As the hockey season winds down, it’s the perfect moment to reflect on the accomplishments of this year’s youth development programs. The past season has been a remarkable journey, marked by significant milestones and forward-thinking initiatives for the future of youth hockey in Belgium.
Two years ago, the National Certification Program was integrated with the Talent Pool Program, introducing a game-changing structure that has already begun to yield impressive results. This integration has brought greater clarity to identifying promising young players who could one day join our National Team selection. Additionally, club coaches undergoing their certification program were actively evaluated during the Talent Pool days. This approach fosters a unified vision: implementing the National Development Program (NDP) across all Belgian clubs.
Ben Boute, RBIHF Development Manager and participant in the IIHF NMA Developer Program, is finalizing the draft of Belgium’s first National Development Program. This ambitious framework will be central to nurturing young talent and ensuring a structured, nationwide strategy. The NDP aims to elevate the overall skill level of youth players and competitions, creating a robust foundation for long-term success. Collaborative efforts with neighboring countries will amplify these efforts, helping to enhance our national standing in hockey.
Today, Belgium is making significant investments in a structured approach to youth development. Optimizing the youth programs in clubs across the nation is key to this vision. A stronger competitive environment, coupled with increased participation, is expected to contribute to the growth of hockey across all Belgian ice rinks.
While some clubs have reached their capacity for new members, others still have untapped potential for expansion. By fostering collaboration and sharing resources, we can collectively improve our programs and further elevate the Talent Pool Program. Together, we are laying the groundwork for an even brighter future for Belgian youth hockey.
Let’s keep the momentum going and continue to inspire the next generation of hockey players. Belgium’s youth are ready to skate into greatness!