Bangladesh hockey set to launch HP Programme

Bangladesh is set to launch a High Performance programme in hockey, following the footsteps of cricket and football, to keep promising players and those dropped from the national squad under year-round training.

The Bangladesh Hockey Federation (BHF) is introducing the initiative to build a strong pipeline of players and fix fitness issues caused by the long absence of domestic competitions. Experienced coach Mamun Ur Rashid is set to take charge as the head coach of the High Performance team.

BHF joint secretary Ariful Haq Prince confirmed the development, stating that the process is already underway and a complete outline of the programme will be finalised within the next few days.

The initiative was spearheaded by BHF general secretary Ishtiaque Sadeque, who approached Mamun to lead the project and asked him to outline a plan.

Mamun confirmed that he has submitted an initial proposal to the federation.

"Ishtiaque bhai requested me to submit a proposal and take charge of the team. I have sent it to him today (Saturday). I agreed to take the responsibility, though the project is still at an initial stage," Mamun said.

Officials and team management believe the programme will solve a long-standing crisis in Bangladesh hockey, where many gifted players fade away after losing their spots in the national team due to a lack of regular practice facilities.

Currently, about 30 to 35 players outside the national squad struggle to prove themselves without the adequate opportunities. The programme aims to bring them under structured with continuous monitoring and training.

"Our main objective is to look after the 30 to 35 players outside the national team who have high potential but do not get opportunities anywhere," Mamun stated. "For the last five to seven years, only 25 to 30 players have been regularly playing for the national team. If we can build more quality players outside this group, it will create a competitive environment and push everyone to work harder to earn a place in the national side."

The move comes at a crucial time for local players, who have faced a severe lack of competitive matches. The domestic hockey league has remained suspended since it was last held in 2023.

"The last league took place in 2023, and there has been no league since then," Mamun added. "While 30 to 40 players were involved with the national team, about 200 other players are completely out of the competitive hockey, national camps, and regular practice. That hurts our overall performance. This initiative by Ishtiaque bhai will address that gap and keep players motivated."