News 21 August 2014
All the news for Thursday 21 August 2014
China and Netherlands women maintain flawless records
New Zealand, Spain and Pakistan men all make it three wins in a row
China defeated New Zealand to remain first in their pool (Photo: Xinhua/Song Zhenping)
New Zealand and Germany were the first men’s teams to take to the field today. The Blacksticks handed the injury-plagued Germans their third defeat in the tournament which makes tomorrow’s match between Germany and Mexico a decider: only the winner reaches the quarter-finals.
The other Oceanian men’s team, Australia, did not fare so well. They suffered another frustrating one-goal defeat, succumbing to Spain 7-6 after an early three-goal lead. The Bangladeshi men had to give in to South Africa by the same one-goal margin, and are out of the quarter-finals, while Zambia, despite losing to Pakistan today, depend on tomorrow’s result between Germany and Mexico.
In the women’s competition, the Netherlands delivered a daunting demonstration of power, dispatching Argentina with six goals that received no response.
Japan women inflicted the highest score line of the competition so far on Fiji, pushing forward relentlessly to reach the exact number of goals that ensures they take second place in the pool over Argentina on goal difference if the two teams draw in tomorrow’s direct encounter.
China women kept a flawless record with a win over New Zealand, and the German women booked a first win to secure their place in the quarter-finals independent of tomorrow’s results.
Results
Women
Argentina – Netherlands 0:6 (0:1; 0:2)
Fiji – Japan 1:26 (0:10; 0:16)
China – New Zealand 8:3 (0:1; 5:3)
Zambia – Germany 2:5 (1:1; 1:2)
Men
New Zealand – Germany 6:3 (1:0; 4:2)
Spain – Australia 7:6 (1:3; 5:4)
Bangladesh – South Africa 3:4 (0:1; 2:3)
Zambia – Pakistan 2:9 (2:3; 2:7)
FIH site
A win and a loss for the NZ Hockey5’s in Nanjing
There were mixed results for the New Zealand Hockey5 teams at the Youth Olympics in Nanjing overnight with the men beating Germany 6-3 to move to the top of the table and the women losing 8-3 to hosts China.
In the men’s game, Robbie Capizzi and David Brydon gave the Kiwis a 2-0 lead before Germany scored twice through Felix Schneider and Anton Korber.
With it locked at 2-2 the Kiwis needed a break and it came when Dylan Thomas and then Dominic Newman scored in quick succession.
Their form continued in the final third when Canterbury’s Hayden Phillips scored twice in two minutes and helped his team hold on to their unbeaten tournament record. Richard Lunn came off after being hit in the head with a stick, but was cleared to come back on later in the game.
“We didn’t score till fairly late in the first third and that kept Germany in the game. Luckily, we got one just before the break and then we had a player sent off and they equalised. It was a bit nerve racking being 2-2, but we were confident that we would get the win, we had a really good game against Mexico and continued that form and confidence in this game,” said men’s coach Dave Kosoof.
“Germany played really defensively, they nullified our speed and space which we found challenging. We didn’t have too many options going forward and it meant we had a lot possession but we had to be patient and wait for space to open up.”
Kosoof says that the next game against Pakistan, who are second on the table, will be his sides biggest game yet. It will help that it is the Kiwis last pool game, as the boys are now well settled into the village and with a few pool games under their belt the nerves have gone and they are playing with more confidence.
“They are a traditional Pakistan side – a lot of speed all across their squad, they are one of the toughest teams here. They have sent their top team, some of the Junior World Cup players are here so it wont be easy. But with this format anyone can win, you just need to respect who you are playing because either side can score goals very quickly,” said Kosoof.
In the women’s game, the Kiwis started well against top of the table China, with Ella Hyatt-Brown and Catherine Tinning giving the Kiwis a 2-0 lead.
However, for the rest of the game it was China who took control, scoring four goals in five minutes in the second third and although Kiwi Su arn Kwek knocked one home in the 21st minute, China piled on another four goals. The Women now sit third on the points table with China and Uruguay ahead of them.
The women’s final pool game is against Uruguay at 9.30pm tonight ahead of the NZ Men’s game against Pakistan at 11pm. There are ten nations competing in the Hockey5’s at the Youth Olympics, with two pools of five nations in each. (NZT)
The men’s team is David Brydon, Canterbury (17); Robbie Capizzi, North Harbour (17); Fynn Edwards, (GK) North Harbour (18); Richmond Lum, Auckland (18); Dominic Newman, Canterbury (17); Hayden Phillips, Central (16); Aidan Sarikaya, Midlands (17); Dylan Thomas, Central (18); Mackenzie Wilcox, Central (17). The team is coached by Dave Kosoof.
The women’s team is Isla Bint, Auckland (16); Frances Davies, Midlands (17); Su Arn Kwek, Auckland (18); Bridget Kiddle, Capital (17); Tayla White, Auckland (17); Ella Hyatt-Brown, North Harbour (16); Catherine Tinning, Canterbury (18); Casey-Mae Waddell, Central (17); Amy Robinson, Midlands (18). The team is coached by Caryn Paewai.
Hockey New Zealand Media release
Australia lose to Spain
Australia give it their all against Spain losing 7-6
Going into today’s match against Spain, Australia wanted to bounce back from their disappointing loss to South Africa yesterday.
The Aussies started well to lead 4-1 early in the second period but just like they did against South Africa, their lead was quickly reduced.
Much of the third period was dominated by Spain to finish the match on top beating Australia 7-6.
“It was an unfortunate result but we regrouped from yesterday’s game against South Africa so we will just keep making gains and keep moving forward as a team,” Australia's captain Tim Howard said.
This was the green and gold’s second loss for the Youth Olympic Games with tomorrow’s match against Canada being a must win in order to have the chance at securing a medal.
Howard believes they can turn things around and progress into the quarter finals next week.
“We have to stick to our game plan and try to give it a go as best as we can. We will regroup, fire up and give it our best shot to finish second or third in our pool,” Howard added.
Australia kicked off the match outstandingly leading 3-1 at the first break. It was all good signs for the green and gold in the first minute of the second period, Max Hendry slotted home a powerful shot to extend the lead.
From then on it was in the hands of Spain, scoring five unanswered goals to take a 6-4 advantage into the final period.
Australia looked like they were ready for a mini come back after Corey Weyer smashed the ball from halfway to fly past the keeper and reduce the margin to one.
It came down to the last five minutes, Spain leading 6-5 and the crowd were cheering louder than ever.
Both sides quickly exchanged goals to leave the margin at one with only two minutes left on the clock and three players off the field due to foul play.
Australia was a man down and needed a goal to draw the match, up steps Jonathan Bretherton. The Victorian had the ball 10 metres out with 20 seconds to go, he step to his left and shot only missing the goal by inches.
It was heart break for the Aussies once again losing by one goal after leading.
“I thought we played really well but we had lapses in concentration through some patches of the game,” Bretherton said.
“We’ll go back, watch the video, do our recovery and we’ll do everything properly before we take on Canada.”
Australia's last pool match is against Canada tomorrow at 16:30 (CST)/ 18:30 AEST.
Game Three
Australia v Spain
Youth Olympic Games
Nanjing, China
Australia: 6
Nathanael Stewart 1
Matthew Bird 2
Corey Weyer 3, 35
Max Hendry 12
Jonathan Bretherton 28
Spain: 7
Manuel Fabregas I Bordas 4
E.M Veli Castejon De Gonzalez 15,30
Jan Rosell Lara 18
Llorenc Grau Piera 20
Jordi Palet Farres 21
Lucas Alcalde Garcia 25
Australia v Spain
Athlete (Hometown, State)
Matthew Bird, WA
Jonathan Bretherton, VIC
Max Hendry, VIC
Tim Howard, QLD
Max Hughes, NSW
Alec Rasmussen, WA
Nathanael Stewart, NSW
Mackenzie Warne, QLD
Corey Weyer, QLD
Australia Fixtures, Youth Olympic Games
Thursday 21 August - Australia v Canada 6.30pm AEST / 4.30pm AWST
Media Release Content
The above content has been supplied by the Australian Olympic Committee for Hockey Australia to distribute.
Hockey Australia media release
Malik, Atiq post hat-tricks for Pakistan
KARACHI: Pakistan captain Nohaiz Zahid Malik and midfielder Muhammad Atiq scored a hat-trick each to give Pakistan their third consecutive win, defeating Zambia by a colossal 9-2 margin in the third match of their Pool B fixture at the Youth Olympics in Nanjing, China on Wednesday.
Pakistan now lead their pool with nine points along with New Zealand, who also won all their matches. The pool leaders will face each other on Thursday in their final pool match.
Malik scored the opening goals of the match, first in the second minute and the second in the fifth minute, after which the Zambians equalised with strikes from Blessing Lowole and Alfred Chola Mpande in the fifth and eighth minutes of the match.
Pakistan regained the lead when midfielder Muhammad Junaid Kamal scored the third goal in the last minute of the first period.
The second period saw the greenshirts dominate the Africans with strikes from Muhammad Atiq, Muhammad Bilal Mehmood and Mubashar Ali in the 13th, 17th and 22nd minutes respectively. Malik completed his hat-trick in the 23rd minute to boost Pakistan 7-2.
Seventeen-year-old Atiq then achieved his treble by scoring two goals in the 30th and 36th minutes of the match, enabling his team to end the encounter 9-2.
In Pool A, Spain lead with nine points, while Canada and South Africa both are at six points each. Spain will face South Africa and Canada will face fourth-ranked Australia in their final pool matches.
Meanwhile, Pakistan weightlifter Abdur Rehman will complete in the 77kg event of the Youth Olympics on Thursday.
The Express Tribune
Ireland make it 6 against the French
Ireland secured a 6-0 win over France tonight in UCD as the Electric Ireland Tri Nations continues in a match that they totally dominated.
All six of Ireland's goals came from open play but a well organised French defence on the set piece kept over ten Irish short corner efforts out to keep the scoreline somewhat at bay.
Ireland opened the scoring within 60 seconds of the start Chloe Brown capitalising on a break through. Ireland's second goal came as Captain Megan Frazer threaded through midfield to Naomi Carroll whose effort took a French deflection, making it 2. Goal number 3 came from Katie Mullan who pounced after the initial French save from close range. Ireland had numerous chances to extend their lead before half time but the French knuckled down and kept the Green Army efforts out.
Nikki Evans opened the second half scoring after impressive play from Captain Megan Frazer who passed to Nicci Daly who weaved around the left to lay off to Nikki Evans who drew it back to the penalty spot and slapped home for a great goal making it Ireland 4 France 0.
Naomi Carroll secured the 5th slapping home a bouncing ball on her first touch before Anna O'Flanagan got on the score sheet to make it six for Ireland from close range.
Ireland are back in action tomorrow against the higher ranked Spain at 7pm.
IRELAND 6 (3) Chloe Brown 1m fg; Naomi Carroll 11m & 51m fg; Katie Mullan 15m fg; Nikki Evans 41m fg; Anna O'Flanagan 60m fg
FRANCE 0 (0)
Starting XI: Cliodhna Sargent; Chloe Brown; Megan Frazer (Capt); Audrey O'Flynn; Ayeisha McFerran GK; Chloe Watkins; Nicci Daly; Anna O'Flanagan; Deirdre Duke; Kate Dillon; Alison Meeke
Reserves: Stella Davis (GK); Nikki Evans; Naomi Carroll; Katie Mullan; Gillian Pinder; Yvonne O'Byrne; Emily Beatty
Series 3
Tuesday August 19th Spain 9-1 France 19.00
Wednesday August 20 Ireland 6-0 France 19.00
Thursday August 21 Ireland v Spain 19.00
Series 4
Friday August 22 Spain v France 17.00
Saturday August 23 Ireland v France 14.00
Sunday August 24th Ireland v Spain 14.00
Irish Hockey Association media release
India, Pakistan in same pool of Asian Games 2014
Indian hockey team during a practice session in New Delhi. File photo: S. Subramanium
India has been clubbed alongside arch-rivals and eight-time champions Pakistan in the 10-nation men’s hockey competition at the 17th Asian Games to be held in Incheon, South Korea from September 19 to October 4.
In Pool B, besides defending champions Pakistan and India, the other competing nations are China, Oman and Sri Lanka.
Last edition’s runners up Malaysia, South Korea, Japan, Bangladesh and Singapore complete Pool B.
Meanwhile in the women’s competition, India will compete against title holders China, Malaysia and Thailand in Pool A while the Pool B consists of 2010 runners up South Korea, Japan, Kazakhstan and Hong Kong China.
According to information received in New Delhi, the complete schedule of the hockey event of the Asian Games will be declared soon.
The Asian Games hold great significance for the hockey nations of the continent as the winners of both the men’s and women’s section will directly qualify for the 2016 Olympics in Rio de Janeiro.
The Hindu
Southerns’ sigh of relief as Russell nets last-second winner
JONATHAN COOK at Greenfields Turf
The pain of Sulette Damons (far left) and joy of Lilian du Plessis (11), match-winner Shelley Russell and team-mate Jules Cass (far right) as champs Southern Gauteng edge underdogs North West 3-2 in the SA Interprovincial Tournament at Greenfields Turf in Pietermaritzburg Wednesday. Photo: GAVIN NEL
THE South Africa Women’s Interprovincial Hockey Tournament (IPT) on Greenfields Turf in Pietermaritzburg Wednesday was witness to one of the most exciting matches in recent memory when defending champions Southern Gauteng were almost victims of a remarkable upset by North West but ran out 3-2 victors with the winner scored in the dying seconds.
In other A Section matches the KZN Raiders were made to work hard by Border before coming out 5-1 winners, Southern Gauteng Witsies edged Eastern Province 3-2 and in the late game Western Province had the better of Northern Blues but SA-capped Blues goalie Phume Mbande was in superb form to keep the match scoreless until Kim Hubach put the Pretoria side 1-0 up with five minutes left (65th) and a minute later Jacinta Jubb scored a brilliant goal for 2-0.
It was hard on last year’s finalists who deserved something better than the final result but the chances were not converted, although it must be said that the Northerns defence played like women possessed, such was their determination to keep the Cape Town girls out.
Star-studded Southerns scored through SA players Lisa Deetlefs (53rd minute), Lilian du Plessis 66th and Shelley Russell (70th and last minute) while Stephanie Baxter (19th) and Amoré de Wet (56th) had forced the champions on the back foot.
“We were too static, but North West defended well and their senior players stepped up,” said Southerns coach Garreth Ewing. “I give credit to my penalty corner team, no goal yesterday and success today, it bodes well going forward.”
Match-winner Shelley Russell said her side never got going. “We by no means underestimated them but our game plan was not followed properly and our basics were poor. It’s a reminder that every game at IPT is one you have got to fight for.”
NW coach Elun Hack was thrilled for his girls. “I am super-proud of them, but experience at top level is so important and in that sense Southerns played key moments in the match very well.”
Certainly the last five minutes was where the match was won and lost but underdogs NW brought the crowd alight with their exciting counter-attacking and SA striker Sulette Damons had the pace to generate much of the threat.
“The advantage of us playing a big province like Southerns is that we go in with nothing to lose and at a point in the first half we sensed that we were in with a very good chance of taking this game, and we dominated at times but the last five minutes cost us the points.”
NW led for over 60% of the game and forced Southerns to continually play catch-up in this Pool A encounter. NW opened the scoring in the 19th minute when the outstanding midfielder Stephanie Baxter flashed a superb strike past Investec South Africa women’s hockey team goalkeeper Sanani Mangisa, one of the two national stoppers in this match, the outstanding Anelle van Deventer keeping goal between the NW posts.
It took Southerns 34 minutes to restore parity - the Johannesburgers’ breakthrough came 18 minutes after the changeover (53rd minute) when captain Lisa Deetlefs rifled in a penalty corner (PC). Three minutes later (56th) NW captain Amoré de Wet put her side back in front with a sweetly timed reverse-stick shot from the edge of the strike zone.
With play swinging from end to end, as it had for the entire match, it looked like NW were going to cause the upset of the tournament but with four minutes left (66th) SA striker Lilian du Plessis gave herself space with some nifty stickwork before rifling a trademark backhand that saw the ball thud into the backboard.
At 2-2 it look like NW were at least going to get a point but such is the cut-throat nature of IPT hockey it was not to be, as the experienced Southerns side played the big moment well when Du Plessis’ skill earned another PC and with seconds left SA midfielder Shelley got the last- touch winner.
Southerns are through to Friday’s semi-finals but will have a challenge Thursday in their last Pool match when they take on their second-stringers SG Witsies, who are still in with a chance of also reaching the last four.
Results
A Section: Southern Gauteng 3 North West 2; Southern Gauteng Witsies 2 Eastern Province 1; KZN Coastal Raiders 5 Border 1; Northern Blues 2 Western Province 0.
B Section: Free State 5 KZN Mynahs 0; Zimbabwe 7 EP Settlers 1; Eastern Gauteng 2 Mpumalanga 2; KZN Inland 3 SA Country Districts B 0.
SA Hockey Association media release
Hafizuddin helps Negri to semis
HAFIZUDDIN Desa scored a brace to steer Pahang to a 6-2 win over Negri Sembilan in Group A to seal a place in the Division One semi-finals of the Razak Cup in Kuantan yesterday.
The hosts finished runners-up in the group with two wins and a defeat. They lost 2-1 to defending champions Perak in the opening match before they bounced back to beat Selangor 3-1.
Pahang will play against Group B champions Kuala Lumpur in the semi-finals tomorrow. KL topped the group with a 3-1 win over Malacca.
The other semi-final match is between Group A champions Perak against Malacca.
Hafizuddin was on target for Pahang in the 48th and 57th minutes.
Sallehin Ghani (21st), Haziq Fawwaz Ramli (41st), Ismail Abu (44th) and Hairul Nizam Abdul Rani (70th) scored the other goals for Pahang. G. Kavin Kartik (16th) and Zabad Rosly (53rd) scored for Negri.
Pahang coach Izwan Suhardi said he had to field reserve goalkeeper Amirul Yusuf in place of the injured Safiuddin Sharom and the substitute keeper never let him down.
“Amirul was in top form for making a number of brilliant saves. Defender M. Vizayan was also nursing a knee injury but we still qualified for the semi-finals," said Izwan.
Perak topped Group A after fighting back from a goal down to hold Selangor 2-2.
RESULTS — Div 1, Group A: N. Sembilan 2 Pahang 6, Perak 2 Selangor 2; Group B: K. Lumpur 3 Malacca 1, Penang 7 Johor 3.
TODAY — Div 2: Terengganu v Kelantan (6pm, Pitch 1); A. Force v Perlis (6pm, Pitch 2), Kedah v Police (8pm, Pitch 1).
New Straits Times
Malaysia retain Asian Schools title
By Aftar Singh
Malaysia beat arch-rivals Singapore 1-0 at the Sultan Azlan Shah Stadium on Wednesday to retain the Asian School Hockey Championships.
KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia retained the Asian Schools Under-18 hockey title after a 10-0 win over Singapore in the final at the Sultan Azlan Shah Stadium in Ipoh.
Mohd Hafizuddin Zaidi (27th and 30th minutes) and Mohd Najme Ahmad Mayazi (31st and 61st) each scored a brace. Nik Mohd Aiman Nik Rozemi (third), Mawardi Hamirin (fifth), Khairul Helmy Napi (11th), Abdul Khaliq Hamirin (38th), Mohd Luqman Hakim (60th) and skipper Luqman Nul Hakim Ahmad Shukran (66th) contributed the other goals.
Coach Wan Roslan Wan Abdul Rahman was full of praise for his players.
“Seven teams took part and we did well to score 42 goals without conceding a single goal. And we also won three of the individual awards,” said Wan Roslan.
In an earlier match, Thailand outplayed Indonesia 4-0 to finish third. Abdulkaree Tohbee (13th), Paisan Samranjai (22nd), Pasakorn Wadtuma (36th) and Theppithak Namkhot (63rd) netted for Thailand.
ROLL OF HONOUR
Best Player of Tournament: Luqman Nul Hakim Ahmad Shukran (Mas)
Top Scorer: Nik Mohd Aiman Nik Rozemi and Mohd Zulhamizan Awang Abas (Mas) 6 goals
Best goalkeeper: Suriphong Jongjum (Tha)
Man-of-the-match: Mohd Hafizudin Zaidi (Mas)
Final standings:1. Malaysia, 2. Singapore, 3. Thailand, 4. Indonesia, 5. Sri Lanka, 6. Macau, 7. Hong Kong.
The Star of Malaysia
De Gannes off to Den Bosch trials
Nigel Simon
Senior T&T men’s hockey player Aidan De Gannes.
Senior T&T men’s hockey player Aidan De Gannes left on Tuesday for Amsterdam, Holland, for a three-week trial stint at top Premier Hockey League (Hoofdklasse) club, Den Bosch which ended ninth in the 12-team competition last season.
According De Gannes who turned 23 on July 25, HC Den Bosch which is under the supervision of T&T coach, Dutchman Eric Verboom presents a great opportunity to further his development in the sport.
“I have been a member of the national senior team since 2007 and I think this is the right time for me to try and make a move abroad. I am anxiously looking towards the experience of training and playing with top quality international players from around the world and hopefully I will impress the coaching staff enough to get me a contract.”
A former Queen’s Royal College student, De Gannes, who has been a member of local club, Notre Dame ever since he picked up the sport in 2006 added: “I will be working as hard as possible to impress the coaches as a contract will not only be a positive for me, but enable me to bring back some knowledge to my local clubmate and national team-mates as well.|
Reflecting on his development as a player locally, De Gannes who was a member of the senior men’s team that lifted the Caribbean Cup and secured a historic bronze medal at the Pan American Cup in Canada last year said his parents have given him unconditional support since he picked up the hockey sticks.
“My two main coaches in Kwandwane Browne and Glen “Fido” Francis” have also played key roles in my development and I want to continue to do them proud.”
Commenting on the opportunity for De Gannes, who was part of his team at the recently concluded Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, Scotland, Francis, a former national goalkeeper admitted its a chance of a lifetime for his national player.
“In the past we have had players who secured professional contracts to play in Germany and England, but this is a first and at Den Bosch he (Aidan) will get the chance to play alongside some of the best players from South Africa and Holland who are at the club.”
“It doesn’t get much better than the Dutch Hockey League and I hope he grasps the chance with both hands, because he is one of the best young players that we have in T&T and deserves a chance to showcase his talent at a higher level,” added Francis.
Should, De Gannes managed to impress enough for a contract he will join an illustrious list of current and former national team-mates to ply their trade in Europe at some point in their career led by Browne, Brian Garcia, Ron Alexander, Nigel Providence, Darren Cowie, Solomon Eccles, Alan Henderson, Mickel Pierre, Evans Pierre Farrell, Akim Toussaint, Dwain Quan Chan and Wayne Legerton.
Aidan’s honours
Aidan De Gannes, major tournaments for T&T and accomplishments:
2013: 3rd, Pan American Cup, Brampton, Toronto, Canada, August 10th – 17th
2nd rnd. two, FIH World League, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, February 27th to March 5th
2012: 5th,Junior Pan American Games, Guadalajara, Mexico, October 10th -23rd
1st rnd. one, FIH World League, Port-of-Spain, Trinidad and Tobago, November 13th – 17th
2011: 7th, Pan American Games, Guadalajara, Mexico, October 19-28
2010: 2nd, Central American & Caribbean Games, Mayaguez, Puerto Rico, July 22-30
Preliminary Round, Commonwealth Games, New Delhi, India, October 4th – 14th
2009: 5th, Pan American Cup, Santiago, Chile, March 7th to 15th
2008: 7th, Pan American Junior Championships, Port-of-Spain, T&T, October 17th to 26th
5th, Olympic Qualifier, North Shore City, Auckland, New Zealand, February 2nd to 10th
2007: 1st, Pan America Hockey Federation, Caribbean Hockey Cup, Port-of-Spain, T&, November 7th to 11th
The Trinidad Guardian
Safety and speed: a balancing act
England and Great Britain’s George Pinner talks about staying safe between the sticks.
(Photo: Frank Uijlenbroek)
Who would want to be a goalkeeper? Facing shots of up to 100mph, head to toe in foam and peering out from behind a grille. England and Great Britain’s George Pinner talks about staying safe between the sticks.
George Pinner is recognised as one of the best goalkeepers in the world, recently winning a bronze medal with England at the Commonwealth Games. He plays his club hockey for Holcombe and made his international debut for Great Britain when he was just 20.
The 27-year-old has developed his own range of goalkeeping equipment – a process that gives him insight into developing technology. “I am lucky enough that I have designed all my own kickers, pads and gloves in conjunction with equipment manufacturer Monarch, therefore the kit is designed entirely to suit my needs.”
George talks us through the extensive kit list that serves to protect the men and women who guard the goal:
- Helmet – protection and safety comes before anything else. You only get one head and I value mine. I want my helmet to be as light as possible so I am always happy to compromise protection over weight. I use a top spec ice hockey helmet. Good vision is also important, so I always go for a grille that offers this.
- Chestpad, shorts, elbow pads – I compromise here between protection and being able to move freely. I chose products that should stop me breaking any bones but still allow me to move easily. A nasty hit to the hips, shoulders or elbows can put you out of action for a long time, while hits to fleshy areas hurt, but you can play on.
- Box – this is as important as my helmet! I have a top spec, triple-layer, ice hockey box as they undergo far more testing than hockey products and I believe they offer far greater protection.
- Kickers – protection is key closely followed by rebound. I want a kicker that protects me from the hard hitters but also allows me to clear the ball quickly in the same saving movement. Kickers must fit well so my toes are protected, but I don’t want the kickers to be too bulky as that will impede my movement.
- Leg guards - protection is the priority, closely followed by the ability to move quickly. I want a leg guard that protects my calf fully and with a maximum width so I have as big a saving area as possible. The kickers also have to allow me to slide easily.
- Gloves – the right-hand glove allows me to use the stick as an extension of my arm, and I need to be able to get my stick flat on the floor when diving. Maximum saving areas are also key.
Over the past five years, goalkeeping equipment has marched on apace. New types of foam has been one of the major developments, with protection the priority, but also important is how the ball rebounds from an initial shot. To allow the ‘keeper a greater amount of reaction time, the rebound needs to be as full as possible, something that manufacturers are working hard to deliver.
And as George says, no-one is ever completely safe: “While I have total faith in my foam kit, there are always those times when the ball finds a gap and hits a soft target.”
FIH site
Celebrating a True Hockey Icon: Karen Collins
She doesn’t have a jersey number stitched onto her uniform or a world breaking accumulation of international caps but Karen Collins is one of the most valued veterans on Team USA. At the heart of USA Field Hockey is our Director of Event Logistics, KC. Constance Applebee may have initially made our beloved sport popular in the United States, but KC retained that love by perfecting world-renowned tournaments for athletes, umpires and coaches of all age divisions to partake and enjoy. As a staff member for the past 25 years, KC has developed 22 National Hockey Festivals, with her first taking place in Irvine, Calif. in 1992, and nearly as many National Indoor Tournaments, not letting the tiniest of details escape her.
During her tenure with USA Field Hockey, KC has served as Director of National Teams, Head of Membership and Interim Executive Director. She has acted as the liaison to the United States Olympic Committee, the liaison to NBC for the 1996 Atlanta Olympics and covered media operations for the Atlanta Games and was heavily involved with the Road to Atlanta events and campaigns.
While we live in a world where everything runs on technology and computers, KC relies on a notepad which is saturated with knowledge as she continues to build upon events. Not only is KC’s dedication to USA Field Hockey commendable but her unwavering commitment to the sport is also unparalleled. The prior University of Michigan Coach and high school field hockey instructor has shaped the lives of athletes on and off the pitch for numerous years. With our utmost gratitude, we ask that you join us in thanking this hockey icon for giving us outlets to play the sport that has forged teammates into friends and friends into family.
Executive Director, Steve Locke:
“This is the fifth year I am in this position and that number just does not stand up to the 25 years Karen Collins has dedicated to this organization. Not only has KC dedicated 25 years to us, she also served four years as field hockey coach at the University of Michigan and another 8 years of teaching school and coaching hockey at the high school level. That is a total of 37 years devoted to hockey. And, she is not done yet. She is a well-greased machine in event production. In the four National Governing Bodies (NGBs) I have served, I have found no better production manager than KC. And, it is fair to say that she holds up as the superior event specialist across the board of all 47 NGBs under the Olympic aegis. There just is no one better when it comes to bringing the thousands of details together to conduct a premium event. We are so fortunate to have KC!!”
Chief Operating Officer, Simon Hoskins:
“KC is a very special person, she has been in the sport in so many roles for a lifetime. Even though I feel like I have been with USA Field Hockey forever, my time is a mere fraction of the quarter century that KC has helped shape and drive our organization. Having had the privilege to work numerous events with KC I am continually impressed by the consistency she shows, she always is calm, always is poised, her assured composure sets the tone for her team around her. She leads by example and of course is the first to arrive and the last to leave each and every day. While she is always charismatic and has a wealth of friends in the sport she is also firm and unbending when she feels the need to be. I recall one occasion when the rains of West Palm Beach were threatening to get the better of the polo grounds, the Head Groundsman had got to a point where he would not allow play to take place at Festival the next day. A tense meeting followed with all the stakeholders present with entrenched positions on each side. But it was KC who prevailed, the steely look in her eye and the calm and objective reasoning I think won the day. The Groundsman conceded and granted permission for Festival to continue. And that is at her heart I think what KC relishes in her role, simply giving the opportunities for thousands of young athletes to have the time of their lives playing the sport we all love.”
Membership & Events Manager, Emily Thomas:
“The wealth of knowledge KC brings to her desk every day is enormous. Throughout her tenure she’s been a catalyst of growth and excellence, and it’s inspiring to learn from her. Congrats to her on this milestone!”
Chief Financial Officer, Janet Paden:
“KC has dedicated 25 years of her life to USA Field Hockey, and many more than that to the sport itself. KC is one of a kind. Her work ethic is unsurpassed and her commitment to the sport of Field Hockey is unrivaled. In the five years I’ve worked with KC, she has never called in sick one time, nor come to work late. KC will work an event all hours of the day (and night), and never miss a beat. She has earned the respect of her peers both in the office and outside, as witnessed by her posse of volunteers at events. She is a true professional at all times, and her feathers are never ruffled. She is such a great role model for our younger staff, and an inspiration to all who come in contact with her. Twenty-five words to describe KC for her 25 years: dedicated, passionate, motivated, loyal, faithful, committed, enthusiastic, relentless, reliable, dependable, trustworthy, consistent, respectful, extraordinary, thoughtful, attentive, perfectionist, professional, giving, integrity, meticulous, diligent, organized, punctual, a true leader! THANK YOU FOR SHARING YOUR YEARS WITH US, KC!!!”
USFHA media release
HI-SAI in collision course after cancellation of women's camp
NEW DELHI: A war of words have broken out between Hockey India and Sports Authority of India regarding the cancellation of junior women hockey team's national camp with the SAI accusing HI of overshooting the allocated budget.
The government did not clear the national junior women's hockey camp that was slated to start in Bhopal on Tuesday and SAI blamed HI for the cancellation.
"Hockey India was allocated a budget of Rs 10.50 crore for its Annual Calendar of Training and Competitions for 2014-2015. Hockey India was required to determine its priorities for competitions and training within this budget," the SAI said in a statement.
"Any additional funding for its additional requirements depends on various factors including availability of funds under the relevant scheme. Hockey India is also reported to have substantial funds of its own, raised from various sources. It is expected that these funds would also be used to meet the expenditure towards training of athletes.
"It is not mandatory for the government to finance every activity proposed by the National Sports Federations. All National Sports Federations including Hockey India are required to mobilise additional resources to fund their various activities," the statement said.
SAI's reaction came after HI secretary general Narinder Batra yesterday filed an RTI against sports secretary Ajit Sharan and SAI director general Jiji Thomson for not clearing the camp.
The SAI also stated it has already released Rs 11.27 crore during 2014-15 for various activities relating to Hockey India as against the allocated budget of Rs 10.50.
Batra responded by saying that SAI was welcome to inspect HI's balance sheet.
Batra slammed SAI for the comment that HI also has to pump in funds for the development of the game.
"We gave a proposed budget of Rs 42 crores for the Annual Calendar for Training and Competition (ACTC) of 2014-15. But SAI only allocated Rs 10.50 crores. To add to it SAI only gives 75 per cent of that amount while the rest 25 per cent are borne by us," Batra said.
"My balance sheet is clear. Our source of income from sponsorships are other things is just Rs 12 crore. And we end up spending more than that."
Batra said leaving aside three foreign coaches -- Terry Walsh, Roelant Oltmans and women's team chief coach Neil Hawgood -- it is HI which is responsible for the payment of salary of other coaching staff associated with Indian hockey.
"Where does the salary of M K Kaushik, Jude Felix, High Performance Managers of respective zones like V Baskaran, Sukhbir Singh Grewal and employees of Hockey India come from. Does SAI pay them?
"Besides, HI conducts all the national championships. We conduct six national championships in a year, the cost of which is nearly Rs 3 to 4 crores. SAI doesn't give anything. HI doesn't have any surplus money whatever we have we give it back it to the game," Batra claimed.
In the Right To Information petition, Batra sought information on the cost incurred by both Sharan and Thomson on domestic and international tours from the time of joining the sports ministry and SAI till date.
The Times of India
Narinder Batra continues tirade against Kapil Dev
NEW DELHI: Miffed by the fact that no hockey player was given the Arjuna Awards this year despite Hockey India (HI) recommending as many as seven names, HI secretary general Narinder Batra came down heavily on Kapil Dev - the chairman of the Arjuna selection panel - calling the legendary cricketer "an opportunist who was trying to settle an old score with Batra."
Batra, in a statement on Wednesday, claimed Kapil was trying to get even with him because Batra's did not help Kapil's company Dev Musco get contracts for installing floodlights in stadiums in Bhubaneswar and Haryana.
Batra also took offence to Kapil's 'Who is Batra?' comment and said: "Kapil Dev approached 'Who is Batra' during the period Ferozshah Kotla stadium was being rebuilt to ensure that Dev Musco gets the order for high mast lights. Then I told him that the lowest bidder amongst GE, Phillips, Bajaj and Dev Musco will get the order. He even got messages sent to me through a common friend from Manchester to help Dev Musco."
When TOI contacted him, Kapil refused to get drawn into a war of words with Batra. "Mr Batra is like my elder brother! Whenever elders says something - whether good or bad - you just listen to it quietly. There is no need for me to react to his allegations," Kapil said.
The Times of India
Hockey India secretary general calls Kapil Dev 'opportunist'
NEW DELHI: Disgruntled Hockey India (HI) secretary Narinder Batra Wednesday launched a tirade against cricket legend Kapil Dev, who headed the Arjuna Awards selection committee, calling him an opportunist and said the World Cup-winning captain settled an old score with him by ignoring seven hockey players for the Arjuna Award.
Batra's comments came a day after the Arjuna Awards selection committee reviewed the list of the 15 players, who were chosen for the honour and decided that there was no need for additional names.
Batra, in a statement, said Kapil was trying to get even with him after his recommendations denied the former all-rounder's company Dev Musco some contracts in installing floodlights in Bhubaneswar and Haryana.
Batra took offence to Kapil's 'Who is Batra?' comment and said: "Kapil Dev approached 'Who is Batra' during the period Ferozshah Kotla Cricket Stadium was being rebuilt to ensure that Dev Musco gets the order for high mast lights. Then 'Who is Batra' told him that lowest bidder amongst GE, Phillips, Bajaj and Dev Musco will get the order. He even got messages sent to 'Who is Batra' through a common friend from Manchester called one Mr. M. Bhatia who is also from Chandigarh, to help Dev Musco and give order to Dev Musco."
Batra also said that when Hockey India League (HIL) was started in 2013, the broadcasters wanted better quality lights for high definition telecast and when HI approached Dev Musco they quoted 10 times higher than others.
"When we started Hockey India League (HIL) in 2013, the broadcast and production wanted to ensure that the lux levels of lights in all stadiums are sufficient for high definition production and telecast. We approached Dev Musco, the rates they quoted were 10 times higher that others, hence we got it done through others," said Batra.
Batra also said that Dev Musco wanted favours from him in installing lights at hockey stadiums in Bhuvaneshwar, Jind, Hissar and Rohtak, which he politely refused.
"Kapil Dev is a respected elite athlete and has selective amnesia, and if he had any grudge or score to settle with me, then he should not have taken it out on the seven hockey athletes, who were all rated as incompetent and ineligible based on the views of fraud hockey expert Anupam Ghulati in the committee," he said.
"Elite athletes come at India level after years of hard work, shame on you Kapil Dev for handling your responsibilities as chairman of the committee with such petty thoughts and unfair and biased attitude," he said.
Batra branded Kapil as a rebel of Indian cricket and called him an opportunist.
"You started a parallel cricket league and from an elite athlete became a rebel and criticised BCCI and made good money out of it. You have every right to make money and why not. The BCCI announced handsome prize money for 1983 World Cup winners and monthly/annual pension for ex-India players. You being a rebel might not have got the money from BCCI. I know where you went and cried to get back into the BCCI fold... For you we say 'Moukatarian'," he said.
Batra also filed petitions under the Right to Information Act seeking information from the sports ministry about the details of the selection procedure of the Arjuna Awards and qualifications and achievements of a member Anupam Gulati.
The Times of India
Hockey India inducts Madhya Pradesh as new Associate Member
NEW DELHI: Hockey India on Thursday added its 23rd associate member by welcoming on board Hockey Madhya Pradesh under its wings.
Prior to being the associate member of Hockey India, Hockey Madhya Pradesh was known as Madhya Pradesh Hockey Association, HI said in a statement.
Speaking on the newly formed Hockey Madhya Pradesh, HI secretary general Narinder Batra said, "I welcome Hockey Madhya Pradesh to the family of Hockey India and we look forward to them to continuing their commendable work that they have been doing since their inception as Madhya Pradesh Hockey Association.
"I am proud that many hockey associations in various states are coming forward and showcasing their intent to being a part of Hockey India and this is happening because of the urge by each one of us to revive the game of Hockey in the country."
Hockey India currently has 25 permanent, 23 associate, 2 members through State Olympic Associations, 6 Academy members and 1 Hoc-Key Member.
Nitin Dhimole is the President and Lok Bahadur is the general secretary of the Hockey Madhya Pradesh.
The Times of India