Gaelic Football

Hurling

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Hurling

Known officially as the �fastest field sport in the world�, hurling is often described as a mixture between hockey and lacrosse. The game is extremely fast and extremely skillful as well as being a little bit tough. It is more physical than hockey and was used to train ancient Irish warriors before battle. Here is a simple explanation: 

Players: There are 15 players on each team. (This is sometimes reduced in Europe due to smaller pitch size). They consist of a goalkeeper, six defenders, two midfielders and six forwards.

Ball: The ball is about the size of a tennis ball and is made from leather. It is heavier than a tennis ball.

Handling the ball: You can catch the ball in your hand but only carry it for a maximum of 3-4 steps, then you must bounce it off the hurling stick or pass it.

Stick: The stick is known as a hurley and is usually made from the wood of an ash tree. It usually measures 90 cm long and has metal band at the end (shown here in image).

Passing: You can pass the ball with the stick, your foot or with your palm but you cannot throw it.

Scoring: Goalposts are similar to rugby and soccer combined; there is a net and a goalkeeper. If the ball goes into the goal you get three points. If it goes above the bar between the two posts you get one point.