President’s Welcome
President Marcos Hofmann welcomed Board members to Poznań and thanked Polish Hockey Secretary General Renata Solnica for the warm welcome and hospitality.
The President noted the importance of holding at least one Board meeting each year outside of the EuroHockey Headquarters, providing an opportunity to engage directly with National Associations and strengthen relationships with local hockey governing bodies.
The President also expressed his appreciation for the successful delivery of the outdoor club competitions in partnership with the host organisers. He acknowledged the ongoing work of EuroHockey staff and volunteers in the areas of partnerships, sponsorship, the EuroHockey Foundation, officiating development and the continued growth and development of hockey across Europe.
Approval of Previous Minutes
The minutes of the previous meeting were approved, subject to a minor amendment.
Finance report
The Board received a comprehensive update on EuroHockey’s financial position including a review of the 2025 financial results, current 2026 performance and the longer-term financial outlook.
The presentation highlighted a stable financial position, supported by strong competitions, grants and commercial activities. The Board noted the positive contribution of the Euro Hockey League to the overall group performance and reviewed current cash flow and receivables.
Members discussed the financial forecast for the coming years including opportunities to strengthen reserves and support future strategic priorities. The potential impact of planned investments, including organisational development and competition initiatives, was also considered.
The Board thanked the presenters for their detailed report and ongoing financial management of the organisation.
Competitions
EHC 2027 update
The Board was briefed on preparations for the 2027 EuroHockey Championships. Progress was reported across key workstreams, including ticketing, commercial partnerships, event operations, volunteer recruitment, social impact initiatives, and venue planning. Ongoing efforts to increase ticket sales, secure additional commercial partners, and finalise operational planning ahead of the event were noted
EHL update
An overview of the 2026 EHL FINALS was presented and the Board noted the positive overall outcome of the event. Improvements were reported in ticket sales, commercial delivery, broadcast exposure and digital engagement, resulting in a successful financial outcome. The Board also received an update on planning for the 2026/27 EHL season, including the implementation of the new competition format and ongoing discussions with potential hosts.
Competitions Committee (outdoor) report
The Competitions Committee Outdoor report to the board noted the successful delivery of the 2026 EuroHockey Club events. The Committee stated all events were completed successfully – despite a late team withdrawal in Rome – and congratulated the hosts in Poland, Lithuania and Slovenia on earning promotion.
Updates were provided on the preparations for the 2026 Championship Qualifiers, EuroHockey 5s Championships, and U16 and U21 competitions, with planning and operational arrangements progressing as scheduled.
The Board further noted updates regarding proposed FIH competition developments, changes to the EHL men’s competition format and the revised EHL ranking allocations.
Competitions Committee (indoor) report
The Board received an update from the Competitions Committee Indoor on preparations for upcoming indoor club and international competitions. Members reviewed the continued development of indoor hockey structures, competition formats, and hosting opportunities across Europe.
Recommendations for the hosting of the 2028 and 2030 EuroHockey Indoor Championships were considered with decisions taken on the appointment of hosts. Further details regarding the host appointments will be announced in due course.
Brand feasibility update
The Board reviewed the Competition Rebrand Feasibility Study and discussed opportunities to strengthen the visibility, identity, and commercial value of EuroHockey competitions. Following consideration of the recommendations, the Board approved proceeding with the competition rebranding project and agreed to invest in its development and implementation. Further work will now commence on the creation and rollout of the new competition branding.
Safeguarding policy & EDI panel update
The Board was updated on the development of the EuroHockey Safeguarding Policy and the proposed implementation roadmap. Members discussed the next steps in the process including governance, reporting structures, education and support mechanisms to ensure a safe and trusted environment across EuroHockey activities.
Coaching Committee report
The Board received an update on the ongoing work of the Coaching Committee including developments within EuroHockey’s coach education and development programmes. Members noted initiatives aimed at strengthening coaching pathways, supporting National Associations, and increasing opportunities for female coaches. The Board welcomed the continued focus on coach development and innovation across the European hockey community.
Officials Committee report
The work of the Officials Committee and its plans for the 2026–2028 cycle were presented to the Board. Members noted ongoing efforts to strengthen officiating pathways, education programmes, and support for officials across Europe. Initiatives aimed at enhancing development opportunities, consistency and best practice throughout the EuroHockey officiating community were welcomed.
Youth Leadership Committee report
The Board was apprised of the work of the Youth Leadership Committee following its first meeting of the 2026–2028 cycle. Members noted the Committee’s focus on strengthening youth engagement, supporting national youth leadership initiatives and creating opportunities for young people to contribute to the future development of hockey across Europe. The Board welcomed the Committee’s plans for international collaboration, Erasmus+ projects, and the 2027 Youth Leadership Festival.
FIH update
The President provided the Board with an update on recent discussions and decisions from the FIH Board. Topics included international competition developments, initiatives relating to the representation of women coaches, IOC matters, strategic priorities, and other key issues relevant to the global development of hockey. The Board noted the update and discussed the potential implications for EuroHockey and its Member National Associations.
