The FIH is pleased to announce that England Hockey Chairman Philip Kimberley has been awarded the FIH President’s Award.

The award recognises individuals or FIH National Associations who have excelled with initiatives, projects or programmes that have contributed over a long period of time to the enrichment of hockey at international level.

He was presented the award by President of the European Hockey Federation, Marijke Fleuren, on behalf of FIH President Leandro Negre during the Unibet EuroHockey Championships 2015 which are taking place in London.

Back in 2002, Philip was tasked with the job of restructuring England Hockey when the organisation was facing serious financial instability.

Taking up the position of Executive Chairman, he undertook an extensive review and reorganisation process with a view to rebuilding the national governing body in England on the basis of a stronger, accountable and sustainable business model. 

Since then he has turned England Hockey around, helping the sport become one of the fastest growing team sports in England and celebrating its first Olympic medal in 20 years at the London 2012 Olympics.

After receiving this award, Philip said: “I was extremely surprised and delighted to be awarded the FIH President's Award. In Leandro's absence, Marijke Fleuren, President of The EHF, read out a letter from Leandro and I was both touched and moved by his kind comments. I have thoroughly enjoyed my time leading the rebuilding of England Hockey and it was all the more poignant when our women took the gold medal on Sunday afternoon. I leave the organisation in excellent health both on and off the field of play and I am extremely confident that it will continue to go from strength to strength.”

Speaking about this award, FIH President Leandro Negre said: “Philip took on this formidable challenge with great enthusiasm and relentless drive. Not only did he bring a wealth of personal business experience, Philip, an ex-player, is passionate about hockey and was determined that England should regain, develop and maintain its place as a world leader in the sport. He not only concentrated on reorganising the association on a better business foundation but also focused on the sport itself, determined to make the teams, clubs and supporting infrastructure stronger.”

He continued: “Philip’s determination has catapulted a traditionally managed national association to take the position of a world leader in every aspect of the sport. This award goes some way to recognising the outstanding contribution he has made to the sport of hockey over the years during his transformation of England Hockey.”

England Hockey Chief Executive, Sally Munday, added her words of support for Philip as well. She said: “This is well deserved recognition for Philip who has done an outstanding job over the last 12 years. He has been an exceptional Chairman and it is not surprising that he has received this prestigious award from our International Federation for the tremendous work he has done for our sport.”

As well as the reorganisation of England Hockey, Philip took on the difficult challenge of finding and agreeing a sustainable model for the participation of Great Britain in the Olympic Games and FIH World Level Events.

The issue of Great Britain is a complex one in that it brings together the National Associations of England, Scotland and Wales, once every four years. His leadership and vision resulted in a model that the world of hockey has accepted and should endure for many years to come.

As the current Chairman of England Hockey, Philip announced he will stand down from the position later this year after 12 years in the post. Whilst he will remain a passionate hockey fan, he will be remembered for saving England Hockey during some of its darkest days.

For more information about FIH Awards, click here.

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