The EuroHockey Development Committee gathered in Brussels earlier this month for a wide-ranging agenda.
Committee Chair Cathelijne Rockall opened proceedings by challenging delegates to maintain momentum in development initiatives and continue building clear outcomes for the committee’s work.
Christoph van Dessel delivered a keynote presentation on the themes of equality and equity in leadership, focusing on how organisations can actively support leaders at all levels while recognising the contribution of the wider hockey family.
Throughout the day, delegates rotated through a series of content sessions covering some of the most important topics facing the sport.
The KNHB’s Expertise Manager discussed competition formats and participation models, while Hockey Belgium’s Digital Communications Manager Quentin Mathieu shared insights into fan engagement and the role of marketing in growing the game.
Rick Kuipers from the Johan Cruyff Foundation provided perspectives on creating safe and welcoming places to play, emphasising community development alongside facility provision
The afternoon session highlighted several successful development stories from across Europe. Presentations examined introducing hockey in schools through the French Hockey Federation, the strategic rebuilding of Spanish hockey, and how hosting international events can support broader sporting and governmental objectives.
EuroHockey colleagues Gino Schilders and Tom Pedersen-Smith led two breakout sessions providing an overview of the EuroHockey Group, covering production, servicing and corporate operations, alongside discussions on the Foundation, organisational health, and the importance of funding and strategic partnerships in ensuring the long-term sustainability of the sport.
Discussions on EuroHockey’s European projects, including ICE (International Coaching Exchange) and BESST (Building European Safe Sport Together) took place before participants identified strategic opportunities and practical actions that can be taken collectively to support member national associations.
The meeting concluded with discussions on EuroHockey’s European projects, including ICE (International Coaching Exchange) and BESST (Building European Safe Sport Together), before participants identified strategic opportunities and practical actions that can be taken collectively to support member national associations.
Closing the event, Rockall reinforced the committee’s commitment to supporting member nations through collaboration, shared learning and a collective focus on growing hockey across Europe.
The Development Committee meeting forms part of EuroHockey’s ongoing work to equip member national associations with the knowledge, networks and practical tools needed to strengthen participation, improve governance and create sustainable pathways for growth across the continent.
