The EuroHockey Youth High Performance Working Group’s annual summit last week saw the production of an agreed-upon framework for advancing youth high-performance hockey across Europe.

This collaborative effort aims to elevate the level of competition, enhance player development and strengthen connections among member national associations.

A key outcome of the summit is the implementation of a structured four-year hosting model for Youth High Performance Tournaments.

This model includes both Easter and Summer tournaments, designed to provide regular international competition at the Under-16 and Under-18 levels.

It is structured to ensure financial sustainability, operational efficiency, and equitable hosting opportunities for all participating nations.

The Easter tournaments will involve eight host nations while the summer tournaments will have two hosts. This model aims to ensure financial stability, cost optimisation, higher organisational standards, and a fair distribution of hosting responsibilities.

EuroHockey are now calling on each member national association to work closely with the nominated leadership team to develop an equitable business plan that aligns with these objectives.

The working group will continue to be supported by a leadership team (Jamilon Mülders from the KNHB) and Dieter Hill from England Hockey) who will ensure there is guidance in organising talent development tournaments, preparing business plan documents, and communicating with EuroHockey staff (David Voskamp and Tom Pedersen-Smith).