When final yr mr. Batra obtained re-elected because the FIH president I wrote “We deserve higher” with an open letter to the directors of our sport. In it I wished to make two factors:
- The number one precedence is getting extra individuals to PLAY the game, not WATCH the game.
- Transparency & accountability in governing our sport want to enhance.
Lately the FIH president, mr Batra, introduced he wouldn’t search re-election because the president for the IOA, which is the nationwide Olympic affiliation of India. He claimed this was as a result of hockey was coming into a time with a number of challenges and it wanted his full consideration. What he forgot to say was, he was convicted of malpractice as a sports activities administrator by the Excessive Court docket of Delhi for a number of acts that don’t cross the bar relating to good governance. In case you wish to learn the total judgment, click on right here. To this point Batra has not reside as much as guarantees made (income for FIH will go up) or damaged different guarantees he made hockey (I by no means attempt to go for IOA presidency). Clearly the final meeting of NA’s didn’t maintain him accountable final yr. Possibly the manager board of the FIH will do it this yr? I’m not holding my breath although…
2 columns which can be a should learn
If you happen to’re solely within the newest outcomes of the crew you root for or wish to see thrilling tips with stick and ball. This may not be your cup of tea. If you happen to care about the way forward for our sport although you may wish to learn two latest columns from Australian journalist Ashley Morrison:
If you happen to’re a sports activities administrator at a membership, a nationwide or continental affiliation I feel you must learn these and ask your fellow directors to do the correct factor. And please keep in mind the 2 factors which can be close to to not less than my coronary heart:
- The number one precedence is getting extra individuals to PLAY the game, not WATCH the game.
- Transparency & accountability in governing our sport want to enhance.
It’s by no means too late to do the correct factor…
We’ve run our sport as well-meaning amateurs for a very long time. Occasions have modified. Too many NA’s (that’s nationwide associations) and their directors are actually in it for themselves as a substitute of the game they need to characterize. If you happen to solely spend Olympic and authorities funding in your administration and nationwide groups you’re doing all your sport a disservice. Organising or attending worldwide occasions and “rising your fanbase” is a way to an finish, not the tip purpose.
If you can’t exhibit you’re rising the variety of lively and registered gamers in a sustainable means, you’re doing it improper ⚠️
It’s by no means too late to do the correct factor…
