HRH The Duchess of Edinburgh attends FIH Hockey Pro League in London

England Hockey welcomed Her Royal Highness The Duchess of Edinburgh to the FIH Hockey Pro League at Lee Valley Hockey and Tennis Centre, as The Duchess joined spectators for an evening of world-class international hockey.

Her Royal Highness watched England Women take on Argentina before seeing England Men face India, taking place in one of the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic legacy venues. 

During the visit, The Duchess met event volunteers (Hockey Makers) whose commitment helps deliver hockey events up and down the country, as well as former international hockey players who have helped shape the sport and inspire future generations.

The FIH Hockey Pro League brings together leading men’s and women’s national teams from around the world, with the London fixtures forming part of a packed summer of international hockey at Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park.

England Hockey Chief Executive Rich Beer said: “We were delighted to welcome Her Royal Highness The Duchess of Edinburgh to the FIH Hockey Pro League in London. 

“The visit offered a special opportunity to celebrate hockey at every level, from our international athletes competing on the world stage to the volunteers, former players and supporters who contribute so much to the game. 

Ross Houston, chair of Lee Valley Regional Park Authority which owns Lee Valley Hockey and Tennis Centre, said, “It was a pleasure to speak with The Duchess about how Lee Valley Hockey and Tennis Centre’s grass roots programmes provide opportunities for a host of communities to enjoy hockey and tennis all year round, alongside wonderful tournaments like the FIH.”

The Duchess’s visit was an opportunity to highlight the strength of the hockey community, from elite athletes competing on the international stage to the volunteers and role models who continue to give their time, experience and passion to the game.