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News for 27 May 2015

All the news for Wednesday 27 May 2015


Irish women take series lead after 3-1 win over Canada in Toronto

Final match of four game series goes Wednesday at 6pm/ET

Shaheed Devji

An action packed third game of the four game test series between the Canadian Women's Field Hockey Team and Ireland resulted in the visitors taking a 2-1 series lead after the Irish defeated the host Canadians 3-1 Tuesday at the new Pan Am Fields in Toronto.

The two evenly matched teams began play the trading chances, but neither was able to convert early.

Late in the first quarter, it was the visitors Chloe Brown netting the game's first goal as she beat Canadian goalkeeper Kaitlyn Williams in the thirteenth minute.

Canada equalized before the quarter was out as Stephanie Norlander scored off a great Canadian rush in the dying moments.

Ireland pressed late in the second quarter but three penalty corners in a row were turned away by Canada's defense and after a scoreless second quarter the game was tied at the half.

In the early goings of the second half, Norlander haad a chance to net her second of the match but narrowly missed. The pressure continued as Thea Culley had a chance of her own, but Ireland was able to thwart the offensive foray and the game remained tied.

After a penalty corner was once again stopped by the Canadian, thanks to a strong defensive stand by Maddie Secco, Ireland was able to convert in the forty-second minute on a goal from Anna O'Flanagan.

In the fourth quarter, Irish captain added another on a penalty corner, giving the visitors a two goal lead.

Canada's chance to tie came with just over a minute remaining in match on a penalty corner, but this time it was the Irish defender who were unpenetrable. The lead was preseverd and Ireland took the match 3-1, earning it's second win of the the four game series.

The final match of the series will take place on Wednesday at 6pm/ET at the Pan Am fields in Toronto.

Field Hockey Canada media release



Canada 1-3 Ireland (Women)



The third match in the series signalled another Cap milestone. Anna O’Flanagan earned her 100th international cap for the green army. Anna earned her first cap in 2010 against Scotland and has been an ever-present member of the squad since. Congratulations to Anna!

The intensity one has come to expect when these two sides meet was on display from the opening whistle. It took Ireland under 3 minutes to score the first goal of the match. Chloe Brown put a well-placed strike past the keeper to give her side the lead. The ever-threatening Canadian side responded quickly though and the match was soon level at 1-1.  1-1

The second quarter saw the green army move up a gear and increase their pace of play. Ireland created a close scoring chance but could not convert. As the clock ticked down, Ireland earned 3 penalty corners in a row. The first half came to a close with the score remaining at 1-1, a credit to the Canadian defence who kept the Irish attack at bay.  1-1

It was the Canadians who came out with an increased tempo in the third quarter and called the Irish defence into action. It wasn’t long before the women in green had chances of their own with a penalty corner and consistent pressure. The deadlock was finally broken by Nikki Evans and Ireland took the lead 2-1. The Canadians were issued a green card as the third quarter ticked down. 2-1

The final quarter saw the green army earn another penalty corner and it was Captain Megan Frazer who calmly converted from the well-worked set piece and put Ireland 3-1 up. The collective team effort of the green army didn’t let up for the rest of the game and as the final whistle sounded Ireland took a 2-1 lead in the 4 match series. 3-1

The final match in the series, which is also the green army’s final warm up match before WL3 in Valencia, takes place tomorrow at 11pm(Irish time).

The men’s squad will embark on their final warm up matches with 2 fixtures against world number 4 Belgium on Saturday June 6th and Sunday June 7th at 2pm(Irish time) in Belgium at KHC Dragons.

Final Score:

Ireland 3 (Brown, Evans, Frazer) vs Canada 1

Squad:

Emma Gray
Cliodhna Sargent
Shirley McCay
Lizzie Colvin
Megan Frazer (Captain)
Gillian Pinder
Nikki Evans
Anna O’Flanagan
Katie Mullan
Chloe Watkins
Chloe Brown
Ayeisha McFerran
Hannah Matthews
Ali Meeke
Aine Connery

Irish Hockey Association media release



SA women’s hockey team for World League semi-finals


Nicolene Terblanche will lead the SA Women's team at Valencia. Photo: Adrian Boehm

The South Africa women’s hockey team has been named for the World League Semi-Final tournament that is to take place in Valencia, Spain from June 10 to 21.

The team will be captained by Nicolene Terblanche of Northern Blues with Jade Mayne of Western Province her deputy.

Marsha Cox, who has led the national team at the World Cup, Olympic Games, Commonwealth Games and other major events, is currently not available for selection.

SA convenor of selectors Mickey Gordon said that Cox, “has played an integral role in the team and we look forward to her participation in the SA Women’s Interprovincial Tournament [that takes place from August 23 to 29 in Potchefstroom].”

Gordon, who heads the national selection panel that includes Jo Morley-Jepson and Gordon Pentecost, said another hugely experienced SA player who has also captained the team in Test matches, striker Sulette Damons, was not available due to injury.

“Sulette is a class striker and we look forward to her return to match fitness,” said Gordon.

SA head coach Sheldon Rostron said the players who have been selected for the team “are more than capable and have the qualities to fulfil the tasks and objectives at hand". 

The 10 teams in Valencia will be competing in one of the two women’s World League Semi-Final tournaments taking place in June. The other is in Antwerp, Belgium.

The top four teams in each of the Valencia and Antwerp events qualify for the World League Final tournament at the end of the year in Argentina. Also on offer in Valencia are three places at the Rio 2016 Olympic Games. The top three teams in Valencia qualify for Rio. Should teams not qualify in Valencia for Rio, the other avenue is through their continental championships.

Pool A in Valencia features world number three Argentina, world eight Great Britain, world 15 Spain, world seven China and world 20 Canada. Pool B includes world five USA, world six Germany, world 11 South Africa, world 14 Ireland and world 29 Uruguay.

SA TEAM
Goalkeepers: Sanani Mangisa (Southern Gauteng), Anelle van Deventer (North West)

Defenders: Lisa Deetlefs (Southern Gauteng), Celia Evans (North West), Erin Hunter (Western Province), Nicole Walraven (Free State)

Midfielders: Shelley Russell (Southern Gauteng), Line Malan (Free State), Illse Davids, Quanita Bobbs (both Western Province), Nicolene Terblanche (captain, Northern Blues)

Forwards: Jade Mayne (vice-captain), Candice Manuel (both Western Province), Lilian du Plessis, Bernie Coston (both Southern Gauteng), Dirkie Chamberlain (Northern Blues), Kelly Madsen (KZN Coastal Raiders), Tanya Britz (Free State)

SA Hockey Association media release



Indian men's team named for HWL semis

s2h team



New Delhi: Hockey India have announced the 18-men squad for the Hockey World League semi-finals in Belgium. Indian Team led by Sardar Singh has no place for defenders Rupinderpal Singh and Harmanpreet Singh that was part of the side which faced Japan earlier this month. The tournament commences from 20th June to 5th July 2015. The league features 10 teams divided in Pool A & B. India is placed at Pool A along with France, Poland, Pakistan and Australia whereas China, Ireland, Malaysia, Great Britain and Belgium are sited in Pool B.

The 18-member squad will be captained by the very proficient midfielder Sardar Singh who has to his credit of 216 International caps. He will be supported by Vice-Captain PR Sreejesh. Playing their first match on 20 June 2015, India is slotted against France in their opening match of the tournament.

The Indian Men Hockey Team is all geared up and motivated for the upcoming challenge and looking forward to giving a tough time to the opponents on the field.

Speaking on the announcement of the team, India Chief Coach Paul van Ass said, “The team is full of confidence which they proved in the recent Japan series where they gave Japan a tough time and beat them 3-0. As they will be clashing with the finest of the teams, the boys are working upon their strategies and confident to put up a good show in the tournament. Their pool is tough but the boys are confident of putting up a great show. The team is excited to face Australia yet again.”

FIH Hockey World League Semi-Final is scheduled from 20th June- 05 July 2015. India will be seen clashing against France at 09:30 PM IST in their opening match of the tournament on 20 June 2015.

List of Indian Men Hockey Team –

GOALKEEPERS

1. PR Sreejesh
2. Harjot Singh

DEFENDERS

3. Manpreet Singh
4. Birendra Lakra
5. Kothajit Singh
6. VR Ragunath
7. Jasjit Singh Kular
8. Gurmail Singh

MIDFIELDERS

9. Gurbaj Singh
10. Dharamvir Singh
11. Sardar Singh
12. Chinglensana Singh
13. Lalit Upadhyay

FORWARDS

14. SV Sunil
15. Nikkin Thimmaiah
16. Yuvraj Walmiki
17. Akashdeep Singh
18. Ramandeep Singh

Stick2Hockey.com



Rupinder dropped, Walmiki returns


Rupinder Singh.   

Indian men’s hockey coach Paul van Ass repeatedly stressed that tightening the team’s defence was one of his priorities since he took charge. Almost the entire training session on Wednesday evening was devoted to trying out every possible combination, concentrating on action from midfield.

That was also one of the reasons why, when the final team list for the Hockey World League semifinals was announced earlier in the day, the first name that was conspicuous by its absence was that of Rupinder Pal Singh.

The lanky defender had been a constant with the national side in the past few years, and his absence triggered assumptions that van Ass’s famed ruthlessness was already at work. The Dutchman, however, refuted the suggestion.

“He is not gone; he has done nothing wrong. But we also have to be prepared for such things. When the Olympics come and we have two drag-flickers injured, what do we do then? Also, we have young Jasjit Kular, who is good with variations,” van Ass said, defending the decision.

It wasn’t just about testing the backups, though. “We have to cope with a drag-flicker less, but I also play differently. I require some more athleticism in that position. I think Jasjit is a good player, good on his feet, a good passer, quick and secure. He also brings in options from penalty corners, and I have liked him from the beginning,” the coach added.

The 18-member list has V.R. Raghunath as the lone drag-flicker in the side, and he admitted it was a new challenge. “I will be taking maximum shots when I am in. Else, we will try variations from indirect shots. It is a challenge for us as a team, but we are taking it in a positive way. We still have almost four weeks to go, so there is enough time for us to prepare. It is nice to experiment in these tournaments and take some risks because we have already qualified for Rio,” Raghunath said.

Asked about the areas he had been working on with the team ahead of the HWL semifinals — to be held in Antwerp, Belgium from June 20 — van Ass said the team was working on controlling the game during matches.

Youngsters like Lalit Upadhyay and Yuvraj Walmiki have been rewarded for their impressive performances during the recent Test series against Japan. India is placed in Pool A along with France, Poland, Pakistan and Australia in the 10-team tournament that is also a qualifying event for the Rio Olympics. China, Ireland, Malaysia, Great Britain and Belgium are in Pool B.

The team: Goalkeepers: P.R. Sreejesh, Harjot Singh; Defenders: Manpreet Singh, Birendra Lakra, Kothajit Singh, V.R. Raghunath, Jasjit Singh Kular, Gurmail Singh; Midfielders: Gurbaj Singh, Dharamvir Singh, Sardar Singh, Chinglensana Singh, Lalit Upadhyay; Forwards: S.V. Sunil, Nikkin Thimmaiah, Yuvraj Walmiki, Akashdeep Singh, Ramandeep Singh.

The Hindu



Rupinder dropped, Jasjit, Lalit make cut

Harpreet Kaur Lamba

In a bid to "improve on bench strength" and "prepare the team for new, difficult situations", chief coach Paul van Ass on Tuesday made a number of changes to the 18-member squad for the Hockey World League semi-finals in Belgium next month.

Defender Rupinderpal Singh, a regular member of the side since the last two years, has been dropped, while youngsters Gurmail Singh and Jasjit Singh Kular have been given a chance in the defence line.

Midfielder S.K. Uthappa makes way for the 22-year-old Lalit Upadhyay. In the attack, Yuvraj Walmiki makes a comeback, while S.V. Sunil returns from an injury layoff.

The World League semi-finals - a qualifying event for the Olympic Games and the World Cup - will be a true test of ability for the Dutchman, who took over ahead of the Azlan Shah tournament in March this year.

"Rupinder is not part of the squad for the World League semi-finals and the line of thought with this is to see how the players can perform and adapt to different situations. It is good to try something different now rather than being stuck in a situation where we would not have the time to try this kind of a variation," said van Ass.

"Also I am opting for new athleticism in that position while I understand we have one drag-flicker less, we have to understand that it is selection time and you have to be the best you can be.

"The players left out from this squad are not gone, we have a new core group of 33 players and from that group, I can try new variations. This will keep them on toes and they know they have to keep fighting for a position in the team and this will continue until Rio."

Focus on ‘me and my task’

Among the many things that van Ass is teaching the team, the foremost is focusing on the mental part. Called "me and my task", the coach has urged the players to eliminate the "outside factors" that could affect their performance in any way.

"It is called the six circles. See, besides the technical and tactical aspects which are very important to build a team and its structure, the coach stresses on putting them in use in a very effective manner.

"All of us have been told about the six circles. And they could be anything ranging from match conditions to umpires taking a wrong call, problems with family, different ground and weather conditions," explains midfielder Manpreet Singh.

"The coach says it’s important to learn to shut out such factors and not give such excuses after a loss or poor performance. It is significant to perform to the utmost under all circumstances and to be able to maintain a high level of performance."

Team:
Goalkeepers: P.R. Sreejesh, Harjot Singh
Defenders: Manpreet Singh, Birendra Lakra, Kothajit Singh, V.R. Ragunath, Jasjit Singh Kular, Gurmail Singh
Midfielders: Gurbaj Singh, Dharamvir Singh, Sardar Singh, Chinglensana Singh, Lalit Upadhyay
Forwards: S.V. Sunil, Nikkin Thimmaiah, Yuvraj Walmiki, Akashdeep Singh, Ramandeep Singh

The Asian Age



India’s Hockey squad for World League semis: One step back, one steps out

With coach's focus on tightening India defence before World League semis, drag-flicker Rupinder dropped.

by Mihir Vasavda


Rupinderpal Singh, who was dropped from the 18-man squad on Tuesday, watches his replacement Jasjit Singh Kular practice at the Dhyanchand Stadium in New Delhi on Tuesday.(Express Photo by: Oinam Anand)

From the time he has taken charge of the national team, Paul van Ass has emphasized on the need for tightening India’s flimsy defence. On Tuesday, the Dutchman showed the first signs of overhauling the backline after he decided to drop national-team regular Rupinderpal Singh for the Hockey World League semifinal, which will be held in Antwerp from June 20 to July 5.

Hockey India announced a 18-member squad led by Sardar Singh while goalkeeper PR Sreejesh will be his deputy. Apart from Rupinderpal, Van Ass has also left out forwards Mandeep Singh and Satbir Singh along with midfielder SK Uthappa in what will be his first major tournament since being appointed India coach in January. However, the most notable omission is that of Rupinderpal, who has been a national team regular since the London Olympics.

Hockey national team, Paul van Ass, India hockey, Rupinderpal Singh,, Hockey World League semifinal, Indian express, sports newsYoungster Jasjit Singh, Gurmail Singh, Lalit Upadhyay and Yuvraj Walmiki return to the squad for the tournament, which doubles up as an Olympic qualifier. India are placed in Group A along with France, Poland, Pakistan and Australia. India have already qualified for next year’s Rio Games and Van Ass is using these tournaments to test various combinations.

The former Holland coach had earlier expressed unhappiness over the inability of the Indian players to read the game, their lack of concentration and their habit of conceding late goals.

A team official said both Rupinderpal and his defence-partner VR Raghunath have conceded sloppy goals and have not been effective from set-pieces as well.

Rupinderpal has been criticised in the past for being slow on his feet and committing errors not befitting an experienced player. Though his drag-flicks are powerful, his conversion rate from short corners has not been impressive.

Nothing is for granted

“This sends out a message to all players that no one can take their places for granted,” the official said. “Also, Paul wants to try out various combinations and assess as many players as possible before he finalises on a group for the Olympics.”

Twenty-five year old Jasjit is seen as a like-for-like replacement for Rupinderpal. A year ago, Jasjit was a surprise inclusion in the squad for the World Cup. Jasjit was part of the probables for the World Cup, but the then coach Terry Walsh had spotted something special in the untested defender. He went on to make his India debut at the World Cup.

However, as India slumped to one embarrassing defeat after other in the Netherlands, and conceded late goals in the process, Jasjit fell out of favour.

However, he impressed the selectors with his performances in the senior national championships, which concluded in Pune last month. Playing in midfield as well as defence, Jasjit controlled the game for the Railways, who went on to win the title for the first time in more than a decade.

Jasjit’s Railways teammate Yuvraj Walmiki too made the cut for the tournament. Walmiki’s inconsistency has resulted in him being left on the fringes of the national team. He was left out of the squad for the Champions Trophy and Azlan Shah Cup but was selected by Van Ass for the test series against Japan.

“We have lacked a goal-poacher and he showed at the national championships that he is still among the best in India to fulfill that role,” a team official said.

“He scored in almost every match, including the final, and also scored thrice against Air India, which is one of the strongest teams. Those performances were enough for him to return to the national team.”

Indian Express



Yuvraj Walmiki earns recall, Rupinderpal Singh dropped


Rupinderpal Singh

Other than Walmiki, defenders Jasjit Singh Kular, Gurmail Singh and midfielder Lalit Upadhyay earned a place in the side.

Mumbai's Yuvraj Walmiki made a comeback into the national hockey team even as the selectors decided to drop two senior players from the 18-member squad for the Hockey World League (HWL) Semifinal to be played in Antwerp, Belgium, from June 20 to July 5.

Ace drag-flicker Rupinderpal Singh and midfielder SK Uthappa were omitted from the squad for the key tournament along with young forwards Mandeep Singh and Satbir Singh. All the four players were part of last month's Azlan Shah Cup in Malaysia and the recently-concluded four-match test series against Japan.

Other than Walmiki, defenders Jasjit Singh Kular, Gurmail Singh and midfielder Lalit Upadhyay earned a place in the side.

Other than these four changes, the squad, led by Sardar Singh, is largely the same for the 10-nation tournament. India is placed in Pool A along with France, Poland, Pakistan and Australia whereas China, Ireland, Malaysia, Great Britain and Belgium are slotted in Pool B.

SQUAD
GOALKEEPERS: PR Sreejesh, Harjot Singh, DEFENDERS: Manpreet Singh, Birendra Lakra, Kothajit Singh, VR Ragunath, Jasjit Singh Kular, Gurmail Singh, MIDFIELDERS: Gurbaj Singh, Dharamvir Singh, Sardar Singh, Chinglensana Singh, Lalit Upadhyay, FORWARDS: SV Sunil, Nikkin Thimmaiah, Yuvraj Walmiki, Akashdeep Singh, Ramandeep Singh

DNA



Rupinder left out for World League Semifinal

New Delhi,: In a surprise move, India today axed ace drag-flicker Rupinder Pal Singh for the upcoming Hockey World League (HWL) Semifinal. And the team’s chief coach Paul van Ass justified the decision, saying it was a tactical move aimed at trying out “variations” ahead of the Rio Games.

Besides Rupinder, midfielder SK Uthappa and strikers Mandeep Singh and Satbir Singh were the other players to have been dropped from the national team for tournament to be played in Antwerp, Belgium, from June 20 to July 5.

Rupinder’s axing came as a shock for all as over the last couple of years he became an integral part of the Indian team and also formed a formidable duo alongside VR Raghunath in the side’s drag-flick department.

But Van Ass clarified his choice and said by no means Rupinder was out of his scheme of things. “Of course, I am aware about that (only one drag-flicker in the team) but Jasjeet also has a good penalty corner. It’s also time for us to try variations,” Van Ass said.

“He (Rupinder) is not gone, he is not done. He didn’t do anything wrong but we also have to be prepared for any eventuality. Let’s be honest when the Olympics start and suppose your two drag-flickers are injured, what do you do then? It’s always a threat and its good to try out something else now,” he added.

All the four dropped players featured in last month’s Azlan Shah Cup in Ipoh, Malaysia, where India finished third, and the four-match Test series against Japan which India won 3-0.

“Now we have a new core group of 33 and from that group I can always pick my players for a big tournament. Those guys will have to fight for positions until the Olympics,” he added.

Squad: PR Sreejesh, Harjot Singh, Manpreet Singh, Birendra Lakra, Kothajit Singh, VR Ragunath, Jasjit Singh Kular, Gurmail Singh, Gurbaj Singh, Dharamvir Singh, Sardar Singh, Chinglensana Singh, Lalit Upadhyay, SV Sunil, Nikkin Thimmaiah, Yuvraj Walmiki, Akashdeep Singh, Ramandeep Singh.

The Tribune



Rupinder, Uthappa dropped from Indian hockey team

Ritu Sejwal

NEW DELHI: The Indian men's hockey team has opted for experimentation for the upcoming Hockey World League (HWL) Semifinal starting on June 20 in Antwerp, Belgium.

Hockey India on Tuesday dropped top drag-flicker Rupinder Pal Singh, midfielder SK Uthappa and striker Mandeep Singh from the 18-member team to be led by Sardar Singh.

Chief coach Paul van Ass said the move is to prepare better for the Rio Olympics. "It is selection time and you have to be the best to fit into the tactical scheme of the coach. The boys have to fight for their positions and this system is here to stay till the Olympics," Van Ass said.

"Rio is the next step. The idea is to get the best possible squad for Hockey World League final - to be held in New Delhi from November 28 to December 6 this year - and to see how we stand among the top eight hockey-playing countries. We have a new core group of 33 players. Not all are equal but I can always pick my training group from that," he pointed.

On dropping senior players like Rupinder, the Dutch said it was time to try out variations to prepare for different situations. India, who play France in the opening match on June 20, are placed in Pool A along with France, Poland, Pakistan and Australia. China, Ireland, Malaysia, Great Britain and Belgium are clubbed in Pool B.

"It's time for us to practice variations. The players dropped are neither gone nor have they done anything wrong but we have to be prepared for situations, like if two drag-flickers get injured just when the Olympics start, it will be out of our control. It's always a threat. So it's good to try something new at this moment," he said.

On the team's preparation, Van Ass said the team was working on its defence and on-field structure. "What I saw is that against top teams, once fit enough, we can do well. But we have a problem in making the game and creating ball speed. We are good if the other team creates the ball speed. We can pick it up from there and do fantastic things. There is a big lap to cover," he said.

"I see defence as a team effort that starts from left flank to right along with the goalkeeper to make it work. In Indian hockey there is no midfield play. We will be looking at 10-10 structures, either in the rival's territory or in our own half," he pointed out.

Yuvraj returns to squad

Things seemed to be running well for Yuvraj Walmiki before the Mumbai-lad picked up hamstring injury and was dropped from the Indian side a year back. The young forward has since worked on his game to stage a comeback.

"Things were going well when that injury happened. I was dropped and went back home. It was difficult to cope with it initially but it always helps to be around people with positive energy and right attitude," Yuvraj said, referring to his family and cousins who play hockey.

"In the one-year gap, I missed out on two major tournaments (Commonwealth Games and Asian Games). I always had the hunger to come back. I wanted to work on my weaknesses and then got a chance in the Japan series," he said.

"It is difficult to return after a gap of six months, to adapt to the changes. We are at a stage where nothing is permanent in the team. When you get a chance, you need to grab it," he said.

Squad:

GOALKEEPERS: PR Sreejesh, Harjot Singh

DEFENDERS: Manpreet Singh, Birendra Lakra, Kothajit Singh, VR Ragunath, Jasjit Singh Kular, Gurmail Singh

MIDFIELDERS: Gurbaj Singh, Dharamvir Singh, Sardar Singh, Chinglensana Singh, Lalit Upadhyay

FORWARDS: SV Sunil, Nikkin Thimmaiah, Yuvraj Walmiki, Akashdeep Singh, Ramandeep Singh.

The Times of India



Van Ass justified Rupinder's axing, says working on variations

NEW DELHI: In a surprise move, India axed ace drag-flicker Rupinder Pal Singh for the upcoming Hockey World League (HWL) Semifinal and the team's chief coach Paul van Ass justified the decision, saying it was a tactical move aimed at trying out "variations" ahead of the Rio Games.

Besides Rupinder, midfielder SK Uthappa, strikers Mandeep Singh and Satbir Singh were the other players to have been dropped from the national team for HWL Semi-final to be played in Antwerp, Belgium from June 20 to July 5.

Rupinder's axing came as a shock for all and sundry as over the last couple of years he became an integral part of the Indian team and also formed a formidable duo alongside VR Raghunath in the side's drag-flick department.

But Van Ass clarified his choice and said by no means Rupinder was out of his scheme of things.

"Of course, I am aware about that (only one drag-flicker in the team) but Jasjeet also has a good penalty corner. It's also time for us to try variations," the chief coach told reporters during a training session at the Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium here.

"He (Rupinder) is not gone, he is not done. He didn't do anything wrong but we also have to be prepared for any eventuality. Let's be honest when Olympic starts and suppose your two drag-flickers are injured, what do you do then? So, it's always a threat and it's good to try out something else now," Van Ass said.

All the four dropped players featured in last month's Azlan Shah Cup in Ipoh, Malaysia, where India finished a creditable third, and the four-match bilateral Test series against Japan which India won 3-0.

Talking about Uthappa's ouster from the team, Van Ass said: "It's not over for the boys, they are not gone. I think he (Uthappa) doesn't play the way he is supposed to. He is a big athelete, his body is very big but he doesn't use it too much. I asked him to do that more and he can come back again.

"During team selections you have to be your best and also you have to fit in the tactical plan of coach.

"Now we have a new core group of 33 and from that group I can always pick my players for a big tournament. Those guys will have to fight for positions until the Olympics," he added.

Defenders Jasjit Singh Kular and Gurmail Singh, midfielder Lalit Upadhyay and striker Yuvraj Walmiki made a comeback into the side for the 10-nation tournament.

"Jasjeet is a good player, he is quick on his feet. He is not only quick but very secured. He is also a good passer and also he can take penalty corners. That is exactly what I am looking for," Van Ass said about Jasjeet's selection, who last played for India in last year's World Cup.

"Yuvraj did well in the Japan series. He is got a chance and he has to prove himself now," he added.

The coach also pinpointed the grey areas on which he feels the team needs to work harder.

"Against top teams if they are fit enough they can do very well but we have problems in creating ball speed and that is a key area which we need to address," he said.

"Defence has been a worry for long. Defending is a team effort. Ten players and the goalkeeper together have to make it work.

"If you look at the domestic hockey here, be it juniors or national they like to play 5-5 hockey, which means 5 hanging at the back and 5 upfront and there is no midfield play. But what I want to do is play 10-10 which means either all 10 players be on the side of the opponent or be on our side because that makes you less vulnerable. It's part of the total defence system," Van Ass added.

The HWL Semifinal featuring 10 teams is divided into two pools -- Pool A and Pool B. India is placed in Pool A alongside France, Poland, Pakistan and Australia whereas China, Ireland, Malaysia, Great Britain and Belgium are in Pool B.

Asked about his target for the upcoming tournament, Van Ass said: "The target is to take the next step together, both in hockey and in bonding. It will be nice if we can produce some results."

India captain Sardar Singh too opined with his coach and said the changes were part of a specific plan.

With India already assured of a place in next year's Rio Olympics, Sardar said there will no pressure on them in HWL Semi-final.

"There will be no pressure on us. We will just concentrate on our own game. We will take this tournament as a preparation for the HWL Final. We will try to work on our mistakes," he said.

"Our target will be to play our best hockey and if we can do that results will automatically follow."

The Times of India



Rupinder, Uthappa among 4 players ignored for HWL Semifinal

NEW DELHI: India dropped four key players, including ace drag-flicker Rupinder Pal Singh and midfielder SK Uthappa, from its 18-member men's squad for the Hockey World League (HWL) Semifinal to be played in Antwerp, Belgium from June 20 to July 5.

Besides Rupinder and Uthappa, strikers Mandeep Singh and Satbir Singh were the other two players to face the axe.

All the four dropped players featured in last month's Azlan Shah Cup in Ipoh, Malaysia, where India finished a creditable third, and the four-match bilateral Test series against Japan which India won 3-0.

Defenders Jasjit Singh Kular and Gurmail Singh, midfielder Lalit Upadhyay and striker Yuvraj Walmiki were recalled in the side for the 10-nation tournament.

In the Test series against Japan, India fielded an experimental squad of 24 where Gurmail, Jasjit, Lalit and Yuvraj also featured.

Ace midfielder Sardar Singh, who has to his credit 216 international caps, has been retained as the captain of the side, while goalkeeper PR Sreejesh will continue to be Sardar's deputy.

Harjot Singh is the second goalkeeper in the team, while defence will be manned by Birendra Lakra, Manpreet Singh, Kothajit Singh, VR Raghunath, Jasjit and Gurmail.

The five-man midfield will be manned by Sardar in the company of Gurbaj, Dharamvir, Chinglensana and Lalit while the forwardline comprises of SV Sunil, Nikkim Thimmaiah, Yuvraj, Akashdeep Singh and Ramandeep Singh.

The HWL Semifinal featuring 10 teams is divided into two pools -- Pool A and Pool B. India is placed in Pool A alongside France, Poland, Pakistan and Australia whereas China, Ireland, Malaysia, Great Britain and Belgium are in Pool B.

India will open their campaign against France on June 20.

Speaking about the handpicked team, India's chief coach Paul van Ass said: "The team is full of confidence which they proved in the recent Japan series where they gave Japan a tough time and beat them 3-0.

"The boys are working upon their strategies and are confident of putting put up a good show in the tournament. Our pool is tough but the boys are confident of putting up a great show. The team is excited to face Australia."

The Team:

GOALKEEPERS: PR Sreejesh, Harjot Singh

DEFENDERS: Manpreet Singh, Birendra Lakra, Kothajit Singh, VR Ragunath, Jasjit Singh Kular, Gurmail Singh

MIDFIELDERS: Gurbaj Singh, Dharamvir Singh, Sardar Singh, Chinglensana Singh, Lalit Upadhyay

FORWARDS: SV Sunil, Nikkin Thimmaiah, Yuvraj Walmiki, Akashdeep Singh, Ramandeep Singh.

The Times of India



The best squad will be selected: Islahuddin

By Nabil Tahir


The Pakistan hockey team is expected to return home late Monday . PHOTO: PakistanToday

KARACHI: The selection committee of the Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) has reviewed the performance of the national team in the recent international tours and is now waiting to select the best team for the Olympic qualification round next month.

The Pakistan hockey team is expected to return home late Monday or in the wee hours of Tuesday after withdrawing from the last tie of the Test series against Korea.

Chief selector and Olympian Islahuddin Siddiqui said that the selection committee was in regular contact with head coach Shahnaz Sheikh during both the tours — the Four-Nation Hobart International Challenge in Australia and the Korean Test series.

“We were trying out new combinations to bring out the best in the team,” Islahuddin told The Express Tribune. “We believe that the lack of international exposure has made some players rusty, but the recent tours proved quite beneficial for the entire team.”

The former Pakistani captain also said that the hard work and dedication shown by the players proves that Pakistan still can lead in the world of hockey if they are facilitated.

The legend, who won 43 out of 45 international matches and drew two during his time as captain, added that the team’s qualification for the 2016 Rio Olympics is a must and that the PHF will select the best team to fulfill that purpose.

“The players who were playing at the international leagues are fully fit, but would only be considered after the trials,” he told. “The best 18-member squad will be selected, with each and every player having no objective other than guaranteeing Pakistan’s place in the 31st Summer Olympic Games.”

The Pakistan team failed to get direct entry to the Rio Olympics after missing out on the gold medal at the 17th Asiad last year and will have to play the qualification rounds — the World Hockey League semi-finals — from June 20 to July 5 in Belgium.

The Express Tribune



Parnham Solidifies U.S. Women’s National Team Roster for Hockey World League Semifinals

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. – U.S. Women’s National Team Head Coach Craig Parnham has confirmed the 18-athlete traveling roster that will be competing in Valencia, Spain for the FIH Hockey World League Semifinals, June 10-21, 2015. The squad’s constant, relentless training since Parnham’s appointment in 2013 has accumulated to this summer. During the course of June and July, Team USA will vie for one of the 12 competition slots at the 2016 Rio de Janeiro Olympic Games. Hockey World League Semifinals holds great potential on Team USA’s quest to the famous five rings.

“This selection has been extremely competitive which is testament to the strength of the group and the dedication and commitment of the players,” said Parnham. “There is a nice balance to the squad with some highly experienced players along with some exciting emerging talent.”

The Hockey World League Semifinals will take place at the Valencia Hockey Stadium. With two pools of five teams, Team USA will match up with Germany, Ireland, Uruguay and South Africa. The USWNT is set to play Uruguay in their first pool game on Thursday, June 11 at 7: 00 a.m. EST.

The Hockey World League is a relatively new concept, which allows more nations a chance to qualify for the Olympic Games. Teams that have made it through Hockey World League Round One and Two move on to compete in the Semifinals. Teams with a world ranking of 1-11 have an automatic bye to the Semifinal round. Following all the Semifinals, the six highest placed teams will be offered a prized participation at the Olympics.

“We are looking forward to the challenge of the upcoming Olympic Qualifying events whilst we remain focused on the final stages of our preparations over the next couple of weeks,” said Parnham.

USWNT Hockey World League Semifinals Roster:

Jackie Briggs (Robesonia, Pa.), Lauren Crandall (Doylestown, Pa.), Rachel Dawson (Berlin, N.J.), Katelyn Falgowski(Landenberg, Pa.), Stefanie Fee (Virginia Beach, Va.), Melissa Gonzalez (Mohegan Lake, N.Y.), Michelle Kasold (Chapel Hill, N.C.), Kelsey Kolojejchick (Larksville, Pa.), Alyssa Manley (Litiz, Pa.), Katie O’Donnell (Blue Bell, Pa.), Julia Reinprecht (Perkasie, Pa.), Katie Reinprecht (Perkasie, Pa.), Paige Selenski (Shavertown, Pa.), Kathleen Sharkey (Moosic, Pa.), Caitlin Van Sickle (Wilmington, Del.), Michelle Vittese (Cherry Hill, N.J.), Alesha Widdall (Whitney Point, N.Y.), Jill Witmer (Lancaster, Pa.)

Following the Hockey World League Semifinals, the U.S. Women’s National Team will head to Toronto in July for the Pan American Games. The games will be played at the University of Toronto, on two world-class field hockey pitches.

For all information regarding the Hockey World League Semifinals including the full schedule, click here to check out the event page. #UN1TED

USFHA media release



USA Field Hockey Appoints U-17 and U-19 JHP Head Coaches

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. – USA Field Hockey is pleased to announce two coaches with extensive field hockey background and knowledge as the new U.S. Junior Women’s High Performance (JHP) coaches. Jarred Martin joins the staff as the head coach for the U-17 JHP program and Ange Bradley takes over the lead for the U-19 JHP program.

“Jarred Martin has always been involved and connected with USA Field Hockey, first as a player for the U.S. Men’s National Team and later in various roles with the Junior Teams,” said Janneke Schopman, leading and managing the JHP program since October 2014 as well as being the U.S. Women’s National Team Assistant Coach. “He is a charismatic young coach with experience and excited to share his knowledge with the U-17 age group. I think he is a coach who can teach the players the skills necessary but also challenge them to understand what is necessary to be an elite athlete.”

“Ange Bradley is an experienced coach with proven success in the college system,” added Schopman. “Her ideas of coaching the U-19 team and developing talent will help develop an environment in which the players are challenged to grow and understand the unspoken rules of elite hockey.”

Martin is currently the Associate Head Coach at Duke University. He has helped guide the Blue Devils to five NCAA Tournament appearances, highlighted by a trip to the NCAA championship match at the conclusion of the 2013 campaign.

Martin has been involved with the USA Field Hockey program for over a decade. He was a member of the U.S. Men’s National Team for 12 years, retiring in 2012, and has over 100 international caps. He has been involved with the U-17 National Teams over the past five years and has coached the South High Performance Training Center for eight years. He holds a Level III Accreditation for coaching from USA Field Hockey.

“I am really excited for the position and I would like to thank Janneke for the appointment as the U-17 Head Coach,” said Jarred Martin. “I have been involved with the U-17 group for the past five years and have really enjoyed my time with the trainings, tours and learning from other top coaches in the country. I am glad I can continue to work with the U-17s and help develop future national team players.

“As a former player I am grateful for all USA Field Hockey has given me over my hockey career and I am really excited to hopefully spark even more love for this game in the players and start forming a sense of pride in playing for the USA,” continued Martin.

Martin’s plan is to develop strong foundations for building the U-17 athletes’ basic skills, tactical awareness and overall knowledge of what it takes to be an elite athlete within USA Field Hockey.

Bradley is currently the Head Coach at Syracuse University, where she has coached for the past eight years. Her 24-year tenure as a head or assistant coach includes stints at Richmond, Maryland, Iowa and Goucher (Md.).

Like Martin, Bradley is no stranger to the USA Field Hockey program. She has worked with the U-17 staff, has coached at the Women’s Senior High Performance, been a selector for the National Futures Tournament, coached in the Futures Program and served on the auxiliary staff in roles for High Performance, Senior High Performance and Junior National Championship.

“To be named the USA U-19 coach is a huge honor and I am very excited to help develop the next generation of elite athletes,” said Ange Bradley. “I want to thank Janneke and Craig for affording me this amazing opportunity.”

“My plans for the program are to create accountability and responsibility to uphold standards for training in a junior high performance environment,” added Bradley. “I would like to see the athletes learn and develop the simple principles of fluid dynamic play. I would also like to watch them grow in their understanding of the physiological and psychological demands required for the next level of play.”

USA Field Hockey would like to thank Ainslee Lamb and Kristin Holmes-Winn, two previous coaches whose dedication and commitment has helped mold the JHP program over the past few years.

USFHA media release



Ozerskyi inspires Brest to Euro Trophy success



Player of the tournament Artem Ozerskyi inspired Belarus's SC Stroitel Brest to a 3-1 win over the Czech Republic's Slavia Praha in the final of the Tilman Brewin Dolphin EuroHockey Club Champions Trophy final, coming back from a goal down to win the competition for a second time.

The last was a decade ago when they shared the title with KS Pozctewiec but the trophy was all theirs as their corner routine proved unstoppable.

After a cagey opening, Slavia Praha went in front in breathtaking fashion when Ander Ortega picked up the ball wide on the right of the circle. He pulled it on to his left side before unleashing a brilliant reverse-stick shot to the top corner.

It was the only time Raman Vitko would be beaten as the diminutive goalkeeper proved an excellent presence for a second day running.

Brest got back on level terms by half-time with Ozerskyi – superb throughout in defence – winged home a drag-flick. He added another in the 49th minute – his sixth of the tournament – to put his side in front and they were controlled and in charge for the remainder of the tie.

The result was formally confirmed from yet another corner; this time Ozerskyi’s shot was saved but only as far as Maksim Satsiuk who bundled the rebound over the line.

That came with four minutes to go and, in spite of a last ditch Slavia corner, Brest were home and hosed with their trophy in tow.

Euro Hockey League media release



Mizoram Thrash Patiala to Win Fifth Sub-Junior Hockey Inida National Championship

Mizoram smashed eight goals past Patiala's hapless defence to clinch the title.

Mizoram thrashed Patiala 8-0 to clinch the fifth Sub-Junior Hockey India National Championship 2015 (Women) Div B concluded on Tuesday.

Chandigarh Olympic Association settled at the third position post a wonderful victory in the hard-line match against Hockey Bhopal by 14-0.

In the final match played between Mizoram and Patiala, it was the Hockey Mizoram who stole the show and clinched the title of the tournament by defeating Hockey Patiala 8-0.

In a one-sided match, Mizoram started the goal-fest in the second minute through captain Lalrindiki. Just seven minutes after the first goal, Lalremsiami scored the second goal for her team by converting a penalty stroke in the ninth minute to double the lead to 2-0.

Continuing to assert pressure on Patiala, it was R Lalsangzwali who struck the goal box in the 12th minute which was followed by a field effort from F Lalawmpwii who added the fourth goal to Mizoram's account and sounded the score board 4-0 by the end of the first half.

With the change of the ends, Patiala were seen putting in constant effort to open their scorecard but in vain, as Lalremsiami efficiently contributed a beautiful field goal to her team in the 37th minute taking the lead to 5-0.

Maintaining the momentum of scoring, Mizoram's star player F Lalawmpwii added three goals toreach a tally of 8-0 and concluded the game in favour of Mizoram who beat Hockey Patiala 8-0 to claim the title.

The hard-line battle between Chandigarh Olympic Association and Bhopal was a one-sided game where Chandigarh Olympic Association completely dominated the game by defeating the opponents with 14-0.

Manisha and Poonam contributed immensely to the winning team with 5 and 4 goals respectively speaking of their excellent performance.

Chandigarh Olympic Association started with the series of goals in the early 5th minute when Shalu Mann struck an excellent field goal allowing the team to open their score card. Very soon in the 8th minute Poonam of Chandigarh Olympic Association struck another goal for the team through a field effort.

Looking to open their account, Bhopal made valiant efforts to enter the opponent's defence but, it was Chandigarh Olympic Association who added another field goal in the 12th minute via Lakhwinder Kaur.

Chandigarh Olympic Association's Poonam scored a brace in the 14th and 18th minute taking the scores to 5-0. They took the lead to 7-0 at the end of first-half.

Chandigarh's fantastic form continued in the second half, as they added their eighth goal through Lakhwinder Singh. There were four more field goals by the 60th minute of the game.

Chandigarh's Poonam successfully converted a penalty corner for the team in the 66th minute followed by a field goal from Manisha in the last minute of the game, finishing on 14-0.

NDTV Sports



Federations come to hockey’s rescue during meeting with PSB, IPC

Kashif Abbasi

ISLAMABAD: The country’s sports federations came to the rescue of hockey with the national game hit by acute shortage of funds and at risk of missing out participating in the 2016 Olympic qualifiers.

In an unprecedented move, federation representatives who met here on the invitation of the Pakistan Sports Board (PSB) to discuss the inaugural

Quaid-i-Azam Inter-provincial Games, asked the government to slash their funds to help the Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) meet the expenses of sending the team to play the qualifiers for the Games.

That move came after, according to sources, PHF chief Akhtar Rasool made an emotional speech during an in-camera meeting held here at the Liaquat Gymnasium of Sports Complex with IPC secretary Ejaz Chaudhry in the chair in which he stressed urgent funding was needed to send the Pakistan team for the qualifiers in Belgium from June 20 to July 5.

The squad is supposed to leave in the first week of June and Akhtar said that despite repeated promises made by the PSB and the Ministry of IPC to provide Rs35 million, not a single penny had been released so far.

To this, Pakistan Squash Federation (PSF) secretary Aamir Nawaz proposed that funds to all sports federations be diverted to the PHF and the proposal was adopted by all federations in a befitting manner. “Hockey is our national game that’s why we offered to give up our funds,” Aamir told Dawn.

Pakistan Taekwondo Federation (PTF) president retired Col Waseem Ahmed told Dawn: “Although all federations are facing a shortage of funds, we are ready to help out hockey, because we have to back our national game.”

Sources, meanwhile, added that IPC secretary Ejaz assured the house that he would play his role for immediate release of funds to the PHF.

They added that during earlier discussions on the Inter-provincial Games, some federations including Pakistan Olympic Association (POA) president retired Gen Arif Hassan objected to holding the event.

The POA chief told the IPC secretary that PSB could not use the name of first Quaid-i-Azam Inter-provincial Games, as the POA has already allotted this name to Balochistan for holding the inter-provincial games.

To this, Ejaz told him that at this stage it would be difficult for PSB to change the title of the event.

Some federations also asked about the Rs100 million being used on the event which, according to budget documents, are allocated for holding the National Games.

However, Ejaz managed to convince federations and the POA chief that funds in question are not meant for holding the National Games but the IPC could spend it for holding any sports event and added that the PSB wanted to hold it under the supervision of sports federations. He constituted a 12-member organising committee, comprising federation members.

“Since, IPC and PSB decided to take us on board, as they constituted 12-member committee for organizing the event, we didn’t open the Pandora box about the status of the Games,” said a President of a leading federation on the condition of anonymity.

Dawn

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