Want to improve your field hockey? SportsCampo recommends a trip to the Netherlands.
Why Are the Dutch So Successful in Field Hockey?
Dutch field hockey combines a deep cultural love for the sport, a robust domestic league, innovative coaching, and a proven track record of international success—all of which create a virtuous cycle of excellence.
1. Strong Domestic League & Talent Pipeline
- The Dutch Hoofdklasse (premier league) is one of the strongest in the world, with 350,000 registered players and a highly competitive club system.
- This provides a consistent supply of top-tier talent for national teams.
2. World-Class Coaching & Development
- The KNHB and C.I.O.S. offer rigorous coach education, including sports psychology, physiology, and tactical training.
- Dutch coaches are known for innovative, technical, and tactical approaches, often setting global trends in the sport.
3. Cultural Passion & Popularity
- Field hockey is the second most popular sport in the Netherlands, with widespread participation and fan support.
- The sport is accessible to all, not just elites, fostering a large, diverse talent pool.
4. International Success & Role Models
- The Dutch women’s team has won 8 World Cups and 3 Olympic golds, while the men’s team has also achieved top honors.
- Success breeds success: young players are inspired by national heroes and a winning culture.
5. Investment & Infrastructure
- The Netherlands invests in facilities, youth programs, and international exposure, ensuring players develop in a supportive, high-performance environment.
SportsCampo had put together a list of some of the field hockey training camps in the Netherlands in 2026.
1. Total Dutch Field Hockey (NJ, USA & Netherlands)
- Offers year-round programs, including summer camps, skill classes, private training, and club teams.
- Coaches are certified by the KNHB (Royal Dutch Field Hockey Association) and C.I.O.S. (Central Institute of Sports Education).
- Focuses on modern skills, tactical training, and personalized coaching for all ages and levels.
- Learn more
2. Dutch Field Hockey Training Tour (AIST, 2026)
- Dates: January 3–11, 2026
- Features small-group training with Dutch professional coaches and U.S. college coaches.
- Includes 8 intensive training sessions, cultural excursions, and exposure to Dutch hockey philosophy.
- Registration & details
3. FIH World Hockey Camp (Amsterdam, Netherlands)
- Organized by Sportways and the International Hockey Federation.
- Offers a unique program for all levels, with international participants, workshops, video analysis, and a challenging tournament.
- 2025 Dates: July 6–12 (next edition expected in 2026).
- More info
4. Holland Elite Sports Agency (Schiedam, Netherlands)
- Specializes in elite-level tournaments, tours, clinics, and training camps.
- Coaches include current and former national team coaches (e.g., Raoul Ehren, Sjoerd Marijne).
- Focuses on comprehensive, professional experiences for academy teams.
- Explore programs
5. Sportways Original Hockey Camps (Netherlands)
- Themed camps with over 5 hours of daily field hockey training, clinics, and tournaments.
- Emphasizes skill development, teamwork, and fun.
- Camp details
6. The Dutch Training Tour for High School Athletes (Amsterdam, 2026)
- Week-long intensive training with elite FIH coaches.
- Combines high-level training with cultural experiences in Amsterdam.
- Tour info
