Has FIH Appointed Former Player Mike Joyce as Director General?

Lausanne (Switzerland), June 13 (NationPress) The International Hockey Federation (FIH) has revealed that Mike Joyce, who has been leading the Education and Development Department of the sport's global governing body for the past seven years, has been appointed as the new Director General.

A seasoned hockey player and coach with experience from both the English and Swiss Hockey Associations, he brings an extensive background in sports and the Olympic movement, having held positions at the International Olympic Committee, FIH, and England Hockey. Additionally, he is a former Chair of the GAISF Membership Commission.

In his new role, Mike Joyce will concentrate on strategic initiatives, lead the FIH team, and guarantee the execution of policies set forth by the FIH Congress, Executive Board, and President, as announced in a recent release.

The FIH has also established two additional roles: Chief Operating Officer (COO) and Chief Sports Officer (CSO).

The COO will oversee daily operations, managing the Executive Office, Finance, HR, Legal, and IT Departments. This position aims to ensure continuity and maintain institutional knowledge within the management of internal functions, thereby strengthening the senior leadership structure of FIH as it adapts to future challenges. Diana Capsa, the FIH Interim Senior Operations Director, will assume this role.

The CSO will replace and expand the current Sports Director position, supervising the Sport, Events, Development, and Education departments. This change reflects the growing necessity to synchronize these functions under a cohesive vision to promote innovation and excellence at all levels. Elisabeth Furst, an experienced hockey administrator and official, has been appointed as Chief Sports Officer.

All three appointments were ratified by the FIH Executive Board during their meeting in Amsterdam, Netherlands.

FIH President Tayyab Ikram commented on the appointments, stating: “I want to extend my congratulations to Mike Joyce and wish him success in this exciting endeavor. Given his experience, professionalism, and enthusiasm for the game, I am confident we have the right individual to elevate FIH to the next level.”

“I look forward to enhancing our already strong collaboration. I am also pleased about the establishment of the Chief Operations and Chief Sports Officers roles, as they will bolster our executive leadership and ensure operational excellence within FIH. Congratulations to Diana Capsa and Elisabeth Fürst. I am certain they will excel in their new positions,” he added.

Newly appointed Director General Mike Joyce expressed: “I am deeply passionate about the magnificent sport of hockey, which has provided me with over 45 years of treasured memories and exhilarating challenges. I am truly honored and humbled to have the chance to influence the future of FIH and hockey in this thrilling role, and I eagerly anticipate collaborating with a fantastic FIH team, Executive Board, and President.”