StateRegionDivision
Hockey
Published 26 January, 2026
This page outlines the official competition rules, match formats, and requirements for SSV Secondary Hockey. It covers regulation gameplay, scoring systems for round-robin and finals, team eligibility, safety standards, and specific stadium rules for synthetic hockey surfaces.
Secondary Competition Rules
Matches are conducted under the rules of the Federation of International Hockey, unless otherwise stated.
- Duration: 2 x 20-minute halves with a 5-minute half-time interval.
- Team Size: Maximum of 16 players per day (11 on the field, up to 5 interchange players).
- Equipment Note: The 'Tomahawk' stroke is strictly prohibited at all levels.
Points are allocated as follows: 3 for a win, 1 for a draw, 0 for a loss. If teams are tied on points at the end of the round-robin:
- Winner of the head-to-head match.
- Goal difference.
- Most goals scored.
- Least goals conceded.
If the final is tied at full-time, a penalty shootout will determine the winner:
- Five nominated players from each team will take penalties in a nominated order.
- If still tied, a 'sudden death' penalty shootout will take place until a decision is reached after an even number of attempts.
- Dress Code: Players must wear matching numbered shirts, same-coloured shorts or skirts (without pockets), and same-coloured socks. Goalkeepers must wear a contrasting shirt.
- Safety Gear: Shin guards and mouthguards are strongly recommended. Approved hockey-specific face masks are compulsory for field players defending penalty corners, penalty strokes, or while inside the circle they are defending. Goalkeepers must wear full protective equipment (helmet, mask, and kickers).
- Lateness: Teams late without notice face a penalty of one goal for every 10 minutes of lateness.
- Footwear: Leather, metal, or screw-in plastic sprigs are prohibited. Multi-grip, gym boots, or sneakers are permitted. Moulded footwear must have at least 15 sprigs.
- Surface Protection: Goalkeepers' protective equipment must be taped to protect the turf. Marking points in the circle is prohibited.
- Prohibited Items: Smoking, chewing gum, and glass bottles are strictly prohibited within the stadium.
- Coaching: Coaches must remain on the concrete fringe within their own half of the field.
- One new match ball (for non-state final matches).
- All personal equipment, including sticks (regulation size/material only, no jagged/split ends), shin pads, and face masks.
- First-aid kit and sports tape (strapping must be performed by the school).