WILLEMSTAD - Curaçao has received international recognition as a candidate member of the International Hockey Federation (FIH). According to Diederik van Buuren, president of the Curaçao Hockey Federation, this marks a crucial milestone for the island's hockey sport, as reported by the Curaçao Hockey Federation (CHF).
The Curaçao Hockey Federation aims to further develop its goals of increasing visibility in the coming period. Additionally, efforts will be made to revise the statutes and focus on the next generation, namely the youth players.
Despite challenges, such as declining popularity after the COVID-19 pandemic, Van Buuren and federation secretary Derk de Wolf are optimistic about putting the island on the international map. They aim to achieve a serious status in the global hockey community.
With plans for new fields and ongoing discussions with potential sponsors, the federation is at the beginning of a significant transformation. "The ultimate dream is not only to participate in international tournaments but also to promote hockey in Curaçao, with the aim of having a lasting positive impact on the sport on the island.
With plans for new fields and ongoing discussions with potential sponsors, the federation is at the beginning of a transition phase. "If all documents are approved by the FIH, Curaçao could be a full member as early as next year," said De Wolf.