Islamabad: Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) President Mohyuddin Ahmad Wani has said that the revival of Pakistan hockey cannot be achieved through temporary decisions and short-term experiments. In a statement issued here he stressed that it is now time to adopt a sustainable, 3 to 5 year long-term strategy.
He said the federation’s priority is not just to win a single tournament, but to rebuild the entire hockey system and environment from the grassroots level to the senior national team.
To achieve this, a grassroots model and roadmap are being developed. The plan will start with school hockey and progress through district, provincial and national championships to create a transparent pathway where players can reach the senior national team based on merit, he said.
PHF President said Pakistan will follow the models of countries like the Netherlands, Belgium, Germany and India by focusing on strong infrastructure and modern training systems instead of shortcuts.
Under the plan, Pakistani coaches will receive advanced training in collaboration with foreign experts. Measures are also being taken to arrange foreign tours for national teams and to bring international teams to Pakistan.
He added that players representing Pakistan will be provided with attractive financial incentives and a secure career pathway. Over the next five years, the number of astroturfs across the country will be increased from 52 to 100.
Active coaching, regular competitions and the promotion of girls’ hockey will be made mandatory at every ground, he said.
The roadmap sets clear targets. The first year will focus on establishing infrastructure and the grassroots system. The second year will strengthen academies, coaching and talent development. The third year will be dedicated to reviewing the system’s performance and results, he said.
‘Our goal is not a temporary shortcut, but the permanent return of Pakistan’s national sport and its great legacy, ‘ he said.
He urged the federal and provincial governments, all stakeholders and the public to contribute to the success of this revolutionary plan for the development and revival of hockey.
