Hockey NZ Premier Hockey League announcement

HOCKEY NZ SEEKING EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST TO ESTABLISH THE MEN’S AND WOMEN’S PREMIER HOCKEY LEAGUE (PHL) 

Hockey New Zealand is calling for Expressions of Interest (EOI) to invest in the establishment of three new franchises (entities) as part of the Premier Hockey League (PHL).  

The League will initially consist of four entities (each entity will include one women’s and one men’s team).  

With private investment already secured for one entity, the League is now targeting investment in entities from the following territories: 

– North of the Bombays 

– South of Taupo to Wellington

– South Island 

Introduction 

The PHL is the ultimate expression of HNZs strategy as we grow, inspire and enrich our hockey whanau so more kiwis can see, experience and love our great sport.  

“The PHL is an exciting hockey product which will see our players enjoy consistent, elite level competition at home,” explains Hockey New Zealand CEO Anthony Crummy 

“The league will prioritise a fan-first approach, showcasing elite-level, athletic and entertaining hockey, driving new investment into hockey and elevating our sport to new heights.” 

The league will include New Zealand’s best players (and some from abroad), providing an opportunity to develop our talent while serving as an aspirational player pathway for our athletes. 

NZ’s hockey communities, so integral to our sport, will be reflected and connected to the franchises and see themselves as part of the league. In the same breath, the league will inspire and attract new fans of hockey, delivering an exciting and engaging sports experience.  

The league will also develop our people and system, building depth in coaching, management, administrative and support staff across our country.  

HNZ is committed to delivering the PHL in November 2024, and will feature elite competition played across 7 weeks, featuring 3 home, and 3 away matches and a finals weekend.  

Each business model (League and Teams) is strongly encouraged to focus on revenue generation, fan engagement and brand. 

Investment 

Critical to the success of the PHL is entrepreneurial expertise and investment which drives innovation and energy to inspire current fans, and attract new ones.   

HNZ seeks people (or groups) around the country who share our vision and will partner HNZ in shaping and driving a new league forward through establishment funding and investment 

Working under a balanced governance framework, franchise owners will contribute: 

– Creativity and Drive (to build an aspirational and engaging league);
– Expertise (commercial and governance);
– Influence and connection (with communities);
– Access (to incremental regionalised commercial revenues);
– Dedication (to ‘opening the ‘Black Sticks’ and establishing a new platform for hockey) 

Timings 

The EOI process will open from 10am NZT Tuesday 17th October and conclude at 5pm NZT Friday 1st December 

Process 

The first step for applicants is to connect with Nick Smith (General Manager Commerical and PHL) via email.

Nick will then work closely with all applicants, and suitable interested parties will be invited to submit a formal bid.  

HNZ has approved the establishment of a League Management panel to review all bids. The team will comprise: 

– HNZ CEO
– (3) HNZ Board members
– (1) Independent sports professional 

Those parties invited to submit a formal bid will receive a pack which provides more detailed information on the league, and an outline of the requirements for a formal bid.  

Nick Smith  Email – gmphl@hockeynz.co.nz 

Who can submit an EOI?
Any parties interested in submitting a formal bid to acquire a PHL franchise are welcome to apply, including individuals and/or groups.