In a historic moment for Pakistan’s sports governance, Syeda Shehla Raza, a stalwart of the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) and Member of the National Assembly (MNA), has been unanimously elected as the President of the Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF). This landmark decision was made during a Congress meeting held in Karachi, where 54 out of 64 members, including representatives from National Bank and Pakistan Customs, were in attendance.
Raza’s ascension to the presidency marks a significant departure from tradition, making her the first woman to hold this esteemed position in the history of the PHF. Her election underscores a progressive step towards gender equality and diversity within the realm of sports administration in Pakistan.
Prior to her presidency, Raza had served as the vice president of the hockey federation, bringing with her a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to the sport. Her dedication to hockey’s development and her vision for its future have been widely recognized by her peers and supporters.
The appointment comes at a crucial juncture for Pakistan’s hockey, as the national team grapples with challenges both on and off the field. Despite its storied legacy as an eight-time Olympic medallist, Pakistan’s men’s hockey team has faced setbacks in recent years, failing to qualify for the Olympic Games for three consecutive cycles.
The administration of Pakistan hockey has been marred by financial crises, resulting in the non-payment of allowances and contract salaries to players and coaches. Such instability has hindered the team’s performance and tarnished its reputation on the international stage.
With Shehla Raza at the helm of the PHF, there is renewed hope for the revival of Pakistan’s hockey prowess. Her leadership promises a fresh perspective, greater accountability, and a steadfast commitment to addressing the systemic issues plaguing the sport.
As Pakistan seeks to reclaim its status as a powerhouse in international hockey, Raza’s historic presidency symbolizes a new era of inclusivity and progress. Under her guidance, the PHF aims to implement reforms, foster talent development, and restore the nation’s proud legacy in the sport.
