ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) has decided to launch a Schools Hockey League aimed at promoting the sport in educational institutions and identifying emerging talent for national teams.
The decision was discussed at a consultative meeting chaired by PHF President Mohiuddin Wani. Representatives from the education and sports departments of all four provinces, Azad Kashmir, Gilgit-Baltistan and Islamabad attended the meeting.
According to the plan, tehsil, district and divisional level competitions will begin simultaneously across the country on November 15. Provincial level competitions are scheduled to be held in January, followed by national level contests in February.
Under the initiative, players from the top three teams will receive monthly stipends for one year. Players from the team securing first position will receive Rs10,000 per month, while those from the second and third position teams will get Rs7,500 and Rs5,000 per month, respectively.
The PHF also plans to arrange international tours for the league’s winning team and selected players.
As part of its talent development programme, 100 boys and 100 girls will be selected every year for summer camps, where they will receive hockey coaching, fitness training and educational support.
School heads and sports teachers who contribute to the success of the Schools Hockey League will also be presented with special awards.
