Hockey Association of Malawi (Ham) has lauded the International Hockey Federation (FIH) World Youth Hockey 5’s Festival, describing it as a major step towards next year’s Youth Olympic Games.
Malawi’s 10-member delegation arrived in Ipoh, Malaysia, Tuesday for the camp, which is expected to end on Saturday.
Ham President Wanthaza Mughogho said the programme was crucial as the association intended to produce athletes for next year’s Dakar, Senegal, competition from October 31 to November 13.
“We are thrilled that they have made it to this maiden FIH and Olympic Youth Development Programme. This team, which is representing Malawi, will serve as ambassadors for Hockey5s and play a pivotal role in promoting its growth in our country.
“Moreover, this marks the foundation of our long-term athlete development programme as we prepare for the next Youth Olympics,” Mughogho said.
He thanked stakeholders—that is, Olympic Solidarity, the Malawi Olympic Committee, Malawi National Council of Sports (MNCS), International Hockey Federation (FIH) and its partners—for making the programme a reality for Ham.
According to the arrangement, the programme focuses on sustainable talent development pathways and would enhance Malawi’s competitive capabilities within the Youth Olympic Games framework.
MNCS Public Relations and Communications Officer Edgar Ntulumbwa said such initiatives were important as they help groom athletes.
“We encourage associations to jointly work with stakeholders, including their respective international mother bodies, to explore such opportunities,” Ntulumbwa said.
Malawi’s full delegation to the World Youth Hockey 5’s Festival is as follows:
Players: Michelle Manda (Female), Brandina Chaima (Female), Prisca Lumbalo (Female), Lauren Kaliwo (Female), Peter Jere (Male), Samuel Longwe (Male), Sayf Mia (Male) and Feston Machemba (Male).
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