As we inch ever closer to the start of the FIH Hockey Pro League 2024-25 season, we are excited to bring you an exclusive pre-season interview series with players from the world’s top hockey nations participating in the “League of the Best”.
This series dives into the minds of the sport’s finest athletes and coaches, uncovering their thoughts on the upcoming season, personal goals, and the strategies their teams are crafting to compete at the highest level. From seasoned veterans to rising stars, these interviews provide a unique glimpse into the passion, preparation, and drive that fuel the teams vying for glory.
In today’s interview we speak with Dutch Olympic Gold medallist (Tokyo 2020 and Paris 2024) Pien Sanders …
How did you prepare for this Pro League?
Pien Sanders: We’ve been back together as a new group for about three weeks now. Compared to previous years, we had a longer break this time because of last summer’s Olympic Games. With a new coaching staff in place, we’re spending a lot of time getting to know each other and building a strong foundation.
How do you plan to ensure you win the Pro League again this year?
As the Netherlands, you always aim to win everything. This year, we’ll rotate players frequently—it keeps us sharp. The mix of experienced and young players is really good and keeps us hungry. That drive, combined with our energy, ensures we perform at our best.
What are your ambitions for the Pro League?
To win, of course. We have a very talented group, and we want to build something lasting over the next four years. It’s about growing together, connecting, and understanding each other better. Ultimately, we want to execute our game plan flawlessly.
What do you expect from the Pro League?
I expect to see many teams with lineups that are quite different from recent years. That’s natural in a post-Olympic year, with some players retiring and others being newly selected. I’m really curious to see what those teams will look like and, of course, how we’ll perform against them.
And what does participating in the Pro League mean to you?
The great thing about the Pro League is getting to visit other countries. Traveling is already so enjoyable—different cultures, different climates. Often, there’s a sort of training camp built around it. For us, the Pro League is a chance to spend quality time together, which helps us grow faster as a team. That’s incredibly valuable.
Do you think the traveling and being together is the best part of the Pro League?
I think it’s a lot of fun, definitely. You won’t hear me complaining when we’re heading to the Argentine sun in December! That’s not something the average Dutch person does during their office job. Those are definitely pinch-me moments—sitting on a plane to Argentina or riding a bus in India and thinking to myself, ‘This is what I do. This is my hobby.
