As the world commemorates the International Day of Sport for Development and Peace, the global hockey community stands united in celebrating the sport’s incredible capacity to foster inclusion, empower communities, and drive positive change. Across continents—from Africa to Oceania, Europe to Asia, and the Americas—hockey continues to inspire a movement that transcends the field of play.
“In a world where so many tensions have arisen and a lot of social and economic unbalance between countries still exists,” said FIH President Tayyab Ikram, “the yearly International Day of Sport for Development and Peace reminds us of the huge potential of sport to be a fantastic common denominator and unite people. In this regard, hockey is determined to play its part, and I call upon our global hockey community to enhance its great efforts to grow our sport and be a force of inclusion for all communities.”
Europe: Love is All – A Legacy of Inclusion
After three years of dedicated collaboration, the Love is All project has officially launched, marking a new era for Hockey ID across Europe and beyond. What began as an ambitious initiative to broaden access to the sport for individuals with intellectual disabilities has evolved into a powerful symbol of unity and respect. Through education, structured training, and cross-border cooperation, the project is paving the way for a more inclusive sports culture worldwide.
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Africa: A Growing Movement of Opportunity
Hockey initiatives are flourishing across Africa, as nations like Zimbabwe, Senegal and South Africa, with federations leveraging the sport to support education, gender equality, and life skills training. From Senegal’s commitment to expanding hockey’s reach, Zimbabwe’s vibrant youth league, and South Africa’s dedication to using the sport as a tool for social change, hockey is steadily gaining momentum across the continent. With strategic partnerships, grassroots engagement, and community-driven programs, the future of African hockey looks brighter than ever. These initiatives not only provide a foundation for athletic excellence but also reinforce the power of sport to unite, inspire, and create meaningful change.
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Asia: Transformation Through the Khawaja Junaid Hockey Academy
In Pakistan, the Khawaja Junaid Hockey Academy is transforming lives by providing life-altering opportunities and instilling discipline, teamwork, and ambition in young players. Located in Lahore, the Academy offers high-level coaching and facilities to underprivileged youth, helping them dream beyond their circumstances by giving them the tools they need to succeed. Through its commitment to community engagement, inclusivity, and excellence, the academy is not just building great players—it is building great individuals. As more young talents rise through the ranks, the impact of this initiative will be felt far beyond the hockey field, paving the way for a stronger and more vibrant sporting culture in Pakistan. The Khawaja Junaid Hockey Academy is a shining example of how hockey can nurture not only athletes but also resilient, confident individuals ready to contribute positively to society.
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South America: Venezuela’s Hockey Revival
Amidst a backdrop of economic and social challenges, Venezuela’s hockey revival stands as a powerful testament to sport as a tool for peace and hope. Thanks to the tireless efforts of dedicated volunteers and the growing passion of players and coaches, hockey is once again thriving in schools, communities and the international stage. With a Under-21 Pan American Challenge bronze medal now in their hands and a renewed sense of purpose, Venezuela’s hockey teams are setting their sights on the Central American and Caribbean Games Qualifier in Mexico in May 2025. Their journey exemplifies how sport can be a force for growth, resilience, and peace—a story that continues to unfold, step by step, on and off the field.
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Oceania: Inspiring Change Across Islands
From Papua New Guinea to Samoa, Fiji and New Zealand, hockey is igniting change across the Oceania region. Community programs are empowering women and girls, creating safe spaces, and promoting education through sport. With strong support from the Oceania Hockey Federation and local leaders, these initiatives are creating inclusive environments where hockey is a gateway to health, confidence, and community cohesion. From grassroots participation to structured coaching programs, hockey is proving to be a powerful tool for education, inclusion, and well-being across Oceania. Through initiatives like Hook in4 Health, the sport continues to bring communities together, empower individuals, and promote a healthier, more connected future.
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Together, these stories reveal the heart of a global movement—where hockey is more than competition, more than medals. It is a force for inclusion, empowerment, and peace. As we look ahead, the FIH calls on the entire hockey family to continue pushing boundaries, breaking stereotypes, and building bridges through the universal language of sport.
