Reuters
USA Field Hockey is excited to announce the arrival of its latest development initiative, an all-encompassing campaign to further develop the sport, rightfully named Grow the Game.
The Grow the Game campaign will encourage grassroots development in all areas of the sport, including participation, coaching, umpiring and administration. Spearheaded by the success from USA Field Hockey’s youth program, FUNdamental Field Hockey, the Sport Development Team will look to expand upon the program’s success and introduce development programs for boys, umpires, coaches, adults and athletes in new and nontraditional areas.
“It was key for us to be successful with FUNdamental Field Hockey in year one to be able to expand to these new avenues. It’s now evident what we are doing is important for the growth of our sport,” said Steve Locke, Executive Director for USA Field Hockey.
Programs that will reside under Grow the Game include FUNdamental Field Hockey, Play It Forward, You Go Girl, and new initiatives for adult play, boys, coaches and umpires. The campaign will also provide online educational resources and expose existing local leagues, tournaments, and events.
"There’s a lot of work to be done and we surely cannot do it without the help of our members. You can help Grow the Game by hosting a clinic, organizing an equipment drive, or umpiring a game,” says Sport Development Senior Manager, Liz Tchou. “We are so thankful to have such passionate and committed individuals, clubs and organizations who continually help us grow the game.”
USA Field Hockey will be growing the game this year with increased event participation, free clinics, new development initiatives, and awarding nearly 10,000 sticks through its programs. To kick off the movement, USA Field Hockey is giving away a $1,000 shopping spree at any Grow the Game sponsor for the best Grow the Game video submission.
