Leading up to the International Day of Sport for Development and Peace, which takes place on 6 April, the International Hockey Federation (FIH) will spend the upcoming days celebrating hockey’s place in promoting peace and development via a range of projects and initiatives. The stories come from across the five hockey-playing continents, with today’s story coming from Pan America.
On March 8, Venezuela’s return to the Under-21 Pan American Challenge in Barbados, which ended in a stunning bronze medal finish, marked more than just a comeback—it was a testament to the transformative power of sport. After more than a decade away from junior competition, the nation’s hockey players took the field not only to compete but to reignite a movement that extends far beyond the pitch. As the world celebrates the International Day of Sport for Development and Peace, Venezuela’s journey serves as an inspiring example of how sport fosters resilience, unity, and hope for future generations.
Hockey in Venezuela has a deep-rooted history, tracing back to its international debut at the 1983 Pan American Games in Caracas. Over the decades, the sport expanded across the country, at one point thriving in 15 of Venezuela’s 24 states. However, economic, and logistical challenges led to setbacks, limiting opportunities for young athletes. Yet, despite the obstacles, the passion for hockey never faded.
For Venezuela, sport is more than competition—it is a tool for development, a bridge to greater aspirations. Currently, nearly a thousand players, from young beginners to experienced athletes, engage in hockey. This revival of the junior national team is a symbol of perseverance, proving that even after years of absence, a committed effort can rekindle national pride and sporting ambition.
Omar Bastardo, President of the Venezuelan Hockey Federation, acknowledges the significance of this milestone. “For us, it is a great opportunity to return to the international scene as a national team, given that we have not participated in any event since 2018, and we haven’t competed in a junior event since 2012,” he stated. The journey back has been intense but rewarding, with limited preparation time but an unwavering commitment to progress.
Beyond immediate results, the true victory lies in the long-term impact. The federation aims to strengthen hockey in at least eight states, establish a National League, and ultimately inspire a new generation of athletes. “We want to have an official field dedicated exclusively to hockey. That is a key objective for us and a goal for the coming years,” Bastardo emphasized. By creating sustainable infrastructure and providing consistent opportunities, Venezuela is setting the foundation for a future where sport serves as a catalyst for personal and community development.
The power of sport extends beyond competition—it unites communities, instills values of teamwork and perseverance, and provides young people with pathways to brighter futures. Venezuela’s return to international hockey embodies the essence of the International Day of Sport for Development and Peace: using sport to overcome challenges, inspire change, and create opportunities for all.
With a bronze medal now in their hands and a renewed sense of purpose, Venezuela’s hockey teams are setting their sights on the Central American and Caribbean Games Qualifier in Mexico in May 2025. Their journey exemplifies how sport can be a force for growth, resilience, and peace—a story that continues to unfold, step by step, on and off the field.
