LAUSANNE – The International Hockey Federation (FIH) is pleased to announce the complete re-launch and overhaul of its website, www.fih.ch.

The re-launch includes an entirely new design along with a new competition format. Fans of hockey will be pleased with the user-friendly layout that will have an emphasis on editorial content. Also new is the ability for fans to use the FIH site to engage more in their social media outlets with the ability to Tweet or share articles with their friends.

“Launching a new FIH website was long overdue and very high on our priority list,” said Kelly Fairweather, the CEO of the FIH. “We are very pleased with the product we are presenting to the general public today. This is an important step forward not only for the FIH communications endeavours, but also to help better promote the sport of hockey.”

The re-launch is the first of a multi-tiered process to improve the FIH website and overall presentation of the game of hockey. In the future, a new database will be created as well as better incorporation of social media and new media.

The site was developed in partnership with Altius Software, a Toronto-based communications company. Altius is headed by Mr. Hari Kant, a former hockey player for Canada who brought in depth technical and strategic knowledge to upgrade the FIH homepage. Hari also has experience with FIH media requirements as a web officer and television commentator for the FIH. Hari will remain engaged with the FIH to ensure that the website continues to deliver for the hockey fan.

“With Altius we have a partnership with a web company that understands the needs of an International Federation,” said Jenny Wiedeke, Communications Manager. “We want to continue to move forward with our website and Altius has the eye toward the future that can help the FIH present a better website to the world and enhance its overall communication.”

The site was re-launched in time for two major upcoming events, the ESB Electric Ireland FIH Champions Challenge I which kicks off this weekend in Dublin and the Rabo FIH Champions Trophy in Amsterdam, which begins the following week.