Once a year, the International Hockey Federation (FIH) proudly supported the promotion of the UN International Day of Sport for Development and Peace. On April 6th, people all over the world celebrated the power of sport to drive social change, community development, and foster peace and understanding.
FIH President Tayyab Ikram emphasized the potential of sport, particularly hockey, to be a catalyst for positive social change and connection in a challenging world. The International Day of Sport for Development and Peace served as a timely reminder of the importance of sports in society. President Ikram encouraged the global hockey community to actively engage in activities supporting social development, inclusion, and peace.
Throughout the week, FIH focused on sharing stories from hockey communities worldwide through its digital platforms. These stories highlighted activities that promoted social change, development, and inclusion.
In Attock, Pakistan, the Attock Hockey Development Project shone as a beacon of hope. For the past few years, this initiative had been more than just a sports program—it was a catalyst for change, empowerment, and unity. The project aimed to provide training and opportunities for underprivileged segments of society, particularly orphan children and refugees. Dedicated coaches, adhering to international standards set by FIH, not only taught the game of hockey but also nurtured the young learners to become skilled players capable of showcasing their talents globally.
However, the impact of the Attock Hockey Development Project extended far beyond the hockey field. Recognizing the importance of education in breaking the cycle of poverty, the project ensured that participants received more than just athletic training. School books, uniforms, and other essentials were provided, allowing these aspiring athletes to pursue their academic aspirations unhindered.
Furthermore, the project served as an advocate against drug use in the community. Through ongoing campaigns and initiatives, it aimed to steer young minds away from negative influences and towards a path of positivity and growth.
In Oceania, the “Hook in4 Health” program made a tremendous impact in Pacific communities. The Oceania Hockey Federation, in collaboration with the Australian Government’s “Team Up” initiative, focused on providing innovative approaches and more opportunities for girls, women, and people with disabilities. The program aimed to increase knowledge and skills to make informed choices about health and well-being, with a particular emphasis on sexual reproductive health and rights, self-efficacy, and nutrition. The engagement of the hockey community, including boys and men, fostered gender equity, safety, inclusion, active lifestyles, health, nutrition, wellbeing, community development, and sustaining healthy relationships.
In Central America, the Salvadoran Hockey Federation (FESAHOCKEY) took center stage. Under the presidency of Gerson Suárez, the number of hockey schools in El Salvador increased significantly, providing more boys, girls, and young people with the opportunity to learn and enjoy the sport. The implementation of the “Student Hockey League Project” attracted the participation of numerous schools and hundreds of boys and girls across different categories. FESAHOCKEY aimed to be a factor of change and peace in the childhood and youth of El Salvador through hockey and sports, appreciating the support of various organizations and committing to expanding hockey and providing more opportunities for Salvadoran youth.
In Zimbabwe, hockey revival efforts took place in Bulawayo, the country’s second-largest city. Zimbabwe’s Excel Academy targeted state schools, with Hillside Primary being a prime candidate due to its rich history of nurturing provincial and national hockey players. The coaching clinic held at Hillside Primary witnessed an incredible display of enthusiasm and engagement from 200 first-time participants aged 7 to 11. Cliff Kaseke, the Director of Hockey at Excel Academy, expressed his motivation to share the incredible sport with all communities and was heartened by the smiles and eagerness of the children.
In Europe, during the Euro Hockey League, stakeholders gathered for a sustainability meeting to discuss ways to improve sustainability in hockey. Tournament organizers, sponsors, players, and interested stakeholders, along with EuroHockey staff and President Marcos Hofmann, shared their knowledge and showcased sustainability initiatives. One of the speakers, Oliver van Nieuwenhuizen, highlighted the efforts of his organization, The Wave, in the Netherlands. The Wave aimed to create a world free of plastic waste by raising awareness and promoting actions among sportspeople. During the EHL matches, videos featuring Dutch international stars and coaches emphasized the event’s commitment to reduce, reuse, and recycle, using hockey as a platform to bring people together and create awareness.
The International Day of Sport for Development and Peace served as a reminder of the transformative power of sports. From Pakistan to Oceania, Central America to Zimbabwe, and Europe, these stories showcased the positive impact of hockey in driving social change, promoting development, and fostering unity and understanding among communities worldwide.
