The Role of a Ball
Think of a team sport that does not involve a ball. Well, there is badmington, which uses half a 'ball' and some feathers. Then there is ice hockey which uses a puck. But the ball is a prominent part of many team sports, as well as the individualistic games, like golf. The one notable difference between these games is the variety of balls that are used (and abused - think squash!) during the game.
A ball is usually round, except when it's not. Then it is usually more torpedo-shaped (what shape is that?) as in Rugby and American Footfall.
Let's look at a field hockey ball. This spherical object is dribbled and hit from stick to stick during a game. It will hopefully find it's way to the back of a the goals on occasions, just to make the game a little more exciting (as if it's not exciting enough).
The hockey ball starts out life as a piece of cork, or as just a piece of platic. The rest of the ball is made from hard plastic and is usually white. Some balls are made in other bright colours, which is all OK as long as it is in contrast to the field. (That would exclude green balls for obvious reasons)
The balls have a circumference of about 230mm and weigh around 160gm. When this round object is travelling at full speed (even half-speed) can you out-run it? Can you even run after it and catch it? Well, not likely if it is drag-flicked at top league, international player's speed of about 120 km/h. In fact, you had better have a stick in your hand, be clad from top to toe like a goalie, or duck or jump as fast as you can. The hockey ball becomes a formidable weapon that is best avoided, if you can't play it. And remember, Astro Turf has made higher speeds possible.
Like other ball sports, the ball is integral to the game, as are the goals. Remove the ball, or the goals and all you will have is a jumble of players just swinging sticks around, looking for something to do. So, I'm sure you would agree that the ball is a critical element in field hockey... and perhaps deserves a little more respect than just being smacked around. On the other hand, why not. A good smack never hurt a hockey ball.
Now, for those who get past the formidably kitted-out goalie (often enough), they will have the right to the trophy. Raising a trophy is the third, important element (in addition to the ball and the goals) without which, hockey would be less exciting all round. But remember, it is not the amount of goals that your teams scores. It is the amount of goals they score PLUS one over the opponent. One more wins the medals and the trophies.
At Prestige Awards, we carry a range of trophies that help add spirit to any hockey game, and maybe a little bit extra speed! Trophies in the shape of cups, challises or plates and shields for the club; mini-trophies for each player are ready in male and female statuettes. See: https://www.prestigeawards.co.za/products/hockey-player-female-miniature-award Medal - gold, silver & bronze - also available with hockey motif, just waiting to be engraved with your name or team's logo.
A special trophy made from resin and hard wood may be an option for a floating trophy. The trophy is molded according to a three-dimensional design then cast in resin. The resin is given an antique gold look, which brings with it a sense of tradition. https://www.prestigeawards.co.za/products/hockey-goal-resin-trophy
But, if you can't find anything that you really would like for your team, talk to us. We also design trophies and all sorts of other awards. Be a little unique.
Source: https://www.prestigeawards.co.za/blogs/the-recognition-minute/the-role-of-a-ball
Enjoy your game of hockey!