Scottish Hockey Reveals Major Sponsorship

Scottish Hockey, the national governing body for hockey, has announced a new three year partnership with pure asset management group, Aberdeen Asset Management – running until 2015, the deal is the largest ever investment by a commercial partner in supporting the growth and development of hockey in Scotland.  

The investment will primarily be used by Scottish Hockey to fund a number of qualified professional high performance coaches to work with selected domestic clubs. The aim is to increase the quality and standard of players, leading to stronger National League competitions in Scotland.

Lee Cousins, President of Scottish Hockey, said: ‘We’re delighted that Aberdeen Asset Management has entered into this new partnership with Scottish Hockey. We have been seeking a long-term sponsor with whom we can share joint objectives in the growth and development of the sport in Scotland.’

‘As a result of this investment in talent development from the grassroots, we hope to see future progress for Scottish club performances in elite level international competitions, including the European Hockey League [EHL].’

Additionally, funds from Aberdeen’s investment will be channelled into the Scottish Hockey’s ‘Women in Coaching’ programme, which has the objective of expanding the hockey workforce in Scotland by increasing the number of female coaches who are qualified at Level 2 and Level 3 to work in player development. 

Martin Gilbert, chief executive of Aberdeen Asset Management, added: ‘We are proud to announce our long-term support for Scottish Hockey and are looking forward to the positive impact that Aberdeen’s involvement will have on the sport in Scotland.’

‘Hockey is a fantastic team sport and we look forward to working with the national teams and league clubs to deliver the objectives of the sponsorship.’

‘We are particularly keen to expand the ‘Women in Coaching’ scheme, in order to encourage more women to get involved and stay involved with the sport.’

Graham Moodie, Scotland men’s team captain concluded: ‘I am very excited about the prospect of having a loyal supporter of Scottish sport such as Aberdeen Asset Management on board as sponsor.’

‘The new coaching scheme will enable the professionalisation of coaches, which is something that is needed in order for the sport to progress in this country and will really help to develop our talent base from youth level upwards.’