Rules of Hurling
The objective of this field game is for one of two teams to score more goals and points, during a match, than the other. A team comprises 15 players, or "hurlers."
The stick, which is known as a hurley or camán, is made traditionally from the root of the Ash tree and is generally 64–97 cm (25–38 inches) in length with a flat face opposite its handle called a bas. The ball, which is known as a sliotar, is made of leather and is 65 mm (2.55 inches) in diameter. The goalkeeper's hurley has a bas twice the size of other players' hurleys to provide some advantage for the fast moving sliotar. A good strike with a stick can propel the ball up to 150 km/h (93 mph) in speed and 80 m (262 feet) in distance.
During a match, players attack their opposing goal and protect their own. When the ball is on the ground, it must be played by striking or lifting it off the ground with the hurley into the air where it may be struck again or placed into the hand for four seconds or four steps, whichever comes first. If the ball is caught, the catching player may not throw it or carry it for the shorter of four paces or four seconds, but is allowed to strike the ball with a stick or hand, or by kicking. The hurley's bas may be used to carry the ball while a player controls it.
Accidental collisions between players and equipment do occur and so a plastic protective helmet with faceguard is recommended (mandatory for players under 21).