With the second half of the FIH Hockey Pro League 2024-25 now underway, we are catching up with players and coaches of all nine men’s and women’s teams to take the temperature of their season through the first half and explore their targets for the remaining matches. In today’s interview, we speak with André Henning, coach of the German men’s hockey team.
The first half of the FIH Pro League is behind you – what’s your take so far, and how happy are you with your team’s development?
We’re really happy. After the Olympics, we went through a major transition and gave a lot of new guys a chance to prove themselves. Naturally, we lacked a bit of chemistry early on – especially since we don’t have a centralized training system like other countries. That’s why it’s been great to see so many young players already stepping up at the highest level. Some real talent is coming through. I don’t think we’ve ever been in such a promising spot in the standings at this stage of the season. So yes – development and results are both on track.
What tactical insights have you taken from the first half – and where do you see the biggest room for improvement?
Honestly, every game has thrown up something new to work on – while we’ve also managed to solve other issues. Early on, we had some defensive coordination problems, but we sorted those out pretty well between Amsterdam and India. Offensively, we’re leading the league with 26 goals in just eight games – and even there, we still see ways to get better.
How would you rate the intensity and overall level of play so far – especially compared to other international tournaments?
It’s been a bit up and down. The truth is, most players are being asked to play way too many matches over the course of a year. That definitely shows in the Pro League. Countries with strong domestic leagues are feeling the strain. We just can’t expect the guys to hit peak performance every single time – especially when the schedule is as packed as it is at the Olympics. We’ve already crossed the line in terms of what’s sustainable.
From your point of view, has the Pro League found its place in the international calendar? What are its biggest strengths and challenges?
That really depends on your perspective. Does your federation run a domestic league? Do you have regular home events with decent crowds? Are you flying halfway around the world twice a year? And how do you balance all of that when your players aren’t full-time pros, but also studying or working? I’ve experienced some amazing Pro League games – packed stands, great atmosphere, top-level hockey. But then there are the tough moments: long travel, or matches with so little local interest that organizers decide not to allow spectators, like in London. From a marketing point of view, I get a lot of the decisions. And I really appreciate all the effort going into making our sport more visible. The Pro League has definitely helped with that. But player welfare has to remain a top priority. I do think everyone involved understands that.
How are your teams managing the strain of travel, match rhythm, and recovery?
It’s tough – no question. Rest and recovery are clearly getting shortchanged. The domestic season wraps up in summer, and there’s barely a week off before the Pro League kicks off. That’s just not enough. We try to offset that with individual load management and player rotation. But of course, that also means fewer games with our core squad and less time to build cohesion. That’s one reason we haven’t been as successful in the Pro League as we have at major tournaments. For example, not a single player from our Olympic squad took part in every session this past winter. On the other hand, that gives more young players a chance – though with the new qualification pressure, even that’s getting harder.
How important is the Pro League for the long-term development of your squad – in terms of automatisms, chemistry, and tactical variety?
With the schedule being so full, there are hardly any test matches anymore. That means the Pro League is now the key platform for us to grow as a team. And it’s a great format for that – you’re only playing top-level opponents, so you’re challenged every time. That really helps us develop as a group. Plus, it’s a huge motivator to play in such a professional setting.
Do you use the Pro League to test new lineups and rotations?
Yes – as I said, the Pro League is basically our only chance to experiment at a high level. So yes, we rotate and test as much as we can.
What are your goals for the second half of the season – especially with the home games in Berlin coming up?
We’re in a great position – probably our best in years. We’ve got a real shot at winning the Pro League or at least securing a World Cup spot on our own. That’s a huge opportunity. The Pro League is the start of the summer’s hot phase, and we’re pumped – especially because the team has looked sharp and played with a lot of joy. We want to bring that same energy to Berlin. It’ll be our first home Pro League event in quite a while. Last time in Berlin, the crowd was amazing – we’re really looking forward to it.
The Pro League can also lead to direct World Cup qualification. How do you see that opportunity?
It’s there – but it’s tight. In the Pro League, anyone can beat anyone. That’s what makes it so exciting. For us, a lot will depend on how we start in London. If we head into Berlin with qualification in our own hands, we want to get the job done at home – together with our fans.
What message do you have for the fans? Why should they come out and watch – especially the home games?
Three reasons. First: Every game is wide open and intense. The top teams in the world are incredibly close – just look at the Olympic quarterfinals. Second: You’re watching world-class hockey. The Pro League only features the very best. Every match could easily be an Olympic semifinal. Third: You get to see the players up close. We’re looking forward to packed stands, loud fans, and strong emotions. It’s been a while since we’ve had a home game – and we’ll make time for autographs, selfies, and fan moments. We can’t wait!
