Hockey Union rolls out talent nurturing programme in partnership with the Dutch

The Kenya Hockey Federation (KHF), in partnership with the Government of Kenya and development partners from the Netherlands, is intensifying its efforts to groom the next generation of hockey stars through a comprehensive youth development program based at City Park Stadium, Nairobi.

The initiative currently trains over 100 children aged between 10 and 16, offering them more than just hockey skills. Participants also learn key life values such as discipline, teamwork, and self-confidence which are critical pillars for personal growth and sporting success.

“We usually target kids from 5 to 14 years old, and after that we release them to schools and the national team. We teach them the basics like how to hold a stick, pass the ball and also include sessions on discipline, hygiene, and even computer literacy,” Job Bucho, one of the program’s coaches, said.

Dutch development partner - Jet De Graeff -  plays a key role in the program by facilitating coaching clinics, supplying training equipment, and offering mental wellness support.

“We’ve had overwhelming support from our networks back in the Netherlands. They see the impact this program is having and how dedicated the kids and coaches are and that motivates them to keep sending gear and resources,” said De Graeff.

Beyond the pitch, the program represents a platform for hope and transformation. For many children, it offers a pathway to better opportunities through sport.

"Today we even have kids as young as three years old joining. What’s even more encouraging is that some of the coaches now training them are alumni of this very program and they’ve come to give back,” said coach Carolyne Mabwayi.

“The most important thing here is that we nurture talent from a young age so that hockey can grow from the grassroots up, unlike in the past where most of us only picked up the sport in high school.”

The KHF youth program stands as a shining example of how structured development, mentorship, and international partnerships can help elevate Kenyan hockey to new heights.