The Cyprus Hockey Association recently received a significant batch of equipment via the EHF’s charitable partner, the Hockey Dreams Foundation, to support the development of the sport.
It included 50 hockey sticks (40 junior, 10 senior), 80 hockey balls, a set of senior goalkeeping kickers, coaching boards, and assorted junior goalkeeping items.
Currently, Cyprus Hockey has 30 children attending their academy but is keen to increase this, particularly in terms of exposure to goalkeeping.
There are several coaches willing to participate but obtaining equipment to support them has proven an issue.
“We are currently struggling to have constant hockey lack of players, but mainly keepers,” said Mike Michalakis from the Cyprus Hockey Association. “By exposing youth to goalkeeping, will enable us to have structured events.
“Currently Cyprus doesn’t have a league but we do arrange social hockey games. The equipment will be used to promote all aspects of hockey at schools and expanding the youth academy. In addition, we are looking to repair existing equipment where possible
“We are looking to encourage youngsters to play hockey and also take up goalkeeping and other roles within hockey.”
The donation was made possible through the Hockey Dreams Foundation to whom you can donate hockey equipment via https://hockeydreams.nl/take-action/#equipment.
Merel van Amerongen, Managing Director of Hockey Dreams Foundation added: “Passionate coaches encourage curious players. But without enough equipment, youth won’t get a kick-start. It’s inspiring when we can pitch into the establishment and joy of hockey. That is with thanks to the goodwill of others. Equipment and financial donations to our foundation make it possible.”
With logistical support from the European Hockey Federation and the EuroHockey Solidarity Fund, such donations will help support suitable projects to help grow the sport.
