Black Sticks Withdraw from FIH Pro League Over Costs and Travel

The Black Sticks will not compete in the FIH Pro League due to concerns over the format’s high costs and extensive travel requirements. Following their qualification for the prestigious men’s competition by winning the Nations Cup last month, Hockey New Zealand decided to withdraw after consultations with players and coaches revealed significant misalignments with the organization’s performance goals.

Concerns Over Sustainability and Athlete Wellbeing

Hockey New Zealand expressed that the current structure of the Pro League is “expensive, travel-heavy,” and limits opportunities for home games. Acting Chief Executive Officer Ken Maplesden emphasized that the format does not support a sustainable, athlete-centric programme being developed in New Zealand. “It doesn’t support the sustainable, athlete-first programme we’re building in New Zealand,” he stated.

The decision to withdraw was not made lightly. Maplesden noted that both the men’s and women’s teams faced similar challenges. The Black Sticks women also declined their spot in the Pro League, which they earned by winning the Nations Cup in March. He highlighted that opting out underscores the “structural barriers facing geographically remote nations like New Zealand” within the current competition framework.

Maplesden acknowledged that while Hockey New Zealand aims to return to the Pro League, it will only do so if it aligns with maintaining a sustainable high-performance programme. Greg Nicol, coach of the Black Sticks men, reiterated the importance of prioritizing athlete wellbeing and long-term success. “We want to play the best, but not at the cost of people or the programme,” Nicol said.

Players Voice Their Disappointment

The decision has received support from the New Zealand Hockey Players Association (NZHPA). Executive manager Glen Sulzberger remarked that players “desperately” wish to compete at the highest level but believe that participation should not come with excessive costs that burden them or the sport in New Zealand. “What is clear is that the Pro League does not meet its original objectives, nor has it evolved to become a viable competition,” Sulzberger added, criticizing the FIH for failing to uphold its responsibilities to the game.

Player Sam Lane expressed disappointment at the inability to compete despite qualification. “We understand the challenges with the league and implore the FIH to properly engage and listen to what athletes have to say,” Lane stated. The sentiment among the players and officials reflects a growing concern about the sustainability of international competitions and their accessibility for nations with logistical challenges.

As the situation unfolds, Hockey New Zealand remains focused on advocating for a more flexible and inclusive Pro League model, one that meets the needs of all participating nations. The withdrawal of both Black Sticks teams marks a significant moment, highlighting ongoing discussions about the future of international hockey.