RULES OF MINKEY HOCKEY
MINKEY HOCKEY
Minkey is a modified form of hockey for players generally aged between 5 and 9. It is played on
a one quarter size pitch with a lighter hockey ball. Teams have 6 players on the field (rather
than the usual 11) and play 15 minute halves (instead of the 35 minute halves for a 'proper'
game). Players are only allowed to push the ball, not hit it. Minkey is an ideal game for boys and
girls learning to play hockey. Emphasis is placed on participation, enjoyment and the
development of skill.
A policy of equal time on the field regardless of skill, is common among many competitions.
Whilst this may mean losing some games that may have been won, it is more important for all
players to be given a go at this age. Players are also given the opportunity to experience
playing all positions on the field.
HOCKEY 7'S
Hockey 7's is a transitional game designed to introduce Minkey players to full scale hockey or
older juniors to the sport of hockey. It is best suited to players aged between 9 and 11, building
o n the basic skills acquired in Minkey. The pitch is half the size of a normal pitch. Teams have 7
players on the field, including a fully padded goalkeeper, and play 20 minutes halves.
The rules are almost identical to 'proper' hockey with only minor modification. Raised balls are
not allowed and no penalty strokes are awarded.
A policy of equal time on the field regardless of skill, is common among many competitions.
Whilst this may mean losing some games that may have been won, it is more important for all
players to be given a go. Players are also given the opportunity to experience playing all
positions on the field.
What are the rules?
To Start Play
The game is started with a pass from the centre (in any direction). At the centre pass each
team must be on their own goal side of the centre line. After each goal is scored the game
is restarted from the centre spot by the team conceding the goal.
Scoring
A goal can only be scored by an attacler playing the ball from within the 10 metre scoring
zone (Minkey) or within the goal circle (Hockey 7's). The ball must pass completely over
the goal line between the goal markers (cones). To avoid argument - if the ball hits one of
the cones no goal is scored.
Infringements
Players cannot:
* hit the ball in Minkey (pushing only allowed)
* hit an opponent with the stick
* play the ball with any part of the body (except the goalkeeper in Hockey 7's)
* raise the ball at all
* criticize or ridicule another player or the umpire
* obstruct an opponent by using the stick or body to prevent them playing the ball
* use rough or dangerous play such as raising the stick above the shoulder when another
player iswithin playing distance
RULES OF MINKEY HOCKEY (CONT...)
Penalties
A free push (or hit in Hockey 7's) is awarded to the opposition for infringements. At
the time the free is taken, must be at least 3 metres from the players of both teams
ball until the free is taken.
When the ball is played over the side line, the opposing team is awarded a free at the
point where the ball crossed the line.
In Minkey, for a breach of the rules within the 10 metre scoring zone or when the ball
lis played out over the back line, the opposing team is awarded a free to be taken on
the 10m line opposite to where the breach occurred or the ball went out.
In Hockey 7's, for a breach of the rules by an attacker in the goal circle, the defending
team is awarded a free to be taken level with the top of the circle opposite where the
breach occurred. For a breach of the rules by a defender in the goal circle a penalty
corner is awarded (see below).
Hockey 7's Modified Penalty Corner
An attacker hits the ball out from the penalty mark on the back line. All other
attackers must be outside the goal circle. The ball must go outside the circle before
the attackers can bring it back in to try to score a goal.
The goalkeeper stands inside the goal (cones) behind the goal line until the hit out is
taken. Four other defenders stand behind the goal line, either inside the goal or
outside it on the opposite side to the attacker hitting out the ball. The other
defenders stand on the centre line until the hit out is taken.
Coaches
One coach per team is allowed on the pitch to assist the players. However, they
should make sure to stay out of the way of the players and umpires and should not
interfere with the game in any way.
www.rhsports.com.au