It is with great sadness that the International Hockey Federation learned of the death of Etienne Glichitch at the age of 90 years.

The Frenchman was the Honorary Secretary of the International Hockey Federation (FIH) from 1966 until 1984, when he became President, a post which he held until 1996.

Etienne’s dynamic approach and dedicated commitment to the sport laid much of the groundwork for the FIH as it is known today.

Born in 1925, Etienne worked extensively in French hockey, where he set up several training courses, many of which he conducted personally. The success of these meant that these courses were also delivered internationally.

He was also a renowned official, his highlight umpiring at the 1960 Olympic Games in Rome, Italy.

He was later elected to the FIH Board in 1961, before being appointed as Director of the Tokyo Olympics in 1964.

International Olympic Committee President Juan Antonio Samaranch awarded him the Olympic Order for having participated in 10 editions of the Olympics.

He retired from hockey in 1996, with the exception of his duties with the Foundation for the Promotion and Development of Hockey, retaining the Presidency until 2005.

His services to the sport of hockey also saw and award named after him. The Etienne Glichitch recognises an individual, Continental Federation or National Association who has developed hockey through innovative ideas and/or the professionalisation of their organisation.

Speaking of his death, FIH President Leandro Negre said: “As the head of FIH for 30 years, the actions of Etienne for the development of our sport are endless. He played an important role in building women’s hockey and increasing access to our sport around the globe. He will be a huge loss to the hockey world and we would like to offer his family and close friends our deepest sympathy at this difficult time.”

Editor: the original article was published on the FIH website on 18 August. View it here.