Is the Olympic hockey pitch supposed to be wet?

Answer 1

Yes, the water helps reduce friction on the surface which helps a dimpled hockey ball travel more smoothly along the ground and not bounce to create a danger to participants on the pitch. It also helps reduce friction burns and surface scrapes on skin when players fall. Sand Based and Sand Dressed pitches are never watered.

Answer 2

The reason why a Field Hockey pitch is watered before a match or training is due to the following;

The water helps reduce friction on the surface which helps a dimpled hockey ball travel more smoothly along the ground and not bounce to create a danger to participants on the pitch. It also helps reduce friction burns and surface scrapes on skin when players fall.

Note: Sand Based and Sand Dressed pitches are never watered.

Answer 3

Because the ball bounces on the turf and the water stops the ball bouncing as much. It would also be dangerous for the players if it was too bouncy.

Answer 4

Because they are wet. It is a special wet surface.