Portugal, England, Netherlands claim Euro Parahockey titles
Credit: EHF
By European Hockey Federation and World Intellectual Impairment Sport
The 2017 Euro Parahockey Championships concluded in Amsterdam, the Netherlands, on Wednesday (23 August) with Portugal, England and the hosts claiming titles in their respective groups.
Around 200 athletes, nine countries and 12 teams competed for honours at the Pinoke HC and then in the Wagener Stadium alongside the Rabo EuroHockey Championships.
In the final games, England won the Challenge beating Spain in a tight game 1-2. The Challenge Division is for beginners and was introduced for the first time in Amsterdam. Belgium 2 took bronze with a win over a very young Irish side 1-0.
In the Trophy Division another incredibly tight game saw The Netherlands 2 beat Germany 1-2. France had a great game against Belgium and took the bronze.
In the Championship division, with incredible skill Portugal narrowly pushed Italy into 2nd place with a 3-2 win to retain their title. In the bronze medal game Spain just pipped the Netherlands in a nine goal thriller 5-4.
Speaking about the event, first timer at the Parahockey Championships French Captain Pierrick said: “I have appreciated it was the first time it was with people that I don’t know. It was a great experience, it was superb”
Ross Faville, England Captain, added: “I think it has been great for everyone involved and I loved the organisation of the event and playing a sport I am passionate about at this level is amazing for everyone”
Marijke Fleuren, President of the European Hockey Federation (EHF) thanked sincerely the volunteers of the HC Pinoke, the KNHB (Dutch hockey federation), the umpires and especially the youth leaders from the EHF Youth Panel who together this incredible festival of hockey and was delighted that the ParaHockey Championships continues to grow.
Fleuren is looking forward to welcoming everyone back to the Championships in 2019 in Antwerp, Belgium, where the EHF hopes to have 12 countries represented.
The 2017 Euro Parahockey Championships were sanctioned by the International Federation for Intellectual Impairment Sport (World Intellectual Impairment Sport).
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