DUBAI The progress of hockey in the UAE has seen steady growth over the years, but it’s heartening to see the youth development programme run by Dubai Youth Hockey Club (DYHC) has evoked tremendous response.
The first youth hockey development coaching programme in the UAE, which has been designed to develop the skills and sportsmanship of young hockey players, has seen a surge of interest among youngsters in learning and playing the sport at the grassroots level.
“This year we have seen our youth coaching programme attract over 100 participants from across the UAE,” DYHC founder and coach Nadia Schwarz told XPRESS.
“All our coaches are experienced hockey players and together we aim to develop new and aspiring talent into well-rounded athletes,” she added.
Founded in 2012 with her husband Paul Schwarz, DYHC develops sporting talent of children ages 4 to 16 and follows the Hockey Australia FIH youth coaching programme - hookin2Hockey - designed to teach the skills and rules of hockey using a game-centred approach.
Early stages
“Like any youth sports development programme, this is also the future of hockey. Hence it’s vital to have such a progamme if we want hockey to grow and be played in the region for many more years to come,” she said.
With a comprehensive plan on board, DYHC is now contemplating on hosting tournaments that can give the youngsters match exposure. “We are currently in the early stages of putting together a youth hockey tournament to be played early next year.
“Some of the under-16 girls have had some exposure playing touring teams that have come here recently, and we hope to play more early next year. As for touring overseas this is also in the pipeline,” Nadia said.
But the lack of hockey grounds in the UAE has always been a big concern, but Nadia remained optimistic and said: “For many players we find it a little disheartening knowing there used to be a proper outdoor hockey pitch but it got pulled up. However, indoor hockey is still very much an option and there are some amazing hockey enthusiasts who are trying to find a way to have at least one proper outdoor hockey pitch built.”
Furthermore, with sponsors coming in for the youth programme, it did show signs of good days ahead. Avery Office Supplies and HSS health and safety training consultancy came on board for the 2014-15 youth programme season. “Working at grassroots level the backing of two sponsors is extremely welcomed, as is the support of our venue Horizon International School. We are now able to provide extra equipment, sports kits and branding at our coaching sessions to really develop the sport,” said Nadia.
For details about the academy contact Nadia Schwarz at dubaiyouthhockey@gmail.com or 050 944 6172.
