The ABN AMRO EHL Hockey ID Tournament, held at HC ’s‑Hertogenbosch, once again proved that hockey is at its strongest when competition, inclusion and community come together.
The tournament expanded to its largest entry to date with nine teams, hailing from five different countries with 20 matches overall culminating in an exciting final between Hudito and Upward.
Hudito eventually claimed the title with a hard‑fought 2–1 victory, while Atletic Terrassa HC secured third place after an entertaining bronze‑medal match against the host club, HC ’s‑Hertogenbosch.
Across the day, goals, celebrations and moments of teamwork underlined the sporting quality of the Hockey ID teams taking part.
More than this, as tournament organiser Gino Schilders emphasised afterwards, the real success of the event went well beyond the results.
“It was truly special to see so many people come together, united by the love of the game and the spirit that makes Hockey ID so unique.”
This year’s edition marked a deliberate step forward in how Hockey ID is positioned within the EHL weekend.
While fun, friendship and inclusion remain the foundation, the ambition was to further align Hockey ID with the standards, professionalism and experience of other EHL events.
From improved organisation and clearer communication to the use of new systems and processes, the 2026 tournament asked more of everyone involved. Organisers, officials, volunteers, coaches and team managers all contributed to making the ambition a reality.
“We set ourselves the ambition to take the next step, to further integrate Hockey ID into the EuroHockey way of working and into the wider EHL culture,” Schilders explained. “Our goal was to raise the bar, while keeping the heart of Hockey ID exactly where it belongs.”
The result was an event that felt fully part of the EHL ecosystem, giving Hockey ID players the experience of competing within the same setting and atmosphere as Europe’s top club hockey.
Central to the day’s success was the collective commitment of a wide network of people and organisations. HC ’s‑Hertogenbosch provided a welcoming host venue, supported by the KNHB and the EuroHockey team.
Long‑standing partner ABN AMRO once again played a crucial role in making the tournament possible.
Schilders also highlighted the many individuals working behind the scenes – officials, judges, volunteers and staff – whose combined efforts ensured the event ran smoothly.
“Behind every name stands a much larger group of dedicated people. Your collective effort is what truly made this event a success.”
Special acknowledgement was given to team leaders and coordinators, as well as to Jokko de Wit for taking a leading role in driving the organisation forward, while maintaining the inclusive spirit that defines Hockey ID.
For the players themselves, taking the field within the EHL environment was a powerful statement of recognition and inclusion.
“Seeing Hockey ID players take their place within the EHL environment is something we can all be proud of,” said Schilders. “I hope your players and staff feel proud of what they have achieved and experienced.”
