FIELD HOCKEY GOAL SIZE GUIDE

EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT FIELD HOCKEY GOAL DIMENSIONS

Just like ice hockey, field hockey is a fast-paced and dynamic sport. Whilst the two sports have that in common, there are many other differences that differentiate the two sports.

The most obvious difference is that one is played on ice, and the other is played on a field, but the differences don’t end there! Ice hockey is played with teams of 6, whilst field hockey teams are made up of 11 players. One uses a puck, and the other uses a ball.

Another big difference relates to the size of the goals, and in this guide, we’re going to focus on the size of field hockey goals, covering the regulation dimensions of field hockey goals as set out by International Hockey Federation (FIH), the sport's governing body.

We’ll also cover field hockey goal sizes for younger players, the size of field hockey goal nets and goal materials, ensuring that you have all the information you need prior to buying a field hockey goal.

FIELD HOCKEY GOAL DIMENSIONS

If you’re looking to buy a regulation field hockey goal, you will need to make sure that the goal adheres to USA Field Hockey and FIH regulations. FIH goal regulation sizes are set out in meters, so we’ve included hockey goal measurements in both meters and feet.

To meet FIH regulations, the goal must measure 2.14m/7ft high by 3.66m/12ft wide with a depth of 1.2m/3ft 11in. This measurement is taken from inside the posts and does not include the width of the goal posts/crossbar.

Field hockey goal posts and crossbars must be rectangular and white. They must also be 2 inches wide and 2-3 inches deep. Within the goal frame, there should be backboards lining the back and sides of the goal. These backboards should be 0.46m/18 inches tall, and they should be positioned to not narrow the goalmouth.

Field Hockey Net Size

Unlike with field hockey goals, there isn’t a set size for field hockey goal nets. The reason for this is that nets can attach to goals in different ways, with some attaching to the top of the backboard and others fixing to the bottom of the goal.

The only size requirement for nets is that they provide a depth of at least 1.2m/3ft 11in at the bottom and 0.9m/2ft 11in at the top. If this is the case, the nets are suitable for regulation size field hockey goals.

Nets will always be 3.66m/12ft wide with a depth of 1.2m/3ft 11in. Where they will differ will depend on where the net attaches to. If it attaches to the base of the goal, it will have a height of 2.14m/7ft. If it attaches to the backboard, it will be 1.71m/5ft 7in.

Although there isn’t a set size for hockey nets, there are some regulations they must follow. The maximum size of the square mesh, which are the gaps in the net, must be no bigger than 45mm/1.8 inches to ensure hockey balls are contained within goals.

The net must be secured to goals at intervals of no more than 150mm/5.9 inches, to keep the net fixed securely to the goal. When attached to the goal frame, the net must be loose in appearance to prevent the ball rebounding back into the field of play and potentially causing injury to players.

Field hockey goal sizes by age

Whilst USA Field Hockey follows international standards for senior goals, the organization has its own developmental program for younger players called the American Development Model (ADM).

The ADM places an emphasis on developing younger players and making age-appropriate modifications for goal sizes depending on the players age but doesn’t specify an exact goal size for each age group. In their guidelines, the ADM states ‘Goals sizes can be adjusted to suit the size of the field and the age, experience and skill level of players.

Although goal sizes will vary depending on the league, local regulations and goal availability, as a rough guide we recommend the following field hockey goal sizes for each age group.

Age Group	Suggested Goal Dimensions*	Reasoning
Under 6 (U6)	Mini goals	Introduce players to the game with no goalkeepers
Under 8 (U8)	6 feet wide x 4 feet high (1.83m x 1.22m)	Small-sided games with beginner-friendly targets to encourage skill development.
Under 10 (U10)	8 feet wide x 6 feet high (2.44m x 1.83m)	Gradually increasing goal size to challenge players without overwhelming them.
Under 12 (U12)	10 feet wide x 6 feet high (3.05m x 1.83m)	Transition size preparing players for competitive, regulation play.
Under 14 (U14) and above	12 feet wide x 7 feet high (3.66m x 2.14m)	Standard full-size goals aligning with international FIH regulations for senior play.

* Please note that these are suggested rather than regulation junior field hockey goal sizes, as there are no strict standardized regulations. Many junior leagues or clubs may opt for smaller target goals or simply use goal lines with cones instead of goal posts.

FIELD HOCKEY GOAL MATERIAL

Field hockey goals can be manufactured using various different materials. The material you choose for your goal will ultimately depend on how often you play, the level you play at, the location in which you are playing, and the budget you have available.

Here we will go through the materials that are typically used to manufacture field hockey goals, detailing where each is most suitable.

Aluminum

Aluminum is the most common material used for field hockey goal frames in games at all levels. The aluminum is reinforced to ensure that it is well weighted and durable, ensuring the structure doesn’t topple and can withstand regular ball impacts. The backboard will often also be manufactured using the same aluminum, which helps keep the frame upright and secure.

Despite being the most expensive material, aluminum provides the best quality performance which is why it is used in all elite competitions including the Olympics. Smaller aluminum target goals, that are used for improving shooting accuracy, can also be used in backyards if you don’t have space for a full-size field hockey goal.

Our FORZA FIH Championship Goal and FORZA Mini Target Goals use heavy duty aluminum that has been finished with powder coated polyester to prevent rusting and ensure the very best performance in all weather conditions. The aluminum backboard on the Championship field hockey goal has also been fitted with an artificial carpet that minimizes the harsh noise made by the ball hitting the backboard.

Steel

Steel field hockey goals are less common than aluminum goals. Although they’re not as durable as aluminum, they are a cheaper alternative that still perform well. Steel goals are more regularly used as training or backyard goals, and if you play less frequently, they could be a good choice for you.

FORZA ProFlex Pop-Up Hockey Goals are constructed with a steel frame supplemented by fiberglass poles to give you a training goal that takes just seconds to assemble. Coupled with the steel frame is a heavy-duty PVC backboard to help keep the structure upright against the impact of field hockey balls. As it can fold away in seconds, the goal can be stored away in the supplied carry bag and used as and when you wish, making it perfect for schools, clubs and home use.

PVC

PVC field hockey goals are perfect for junior practice and backyards. Whilst PVC doesn’t have the durability and stability to cope with the demands of senior matches, it can withstand the rigors of junior play and is cheaper than the metal alternatives. These goals are very easy to assemble and due to their lightweight nature, can be transported between locations with ease.

The FORZA 10 x 6 Field Hockey is made from incredibly strong yet lightweight PVC. Fully weatherproof, these versatile field hockey goals can be used all-year round in the backyard for home training sessions as well as by junior hockey clubs.

Now that you have read our complete field hockey goal information guide, why not check out our full range of FORZA field hockey goals? Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned professional, buying for your club or for your backyard, we’ve got the goal to match all your needs.

As well as field hockey goals, we also carry a variety of other premium-quality FORZA field hockey equipment, including field hockey sticks, balls, field and training equipment. If you’re looking to kit yourself or your field hockey club with the very best gear, we’ve got you covered.