Hockey is more than a sport. It is a community, a place where people come together, grow, and strengthen each other. But not everyone naturally finds their way to the field. That is why Grant Thornton and the Belgian Hockey Federation have created the Grant Thornton Inclusion Award.

Inclusion: not a side issue, but a core value

We believe that inclusion is not a side issue, but a core value. Clubs that commit to diversity and accessibility make hockey richer, more humane, and more powerful. They ensure that everyone, regardless of background, disability, gender identity, or life situation, feels welcome and can participate.

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Ode to leadership

This award is an ode to those clubs. To the volunteers who dedicate themselves to G-hockey. To the trainers who make room for cultural differences. To the board members who encourage women in leadership roles. To everyone who uses hockey as a means to bring people together.

With this award, we want not only to recognize but also to inspire. We want to start a movement in which inclusion becomes the norm, and in which every club feels called to help build a sport that is truly for everyone.

serge leslie rug hockey
“I was really ready to quit hockey. Not because the other players were discriminatory. I missed an environment where I could be myself and feel good.”
Merlijn Zinneke Sticks
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Testimonials

During Golden Stick Night 2025, we brought this message to life with two powerful testimonials from two hockey players who truly experience the impact of these inclusion projects.

The stories of Katrijn from Royal Victory Hockey Club and Merlijn from Zinneke Sticks show why inclusion is not an abstract concept, but brings real change to the field.

Winners 2025: Hockey Vlaanderen and Hockey Wallonie Bruxelles

At the 2025 Golden Stick Night, the very first Grant Thornton Inclusion Award was presented to the Hockey Vlaanderen and Hockey Wallonie Bruxelles.

This symbolic recognition celebrates their long-standing commitment to inclusion within Belgian hockey, through initiatives that promote G-hockey, LGBTQ+ participation, and gender equality.

GSN inclusion award

Will you be the winner of the Grant Thornton Inclusion Award 2026?

Every day, hockey clubs work to make their sport more accessible and inclusive. Whether it’s starting a G-hockey team, creating space for cultural traditions, promoting gender equality, or simply ensuring everyone feels welcome—this commitment deserves recognition.

With the Grant Thornton Inclusion Award, we want to reward clubs that not only value inclusion but truly put it into practice. Clubs that show hockey is a sport where everyone finds their place—regardless of background, disability, or life situation.

Share your story

Show what your club does. And who knows... you might be on stage next year as the most inclusive hockey club in Belgium.