To commemorate the World Children’s Day, the International Hockey Federation (FIH) launch the Year of the Youth, to inspire young people into the sport, help them achieve their potential and celebrate their successes at every level of the game. Working with continental federations and national associations, the FIH will be providing support and guidance; promoting awareness and highlighting examples of great practice within individual national associations; and implementing annual projects aimed at aiding development. The programme is led by the FIH Development and Education Committee and the FIH Academy’s army of trainers, educators and experts will be on hand to provide the necessary support and guidance.
Not only does the concept of the Year of the Youth support the FIH strategic plan to raise the global profile of hockey and attract more participants – both players and work force – but it is also will provide national associations with the opportunity to raise interest among the public, media, sponsors and national government. A global project underpins the concept of the Year of the Youth. Titled “Start:Play:Stay”, the FIH will work with continental federations and national associations to plan their own strategies to grow the game; provide access to projects and ideas which can be adopted for use; and enable national associations to access equipment and resources where needed.
As part of the Year of the Youth initiative, FIH has developed a Grow Hockey Guide, which provides advice and concrete ideas on how to develop the game within an individual country, taking into account their own range of resources and facilities. For example, in many countries, beach hockey may be a route to encouraging new participants into the game. For others, the small sided version of the game may be appropriate. This guide will help with setting up appropriate activities at the right stage of development.
“The FIH Development & Education Committee (DEC) is extremely excited be leading the 2021 Year of the Youth to create and celebrate how our sport can positively impact the lives of young people across the globe. The DEC hope that this second edition, coming 20 years on from the very first Year of the Youth, will shine a light on the brilliant efforts of clubs, schools, National Associations and other public and private organisations to grow our fantastic sport.” Tayyab Ikram, Seif Ahmed – Co-Chairs FIH Development & Education Committee
