Public-private partnerships key to hockey revival: Rana Mashhood

ISLAMABAD, Oct 15 (APP): Chairman Prime Minister’s Youth Programme (PMYP) Rana Mashhood Ahmad Khan on Thursday stressed the importance of public-private partnerships in reviving Pakistan hockey as he attended the sponsorship signing ceremony between the Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) and Vital Group as Guest of Honour in Islamabad.

Rana Mashhood highlighted the role of corporate investment in sports development and referred to government measures to restore departmental sports and provide athletes with greater opportunities to demonstrate their talent.

He also pointed to the proposed Pakistan Hockey League, expressing confidence in efforts to strengthen the country’s hockey structure.

Federal Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives Ahsan Iqbal also attended the ceremony, along with prominent former Olympians, including Hassan Sardar, Nasir Ali, Tahir Zaman and Khawaja Junaid, and other distinguished members of the hockey fraternity.

Under the agreement, Vital Group will support Pakistan hockey through corporate resources and partnership, contributing to efforts to strengthen the national team, encourage youth participation and create better opportunities for emerging players.

The partnership marks another step towards mobilising private-sector support for the development of the national sport and restoring Pakistan’s standing in international hockey.

The PHF and players appreciated Vital Group for expressing confidence in Pakistan hockey and supporting efforts to revive the game.

The stakeholders reaffirmed their commitment to working collectively to strengthen the sport and build a sustainable future for Pakistan hockey.