frequently asked questions

1. What age division does my child fall under?

   As per USA Field Hockey: An athlete’s age on December 31 of that given year determines what age group the athlete will be in for the following year. For example, if the athlete is 15 years old on December 31 and turns 16 on January 1 she remains in the U16 Division.

2. What is indoor field hockey?

   Indoor field hockey is played on a sport court surface (not turf or grass) with boards along the sides of the playing area. There are five field players and one goalie on the pitch. Players can only push the ball and must keep it on the ground. It can only be lifted while taking a shot inside the shooting circle. Players can move the ball by pushing or deflecting it off the boards, passing or dribbling. A regulation match is two twenty minute halves.

3. What is the NITQ and NIT?

   The National Indoor Tournament is a USA Field Hockey sanctioned event that takes place at the end of the indoor season (between the months of February and March). You must place within the top six teams at the National Indoor Tournament Qualifier in order to attend the National Indoor Tournament.

4. When am I going to receive our tournament schedule?

   Long Island Field Hockey will send out the schedule as soon as we receive it from the tournament director. Some events we can receive it as early as four weeks before while others we will receive it only a few days before. Please be patient and trust that as soon as we receive it you’ll be the first to know.

5. What are stay to play tournaments?

   Some tournaments require athletes and parents to stay in specific hotels. You will find this only at USA Field Hockey sanctioned events such as: National Hockey Festival, National Indoor Tournament, Sunshine Showcase, or the National Club Championships. If the event is a stay to play event you will be provided with the list of approved hotels. Most of the tournaments that we attend: United Sports or College Connection are not stay to play events. You are welcome to stay wherever you would like to or do a same day round trip home.

6. How do I order a uniform?

   Long Island Field Hockey orders the uniforms ahead of season to guarantee they arrive in time for our first tournament. When they arrive players will be called by team based on seniority to come try on and select their uniform. You can remit payment via check payable to Long Island Field Hockey or under the appropriate season’s website tab.