The EuroHockey Institute and FIH Academy combined before Christmas to help develop the Italian coaching pathway in Rome.
The get-together concluded with a heart-warming level one session at the excellent CONI Rome facility at the Olympic Centre, a jewel in the crown for Federazione Italiana Hockey. It saw special guest appearances from Argentina star Vicky Granatto and Gianluca Cirilli, the former Italian national coach.
During the course, the new coaches also managed two junior teams with drills and a friendly match as well as organising a hockey festival for the Under-12 teams of Butterfly and Lazio hockey clubs.
Thirteen coaches have now graduated from level one with the number of Italian junior mentors growing from two to five.
“It looks like we are getting there for a more self-sustainable future to support this program,” said Thomas Tichelman.
“The spirit was very high and our modules are gaining a positive reputation, adding to the Italian federation’s efforts to grow our game. The splendid organisation, splendid weather, facilities, and logistics!
“A tutti fino alla prossima volta!”
Marco Grossi from Federazione Italiana Hockey added: “As usual, Thomas was involved with his enthusiastic way of coaching all the Italian coaches. A huge thank you to him for his help and important advice and way of thinking for our new coaches.”
