International Hockey Federation launch "Quality Programme" for turf

A Quality Programme for Hockey Turf has been launched today by the International Hockey Federation ©Getty Images

The International Hockey Federation (FIH) has today launched a "Quality Programme for Hockey Turf" as the sport continues its global overhaul to help develop its image across the world.

The scheme aims to ensure that good quality hockey fields are available at all levels of the sport, focussing on ensuring sustainability, affordability and accessibility of pitches worldwide.

It is hoped the Quality Programme will help inspire more people to play the game and will allow current facilities to be better maintained, as well as enhancing player welfare.

Pitches and venues will be split into three categories, global, national and multi-sport, and will see the involvement of certified manufacturers, field builders and preferred suppliers of the sport’s governing body to make sure consistent quality of surfaces are maintained.

It forms part of the FIH’s Hockey Revolution, a strategy which stretches over a 10-year period and is aimed at inspiring the next generation of hockey players in all parts of the world.

Artificial pitches were introduced into all formats of hockey in the 1970s, which has helped improve the sport’s reputation by making it better to watch for fans and improving the conditions for players.

FIH President Leandro Negre says the initiative will help the sustainability of the sport for future generations ©Getty Images

“We believe that the long-term success of our sport lies in the quality of hockey facilities around the world,” FIH President Leandro Negre said.

“As part of the Hockey Revolution we want to create international standards ensuring the sustainability, affordability and accessibility of hockey fields worldwide.

“As a result, we have launched the FIH Quality Programme for Hockey Turf, developed with the best interest of hockey players at its heart.

“This programme will have a significant impact on the next generation of hockey players, the future of our sport, who will be able to learn and develop their hockey skills in safe and reliable environments.”

Hockey’s world governing body also claim the initiative aligns with the International Olympic Committee’s Agenda 2020 reforms, the strategic roadmap for the future of the Olympic Movement, as it follows recommendation four on improving sustainability.

“This is a fantastic opportunity for suppliers, manufacturers, field builders and field owners to become part of an official quality-assurance programme,” FIH facilities manager Alastair Cox added.

“In doing so they can be confident that their field performs correctly, is safe, built to specification and maintains performance.

“As a result this will improve the sustainability, affordability and accessibility of hockey turf fields around the world, which is key to the long term development of hockey.”