The teams that were selected to play in the first FIH Hockey Pro League were not simply the best national men’s and women’s teams in the world. Instead, the FIH used a much broader set of criteria as part of the application process. The FIH set out participation criteria very transparently, encouraging a range of nations to apply. The aim of the process was to ensure the quality of the League and the highest possible standard of events right from the start.
The criteria were developed around meeting the three main objectives of the new event portfolio: to generate a massive change in television and media coverage for hockey; create big, bold, packed and loud events and to make a step change in future revenues for the sport.
In December 2016, the FIH sent application documents to the top 16 men’s and women’s hockey nations as listed in the FIH World Rankings. The FIH was clear that the teams would be chosen by a specially selected FIH Event Portfolio Implementation Panel.
National Associations were required to submit extensive information in order to be eligible, with sustainability the key aspect of the Leagues’ long term vision.
Alongside this process, the FIH held extensive discussions with national broadcasters regarding exposure and media coverage of hockey within each of the selected nations.
The FIH asked for detailed financial modeling, projecting budgets for both the participation in matches overseas as well as hosting matches in their homeland. Details about marketing proposals for promoting the League plus commercial strategies aimed at generating income were required, alongside evidence of financial sustainability.
The FIH also considered which nations could best offer the perfect stage for these teams to shine. With a requirement to host ‘Big, Bold, Packed and Loud’ events in line with the FIH’s 10-year Hockey Revolution strategy, venue selection and experience of hosting previous events was also included amongst the criteria for entry.
There was no bidding fee associated with League participation so nations did not need to worry that selection would simply be offered to the highest bidder.
The deadline for applications was the April 30, 2017 and there was an overwhelming response from National Associations wanting to be part of this league.
In all there were 13 women’s teams vying for 9 spots and 12 men’s teams competing for their 9 places. It was an incredibly competitive process and gave the panel some hard decisions to make in choosing the teams.
Whilst it has not been easy, the FIH know it’s been a thorough and robust process - assessing applications against the defined criteria:
- Broadcast and Media coverage
- Financial sustainability
- Commercial vision
- Legal compliance
- Proposed venues
- Match Experience and Sports Presentation
- Organization and personnel
- Marketing strategies
- Motivation and Legacy
- Team performance history
- Previous event hosting
