Floris Jan Bovelander, a former field hockey player from the Netherlands, is arriving Pakistan on a goodwill visit, during which he will conduct a special training clinic at the Naseer Bunda Hockey Stadium in Islamabad, according to organizers.
The 59-year-old player is one of the most celebrated drag flickers in the history of field hockey and a member of the 1990 World Cup-winning Dutch side. The visiting player will meet senior officials of the Pakistan Hockey Federation besides some planned meetings at the Prime Minister’s Office in Islamabad.
Khawaja Junaid Hockey Academy (KJHA) head Khawaja Muhammad Junaid said that Floris Bovelander will hold an exclusive session with young players of his academy and different clubs from Rawalpindi and Islamabad at the Naseer Bunda Hockey Stadium. The event will draw a large number of hockey enthusiasts, former Olympians, current national players, sports officials and ambassadors from some countries.
The Olympian said the training clinic was part of efforts to revive the golden traditions of Pakistan hockey and expose young players to modern techniques and international expertise. He described the visit as a historic moment for Pakistan hockey. He said that the initiative was being supported by the Prime Minister’s Office.
“Floris Bovelander is not just a hockey legend, he’s an inspiration for generations. His visit is a big boost to our efforts of reviving the golden days of our hockey,” Khawaja Junaid said. “This training clinic will be a great opportunity for our young players to learn from a master of the game. His experience and skills, especially in drag flicks and penalty corners will be invaluable,” he added.
“Such international interactions help rebuild our image and establish people-to-people contact through sports diplomacy. It’s not just training; it’s a celebration of hockey,” he said. “I’m thankful to the Embassy of the Netherlands in Islamabad for facilitating Floris Bovelander’s visit to Pakistan,” he said. “I’m also grateful to Pakistan Sports Board, and Yasir Pirzada who always backs the steps for uplift of the national game.”
He said that its a great step towards bridging global hockey communities. He said that Netherlands-based former woman footballer Kayanat Bukhari would also be accompanying the Dutch hockey great. It is pertinent to mention here that Floris Bovelander is running Bovelander Foundation with a mission to help underprivileged children and young adults develop through the power of sports, focusing on hockey.
