Celebrating hockey’s growth and sustainability at the 49th FIH Congress
Climate Award - FIH President Tayyab Ikram, Sport Group's Steven Niven and Paul Kamphuis
AstroTurf, Polytan & Poligras honored to attend as the leader in innovative turf solutions and a proud partner of the FIH
The recent 49th International Hockey Federation (FIH) Congress in Muscat, Oman, was a stunning showcase of hockey’s global growth, sustainability initiatives, and community spirit, with the sport's global leaders shining a spotlight on the milestones achieved in the last year.
FIH 2024 Hockey Stars
Serving as a spectacular platform for the hockey world to unite, leaders from over 100 nations came together to celebrate the sport´s milestones, discuss sustainability goals, and chart hockey´s future.
Sport Group received a prestigious trophy for their part in the FIH's IOC Climate Change award
The award ceremony also spotlighted top contributors to the sport, with the Poligras Paris GT zero hockey turf honored for its contribution towards the FIH´s IOC Climate Award and advancing hockey’s sustainability standards.
“Receiving this award is not just a recognition of our work but an acknowledgment of hockey’s commitment to a sustainable future. It’s an honor to contribute to this journey.”
Congratulations to FIH President Tayyab Ikram
We extend our heartiest congratulations to Tayyab Ikram on his re-election as FIH President as he continues to inspire hockey's steady global expansion. With 146 member nations—bolstered by the recent inclusion of Bahrain, Chad, Curacao, Iraq, Kyrgyzstan, and Senegal—hockey’s reach is stronger than ever.
FIH President Tayyab Ikram
Sustainability front and center
Sport Group’s leadership in sustainability took center stage in Muscat, especially as discussions turned to the LA 2028 Olympic Games. Paul Kamphuis, General Manager of Polytan APAC, presented to the full Congress and shared with them the impressive 22% water savings from Tokyo to Paris, and the massive carbon savings possible in the sport, if all hockey turfs shifted to carbon zero turfs in the future.
The Congress underscored the sport’s focus on eco-friendly practices, and Poligras’ innovations continue to set new standards in sustainable hockey surfaces.
“Sustainability is at the heart of what we do. Our aim is to create top performing playing surfaces that not only grow the game, but minimize environmental impact for the next generation.” said Melissa Vassalotti Twist, Director of Field Hockey at Astroturf.
Our efforts in sustainability were further recognized with a prestigious FIH award, proudly received by Sport Group Asia Pacific CEO, Stephen Niven. This accolade honors Poligras’ vital role in the FIH’s recent IOC Climate Award, a testament to the positive impact of our innovative turf technology.
“Receiving this award is not just a recognition of our work but an acknowledgment of hockey’s commitment to a sustainable future. It’s an honor to contribute to this journey,” said Stephen Niven.
Polytan's Paul Kamphuis sits on discussion panel
Proud participants in a growing global movement
The Congress united the world´s hockey leaders, highlighting the sport’s vibrancy, reach and potential. Sport Group (owner of Polytan, FIH’s global supplier) was delighted to engage in discussions about the future of hockey, particularly through innovative programs like Hockey 5s, which offer smaller nations an accessible path to embracing the game we love.
The launch of the #MadeForHockey campaign, in partnership with the Laureus Sport for Good Foundation, was another highlight. This initiative, which emphasizes gender equality and youth empowerment, aligns with our commitment to fostering inclusive growth in hockey.
Looking ahead
As part of the Sport Group family, alongside Polytan and AstroTurf, Poligras is committed to supporting hockey’s growth and development. From empowering new member nations through the FIH Empowerment Program to creating world-class, sustainable playing surfaces, we are proud to contribute to hockey’s bright future.
The 49th FIH Congress reminded us all why we love this sport: community, innovation, and a shared vision for a better tomorrow. Here’s to a sustainable, inclusive, and thriving hockey world!
Yibbi Jansen - Player of Year