MUMBAI: This is a move that should give Indian hockey a financial boost. The Indian Hockey Federation (IHF), has announced that for the first time in the history of domestic hockey in India, players will receive an appearance fee in a domestic tournament at the Premier Hockey League (PHL) which kicks off next month.

ESPN Star Sports is the broadcaster partner of the event. Television spots promoting the event are airing on the broadcaster. The hockey players will receive anywhere from Rs. 15,000 to Rs. 100,000 for participating.

The prize money on offer at PHL is Rs 7.1 million. Speaking on the occasion.IHF president KPS Gill said, "All my boys play for love of the game. I am very happy to announce league participation fees for players which will motivate them further.

"It is very important that the game of hockey attracts good talent and if the players are provided the best of facilities, career assurance, avenues to play good hockey and are also paid well at the same time, there is no doubt that we will retain good talent and also attract youngsters to the game."

The players have been divided in four levels in Tier I as per their experience and performance. As per this division, the players in the top most bracket will get paid Rs 100, 000 while Level B will be offered Rs 35, 000 and Level C players and D will be rewarded Rs 25,000 and Rs 15,000 each as league participation fees.

Further, in an attempt to take the game to higher stature, for the first time ever, the team support staff including the coach, manager of teams of Tier I will also receive Rs 25,000 for participating in the league.

The winning team of the Tier I will take home Rs. 3 million while the runners up will carry Rs 1 million. The winner of Tier II will get Rs 400,000 while the runner up will receive Rs 250,000.

Last week, sports goods major 'Adidas' announced sponsoring 'Official Kits' and merchandise to all ten participating teams in PHL. The merchandise includes entire playing, training and travel kit comprising official playing jerseys and shorts, training gear, kit bags, track-suits, stockings, wrist bands, travel trousers, shirts, bandannas and caps. Adidas has used its latest global technology for producing the uniforms for this premiere league.

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