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Why the Netherlands is the Best European Hockey School Tour Destination

Last updated: Aug 5th, 2025


Holland: A Global Powerhouse in Field Hockey

The Netherlands is a European hockey powerhouse, with the sport being the second most popular in the country after football. It boasts a rich history of excellence in the game, supported by a strong domestic league and an enthusiastic fan base, making it a fantastic location for a school European hockey tour.

World Class Field Hockey Culture

The Netherlands stands proudly as one of the world’s premier hockey nations. In 2026, it will once again take centre stage as it co-hosts the combined Men’s and Women’s FIH Hockey World Cup with Belgium. Clubs in the country place a strong emphasis on technical skill, teamwork, and tactical intelligence, producing top-tier players such as Teun de Nooijer, Paul Litjens and Fatima Moreira de Melo.  

For school teams, the Netherlands offers an unmatched experience. Students can immerse themselves in an elite training environment that cultivates top-level talent, all while soaking in the energy of a nation gearing up to host the world’s most prestigious hockey event.  

 

Fantastic Facilities and Clubs

Holland is home to some of the best hockey facilities and clubs in the world, catering to players of all abilities, from beginners to elite athletes. Legendary clubs such as Amsterdam, Bloemendaal, and HC Rotterdam are celebrated globally for their strong youth development, competitive spirit, and close-knit communities, all of which have helped establish the country as a key player in the sport.

On a Rayburn Tours school hockey trip, teams can gain exclusive access to world-class venues such as HC Rotterdam and SV Kampong. Here, young athletes can experience expert coaching from professional coaches and players, with sessions expertly tailored to every skill level.

Experience the Netherlands

The Netherlands offers a wide range of cultural and recreational excursions beyond the pitch. Teams can explore the vibrant capital city, Amsterdam, visiting landmarks such as the Rijksmuseum, Anne Frank House and the Van Gogh Museum, or enjoy a canal cruise – either guided or hop-on-hop-off. For thrill-seekers, theme parks like Walibi World and Duinrell Theme Park provide exciting rides and waterslides. Whatever your team’s preference, we’ll tailor the itinerary to suit them.

 

Ready to Get Started?

Choosing the Netherlands for your next school hockey tour unlocks a world of benefits for your team. With our fully tailored tours, fixtures, training sessions, and excursions are expertly organised, so you can focus on coaching, inspiring, and supporting your players. Experience the passion and excellence of a country renowned as the ultimate destination for school field hockey, where unforgettable growth and unforgettable memories go hand in hand.

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Author

Clara Grice

Marketing Executive

Clara brings over two years of professional experience in marketing, having previously held roles within the recruitment and investment sectors. In 2022, following the successful completion of her university degree in Hispanic Studies with Polish, she embarked on a Level 3 Junior Content Creation apprenticeship.

Following this, she took a six-month career break to undertake a backpacking trip through South America. Upon her return, Clara joined Sports Tours, where she has been able to integrate her passion for travel with her expertise in marketing and her enthusiasm for grassroots sports.