FIH nominates Sport Group to supply LA 2028 hockey turf

    03 Jun, 2025 The International Hockey Federation (FIH) is pleased to announce that it has nominated Sport Group, represented by their brands AstroTurf and Polytan, as the hockey turf sole supplier for the LA 2028 Olympic Games. The Poligras hockey turf used for the competition will be manufactured and installed by AstroTurf. The agreement includes three hockey fields (one competition field, one warm-up field and one training field) and their shock pads. AstroTurf, the original turf made in the USA, created the very first Olympic synthetic surface for hockey for the Montreal 1976 Games. Since then, Sport Group brands AstroTurf, Polytan and Poligras have been selected for 12 Olympic Games. Sport Group has constantly innovated alongside the sport. The Paris 2024 hockey turf, Poligras Paris GT zero, marked the world’s first carbon zero hockey turf, and each Olympic Games features new turf technology. Research and Development for the Poligras LA28 turf is well underway. FIH President Tayyab Ikram said: “The next Olympics in Los Angeles in 2028 will offer another fantastic opportunity for our sport to showcase itself to the world. The most important protagonists of this promotion of hockey are the athletes. It is our duty to offer them the best conditions for them to express their amazing talent. I’m really grateful that our strong partnership with Sport Group, AstroTurf and Polytan will deliver a turf that will include both the competition and sustainability aspects, and leave a lasting legacy for hockey in the USA.” Melissa Twist, Director of Field Hockey, AstroTurf said: “AstroTurf started the hockey turf revolution in 1976 with the first turf at the Montreal Olympics. Since then, we have installed hockey turf in major stadiums, schools and clubs around the world, including many Olympic Games and World Cups. AstroTurf is based in the USA, so providing the hockey turf for a home Olympic Games, 52 years after Montreal, is deeply rewarding and testament to our enduring love of the sport and respect for everyone involved in the game.” Paul Kamphuis, Head of Hockey, Sport Group, added: “We are thrilled that Poligras has been chosen as the hockey turf for LA2028, this will be the 9th Olympic hockey tournament on Poligras. This record of Olympic excellence is something that we are very proud of. Sport Group, together with AstroTurf and Polytan are committed to hockey globally. From the London blue, to the carbon zero turf in Paris 2024, our turf innovations have helped the sport become more skillful, dynamic and thrilling for players and fans. We continue to invest in reducing water and carbon while ensuring that our hockey turf performs at Olympic levels.” In terms of physical legacy post-Olympic Games, and upon request from FIH, the pitches will be installed in suitable locations within the USA as agreed through a re-allocation process agreed between USAFH and LA 2028, approved by FIH and with support from AstroTurf. For more information about FIH and hockey in general, please download the Watch.Hockey app or follow the FIH social media channels – Facebook, Instagram and Twitter – and website. #MadeForHockey

    SA Hockey Men Announce Squad for FIH Nations Cup Malaysia 2025

      Six debutants named as South Africa gear up for Kuala Lumpur showdown SA Hockey is proud to announce the SA Men’s squad selected to compete at the 2025 FIH Nations Cup, set to take place at the National Hockey Stadium in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia from 15–21 June 2025. Drawn into Pool A alongside France, Korea, and Wales, South Africa will open their campaign against the Welsh on 15 June. With critical world ranking points up for grabs, the Nations Cup remains an important fixture on the international calendar — and an exciting opportunity for the next generation of South African talent to make their mark. The 18-player squad features six debutants, signalling a new wave of potential emerging through the national ranks. Making their first appearance for the SA Men are Jaydon Brooker, Carlon Mentoor, Jamie Seale, Reuben Sendzul, Marvin Simons, and Angelo Walstroom. Their selection comes off the back of consistent performances and a recent national camp in Pretoria, which included a high-tempo Green vs. Gold exhibition series. Bringing experience to the group are Dan Bell (111 caps) and goalkeeper Gowan Jones (95 caps), who return to anchor a squad with a mix of proven performers and fresh energy. Also returning to the national fold are Matt de Sousa and Trevor de Lora, both of whom bring valuable international experience. Estiaan Kriek returns having represented Kampong in a run to a silver medal finish in the Dutch Hoofdklasse league. South Africa enters the tournament with a proud history in the FIH Nations Cup, having won gold in 2022 and bronze in 2024. With momentum from their Olympic participation and recent form, the squad will look to build on this legacy in Malaysia. SA Hockey Men – FIH Nations Cup 2025 Name Caps Name Caps Name Caps Dan Bell 111 Jaydon Brooker 0 Calvin Davis 6 Trevor de Lora 21 Matthew de Sousa 48 Andrew Hobson 36 Gowan Jones 95 Zenani Kraai 23 Estiaan Kriek 36 Peabo Lembethe 76 Carloon Mentoor 0 Sam Mvimbi 63 Sihle Ngubane 24 Jamie Seale 0 Reuben Sendzul 0 Marvin Simons 0 Jacques van Tonder 32 Angelo Walstroom 0 Broadcast details will be shared in due course, with all match updates, content, and behind-the-scenes coverage available via SA Hockey’s official social media platforms. Source: sahockey.co.za | June 2, 2025

      Malaysia all set to host the FIH Hockey Men’s Nations Cup 2025

        23 May, 2025 The excitement is building in Malaysia as the nation prepares to host the upcoming FIH Hockey Men’s Nations Cup 2025, a tournament that will bring together top-tier international teams in pursuit of glory and a coveted opportunity to be promoted to the FIH Hockey Pro League, in Kuala Lumpur from 15-21 June 2025. For a country with a deep-rooted hockey tradition and a passionate fan base, hosting the Nations Cup marks yet another proud chapter in Malaysia’s long-standing relationship with the sport. Speaking about the significance of the event, Malaysian Hockey Confederation (MHC) President, Dato’ Sri Subahan Kamal, shared his thoughts: “It is an honour for Malaysia to play host yet again for a prestigious tournament. Though it will be our first Nations Cup tournament as host, we believe every tournament hosted by us escalates excitement among the younger generation and helps promote hockey actively. We are confident this will increase interest in the sport and grow a bigger community of hockey lovers.” The tournament will not only showcase international rivalries but will also serve as a rallying point for Malaysian hockey fans, who will have the chance to cheer on their national team from the stands. For the players, the home support means everything. Team Captain, Muhammad Marhan Mohd Jalil, is eagerly looking forward to leading his team on home soil: “It is an honour to play at our home ground. Seeing and hearing the spectators chanting and supporting us during our matches builds our confidence and strength throughout the competition.” With the team fully focused on putting in a strong performance, expectations are high, and ambitions are clear. “Our goal is to win this tournament. Doing so would be our way of showing appreciation to Malaysian hockey fans for their unwavering support,” said Marhan. The captain also had a heartfelt message for fans ahead of the Nations Cup: “Please come and support us so that we can play with more enthusiasm, knowing that you are behind us every moment of the game.” With a storied history of hosting top tier international hockey tournaments, a hugely passionate fan base, and a team ready to shine on the international stage, Malaysia is set to deliver a memorable edition of the FIH Hockey Men’s Nations Cup 2025. For more information about the FIH Hockey Men’s Nations Cup Malaysia 2025, click here. Source: FIH.hockey

        Hockey receives major honours at World Fair Play Awards!

          20 May, 2025 Lausanne, Switzerland: The International Fair Play Committee (CIFP) has awarded the Thailand Hockey Association (THA) and international hockey umpire Victoria Pazos (Paraguay) with the World Fair Play Diploma in the categories of “Willi Daume – Promotion of Fair Play” and “Jean Borotra – Career of Fair Play” respectively, in order to recognize their exemplary achievements in the world of sport and on the field of promoting fair play. The awards were officially received at the 2024 World Fair Play Awards Ceremony that took place last night in Budapest, Hungary. Their nominations for the prestigious award had been submitted by the International Hockey Federation (FIH) on the following basis: The Thailand Hockey Association has played a pivotal role in elevating the Cambodian National Hockey Team to new heights on the international stage. Their generous assistance has enabled Cambodia to compete in major continental events, particularly Asian Indoor Hockey competitions, and gain invaluable experience at the highest level of the sport. Through ongoing training, coaching support, and competitive opportunities, THA has provided a foundation for Cambodian athletes—men, women, and young players—to represent their nation with pride and improve their skills. THA has also hosted the Cambodian National Team multiple times, offering them essential training opportunities, matches, and coaching assistance. THA has also extended its assistance in infrastructure development. Victoria Pazos embodies the true spirit of fair play, both as a highly respected young international hockey umpire and as a dedicated coach of the Intellectual Disability Hockey (Hockey ID) team in Paraguay. Known for her integrity, impartiality, and deep commitment to the sport, she consistently upholds the values of fairness and respect on and off the field. Her role extends beyond officiating. Through her work with the Hockey ID team, she promotes inclusion, sportsmanship, and equal opportunities for all athletes. FIH President Tayyab Ikram said: “It’s a great honour for our sport to be recognised by the World Fair Play Committee with such prestigious awards. And not only once, but twice! Congratulations to the Thailand Hockey Association and our international umpire Victoria Pazos for their magnificent dedication. I’d also like to express our gratitude to the World Fair Play Committee. As an Olympic sport, we strongly believe in the role of sports to be a catalyst for change in society and to promote social values. Therefore, we’re leading and fostering concrete actions in this regard. After FIH won the IOC Climate Action Award last year, hockey now receives high recognition from the World Fair Play Committee. These acknowledgements are really encouraging.” Thailand Hockey Association President Dato Seri Chaiyapak Siriwat said: “The Thailand Hockey Association is deeply honoured to receive this recognition from the World Fair Play Committee. We extend our sincere appreciation to the Committee and to the International Hockey Federation (FIH) for their unwavering commitment to supporting developing nations in their pursuit of sporting excellence. We share a collective mission — not only to grow the game of hockey, but to foster a spirit of solidarity in which nations, regardless of size or status, extend a hand to uplift one another. While we continue to navigate various challenges, the steadfast support of the FIH reinforces our commitment and further affirms our responsibility to assist in the development of others along this shared journey. We remain dedicated to advancing hockey in Thailand and throughout our region, using our beloved sport as a tool to empower, strengthen, and connect communities through mutual respect and collaboration.” International umpire Victoria Pazos said: “It is an unexpected honour to receive this diploma. Being recognized on this level gives me more energy to keep developing our sport in my country and in my continent, promoting its values. I am grateful for my national association (APH), my continental federation (PAHF) and FIH that give me the space to do all this.” For more information about FIH and hockey in general, please download the Watch.Hockey app or follow the FIH social media channels – Facebook, Instagram and Twitter – and website. #MadeForHockey Source: FIH.hockey

          FIH Hockey Women’s Nations Cup 2 Poland 2025: One Month to Go!

            16 May, 2025 The countdown has begun! In just one month, from 16 to 22 June 2025, the city of Wałcz, Poland, will host the inaugural edition of the FIH Hockey Women’s Nations Cup 2. This landmark event offers a pivotal platform for emerging national teams to showcase their talent on the international stage, with the opportunity to gain promotion to the FIH Nations Cup. A New Chapter in Women’s Hockey The FIH Hockey Women’s Nations Cup 2 serves as a stepping stone for teams aspiring to ascend the international hockey hierarchy. The tournament will feature eight teams: Czechia, France, Italy, Malaysia, Poland, South Africa, Uruguay, and Wales. These teams will compete not only for the title but also for a chance to progress to the FIH Hockey Nations Cup, bringing them closer to the top tier competition: the FIH Hockey Pro League. Tournament Structure and Fixtures The competition is divided into two pools: Pool A: Malaysia, Poland, South Africa, Uruguay Pool B: Czechia, France, Italy, Wales Each team will play round-robin matches within their pool, followed by classification matches, semi-finals, and the final. All-European Pool B matches between Italy vs Wales and France vs Czechia will start us off on 16 June, to be followed by Pool A match featuring South Africa vs. Uruguay, before the final match of opening day between hosts Poland and Malaysia. The pool stage matches will be played on 16, 17 and 19 June, followed by the classification matches and medal matches on the 21 and 22 June. The winning team from the FIH Hockey Women’s Nations Cup 2 Poland 2025 will be promoted to the FIH Hockey Nations Cup 2026, offering them a further pathway towards promotion to the FIH Hockey Pro League, the league of the best! Wałcz: Inaugural Hosts Wałcz, known for its rich sporting culture and scenic beauty, is set to provide a vibrant backdrop for this historic tournament. Hosting the FIH Hockey Women’s Nations Cup 2 marks a significant milestone for the city, highlighting its growing presence in international hockey. Rafał Grotwski, President of the Polish Hockey Association said, “We are extremely pleased with the confidence FIH has placed in us. This is extremely important to us in our strategy for the development of women’s hockey in our country. 2025 is the year in which we invest in the development of women’s hockey and the opportunity to host teams in Poland from around the world will undoubtedly contribute to the spread of our sport.” Stay Connected Fans can follow all the action, including live scores, match updates, and news, on the official FIH website:FIH Hockey Women’s Nations Cup 2 Poland 2024-25. Exciting news coming soon about your favourite LIVE HOCKEY streaming platform! Stay tuned for more. As the countdown continues, the FIH Hockey Women’s Nations Cup 2 promises a week of high-intensity hockey, national pride, and the pursuit of excellence. Source: FIH.hockey