Three years later, First Division hockey takes flight

The First Division Hockey League is set to return to the pitch after a three-year absence, with the tournament scheduled to begin on 20 September.

The official player transfer window opened on Sunday to pave the way for the league’s revival. The two-day transfer process will conclude on Monday, with clubs eagerly securing their squads for the upcoming season.

Eleven clubs will participate in the league this season — Wari Club, Hockey Dhaka United, PWD, Combined SC, Mukta Bihanga Tarun Sangha, Bachelors SC, Farashganj SC, Shishu Kishore Sangha, Wanderers Club, Rayer Bazar SC and Dhaka Young Star Club.

Nine of the participating clubs took part in the player transfer process on Sunday, while the remaining two are expected to complete their transfers on Monday.

Harun ur Rashid, chairman of the First Division Hockey League Committee, expressed great optimism about the initiative. He noted that all participating clubs have been highly engaged in the process from the very start.

To ensure a successful tournament, the federation has already held several meetings with the teams. The clubs have been assisting the federation by offering constructive advice and active support.

“If there is no sport on the pitch, the sporting arena loses its diversity,” Harun ur Rashid said. “Despite having such excellent grounds, no hockey tournament has been held for the last three years, which was truly a matter of concern.

“From the beginning, we were determined to get the game rolling on the pitch at any cost. Without the sincere cooperation of the clubs, it is impossible to make this event a success. We are hopeful that this support from the clubs will continue from the transfer window right through the entire tournament.”

The organisers and club officials are confident that a well-run, exciting league will bring spectators back to the hockey stands.