The all important FIH Congress and Forum has got under way in the city of Montreux, Switzerland, with FIH President Leandro Negre greeting committee members, dignitaries and guests at a special welcome cocktail on Monday evening.
Mr Negre said that he was delighted to see a so many faces at the start of what will be one of the most significant Congress meetings of recent times.
The FIH President was joined by the President of Swiss Hockey Mr J├╝rg Rickli and Guest of Honour Mr Jean-Claud Mermoud, the Councillor of the Canton de Vaud.
Towards the end of the evening, Mr Negre awarded his first President's Award to Australia's Ken Read, who has given outstanding service to the game in various different roles for more than 30 years. Mr Negre described Ken as a true friend to the sport, and thanked him for his work in roles ranging from Tournament Director and Technical Delegate to a member of the FIH Competitions Committee.
The event was hosted by Canada's Alan Waterman, CBC News presenter and Communications and IT Committee Member.
To find out more about the FIH Congress & Forum, please click here.
