ISLAMABAD: Former Dutch hockey icon Floris Jan Bovelander has voiced strong hope for Pakistan’s hockey revival, asserting that with the right training environment and international exposure, the country can once again dominate the global stage.
Currently in Pakistan, Bovelander is leading a series of training clinics aimed at nurturing young hockey talent in Islamabad and Rawalpindi, with a follow-up session planned in Lahore. The initiative is being spearheaded by the Khawaja Junaid Hockey Academy (KJHA), in partnership with the Embassy of the Netherlands and the Pakistan Sports Board, marking Dutch King’s Day with sports diplomacy.
Renowned for his role in the Netherlands’ 1990 Hockey World Cup win, Bovelander is particularly known for his lethal drag-flicks. At the training sessions held at Naseer Bunda Hockey Stadium, he shared modern techniques in penalty corners, offensive plays, and tactical awareness with aspiring players.
“Natural talent plays a part,” Bovelander told the media, “but to excel in international hockey, a strong mix of dedication, focused training, and strategic thinking is essential.”
The event drew a notable crowd of current national players, former Olympians, coaches, diplomats, and officials. Dutch Ambassador Henny de Vries and Secretary of the Ministry of Inter-Provincial Coordination (IPC), Mohyuddin Ahmad Wani, were also in attendance.
Wani praised the initiative, calling Bovelander’s visit a step in the right direction for reviving Pakistan’s national sport. In his discussion with the Dutch star, Wani highlighted one of Pakistan hockey’s major hurdles: the lack of quality Astroturf facilities.
“There are only about 40 Astroturf pitches across the country. The government aims to double this number to 80 within the next five years,” Wani stated. He reaffirmed the federal government’s resolve to strengthen the sport’s infrastructure.
Khawaja Mohammad Junaid, former Olympian and head of KJHA, described Bovelander’s presence as a much-needed morale boost for young players and coaching staff. “This visit is not just symbolic — it’s a technical and motivational leap forward for our ongoing revival plans,” he said.
As Pakistan seeks to reclaim its position as a global hockey powerhouse, such international collaborations are proving to be crucial. Bovelander’s mentorship, combined with local efforts to upgrade training facilities and coaching standards, is reigniting hope for a brighter future in Pakistani hockey.
The visit is more than just a ceremonial nod to the sport’s past — it’s a push toward a sustainable future driven by grassroots development, international best practices, and a shared vision for excellence.
