Revolutionizing the Transportation Industry
The transportation industry is undergoing a remarkable transformation, thanks to groundbreaking technological advancements. These innovations are reshaping the way we travel and revolutionizing the entire sector. From autonomous vehicles to electric mobility, the future of transportation is becoming increasingly exciting.
Autonomous Vehicles: A Glimpse into the Future
One of the most significant developments in the transportation industry is the emergence of autonomous vehicles. These self-driving cars have the potential to enhance road safety, reduce traffic congestion, and provide a more efficient transportation system. With advanced sensors and artificial intelligence, autonomous vehicles can navigate roads, make decisions, and adapt to changing traffic conditions.
Electric Mobility: A Sustainable Solution
Another major trend in the transportation sector is the shift towards electric mobility. As concerns about climate change and air pollution grow, electric vehicles offer a sustainable solution. With zero tailpipe emissions, these cars help reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve air quality. The increasing availability of charging infrastructure and advancements in battery technology are driving the adoption of electric vehicles worldwide.
The Rise of Shared Mobility
Shared mobility services, such as ride-hailing and car-sharing platforms, are gaining popularity and transforming the way people commute. These services provide convenient alternatives to traditional car ownership, promoting resource efficiency and reducing traffic congestion. With the integration of technology, users can easily access and book shared vehicles through mobile applications, making transportation more accessible and flexible.
The Future of Transportation
As technology continues to advance, the future of transportation holds immense potential. From hyperloop systems that promise high-speed travel to flying taxis that could revolutionize urban mobility, the possibilities are endless. However, alongside these advancements, it is crucial to address concerns regarding safety, infrastructure, and regulatory frameworks to ensure a smooth transition into this new era of transportation.
The Challenges Faced by Field Hockey Players in Spain
Field hockey is a sport that has a significant global impact. However, in Spain, it often remains overlooked. The majority of players in this sport maintain their amateur status and are compelled to pursue a university degree in order to secure their future livelihood.
The Struggle to Balance Sport and Studies
It is surprising, yet not uncommon, to find many players in Spain who juggle their professional routine with their studies. Despite their dedication to hockey, these individuals are aware that relying solely on the sport for their income is not a guaranteed path. Consequently, they are compelled to undertake a university education to ensure future employment opportunities once they retire from the game.
The Financial Challenges Faced by Clubs and Players
Many clubs in the top leagues lack the financial resources to adequately compensate their players for the hours they dedicate to the sport. These teams often rely on partnerships, sponsorships, and institutional support to sustain themselves. In some cases, players receive minimal financial compensation, such as coaching a school team, as a means of income.
The Reality for National Team Players
Even in the Spanish national team, both male and female players have a significant percentage of individuals with university degrees. Since field hockey is not a professional sport in Spain, these players cannot rely on it as a source of income, despite the years of sacrifice and dedication they have invested.
The Socioeconomic Barrier
Another reason why making a living from field hockey is challenging is its association with an elitist and upper-middle-class image. The sport tends to attract a specific audience due to its historical perception. Consequently, many players are compelled to pursue a university degree either due to family tradition or the need to secure a stable income.
The Harsh Reality
Field hockey, despite its global impact, remains a minority sport in Spain. Only a few national players can make a living from it or envision a sustainable future within the sport. To gain further insight, we spoke with some players from the men’s and women’s national teams to understand their perspectives.
1
Maria Lopez
Degree in Administration and Business Management
MarÃa López, a player for the Villa de Madrid Country Club and captain of the Senior National Team, began her hockey journey with the Real Grupo de Cultura Covadonga in her hometown of Gijón. She has progressed through the Spanish youth ranks and has successfully completed a degree in Business Administration and Management.
How did you manage to balance your studies with training and a hockey-centered life?
Combining high-level hockey with Business Administration and Management studies was incredibly challenging and required immense effort. I had to make sacrifices and prioritize my time to ensure I could excel in both areas. It was only through effective organization and dedication that I was able to successfully navigate this demanding lifestyle.
Combining Sports and Education: The Journey of MarÃa López
From a young age, MarÃa López’s parents instilled in her the importance of excelling academically while pursuing her passion for sports. This valuable lesson has guided her throughout her life, especially during her university years, which were even more demanding. Sacrificing social plans and nights out has been worthwhile for López, as she remains committed to fulfilling her long-term dreams.
The Connection Between Field Hockey and University
There is a significant number of field hockey players who choose to combine their sporting careers with university studies. Unlike sports such as tennis, football, or basketball, field hockey does not provide substantial financial resources for a lifetime. This awareness drives athletes to pursue higher education, ensuring they have alternative options after retirement.
Marc Reyné: Balancing Sports and International Marketing
An Inspiring Journey
Marc Reyné, a prominent player for the Real Club de Polo de Barcelona and the Senior National Team, shares his experience of juggling his studies in International Marketing at the Sarrià Chemical Institute (IQS) with his passion for field hockey. Reyné’s exceptional performance in the recent 2023 World Cup showcased his dedication and talent.
The Need for Education in Hockey
It is a reality that many hockey players must pursue university degrees while actively participating in the sport. The financial resources provided by field hockey alone are often insufficient to sustain a livelihood. Therefore, players recognize the importance of higher education as a means to secure their future beyond the sport.
The Future of Professional Hockey
For field hockey to become a viable profession, it requires greater professionalization and increased financial support. This growth would lead to increased public engagement and attract more sponsors to invest in the sport. The ability to make a living from hockey at the highest level is contingent upon its continued development and recognition.
Marc Reyné, player of the Real Barcelona Polo Club and the Absolute National Team
Marc Reyné
Laura Barrios
Graduated in Biomedical Engineering
Laura Barrios, a member of the Villa de Madrid Country Club and the Senior National Team, took part in the Tokyo Olympic Games in 2020 and is now preparing for the Paris Olympic Games in 2024. The Madrid native, who completed her studies in Biomedical Engineering, discovered her passion for field hockey as an extracurricular activity at Santa MarÃa de los Rosales school in Madrid.
Do you consider field hockey an elitist sport?
I do not perceive field hockey as an elitist sport. In recent years, efforts have been made to promote and popularize it, making it increasingly accessible to everyone.
Combining a career in Biomedical Engineering with field hockey must have been quite challenging, right?
Actually, combining my Biomedical Engineering studies with field hockey was not as difficult as one might think. I had the support of my family and friends, who were always there for me. My passion for both areas motivated me to overcome any challenges.
Laura Barrios, player of the Villa de Madrid Country Club and the Absolute National Team
RFEH
Have you ever felt overwhelmed or pressured due to lack of study time?
All careers have their moments of pressure, especially during exams or deadlines. However, sports have helped me cope better with these situations. Sometimes, I even found it easier than my classmates because I had an outlet through sports during challenging times at university. On the other hand, studying also helped me disconnect from sports when needed.
Gerard Clapés
Graduate in Business Administration and Management
Gerard Clapés, a member of HC Oranje Rood and the Senior National Team, believes that making a living from hockey in the future is not feasible. He studied Business Administration and Management at the Autonomous University of Bellaterra and has been one of the most prominent players in the national team, previously playing for Club Egara and now at Oranje Rood.
How did you manage to balance sports with your studies in Business Administration and Management?
I managed well thanks to having a sports tutor who helped me organize my schedule, study, and even reschedule exams. I joined the senior team in the final year of my studies, after playing for the U-21 team. The last year was a bit more challenging due to exams, but overall, it went well. My tutor and I coordinated effectively for exams and coursework.
Why do you think only a few players can make a living from field hockey or consider it as a potential career?
Making a living solely from hockey is extremely difficult. It is not a viable career option for most players.
Gerard Clapés, player of HC Oranje Rood and the Senior National Team
RFEH
Combining Field Hockey and Studies: The Challenges Faced by Players
For athletes pursuing a career in field hockey, balancing their studies alongside their sports commitments can be a daunting task. Many players find themselves in a situation where they receive financial support from clubs and are part of the selection process, but they are aware that they will eventually have to seek employment once they complete their degrees. However, for those who have a passion for hockey and have studied sports at a professional level, there may be opportunities in the field of hockey itself.
The Dual Life of Hockey Players
Within the MGS League, a total of 20 players have managed to combine their field hockey careers with their studies. Similarly, in the women’s section of the Iberdrola League, there are 33 players who dedicate their extra hours to pursuing a university education. One such player is Teresa Lima, who has recently been recognized as the best promising player in the world in 2023. Alongside her achievements on the field, she is also pursuing a degree in Advertising and Public Relations.
Insights from the Sports Director of RFEH
We had the opportunity to speak with Jose Antonio Gil, the sports director of the Royal Spanish Hockey Federation (RFEH), to gain his perspective on the increasing number of hockey players pursuing degrees. He shared the RFEH’s strategic plan to transform the Spanish hockey community, aiming to enhance sporting competitiveness, talent development, brand management, and community growth.
José Antonio Gil, sports director of the RFEH
RFEH
Creating Opportunities for Professional Hockey
When asked about the possibility of a high percentage of players in the maximum league making a living from hockey, Jose Antonio Gil emphasized the RFEH’s focus on players and fans. Their strategy involves providing capabilities, resources, and value-added services to territorial federations, clubs, officials, and coaches to promote the transformation of hockey in Spain and establish it as an international benchmark. By growing the sport, the entire ecosystem will benefit from increased resources at all levels.
The Challenges of Making a Living from Hockey
Currently, making a living solely from hockey is practically impossible. The limited economic resources available in the sport, which is not yet professional, compel many players to pursue a university degree to secure their future beyond their sporting careers. However, the RFEH’s strategic plan aims to change this scenario and create more opportunities for players to have sustainable careers in the sport they love.
Impossible to make a living from field hockey: Combining sport and studies is almost an obligation
RFEH
Examples of High-Level Players Who Have Successfully Combined Studies with Field Hockey
MGS League:
· Rafael Revilla (Country Club): Holds a degree in Business Administration and Management.
​· Ignacio Rodriguez (Field Club): Holds a degree in Medicine and Dentistry.​
· Jordi Bonastre (Atlètic Terrassa): Holds a degree in Physical Activity and Sports Sciences.
· Marc VizcaÃno (Atlètic Terrassa): Holds a degree in Computer Engineering.
· Luis Calzado (RC Polo): Holds a degree in Advertising and Public Relations.
​· Andreas Rafi (FC Barcelona): Pursuing a degree in Applied Languages.
· Antonio Sanz del Campo (Sanse Complutense): Holds a degree in History and a Master’s in Management of Businesses and Cultural Entities.
Examples of High-Level Players Who Have Successfully Combined Studies with Field Hockey
Iberdrola League:
Mari Ruiz (Country Club): Holds a degree in Physiotherapy.
· Berta Agulló (Country Club): Holds a degree in Nursing.
LucÃa Jiménez (Complutense): Holds a degree in Industrial Design Engineering and Product Development.
​· Laia Vidosa (Junior FC): Holds a degree in Medicine.
· Jana MartÃnez (Junior FC): Holds a degree in Economics.
· Paula Fernandez (UD Taburiente): Holds a degree in Physical Activity and Sports.
​· Maialen GarcÃa (Egara): Holds a degree in Interior Design.
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