London 2012 Olympic Games: Hockey

See the exciting game of hockey at the London 2012 Olympic Games, with teams battling it out for Olympic gold in the Hockey Centre.

Hockey at London 2012

Don't miss the fast-paced hockey competition of the London 2012 Olympic Games at the brand new Hockey Centre.

A game of hockey requires 11 players and lasts 70 minutes. It is a test of skill, speed and teamwork. As each game reaches its final stages, expect end-to-end attacking action – thanks to rolling substitutions, stamina is not a problem.

Hockey made its first Olympic appearance at the London Olympic Games of 1908, and is one of a number of exciting team sports taking place during the 2012 Games.

Hockey at the Olympic Games

There were few surprises in the men's competition at the Beijing 2008 Olympic Games as traditional hockey nations Germany, Spain and Australia won the medals.

In the women's game, China's silver medal was a minor shock. The other two medals were taken by two of the major nations in hockey – The Netherlands and Argentina (gold and bronze, respectively).