History
The modern game of hockey was introduced into England around 1875.  A decade later in 1886 the Hockey Association was formed and another nine years later the All England Women's Hockey Association was formed.  Until 1997 these two associations acted separately from each other however in 1997 they unified with the English Mixed Hockey Association to form the English Hockey Association.

Facilities & Equipment Required
You need access to a hockey field the surface of which can be either grass or an all-weather artificial turf pitch.  You need 2 hockey goals, a hockey stick each and a ball.  It is also advisable to wear some protective equipment such as shin guards, hand and knuckle protectors and gum shields, the goalkeeper can wear extra protective equipment if they want.  You will also need suitable footwear, which will depend on the type of surface you are playing on.  The hockey uniforms worn by women consist of a skirt, shirt, and knee length socks and shorts and a shirt for the men.  Female goalkeepers can wear shorts or trousers if they choose.

Benefits of Participating
Played regularly hockey can improve your fitness and in turn improve your health.  Because hockey is a team game, it provides the opportunity to meet lots of new people from all walks of life.  Playing in a team helps improve your communication skills and the ability to work with others effectively.  And above all and most importantly hockey is fun.

Variations
Floor-Ball / Uni-hock played in doors with plastic sticks.  Roller-hockey played on roller skates.  Under water hockey, Wheel Chair hockey and many more.