
- Comfort: Make sure the shin guards are comfortable enough to wear for extended periods. Some shin guards have added ankle padding for extra protection, which is especially helpful for beginners.
3. Mouthguard
Safety is crucial in field hockey, and a mouthguard is a must-have to protect your daughter’s teeth and mouth from potential impacts.
- Boil-and-Bite Mouthguard: Most players use boil-and-bite mouthguards that are softened in hot water and then molded to the shape of the mouth. They provide good protection and are relatively inexpensive.
- Fit: Ensure the mouthguard fits well and is comfortable for your daughter to wear. If she finds it uncomfortable, she may be less likely to keep it in during games and practices.
4. Field Hockey Shoes
Field hockey is played on different surfaces, including grass, artificial turf, and sometimes indoor courts. Your daughter will need suitable shoes to provide support, grip, and stability.
- Outdoor Shoes: For outdoor fields, cleats or turf shoes are best. They provide the grip needed to prevent slipping on grass or artificial surfaces.
- Indoor Shoes: If she’ll be playing on indoor surfaces, shoes with a good grip but without cleats are appropriate. Look for lightweight shoes with a reinforced toe area for added durability.
5. Field Hockey Ball
While most teams will provide balls for practices and games, having a field hockey ball at home is great for practice. It allows your daughter to work on her dribbling, passing, and shooting skills in her own time.
- Standard Ball: A standard field hockey ball is small, hard, and dimpled. You can find practice balls that are slightly lighter, which may be easier for beginners to use.
- Practice Space: Encourage your daughter to practice in a safe space, such as a backyard or local field, where she has enough room to move around without obstacles.
6. Gloves
A field hockey glove is not always required but can be helpful for extra protection. The left hand is most exposed during play, so a padded glove can help prevent injuries from stick impacts or falls.
- Left-Hand Glove: Many players wear a glove only on their left hand, which is most at risk of being hit. The glove should provide padding while still allowing her to grip the stick properly.
- Comfort and Fit: Make sure the glove fits comfortably, allowing flexibility while protecting the knuckles and back of the hand.
7. Protective Goggles (Optional)
In some leagues, wearing protective goggles is mandatory, especially for younger players. Goggles protect the eyes from errant sticks and balls, reducing the risk of injury.
- Certified Goggles: Make sure to purchase goggles that meet the safety standards required by the league. They should be comfortable, with an adjustable strap to ensure a secure fit.
8. Comfortable Clothing
Field hockey requires a lot of running, so your daughter will need athletic clothing that allows her to move freely.
- Jersey and Shorts/Skirt: Most teams provide jerseys, but your daughter may also need suitable athletic shorts or a skirt. Make sure the clothing is breathable to keep her comfortable during intense activity.
- Socks: Long socks are worn over shin guards, so they need to be durable and able to accommodate the extra padding underneath.
9. Water Bottle
Field hockey is a physically demanding sport, and staying hydrated is crucial. Make sure your daughter has a water bottle that she can bring to practice and games to keep herself hydrated.
10. Field Hockey Bag
Lastly, having a field hockey bag makes it easier to carry all of the gear to and from practices and games. Look for a bag with enough compartments to hold the stick, shin guards, shoes, and other accessories.
- Stick Holder: A field hockey bag often includes a holder specifically for the stick, making it convenient to carry.
- Space for Essentials: Make sure there is space for items like water bottles, extra socks, and personal belongings.
Conclusion
Getting your beginner daughter ready for field hockey involves equipping her with the right gear to ensure safety, comfort, and a positive learning experience. The essential items include a properly sized field hockey stick, shin guards, a mouthguard, suitable shoes, and other protective gear like gloves and goggles. Providing her with the right equipment will not only keep her safe but also help her enjoy the sport and develop her skills effectively. Whether she’s playing for fun or as part of a team, having the right gear will set her up for success on the field.
