The European Hockey Federation is committed to ensuring that all members receive access to the same opportunities. #EquallyAmazing aims to promote gender balance throughout European Hockey. Different stories from members of the hockey family are highlighted; illustrating the important role that both men and women have in strengthening the sport.
We heard from some elite players, at the top of their game, on some of the men and women who have helped them during their journeys.
Reigning FIH Female Goalkeeper of the Year, Maddie Hinch cites both men and women as major influences in her career. She was introduced to hockey by a PE teacher who’d played at the highest level in England. Of the experience, Maddie says, “she was so passionate about the game and she saw some potential in me. She took the time to drive me down to [practice], an hour and a half every week, to introduce me to the club scene and allow me the opportunity to play with some of the bigger players. That inspired me to go on and try to achieve what she had.”
As her journey progressed, the knowledge she’s gained from both male and female top coaches has allowed her to generate her own personal game.
Maddie supports #EquallyAmazing because it’s important to provide opportunities for males and females from different backgrounds, ensuring that everyone has access to the sport. When asked how it’s impacted her career, she said: “Gender equality has played a massive role in my athlete journey in terms of the opportunities it’s given me – from when I started playing hockey at school level all the way through to club and now an international”.
Irish international player, David Harte cites Nikiki Simmonds “who’s been incredibly involved on and off the pitch from a hockey perspective. Encouraging women and men of all age groups from grassroots levels to para hockey all the way up to international level to stay involved and keep playing the game.”
For Harte, #EquallyAmazing encapsulates what hockey is about: inclusivity, hockey for all, and providing the opportunity for everyone to get involved with the game.
The #EquallyAmazing campaign is supported by both the International Hockey Federation (FIH) and the European Hockey Federation (EHF) in an effort to ensure that everyone has access to the same opportunities – from the pitch to the boardroom.
