Field Hockey is played by two teams of 11 players including a goalkeeper. A match consists of two
35-minute halves. The object of the game is to hit a small round ball into the opposing team's goal using
wooden or metal sticks. Players wear shinguards and a mouth guard. Goalies need extra protective
equipment; they wear a helmet with a face guard, and chest protector, leather gloves, leg pads and padded
shorts. The goalie also wears kickers which fit over the shoe. A player may only shoot from inside the striking
circle and cannot kick the ball. The goalie is the only player who can kick the ball and may use any part of his
body to block the ball. Referees control the game. They award "free hits" for any breach of the rules. A free
hit is also awarded if the ball goes over the side lines.