The 2024 edition of the AAU Junior Olympic Games will feature the addition of U-16 boys teams competing in the Hockey5s format, announced USA Field Hockey.
The decision to include U-16 boys comes as part of ongoing efforts to promote field hockey for boys leading into the 2028 Summer Olympic Games in Los Angeles. Hockey5s, a small-sided, shorter variant of the traditional game, emphasizes speed, skill and teamwork.
The AAU Junior Olympians will be selected based on coach recommendations. In addition, boys will be able to try out at the upcoming California Cup tournament from May 24–27.
“Hockey is an Olympic sport for men and women and as such, we are excited to include a boys division in the 2024 AAU Junior Olympic Games,” said Marc Bakerman, USA Field Hockey‘s boys’ development manager. “This groundbreaking addition underscores our commitment to fostering talent and inclusivity for U-16 boys by offering an opportunity to train and develop in the new Hockey5s format, and to experience this prestigious event as Junior Olympians, alongside girls of the same age. USA Field Hockey is working to increase opportunities for boys and men across the country. We thank the AAU for providing this opportunity for both boys and girls.”
The event, taking place July 29 to August 1 at Wake Forest University in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, will continue to showcase top U-16 girls who will have earned their spots through the selection process at the 2024 Junior Nexus Championship and through the Olympic Development Pathway.
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