Royston Hoggarth has been awarded the EuroHockey Diploma of Merit to recognise an extraordinary individual whose contributions have had a lasting impact not only on England Hockey but also across Europe and the international stage.
His journey in hockey began as a young player at grammar school in Yorkshire and continued as an enthusiastic player and umpire, regularly seen officiating matches in the Midlands leagues near his home in Rugby. His passion for the game has never faltered, and it continues to drive him today.
During his nine years as chair of England Hockey, Royston oversaw a period of tremendous growth, transformation, and international success.
Under his guidance, England Hockey achieved remarkable milestones, including the gold medal triumph at the Rio Olympics and hosting major events such as the women’s World Cup in 2018.
Perhaps his most significant legacy is how he steered the organisation through challenging times, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, ensuring that hockey was one of the first team sports to safely restart competitions.
He played a key role in shaping the FIH Pro League, helping to elevate the profile of hockey globally. His contributions also laid the groundwork for England’s bid to host the 2027 EuroHockey Championships, with a strong focus on Hockey ID, making our sport more accessible to people of all abilities.
Royston’s influence also extended beyond England as he built strong relationships within European and international hockey circles, working closely with FIH President Tayyab Ikram and other national associations.
His passion for the game has always been evident, and Royston often mentions that chairing England Hockey has been the most rewarding and challenging role of his professional career—a significant statement given his impressive background in the corporate world, including leadership roles at companies such as Cable and Wireless.
Under Royston’s stewardship, England Hockey has grown in participation and has also become more inclusive. He was instrumental in advancing strategies to engage young players from diverse backgrounds and oversaw the introduction of a crucial EDI framework.
He steps down after three successful terms as the sport’s first independent chair, leaving a legacy of transformational leadership.
Speaking at the award ceremony at the EuroHockey General Assembly in Oman, EuroHockey President Marcos Hofmann said: “Royston’s dedication, wisdom, and passion for hockey have inspired many, and his contributions have left an indelible mark on our sport.
“For all of this, we owe you a tremendous debt of gratitude. Thank you, Royston, for your exceptional leadership, unwavering commitment, and, above all, your enduring passion for the game.”
