Lausanne was once again the meeting place for the next generation of Swiss field hockey players. This time, however, it was not the turn of Swiss Hockey’s national youth teams, but the U14 regional teams. The best U14 junior players from all regions of Switzerland came together at the Regio Cup 2026 – and experienced exactly what this tournament was created for: The joy of field hockey, competing against the best players in Switzerland and gaining their first experience on the big field.
For many athletes, the Regio Cup was a first or further step in the development of “11-a-side skills”. The Regio Cup thus represents an important milestone for Swiss Hockey within the so-called Swiss Hockey Pathway. In high-level matches, the teams gained valuable match practice, developed both individually and as a unit and showed impressive commitment and enthusiasm throughout the weekend. Numerous intense games and strong individual performances underlined the great potential of young Swiss players.

But the Regio Cup is much more than just a sporting competition. It stands for experiences, community and emotions. New friendships were formed between the games, teams grew closer together and the special atmosphere of a national event could be felt everywhere. Concentrated faces on the pitch, exuberant moments off it – it is precisely this mixture that makes the Regio Cup so special.

Outstanding performances were recognized with the Best Player Awards. Among the girls, Clara Zaucker (Goalie), Mellie Rieben (Defense), Joelle Huber (Midfield) and Ella Beaty (Attack) impressed. In the boys’ category, Emil Kolly (Goalie), Raphaël van Brée (Defense), Maurice Gähwiler (Midfield) and Fionn Peyer (Attack) were honored. The awards were presented by national player Anya Hardeman – a special moment for the young talents and an inspiring link to the top of Swiss field hockey.

A key success factor was the excellent organization. Special thanks go to Maria Herrero and the entire team at Stade Lausanne, who ensured optimal conditions on site with great commitment, passion and attention to detail. The overall organization of the tournament was the responsibility of Mathias Schaeben (Swiss Hockey), who pulled all the strings together and ensured that everything ran smoothly.

The development of refereeing was also actively promoted. Under the direction of Harry Lecomte, young referees officiated games and received valuable input for their further development – an important contribution to the future of the sport in Switzerland.

The Regio Cup was also supported by strong partners. Fastplay, long-standing supplier and main sponsor of the tournament, had a stand on site and brought the field hockey experience directly to the participants. Aeschbach Chocolatier provided sweet highlights with “Why Nuts?” and delicious pralines, while TK Sports, as a supplier to Swiss Hockey, contributed to the success of the tournament with equipment and gifts.
The U14 Regio Cup 2026 in Lausanne was therefore much more than just a tournament – it was a real highlight in the junior calendar, a platform for development and a strong signal for the future of Swiss field hockey.