As we inch closer to the start of the FIH Hockey Pro League 2025-26 season on December 9, we are pleased to bring you an exclusive pre-season interview series with players and coaches from the best hockey countries in the world participating in the “League of the Best”.
This series delves into the minds of the sport’s best athletes and coaches, revealing their thoughts on the upcoming season, personal goals and the strategies their teams are developing to compete at the highest level. From seasoned veterans to rising stars, these interviews provide unique insight into the passion, preparation and drive that fuel the teams competing for glory.
In today’s interview we speak with Raoul Ehren, coach of the Dutch women’s hockey team…
How did you prepare for the new FIH Hockey Pro League season after winning the European Championship?
After the European Championships we first took a short break and let the club season get underway. After two weeks of competition, we will resume central training with the Dutch Women’s Team on October 1. Every Monday and Tuesday we are now back on the field in preparation for the new season.
Of course we evaluated the European Championship, both as a team and individually. We then made new plans to ensure that we can take the next step together as a group.
You won the FIH Hockey Pro League last year; How do you estimate your chances for this season?
As the Netherlands, we have the responsibility to go for the win in every match we play. It makes sense that we are seen as favorites again. We aim to win the Pro League again this season, we want to win everything we can. Especially now that there is an Olympic ticket to play for!
Will you approach this FIH Hockey Pro League season differently now that an Olympic ticket can be won?
This season is definitely different from the last. Last year was a post-Olympic year, with a new technical staff and many young players that we could give opportunities. Ten young players made their debut in the Pro League last season. The chance of that happening again this year is not that great. We will also miss the Under-21 players during the first Pro League block as they will compete at the Junior World Cup.
The fact that an Olympic ticket can now be won makes the Pro League even more exciting. Everyone will be determined to achieve the best possible results. It would be fantastic to secure that Olympic ticket before the World Cup, that is absolutely our goal.
What does the FIH Hockey Pro League mean to you?
As a head coach I really enjoy playing matches, that is always the best thing about hockey. The Pro League matches are great measuring moments to see where we stand. I like the competitive element. The nine best teams in the world compete against each other, which makes it very special to play matches like this. I’m definitely looking forward to it!
What is also great about the Pro League is that we often play in front of full stadiums. In Argentina it’s always full, I haven’t been to China yet so I don’t know what it’s like there, but in Belgium, with their new stadium, it will definitely be full. And of course we also play in the Netherlands to an enthusiastic and packed audience.
What do your players learn from the FIH Hockey Pro League?
Playing matches is what they love to do most! It is a great honor to represent your country and show what you can do on that stage. Doing this in front of full stadiums adds an extra dimension to the whole experience.
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