Hockey Goal Size Guide
Field Hockey Goal Size by Age
Whether it’s for a school, a club, or the backyard, the size of the hockey goal makes a big difference. At senior level, from the World Cup to the Olympics, every goal must meet strict FIH regulations.
For kids, it’s a different story. Junior formats in Australia, such as Minkey and Hookin2Hockey, use smaller, modified hockey goals designed for young players. This guide explains the sizes at every level so you can choose the right goal with confidence.
How Big is a Regulation Hockey Goal?
A regulation hockey goal is 3.66m wide (12ft) and 2.14m high (7ft). These measurements are taken from the inside of the posts, so they don’t include the width of the goal frame.
Backboards are solid boards at the back of goals, used to stop and catch a ball after a shot crosses the goal line into the goal. They also make a distinctive noise to help the umpire/referee judge if a goal has been scored. Backboards must measure 46cm (18.4in) high. Regulation goals also need a depth of at least 1.2m (3.9ft) at the bottom and 0.9m (2.95ft) at the top. This height also provides a clear visual limit for shots in certain plays and situations like penalty corners.
What are the Dimensions of a Field Hockey Net?
Unlike hockey goals, there is no single “regulation” size for the actual hockey nets. Nets vary in size depending on whether they attach to the top of the backboard or the bottom of the frame.
As long as the net fits a regulation goal and provides at least 1.2m depth at the base and 0.9m at the top, it is suitable for FIH-approved play.
Most nets are 3.66m (12ft) wide with a depth of 1.22m (4ft).
The height of the net changes depending on where it attaches. If the net attaches to the frame base it will be around 2.14m (7ft) in height, if it attaches to the backboard its height will be approximately 1.71m (5.6ft).
| Field Hockey Net Dimensions | ||
|---|---|---|
| Measurement | Dimension | Notes |
| Width | 3.66m (12ft) | Always fixed – matches regulation goal width |
| Depth | 1.22m (bottom) / 0.9m (top) | Ensures ball containment and safe rebounds |
| Height | 2.14m (frame base) / 1.71m (backboard) | Depends on whether net attaches to frame or backboard |
What Size are Youth Hockey Goals in Australia
Junior hockey goals in Australia are played with smaller goals, as well as modified rules. This helps younger players to develop good, safe and effective techniques, while having fun in a modified environment that supports their smaller size and strength. Australia has its own set of modified rules and organisations for youth players. For example the hockey programme "Minkey" is somewhat different to the British youth hockey programmes, organisations and formats such as "Hockey Heroes".
Minkey (sometimes called “mini hockey”), was developed in Australia for youngsters. It’s typically played in under-7 and under-9 categories on half-sized fields with simplified rules, making it perfect for introducing kids to the sport. In2Hockey is a structured format for 10-14 year olds that provides a bridge from introductory play with emphasis on fun and participation, into the 'full hockey' format.
| Junior Hockey Rules & Goal Sizes (Australia) | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Age | Hockey Type | Players per Side | Goal Size |
| 5–9 | Minkey / Hookin2Hockey (introductory) | Small-sided (no set number) | Mini goals or target goals* |
| 10–14 | Hookin2Hockey / Modified Junior Hockey | 6 (no keeper) or 7 (with keeper) | 12ft x 7ft (3.66m x 2.14m) |
| 14+ | Full Regulation Hockey | 11 | 12ft x 7ft (3.66m x 2.14m) |
*Minkey and introductory hockey games and sessions may use no goal at all, or mini target goals. You can find more information about junior hockey games on the Australian Hockey website.
Where Can I Buy Hockey Goals & Hockey Equipment in Australia?
At Net World Sports, we stock a full range of hockey goals and training gear. We have hockey goals that are designed for regulation games and competitions, goals ideal for training like our target and mini hockey goals, hockey goals for the backyard like our uPVC 10 x 6 hockey goal, and portable goals that can be easily carried in a bag, or put in the car boot to allow for fun hockey games at the local park or field.
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Our FORZA Championship Hockey Goal meets FIH regulations and is built for competitive play. The UV-stabilised nets are rot-proof and available in multiple colours.
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Our ProFlex Hockey Goals are perfect for schools and clubs without fixed goals. They fold down into a bag and can be set up in seconds.
- The FORZA 10 x 6 Hockey Goal is a durable freestanding option made from tough uPVC with a rot-proof 3mm HDPE net.
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We also supply mini aluminium and PVC mini hockey goals, great for junior training and fun games. Weatherproof with strong HDPE nets, they’re ideal for schools, backyards, or practice sessions.
Alongside our range of hockey goals, we also supply a comprehensive selection of other hockey equipment - from hockey balls, rebound nets and training equipment to hockey coaching folders and corner flags.
