The Federação Portuguesa de Hóquei (FPH) and EuroHockey proudly launched its comprehensive strategic plan: “Families, Friends, and Festivals,” on Saturday in Lousada.
The strategic plan is co-funded by EuroHockey and the European Union as part of the Solidarity through Great Governance project.
Portugal is one of six nations to benefit from this project and the fourth nation that has presented their plan to the political sporting landscape.
It was presented to a range of over 40 dignitaries, including the Portuguese secretary of state Pedro Dias; Deputy secretary of sports David Grachat; vice president of the Portuguese national Olympic committee Ulisses Pereira; Representative of the Portuguese institute of youth and sports (North) Viktor Dias; Mayor of Lousada Pedro Machado; city councillors Antonio Augusto and Nelson Oliveira; and ANDDI vice president Manuel Carvallo.
The plan was presented to the assembled audience by Bruno Santos, President of FPH and EuroHockey board member; EuroHockey Head of Strategy Tom Pedersen-Smith; EuroHockey consultant Phil Taylor; and EuroHockey board member Cathelijne Rockall.
“The FPH’s ability to gain significant traction with the Portuguese government, the National Olympic Committee, and other governmental institutions is a strong testament to its dynamic development programs and visionary leadership,” Rockall (pictured above) said of the launch.
“Bringing together so many decision-makers in one room highlights the opportunities for the FPH to build momentum in the country and foster hockey’s growth—from grassroots development to high performance.
“This launch also highlights how Eurohockey adds real value for its members. The ‘Solidarity through Great Governance’ project will deliver a roadmap empowering every National Association to craft their own strategic plan—driving the growth of hockey across Europe.”
This ambitious initiative was launched at the men’s EuroHockey Indoor U21 Championship and its aim is to propel the growth and development of hockey across Portugal over the next decade, with a focus on community, inclusivity and infrastructure.
The strategy spans from 2025 to 2034 and reflects the core values of hockey in Portugal—fostering connections between families, friends, and communities through the sport.
With the support of EuroHockey and extensive consultation with stakeholders, the federation has identified five key focus areas to address current challenges and unlock new opportunities for growth.
Key Focus Areas of the Strategic Plan:
- Cementing Our Role – With Our Personality:
The federation aims to raise awareness of its purpose and positioning within Portuguese society by promoting the sport’s value across all demographics and showcasing the passionate individuals who drive the game forward. - Connection and Growth – With Family, Friends, and Festivals:
Leveraging hockey’s unique ability to unite generations, the federation will utilise festivals and community events to boost engagement and attract new participants to the sport. - District Development – With Clubs at the Core:
By strengthening club networks and expanding the sport into new districts, the federation seeks to create a sustainable and widespread presence of hockey across Portugal. - Talent Development – With Team Performance as Our Focus:
Ensuring the best players, coaches, and referees reach their full potential, the federation aims to elevate national team performances and inspire future generations. - Inspiring Infrastructures – With the Need for Innovation:
The federation is committed to expanding and improving hockey facilities, making the sport more accessible while fostering creativity in overcoming existing infrastructural challenges.
To ensure the success of the strategic plan, the federation has outlined clear objectives and measurable goals, including:
- A 50% increase in social media engagement to enhance visibility and inspire new participants.
- Doubling the number of districts playing hockey from four to eight by 2034.
- Establishing 20 hockey clubs nationwide, ensuring strong community involvement.
- Upgrading existing facilities and developing new pitches to provide more playing opportunities.
- Enhancing Portugal’s presence on the international stage by achieving higher rankings in both indoor and outdoor hockey.
Find out more
- Click here to see the full strategic development document
- Find out more about the Solidarity through Great Governance project: https://eurohockey.org/eurohockey-secures-significant-eu-funding-for-solidarity-through-great-governance-project
