With over 340,000 fans filling the stands and matches broadcast worldwide, the 14 days of hockey action at the Paris 2024 Olympics have proven to be an outstanding showcase for this thrilling sport. The city of Paris, particularly the historic Yves-du-Manoir Stadium, provided the perfect stage for hockey to shine before a global audience. But beyond the spectacle of the event, the question arises: What will be the sporting legacy left by these Games?

Strategically located in front of the stadium’s main entrance, the Hockey Introduction Zone became a gathering point for visitors of all ages eager to learn more about the sport. With inflatable pitches and fun challenges, both young and old had the chance to experience the excitement of holding a hockey stick for the first time. This initiative was crucial in bringing hockey closer to those who might have been seeing it for the first time, creating an atmosphere of discovery and entertainment.

Follow SportsIn on Instagram for more stories

Throughout the Games, the Introduction Zone featured appearances by prominent international players, including the legendary Luciana Aymar, considered one of the greatest hockey players of all time. Aymar, thrilled by the opportunity to promote the sport she loves, emphasized the importance of bringing hockey closer to families and highlighted her responsibility as a former player to continue developing and promoting the sport. Her words resonated with visitors, especially the young people who were inspired by seeing a star of her caliber in action.

Timothée Clément, star of the French team and winner of the FIH Hockey Stars Young Player of the Year award in 2021-22, also shared his enthusiasm for the Hockey Introduction Zone. During his visit, Clément recalled how, as a child, he loved participating in similar activities and meeting international players. For him, the chance to give back that experience to young people, especially in his home country during the Olympics, was something very special.

The excitement for hockey was not only felt inside the stadium but also among French families who attended the event for the first time. The Gory family, for example, traveled from Dordogne to see hockey live, drawn by the history of the Yves-du-Manoir Stadium. Their experience, like that of many others, was one of discovery and excitement, demonstrating the power of the Olympics to connect people with new sports.

While the true impact of the Paris 2024 Olympics on hockey participation in France remains to be seen, there is already a tangible legacy. The new stadium at Yves-du-Manoir, which hosted the hockey matches, will become the new central base for the French Hockey Federation. This new home will not only serve future generations of French players but will also stand as a lasting symbol of the growth of hockey in France, driven by the success and visibility of these Olympic Games.