Pakistan Hockey Receives Sponsorship Boost as Vital Group Partners With PHF
Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail
The Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) has signed a sponsorship agreement with Vital Group in a move aimed at supporting the development of hockey, promoting grassroots participation and creating better opportunities for young players.
The agreement was signed during a ceremony in Islamabad attended by Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal, Prime Minister’s Youth Programme Chairman Rana Mashhood Ahmed Khan, PHF President Mohyuddin Ahmad Wani, Vital Group representative Mian Asad, national hockey players and former Olympians.
The partnership is expected to provide additional support for Pakistan hockey and encourage greater involvement of the private sector in the development of the national sport.
Ahsan Iqbal Highlights Importance of Private-Sector Support
Addressing the ceremony, Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal stressed that private-sector investment was essential for improving the country’s sporting structure.
He said financial support could help provide stability to hockey players, allowing them to concentrate on training and performances rather than financial concerns.
Iqbal also offered the national hockey team access to the National Sports City in Narowal as a permanent training facility.
He highlighted that the complex features international-standard infrastructure for 14 sports and could play an important role in preparing Pakistani athletes for international competitions.
The minister added that the government was working to improve sports facilities and provide players with better training opportunities and resources.
PHF President Welcomes Sponsorship Agreement
PHF President Mohyuddin Ahmad Wani described the agreement with Vital Group as an important development for Pakistan hockey.
He said partnerships with private organizations could help strengthen the sport’s foundation and create more opportunities for emerging players.
The sponsorship is also expected to support wider efforts to revive hockey and improve the environment for players at different levels.
Pakistan Hockey League Plans Gain Momentum
Speaking at the event, Prime Minister’s Youth Programme Chairman Rana Mashhood Ahmed Khan said the government had restored departmental sports and was taking steps to develop the proposed Pakistan Hockey League.
He also revealed that a significant number of Dutch players would be available for the planned competition.
The proposed league is expected to provide a platform for local talent to gain valuable experience, improve competition standards and strengthen Pakistan’s domestic hockey structure.
The sponsorship agreement with Vital Group comes at a time when the PHF is pursuing several initiatives to improve the future of the national sport.
With increased private-sector involvement, better training facilities and plans for a professional league, Pakistan hockey is aiming to create a stronger pathway for young players and improve its competitiveness at the international level.
