In hockey, what is the standard number of quarters in modern field hockey?
VerifiedAnswer: Four quarters
Explanation:
Modern field hockey follows a four-quarter format, with each quarter lasting 15 minutes of playing time. This structure was officially adopted by the International Hockey Federation (FIH) in 2014, marking a significant change from the traditional two-half system that had been used for over a century.
The transition to quarters was implemented to make the game more exciting for spectators and provide better broadcasting opportunities. Between each quarter, there's a 2-minute break, while the halftime break (between the second and third quarters) extends to 10 minutes. This gives players adequate time to rest, receive coaching instructions, and rehydrate during the match.
The quarter system also allows for more strategic timeouts, as each team is permitted one timeout per quarter, lasting 40 seconds. This tactical element adds another layer of strategy to the game, enabling coaches to make crucial adjustments during play. The clock stops during penalty corners, which ensures fair play and prevents teams from running down the clock during these critical moments.
It's worth noting that while field hockey uses four quarters, ice hockey follows a different format with three periods of 20 minutes each. This distinction is important for students studying different types of hockey. The four-quarter system in field hockey has been universally adopted across all major international competitions, including the Olympics, World Cup, and Commonwealth Games, making it the global standard for the sport.
