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Henry BulkeIce hockey official, president of the Royal Belgian Ice Hockey Federation (1912-1920), president of the IIHF (1912-1914, 1914-1920).
Country:
 Belgium |
Content:
- Henri van den Bulcke: A Pioneer of Ice Hockey
- Founding of the Belgian Hockey Federation
- Presidency of the IIHF
- Resignation and Re-election
- Legacy
Henri van den Bulcke: A Pioneer of Ice Hockey
Early Life and CareerHenri van den Bulcke was born in Belgium in 1889. A passionate hockey enthusiast, he rose to prominence within the sport at a young age.
Founding of the Belgian Hockey Federation
In 1912, at the tender age of 23, van den Bulcke founded the Royal Belgian Hockey Federation. As its first president, he played a pivotal role in establishing the sport in Belgium.
Presidency of the IIHF
Shortly after founding the Belgian federation, van den Bulcke was elected president of the International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF). He served two non-consecutive terms from 1912 to 1914 and again from 1914 to 1920.
Resignation and Re-election
In February 1914, van den Bulcke resigned from his post at the IIHF. However, his successor, Louis Magnus, quickly resigned after failing to gain support for his agenda. As a result, a new congress was convened, and van den Bulcke was re-elected as IIHF president.
Legacy
Henri van den Bulcke's presidency of the IIHF had a profound impact on the development of the sport. He played a key role in organizing early international competitions and establishing the foundations for the modern IIHF. As a pioneer in ice hockey, his legacy continues to inspire future generations of players and administrators.
