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All the news for Friday 18 March 2016

Super seven for Black Sticks over Korea


Photo: Planet Hockey

The Black Sticks Men have recorded a crushing 7-1 win over Korea in the second test at Lloyd Elsmore Hockey Stadium in Auckland.

New Zealand were dominant from the opening whistle and after leading 3-0 at halftime, poured on another four goals in the final 10 minutes of the game.

Captain Simon Child and Stephen Jenness both scored doubles while Nic Woods, Nick Wilson and Kane Russell also filled out the score sheet.

It was the biggest win on record for the Black Sticks against Korea, with the previous benchmark set at the 2011 Champions Trophy in Auckland where the Kiwis came away 6-1 winners.

Head coach Colin Batch said it was an impressive performance from his side.

“We pressed very well today and had better structure with our outletting which really set us up for the rest of the game,” Batch said.

“Korea never gave up and went looking for goals in the second half which left them exposed in defence and we were able to capitalise on that.

“I think this sort of result has been building for a while. It’s not the perfect game but we finished our chances much better and our counter attacks paid off.”

From the opening whistle the momentum was with the Black Sticks, who had clearly lifted the intensity following a slow start in game one.

New Zealand lit up the scoreboard inside the first 10 minutes after Nic Woods heaved a trademark drag flick into the back of goal from a penalty corner.

Early in the second quarter the hosts were in again when a nice cross from James Coughlan saw Stephen Jenness in the right spot to knock home a goal.

The Black Sticks ensured full advantage two minutes out from halftime when Simon Child ran the ball into the circle and pulled off a magical pivot shot between defenders and the goalkeeper.

With the second half looking set to remain goalless, the Black Sticks caught fire and scored four goals in the final 10 minutes.

Jenness brought up his brace in the 50th minute after picking up the ball from the goalkeeper’s feet and hitting on his reverse into the top of the net.

Korea pegged one back in the 54th minute thanks to a penalty corner flick from Jihun Yang, but the Black Sticks replied straight away with a brilliant team goal - Nick Wilson getting the final touch with a shot through his legs.

Child scored his second with an athletic diving shot at goal before Kane Russell sealed the result with a powerful penalty corner drag flick in the final seconds.

The Black Sticks have a rest day tomorrow ahead of the weekend’s double-header with tests on Saturday and Sunday at 3pm.

Pre-sale tickets are still available for both remaining games and are cheaper online that at the gate through www.dashtickets.co.nz

BLACK STICKS 7: (Simon Child 2, Stephen Jenness 2, Nic Woods, Nick Wilson, Kane Russell)
KOREA 1: (Jihun Yang)
Halftime: Black Sticks 3-0

Hockey New Zealand Media release

Black Sticks turn on style to thrash Korea

By David Leggat


Nick Wilson was pleased with his side's performance against Korea. Photo / Getty

New Zealand turned on the style in a much-improved display from 24 hours earlier in thumping South Korea 7-1 in the second match of their four-game series at Lloyd Elsmore Park tonight.

There's nothing between the teams on world rankings - the Black Sticks at No 8 are one spot higher - but after Wednesday's 3-3 draw, New Zealand raised their performance and intensity significantly.

The platform was laid in a strong first half, in which New Zealand were assertive and established a 3-0 lead. Their passing, particularly down the lefthand attacking side, was slick and they counter-attacked impressively, turning the tables on one of the Koreans strong suits.

South Korea had their best period in the third quarter before five goals in the last 10 minutes, four by the Black Sticks, blew the margin out.

''It was a hell of an improvement and we knew we had to come out with the same intent we had in the second half of the first game," attacker Nick Wilson said.

''We had a very good first half and felt we had to keep it up and make sure we kept disciplined in the second half.

''The tempo was really good. The backbone of our performance was our press, our defensive structure was very good, which provided those counter attacks and we rolled over the top of them in the second half."

There were two goals each for striker Stephen Jenness and captain Simon Child, one for Wilson, while strong penalty corner drag flicks by Nic Woods and Kane Russell top and tailed New Zealand's scoring. In addition New Zealand missed a penalty stroke early on, Hugo Inglis pushing his shot outside an upright.

Child's goals were top class. He took the ball to the baseline, beat a defender and in a blink, swivelled in a tight space and struck a low shot into the Korean goal before half time; then went round the Korean keeper to score from an acute angle late on.

Jenness got his first diving in low in front of goal to nudge the ball into the net, and followed that with a nifty reverse stick shot after good leadup work from Wilson; while Wilson's capped off neat interchange involving Child and Inglis.

Game three in the series is at the same venue on Saturday afternoon.

The New Zealand Herald

Black Sticks turn on the style in second test to crush Korea 7-1


The Black Sticks were a class above in the second test against Korea. ANTHONY AU-YEUNG/PHOTOSPORT

The Black Sticks men's side have taken control of the series against Korea following a crushing 7-1 victory on Thursday night.

After coming back from three goals down to snatch a thrilling draw in Wednesday's opener, the Kiwis carried that momentum into the second test at Auckland's Lloyd Elsmore Hockey Stadium to take 1-0 lead in the four-game series.

The damage was done in the first half in what was a complete role reversal from the first test, which saw the visitors race to a 2-0 lead before adding a third shortly after the break.

This time it was the home team who exploded out of the blocks with Nic Woods opening the scoring in the first quarter from a penalty corner.

They doubled the lead in the second period when Stephen Jenness converted a James Coughlan cross before Simon Child collected his own deflection and fired in to make it 3-0 at the break.

If Wednesday night proved anything it is that no lead is safe but, despite some enterprising attack in the third quarter, Korea couldn't reduce the deficit.

And while they eventually found the breakthrough, it was little consolation as the Kiwis flew home with four goals in the final quarter.

Jenness and Child each grabbed their second along with strikes to Nick Wilson and Kane Russell, capping off a dominant display ahead of Saturday's third test.

Stuff

Hockey umpire Ben Grant relishes chance to control international sides


South Canterbury umpire Ben Grant in the yellow top closest to the Black Sticks lines up for the national anthem in the match against Korea in Auckland. PHOTOSPORT

South Canterbury hockey umpire Ben Grant is stoked with his performance on the whistle in the New Zealand Black Sticks men's 7-1 thrashing of Korea.

The Auckland match featured the most goals in a game between the two sides, a piece of history Grant is happy to be associated with.

"It was a fantastic game of hockey. It was really clean and quick. I enjoyed all of it and it was good to have two sides want to play good hockey."

He had no hesitation in saying it was the best hockey match he had officiated.

"I haven't done any better matches than that. Those two teams are in the top 8 and it was great to experience something like that."

Grant had officiated at the highest level in four previous matches but they were lesser quality teams like Fiji and Samoa.

"It was nice being able to be seen on television. From what I heard there was a bit of interest in the match so hopefully it's a sign of things to come."

He said coaching and playing had helped with his officiating.

"They make me see other sides of the game and get a better feel on it."

Having taking up umpiring at just 13-year-old when he was handed a whistle and thrust into the deep end, Grant has not looked back.

"I'm slowly taking steps up the grades and hopefully if I continue to perform then I may get the chance to officiate in a four nations tournament, or something like that."

With a number of the umpires being older than Grant, he will just continue to bide his time.

He said officiating hockey at the highest level was not like rugby and cricket.

"You don't make big bucks from it and you're not away all season. You're probably away for about 4-6 weeks.

"I do it more for the interest, the people you meet and the trips away you can have."

He said he would continue to play the game as well as coach, something the 26-year-old will do when he controls the Canterbury under-18 side from the sidelines.

Grant said it was great to reach the top because it shows people refereeing lower grade matches in places like South Canterbury can still make it to international level..

"It's nice not being from Auckland, North Harbour, Wellington or Christchurch like where most of them are from."

Stuff

Black Sticks eye Rio with Hawke’s Bay team


Photo: www.photosport.nz

Black Sticks Women’s head coach Mark Hager has named his team to compete at the Hawke’s Bay Cup, along with two different line-ups for tests against Canada.

Fresh from their series win over world number two ranked Argentina, the Black Sticks look ahead to two matches against Canada in Hamilton over Easter and the Hawke’s Bay Cup from 2-10 April in Hastings.

Two tests against Canada on Sunday 27th and Monday 28th March will give the Black Sticks a timely warm-up before heading to the Hawke’s Bay Cup where they will battle for the title against Australia, China, Korea, Japan, India, Ireland and Canada.

The team for the Hawke’s Bay Cup includes four changes from the side which travelled to Mar del Plata for February’s six test series against Argentina.

Midfielder Anita Punt, goalkeeper Sally Rutherford, striker Charlotte Harrison and defender Julia King all return for the Hawke’s Bay Cup.

Hager said the tournament provides valuable experience and allows them to continue fine tuning player combinations.

“These upcoming tests are a chance for the entire squad to get some good hockey and in particular some of those who didn’t come on the recent tour to Argentina,” he said.

“We have developed a great deal of depth within our squad and now is the opportunity for players to put their hand up and stake a claim.

“At this stage we are still looking to find the perfect balance and combination of players for that crucial selection of 16 players for Rio.”

During the Hawke’s Bay Cup there will be some significant milestones reached with Harrison and Stacey Michelsen likely to eclipse 200 tests for the Black Sticks, while Liz Thompson is approaching their 100th cap.

CLICK HERE for more on the Black Sticks vs Canada in Hamilton

CLICK HERE for more on the Hawke’s Bay Cup

Black Sticks Women
Hawke’s Bay Cup, 2-10 April

Black Sticks Women vs Canada
Test 1, Sunday 27 March

Black Sticks Women vs Canada
Test 2, Monday 28 March

Hockey New Zealand Media release

Punt returns for Black Sticks


Anita Punt during the final match against Argentina at the Hockey World League Final. Photo / Getty Images

Black Sticks Women's coach Mark Hager has named his team to compete at the Hawke's Bay Cup, along with two different line-ups for tests against Canada.

Fresh from their series win over world number two ranked Argentina, the Black Sticks look ahead to two matches against Canada in Hamilton over Easter and the Hawke's Bay Cup from 2-10 April in Hastings.

Two tests against Canada on Sunday Mar 27 and Monday March 28 will give the Black Sticks a timely warm-up before heading to the Hawke's Bay Cup where they will battle for the title against Australia, China, Korea, Japan, India, Ireland and Canada.

The team for the Hawke's Bay Cup includes four changes from the side which travelled to Mar del Plata for February's six test series against Argentina.

Midfielder Anita Punt, goalkeeper Sally Rutherford, striker Charlotte Harrison and defender Julia King all return for the Hawke's Bay Cup.

Hager said the tournament provides valuable experience and allows them to continue fine tuning player combinations.

"These upcoming tests are a chance for the entire squad to get some good hockey and in particular some of those who didn't come on the recent tour to Argentina," he said.

"We have developed a great deal of depth within our squad and now is the opportunity for players to put their hand up and stake a claim.

"At this stage we are still looking to find the perfect balance and combination of players for that crucial selection of 16 players for Rio."

During the Hawke's Bay Cup there will be some significant milestones reached with Harrison and Stacey Michelsen likely to eclipse 200 tests for the Black Sticks, while Liz Thompson is approaching her 100th cap.

The New Zealand Herald

Black Sticks women get injection of experience for Hawke's Bay Cup


Anita Punt, who has 222 tests to her name, comes back into the New Zealand side for the Hawke's Bay Cup. GETTY IMAGES

Black Sticks women's coach Mark Hager has injected a vast amount of experience back into his squad as he tries to find the "perfect balance" for the Rio Olympics.

Hager named an 18-strong squad on Friday for the Hawke's Bay Cup, which features seven other international sides and runs from April 2-10 at Unison Park near Hastings.

Midfielder Anita Punt (222 caps), striker Charlotte Harrison (195), goalkeeper Sally Rutherford (105) and midfielder Julia King (93) all return after sitting out the recent six-match series in Argentina.

World No 4 New Zealand won the series against the second-ranked Argentinians on goal difference after both teams won two matches and the two other tests were drawn.

Five players - Ella Gunson, Petrea Webster, Kat Henry, Shiloh Gloyn and Amelia Gibson - drop out of the squad.

All bar Webster, who broke her nose in Argentina and is unavailable under concussion protocol, get a chance to prove themselves in a two-match warm-up series against Canada.

Wider 2016 squad members Natasha Fitzsimons and Jordan Grant are also named in the team to face world No 19 Canada in Hamilton on March 27 and 28.

The Black Sticks will face fifth-ranked China, India (13) and Ireland (15) in pool play in the Hawke's Bay Cup, with Australia (3), Korea (9), Japan (10) and Canada in the other group.

Kiwi coach Hager said the tournament provided valuable experience and allows them to continue fine-tuning player combinations.

"These upcoming tests are a chance for the entire squad to get some good hockey and in particular some of those who didn't come on the recent tour to Argentina.

"We have developed a great deal of depth within our squad and now is the opportunity for players to put their hand up and stake a claim.

"At this stage we are still looking to find the perfect balance and combination of players for that crucial selection of 16 players for Rio."

During the Hawke's Bay Cup there will be some significant milestones reached with Harrison and Stacey Michelsen likely to eclipse 200 tests and Liz Thompson approaching her 100th cap.

Black Sticks women's team for Hawke's Bay Cup: Charlotte Harrison, Julia King, Liz Thompson (Auckland), Georgia Barnett, Emily Gaddum (nee Naylor), Kayla Whitelock (Central), Sam Charlton, Gemma Flynn, Rose Keddell, Sally Rutherford (Midlands), Pippa Hayward, Olivia Merry, Rachel McCann, Sophie Cocks (Canterbury), Brooke Neal, Stacey Michelsen (Northland), Kirsten Pearce, (North Harbour), Anita Punt (Capital).

Stuff

Four return for Black Sticks

Black Sticks Women's coach Mark Hager has named his team to compete at the Hawke's Bay Cup, along with two different line-ups for tests against Canada.

Fresh from their series win over world No 2 ranked Argentina, the Black Sticks look ahead to two matches against Canada in Hamilton over Easter and the Hawke's Bay Cup from 2-10 April in Hastings.

Two tests against Canada on Sunday March 27 and Monday March 28 will give the Black Sticks a timely warm-up before heading to the Hawke's Bay Cup where they will battle for the title against Australia, China, Korea, Japan, India, Ireland and Canada.

The team for the Hawke's Bay Cup includes four changes from the side which travelled to Mar del Plata for February's six test series against Argentina.

Midfielder Anita Punt, goalkeeper Sally Rutherford, striker Charlotte Harrison and defender Julia King all return for the Hawke's Bay Cup.

Hager said the tournament provides valuable experience and allows them to continue fine tuning player combinations.

"These upcoming tests are a chance for the entire squad to get some good hockey and in particular some of those who didn't come on the recent tour to Argentina," he said.

"We have developed a great deal of depth within our squad and now is the opportunity for players to put their hand up and stake a claim.

"At this stage we are still looking to find the perfect balance and combination of players for that crucial selection of 16 players for Rio."

During the Hawke's Bay Cup there will be some significant milestones reached with Harrison and Stacey Michelsen likely to eclipse 200 tests for the Black Sticks, while Liz Thompson is approaching her 100th cap.

Otago Daily Times

Deepika replaces Ritu Rani as captain for Hawke's Bay Cup

NEW DELHI: Senior defender Deepika will captain an 18-member Indian women's hockey team in next month's Hawke's Bay Cup to be held in Hasting, New Zealand in place of regular Ritu Rani, who has been rested.

Sushila Chanu Pukhrambam has been appointed as Deepika's deputy for the tournament to be held from April 2 to 10.

The event is being seen as an important preparation for Indian eves ahead of Rio Olympics.

The selectors have tried their best to strike the right balance between experience and youth with the view to bolster the bench strength of the senior women's team keeping in mind the Olympic year.

"It's an important tournament for us especially in an Olympic year. A good performance in New Zealand will definitely boost our confidence. The team has players with enough talent and skills to get the better of some of the higher ranked teams in our pool," said captain Deepika.

India, currently ranked 13th according to the latest FIH world rankings has been grouped in Pool B alongside New Zealand (4th), China (5th) and Ireland (15th).

Apart from India, both New Zealand and China have also qualified for the Olympics.

Pool A consists of Australia, Korea, Japan and Canada.

The pool league matches will determine the seeding for the quarter-finals with all eight teams proceeding to the knock-out stage.

The challenge for the Indian team would be to improve upon their last year's seventh place finish. India will take on the formidable Black Sticks in their opening encounter on April 2 before facing Ireland on April 3 and China on April 5 respectively.

Training under the vigilant eyes of chief coach Neil Hawgood, the Indian eves will be aiming to put up an improved show in the tournament.

"The Hawke's Bay Cup will give the team a useful competition exposure. We will be trying out some new combinations and strategies. It's also a good opportunity to test the bench strength. Our preparations have been good and we are hoping for a good performance in New Zealand," said chief coach Hawgood.

Team:

Goalkeepers: Savita, Rajani Etimarpu

Defenders: Deep Grace Ekka, Deepika (captain), Sunita Lakra, Sushila Chanu Pukhrambam (vice-captain), H Lalruatfeli, Namita Toppo, Nikki Pradhan

Midfielders: Lilima Minz, Navjot Kaur, Monika, Preeti Dubey

Forwards: Rani, Poonam Rani, Vandana Kataria, Anuradha Devi Thokchom, Sonika.

The Times of India

Ritu rested, Deepika to lead India women at Hawke's Bay Cup


Indian women hockey team. (TOI Photo)

NEW DELHI: Hockey India (HI) on Thursday decided to rest captain Ritu Rani for the eight-nation Hawke's Bay Cup to be held in New Zealand from April 2-10 as it announced the women's squad to be led by defender Deepika.

Ace midfielder Ritu, leading the side since 2012, is currently part of the national camp in the Sports Authority of India (SAI) centre in Bengaluru. But she will not travel with the 18-member squad to Hasting, New Zealand in order to be in perfect shape in the Olympic year.

"There are no injury issues with her (Ritu). She is training with us. She has been rested," senior forward Poonam Rani told IANS.

In place of Ritu, seasoned Deepika has been assigned the responsibility of captaining the side. P. Sushila Chanu will be her deputy.

"It's an important tournament for us especially in an Olympic year. A good performance in New Zealand will definitely boost our confidence. The team has players with enough talent and skills to get the better of some of the higher ranked teams in our pool," said Deepika.

India, currently ranked 13th according to the latest world rankings have been grouped in Pool B with New Zealand (4th), China (5th) and Ireland (15th). Apart from India, both New Zealand and China have also qualified for the Olympics.

Pool A consists of Australia, Korea, Japan and Canada. The pool league matches will determine the seeding for the quarter-finals with all eight teams proceeding to the knock-out stage.

The challenge for the Indian team would be to improve upon their last year's seventh place finish. India will take on the formidable hosts in their opening encounter on April 2, before going up against Ireland on April 3 and China on April 5.

Training under the vigilant eyes of chief coach Neil Hawgood, the Indian eves will be aiming to put up an improved show in the tournament and further fuel their spirit ahead of the most crucial 2016 Rio Olympics.

"The Hawke's Bay Cup will give the team a useful competition exposure. We will be trying out some new combinations and strategies," Hawgood said.

"It's also a good opportunity to test the bench strength. Our preparations have been good and we are hoping for a good performance in New Zealand," the Australian coach, who is in his second stint with the side, added.

The squad:

Goalkeepers: Savita, Rajani Etimarpu

Defenders: Deep Grace Ekka, Deepika (captain), Sunita Lakra, Sushila Chanu Pukhrambam (vice captain), H. Lalruatfeli, Namita Toppo, Nikki Pradhan.

Midfielders: Lilima Minz, Navjot Kaur, Monika, Preeti Dubey.

Forwards: Rani Rampal, Poonam Rani, Vandana Kataria, Anuradha Devi Thokchom, Sonika.

The Times of India

India can aim for a top-6 finish at Rio Olympics: Rasquinha


Viren Rasquinha. (TOI Photo)

NEW DELHI: Former India hockey captain Viren Rasquinha on Thursday credited high performance director Roelant Oltmans for the national team's improved performance in recent years and said it should at least aim for a top-6 finish at the upcoming Rio Olympics.

"We have had two fantastic wins over England and the Netherlands in the World League Final. Oltmans is the best possible man to coach the side. We are doing well tactically," the 35-year-old Rasquinha, a two-time Olympian, said on the sidelines of an event.

Asked if the team was lacking in any front, he said, "There is an element of consistency, which is missing, we need to improve our short corners both defensive and offensive. Defence as a team is an area we need improvement. I am sure Oltmans knows it well, he knows the players inside out."

About the prospects in Rio, he said, "Realistically, we must eye a top-6 finish. We have to climb the ladder one step at a time. First goal is qualify for the quarters, and then it can be anybody's game."

Rasquinha, who is the CEO of non-profit organization Olympic Gold Quest, was here on the occasion of the signing of a MoU between OGQ and Genpact, a global leader in digitally-powered business process management and services, with a mission to support Indian women athletes in winning medals at the Olympics.

Rasquinha said, "It's extremely hard to predict the number of medals. We need to know how to enjoy the journey. We will keep improving. I am sure we will win more medals in Rio than London (Olympics in 2012)."

When asked to comment on the qualification of the Indian women's hockey team for Rio Games, he said, "It's amazing that women's hockey will be there in Olympics after 36 years. Hockey India has been very encouraging towards women's hockey."

During the signing of the MoU, one of the founding members of OGQ, Geet Sethi, a nine-time cue sports champion, said, "There has been massive improvement in the last 10-20 years. The government has opened its purse strings and they now want us to win medals in Olympics. Sporting performance will go up with the economic development of the country.

"We can win more than six medals in Rio - shooting, badminton, wrestling and boxing are the disciplines where we can win medals. There are many medals on offer in shooting.

"We have to ensure that the athlete's potential is fulfilled."

Sasha Sanyal, Senior Vice President - Strategy and Diversity & Inclusion Leader - Genpact, said, "Gender diversity and supporting women to achieve their full potential are something that we drive with everything we have here at Genpact.

"We're excited to extend this to supporting women in sports - where values such as meritocracy, focus, leadership and grit reflect our own values so well. It's a journey that we are all truly proud to be taking."

The Times of India

Malaysia to gauge hockey standard against Aussies

by S. Ramaguru

KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia are looking forward to their three-match series with Australia as a means to gauge their standard against the top-ranked team in the world.

The three-match series starts on Saturday in Perth.

The team are in Perth as part of the Oceania Tour, which included a six-match Test in New Zealand. They played four matches against the Kiwis and two against South Korea.

Malaysian won one, drew one and lost two against the Kiwis and won one and drew one against South Korea.

The tour is part of the team’s preparations for the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup in Ipoh from April 6-16.

National coach Stephen van Huizen has made five changes from the team who played in New Zealand for the three-match series against Australia.

The five – Mohd Hafizuddin Othman, Mohd Najib Abu Hassan, Joel van Huizen, Harvinder Singh and Nik Mohd Aiman Rozemi – have returned home.

They have been replaced by goalkeeper Mohd Hairi Abdul Rahman, Mohd Firdaus Omar, Mohd Azri Hassan, Norsyafiq Sumantri and Dedy Ariyady Jumaidi.

Stephen plans to give all the 25 players in the training squad a chance to take part in the tour.

“That’s why we have made these changes,” he said.

“I want to see how all the players perform under pressure. These matches will count towards the final selection of the team for the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup.”

The Malaysian team played a training match against the Western Australian Institute of Sports (WAIS) yesterday and came away with 3-1 win.

Mohd Razie Rahim, Meor Mohd Azuan and Dedy Ariyadi got the goals for Malaysia.

“We tried out all the 20 players to give them some much-needed match practice. It was a good workout. It’s a warm-up for the Australia game,” said Stephen.

Malaysian Hockey Confederation (MHC) technical director Terry Walsh, who is also in Perth, believes that the series would be a good opportunity to gauge the players’ physiological development against the best team in the world.

“We have put in a lot of work. We are nowhere near the pinnacle of our development plan, but the progress has been extremely encouraging.

“It will be interesting to see how we fare against Australia, especially after playing six very tough matches in NZ,” he said.

The Star of Malaysia

Malacca one win away from 1Mas-Milo hockey title

by S. Ramaguru

KUALA LUMPUR: Last year’s runners-up Malacca are one win away from another final appearance in the 1MAS-Milo Hockey Cham­pionships.

Malacca, who edged former champions Selangor 2-1 in their opening second round Group X match at the KL Hockey Stadium on Thursday, can confirm their place in Sunday’s final with a win over Sabah today.

In Thursday’s match, Muhibuddin Moha­ram notched two field goals for Malaca in the 15th and 29th minutes while Selangor replied through Zarreman Shamier’s 17th-minute field attempt.

Selangor, who have a rest day on Friday, will have to wait for the outcome of the Malacca-Sabah match to know their fate.

Selangor team manager S. Thangaswaran blamed their loss to “our own silly mistakes”.

“We made too many individual mistakes. The players tried hard, but they failed to make use of the chances that came their way,” he said.

“Although we had a spate of injuries, we could have done better. Malacca did not apply that much pressure on us ... it was a game we could have won. Now, we face a waiting game.

“Whatever happens tomorrow (today) between Malacca and Sabah, we want to win our last match.”

In Group Y, Terengganu defeated Johor 4-2 in their opening match to hold the advantage in the quest for a place in the final.

Terengganu got their goals through Mohd Zulrasyad Izzat Hilmi (fifth minute), Mohd Akhimullah Anuar (16th, 39th) and Syarman Mat Tee (20th) while Johor replied through Mohd Ikhmal Hakim (seventh, 25th).

Johor will play defending champions Pahang on Friday knowing they must win to stay in contention for a place in the final.

In the women’s category, defending champions Penang are on course for a place in the final.

Penang defeated Malacca 2-0 in their Group X match while Selangor and Kuala Lumpur drew their opening Group Y tie.

Penang, who scored through Norhafizah Mazlan (12th) and Nor Maizatul Hanim Syafi (26th), will play Negri Sembilan tomorrow and a win will see them through to their second straight final.

Selangor and KL still stand a chance of making the final from Group Y. Kedah are the other team in the group.

Yesterday, KL went ahead through a Nur Arisha Muhammad Asrul Effandi field goal in the 20th minute before Dayang Nuramirah Abang Mahdini equalised for Selangor in the 40th minute.

The Star of Malaysia

Marcano guides Fatima to double


T&T’s Teague Marcano, right, tries to steal the ball during international hockey action against Australia last year.

Fatima College, led by national youth player Teague Marcano, completed the Boys Under-16 and Under-20 double in the T&T Hockey Board’s secondary schools tournament at the National Hockey Centre, Tacarigua, last Thursday and Friday.

Marcano played a key role as Fatima brushed aside Tunapuna 4-2 in the Under-16 Boys championship on Thursday.

Fatima had earlier defeated Mucurapo West 4-0 in the quarterfinals followed by a 3-1 penalty shoot-out victory against Diego Martin Central after a 1-1 draw while Tunapuna trounced Queen’s Royal College (QRC), 6-0 and then won 2-1 on penalty shoot-out after a 0-0 draw with South East Port-of-Spain (SEPoS).

SEPoS pipped St Mary’s College 1-0 and Diego Martin Central blanked El Dorado East 2-0 in the two other quarterfinals.

Fatima ‘A’ topped its four-team Pool A round-robin series with maximum nine points after beating Tunapuna (2-0), Woodbrook (10-0) and Belmont Boys (5-0) while Tunapuna took second after defeating Woodbrook (5-0) and Belmont Boys (4-0).

In Pool C, St Mary’s College won the group with seven points, after beating El Dorado East (3-1) and St George’s (6-0), and drawing 0-0 with Belmont Secondary.

El Dorado East took second with six points after wins over St George’s (9-0) and Belmont Secondary (2-0). Diego Martin Central was the top finisher in Pool C, beating SEPoS 1-0, and Fatima ‘B’ twice, 1-0 and 2-0 while also drawing 0-0 with SEPoS, which ended second with three points, after two draws with Fatima in their other matches, 1-1 and 0-0.

And in Pool D, QRC edged Mucurapo West and Holy Cross both by 1-0 margins, and also had a 1-2 loss versus Mucurapo West, and 1-1 draw with Holy Cross to end with seven points. Mucurapo West was second with five points after drawing 0-0 and 1-1 with Holy Cross in its other matches.
Diego Martin Central, took third after spanking SEPoS, 3-1 in their playoff.

Fatima had a much tougher time on their hands in the Under-20 Division Boys final, and came away with a narrow 1-0 win over North rivals, QRC.

The Mucurapo Road-school, Fatima humbled Trinity College of Moka 2-0 in its quarterfinal and then, slipped past Diego Martin Central 1-0 in the semi-finals, while QRC edged out Tunapuna 2-1 on penalty shoot-out after a 1-1 draw in their last-eight match and then clobbered St Marty’s College, 3-0.

St Mary’s won 2-0 over SEPoS in the quarterfinals on penalties after a goalless battle, and Diego Martin Central eked out a 1-0 result against El Dorado East.

Fatima earlier won Group A beating Tunapuna (5-0 & 4-1) and Woodbrook (8-0 & 6-0) with maximum 12 points. QRC also got 12 points after stopping Trinity Moka (3-0 & 2-0) and Mucurapo East (3-0 & 3-0) in Pool D, while St Mary’s (eight points) and SEPos (seven points) were winners of Groups C and D respectively.

In the Under-20 Girls Division decider, St Joseph’s Convent Port-of-Spain got a lone item from Mikhaela Lezama to get the better of SEPoS.

Playing in a three-team round-robin group, St Joseph Convent (PoS) blasted its sister school St Joseph Convent (St Joseph), 5-0 and 6-0, shut-out St Augustine Girls High School 2-0 and drew 1-1 in their second meeting for ten points, three more than St Augustine Girls.

And in the semifinals, St Joseph Convent (PoS) battled past Corpus Christi 2-1 while SEPoS blanked St Augustine Girls High School, 3-0 in the other semi.

SEPOS topped its four-team round-robin group with five points after beating Providence 1-0 and drawing 0-0 with second place finisher Corpus Christi and Woodbrook, by the same margin.

South East Port-of-Spain was dominant in the Under-16 Girls Division, led by Naomi Samson, who, like Teague Marcano, competed in both divisions.

The Trinidad Guardian

Inspiring umpire Delforge innovates on Road to Rio

Crowdfunding donations recognise dedication as Laurine’s Olympic dream becomes reality


Laurine Delforge has succeeded in an innovative campaign in her preparations for the Rio 2016 Olympic Games

Regardless of whether you are a player, a coach or an official, the chance to represent your country at an Olympic Games is an opportunity few would ever take for granted. It is the pinnacle of elite sport, a privilege attained by years of relentless dedication and sacrifice to achieve the dream of taking part in the greatest show on earth.

For Belgian umpire Laurine Delforge, that dream will become a reality this summer when she takes charge of matches at the Rio 2016 Olympic Games. At just 25 years of age, Laurine is the youngest umpire, either men or women, to be named on the hockey panel for the XXXI Olympiad.

“The Olympics are the world’s most important sporting event, and to be appointed is a real honour”, said Laurine, who as a player represented Belgium at junior level and even played for her country at last year’s Indoor World Cup in Leipzig, Germany.

“The Olympics have always been a dream of mine since I was a little kid, and this dream is about to come true. That being said, my selection is only the beginning of the journey. Just like athletes aspire to take their games to the highest level, I want to achieve peak performance at the Rio 2016 Olympic Games.”

The above comment clearly indicates that simply achieving selection for Rio was never going to be enough to satisfy this extremely promising young official. Now, her focus has shifted to becoming the best umpire she can possibly be by the time the global multi-sport extravaganza arrives in August.

So, what exactly is Laurine doing to take that next step forward? A great deal, it would seem.

“I recently launched a crowdfunding campaign on RisingTrack, which is a new rewards-based crowdfunding platform exclusively dedicated to sports projects”, said Laurine. “My campaign is called Whistle2Rio and is aimed at raising funds to cover my expenses for training and preparation towards the Rio 2016 Olympic Games. With a few days of my campaign remaining, I have raised more than 160% of my initial target, which has been staggering. I must admit that I didn’t expect my campaign to be such a success. Of course, it feels great to see how many people are supporting me from both inside and outside the hockey family. People who I don’t even know also want to see me do well in Rio, which gives me an incredible boost.”

At the time of writing, Laurine – who since making her international umpiring debut in 2010 has taken charge of over 50 matches at showpiece events such as the 2013 and 2015 EuroHockey Nations Championships and the 2014 Rabobank Hockey World Cup – had received over 6600 Euros ($7,475 USD) from various donors who have been inspired her unrelenting passion and desire for self-improvement, and it is perfectly clear that every penny will be used to ensure that her development continues.

“It may not be common knowledge but being an umpire involves much more than just keeping fit and knowing the rules”, continued Laurine. "The game is getting faster and faster, dramatically increasing the difficulty of our job as umpires. The money I am raising will allow me to work on different skills together with various coaches who are all experts in their field. A fitness trainer will guide me through a specific programme targeted to the particular physical demands of umpiring a game of hockey. I will also integrate a high-end sports visual training that will enhance my decision-making skills, and last but not least, use sports psychology to improve my mental toughness and my ability to cope with pressure.”

Laurine’s drive for self-improvement has helped her reach an exceptionally high level at a very young age, but this personal professionalism – in line with 'Big Goal 2' of the FIH Hockey Revolution (to increase the degree of professionalism in the sport) is underpinned by a genuine love of umpiring.

“To me, I think umpiring is a vocation, and is as much a sport as the sport itself. Being an umpire is a tough job, but it is also very rewarding as it gives you a sense of accomplishment, like the feeling you get when completing a difficult mission. When the game is completed and no one can remember who the umpire was, you know you did your job well. Aside from that, I enjoy the social aspect of umpiring. Umpiring takes me all over the world and allows me to meet lots of amazing people.”

To find out more about Laurine's campaign, click here. To see Laurine’s promotional video, click here.

For more information about the Hockey Revolution, click here.

FIH site

T&T’s two Jordans on hockey, work and wearing the red, white and black

Sarah Juggins


Jordan Viera and Jordan Reynos (Trinidad and Tobago)

Trinidad and Tobago Junior Men are a hockey team that has been on an upward trajectory over the past few editions of the Pan American Junior Championship. In 2005, the team finished eighth, after winning just two games. They finished seventh in 2008, after registering three comprehensive wins in the pool stages and beating Puerto Rico in the 7/8th play-offs. In 2012, they moved up the final standings again, finishing in fifth place with four wins under their belt.

In terms of consistency, Trinidad and Tobago always perform well against the lower ranked teams, and can be relied upon to find the goal. The team now needs to find the next level which will see them become competitive against the likes of USA, Canada and Chile, teams that lie above Trinidad and Tobago in the rankings, but who they are hoping to close the gap upon.

We speak to two of the Trinidad and Tobago players about their preparations for the upcoming competition and discover two young men with big ambitions, attitude and work ethic to match that ambition.

Jordan Reynos is one of the up and coming stars of the Trinidad and Tobago hockey team. He has already represented the senior team 30 times, including at the 2014 Commonwealth Games, where Trinidad and Tobago registered their historic first win at that tournament – beating Malaysia 4-2.

His focus for the next few months, however, is on his role with the men’s junior team. He has been playing for the national junior side for the past five years, including at the last Pan Am Junior Championships in Guadalajara, where his team finished fifth after beating Mexico in the 5/6th play-off place. At the time, Jordan was just 17.

His love of hockey began at a young age as he explains: “When I was just five years old, my mom introduced my two brothers and myself to the sport because she started when she was a teenager, and I must say I have grown to love it.”

A lack of funding means that the junior program doesn’t run all year, every year. “Our junior teams usually start preparation a year before the Pan Am Junior Championships and the intensity develops as the tournament gets closer and closer.”

Jordan explains that in an average week leading up to the Championships, the squad will have five training days, which includes two gym sessions and three field sessions. There is usually a club game at the weekends, so the lads are playing hockey six days a week.

With the event now less than four months away, the intensity has really shifted a gear and a lot of the change is driven by the young players. “We usually train for two hours as a team, but many of the guys, including myself, go to the pitch an hour or two early to do some individual stuff.”

Jordan himself was out of the game for four months from September to December last year because of injury, so he has been spending a lot of extra time doing rehabilitation and extra fitness work, a commitment he has continued.

Explaining what hockey means to him, Jordan says: “In Trinidad and Tobago, anybody that plays national hockey does so because we have a love for the game, we do not get paid, so the incentive definitely comes through a love for the game. I have always been proud to hoist my national colours and represent my people. As a person, it has built my character, I have found interaction with people has become easier, I have also developed discipline that stretches far beyond the field of play and it has definitely taught me how to manage my time.”

Living as an international sports player takes a lot of hard work and dedication, and as Jordan says, hockey is not a sport that is well recognised in the country. “When I speak to people about hockey, the first thing many will say is "I didn’t know we had ice hockey in Trinidad.

“But my friends and family know about it and support me because it’s really a big part of my life.”

With experience of hockey at the highest level, including the Hockey World League and Pan Am Games, Jordan has definitely committed to helping his team achieve an ambition nurtured by every T&T player – to one day go to the Olympics. He will be heading off to university after the Pan Am Junior Championship, and says: “After university, at the top of my list, is to one day play at the Olympics.”

Equally determined to one day add the word ‘Olympian’ to his CV, is the other Jordan wearing the colours of Trinidad and Tobago. At 19 years-old, Jordan Viera is about to take part in his second Junior Pan Am Championships, and has 10 senior international caps to his name as well.

He is currently doing a degree in Business Management, and says: “At times it can all get a bit overwhelming as you try to balance studies and hockey. However, by managing my time efficiently and being disciplined it is very possible to get the job done.”

Managing time efficiently includes the 10 hours of training with the national team and further club commitments at the weekend. Jordan says that there has also been a steady ramping up of the intensity to the training as the championships get closer, with weekly practice games, as well as the usual training sessions.

Jordan was six when he first began playing hockey and with both his parents representing Trinidad and Tobago at international level, it really was a case of hockey being in his DNA. Not surprisingly, Jordan feels much supported as he pursues his hockey ambitions, although he agrees with Jordan Reyas when he says: “hockey remains a relatively minor sport in the country and, although it is growing in popularity, it is still not well recognised.”

For the 19-year-old student, hockey is far more than just a game. It is something he wants to pursue at senior level and it is an activity that he feels has given him some important life skills. “I have learnt that having a great amount of discipline and putting in the hard work can get me a long way in accomplishing my goals. It means a lot to me to be able to represent my country, and to wear the red, white and black with pride, no matter the outcome of the game.”

Pan American Hockey Federation media release

Whiteman, Govia in 18-member squad for Pan Am


Briana Govia...has senior experience.

USA-based duo, Stephanie Whiteman and Brianna Govia are among seven players with senior team experience named in an 18-member team by coach Brian Garcia to represent this country in the upcoming Junior Women’s Pan American Hockey Championship.

The nine-team tournament to be hosted by the T&T Hockey Board flicks off at the National Hockey Centre, Tacarigua, from March 30 to April 10. T&T will come against world seventh ranked USA, Canada (#19) and Mexico (#34) in Pool B, while second ranked Argentina, Chile (#21), Uruguay (#25), Barbados (#48) and Venezuela, (#63) are in Pool A.

At the end of the two round-robin groups, the top two teams in each group will advance to the semifinals from which the winners will qualify for the Junior Hockey World Cup in Santiago, Chile, from November 26 to December 4.

The other members of the team who have had the experience of playing with the senior women’s team are team captain Kayla Brathwaite, Savannah De Freitas, Chelsea Dey, Jessica Lee and Samantha Olton

Other members of the team selected by Garcia, himself a former national player are USA-based Kristin Abreu, Lisa Benjamin, Shaniah De Freitas, Kayla-Marie Escayg (goalkeeper), Kherdine Gonsalves, Cyan Lue Sue, Saarah Olton, Stephanie Smith (goalkeeper) and Amanda Tang Nian.

The local women's team will open its campaign against USA on March 30 from 4 pm in the opening day’s fourth and final match, before facing Mexico on April 2 from 4 pm and a day later versus Canada from 4 pm as well in their final pool match ahead of the playoffs.

The first Junior Pan American Championship for women was held in 1988 in Buenos Aires. Argentina has won six of the seven previous competitions, including the last one in 2012 in Guadalajara, Mexico, where they shared the podium with Canada (second) and the USA (third). The USA are the only other winner of the competition, defeating Chile in the final in 2008 in Mexico City.

In 1992, T&T women’s squad featuring captain Nicky Young Pow, Stacey Siu Butt, Nicole Aming, Natalie Nieves, Dixie-Ann de Roche, and Jennifer Jones qualified for its first and only FIH Junior World Cup in Terrassa, Spain, after ending runner-up to Argentina in the Pan American qualifier which was held in Caracas, Venezuela.

Meanwhile, on Wednesday, a senior T&T women’s XI will come up against Chile in a practice match at Tacarigua from 6.30 pm.

The T&T women’s squad will feature Arresia Sandy, Petal Derry, Fiona O’Brien, Kwylan Jaggassar, Sekayi Liburd, Amanda George, Jessica Lee, Saarah Olton, Alanna Lewis (captain), Avion Ashton, Kayla Brathwaite, Samantha Olton, Krizia Layne, Brittney Hingh, Zene Henry, Caithlyn Olton, Kristin Abreu and Felicia King. The coaches are Darren Cowie and Glenn “Fido” Francis.

Group stage Schedule:
March 30
Pool A
10 am Chile vs Venezuela Noon Uruguay vs Barbados Pool B
2 pm Canada vs Mexico 4 pm USA vs T&T March 31
Pool A
2 pm Argentina vs Venezuela
4 pm Chile vs Barbados April 2
Pool A
10 am Barbados vs Venezuela
Noon Uruguay vs Argentina Pool B
2 pm Canada vs USA 4 pm T&T vs Mexico April 3
Pool A
10 am Venezuela vs Uruguay Noon Chile vs Argentina Pool B
2 pm USA vs Mexico 4 pm T&T vs Canada April 5
Pool A
2 pm Argentina vs Barbados
4 pm Uruguay vs Chile

T&T squad:
T&T Junior (Under-21) women’s hockey squad: Kristin Abreu, Lisa Benjamin, Kayla Brathwaite, captain, Savannah De Freitas, Shaniah De Freitas, Chelsea Dey, Kayla-Marie Escayg (GK), Kherdine Gonsalves, Brianna Govia, Felicia King, Jessica Lee, Cyan Lue Sue, Daniella Martin, Saarah Olton, Samantha Olton, Stephanie Smith (GK), Amanda Tang Nian, Stephanie Whiteman.

Technical staff: Brian Garcia (coach), Valisha Sylvester (manager), Tyrell Roberts (stand-in manager), Vanita Jagai (medical doctor), Kemba Noel-London (physiotherapist)

The Trinidad Guardian

PHF to launch its own league, says Shahbaz

LAHORE: Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) secretary Shahbaz Ahmad Senior said on Thursday that the federation would launch its own league this year to engage local players in competitive hockey besides helping them earn handsome revenue.

“We want to help the local players who are roaming around in various counties participating in different leagues not only improve their game but also get financial benefits,” said the PHF secretary here at a local hotel.

PHF director general retired Brig Musarratullah Khan, former Olympians, coaches of senior and junior teams apart from members of the national selection committee were present on the occasion.

Shahbaz said the federation would soon start spadework regarding establishing its own league.

“Hockey needs patronage not only from the government but also from private sector to get it revamped on solid lines which will put the game on road to reclaiming it lost glory,” he maintained while urging both government and private sectors to come forward to extend financial help to the game of hockey.

The secretary said the PHF turned down FIH offer to Pakistan to participate in the Champions Trophy as a wildcard entry because the federation aimed at rebuilding the team.

“Heavy funds were required for participation in the Trophy so it was decided to spend the amount on grooming junior players rather taking part in a tournament wherein our team could not have achieved the desired result,” remarked Shahbaz.

The PHF secretary said that the finances received from sponsors will be spent on the development of the game in the most transparent manner.

“Our aim is to make gradual improvement and to groom maximum number of junior players to infuse young blood in the national teams before ensuring their participation in international tournaments,” he said.

On the occasion, the PHF director general said the federation would soon unfold its ‘vision 2020 development plan’ for the betterment of hockey in the country.

“We will utilise available resources for the rapid development of the game and that is only possible when talent is identified and special emphasis is laid on the grooming of junior players,” he said, adding: “It is heartening that a private business house has come forward to lend support to hockey which is facing financial difficulties.”

Dawn

Russian hockey club to visit Karachi

LAHORE: A Russian hockey club team is due to arrive in Pakistan later this month to play a series of matches against the Pakistan junior team.

Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) secretary general Shahbaz Ahmed said Thursday that this was a good news and boost for Pakistan hockey as a foreign club would be visiting Pakistan after a long time. The details and dates of the tour are being worked out and will be finalised in consultations with the Russian Hockey Federation.

“Russian club named Dinamo Field Hockey will play three to four matches against the Pakistan juniors in Karachi during their stay from March 31 to April 7,” he added.

It is pertinent to mention that the Russian club is touring Pakistan for the European Hockey League preparations.

The PHF secretary said the Pakistan juniors’ squad would be finalised during trials here on March 25.

The Pakistan juniors will also be playing a series of three matches against the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup bound Pakistan seniors team in Lahore before the series against the Russian club.

The Daily Times

Awaiur Rehman- Hero of SAG

By Ijaz Chaudhry



Indo Pak hockey matches always carry a special flavor especially if the traditional rivals come across in a title tournament; the final tops it all.

The recent final of the South Asian Games’ hockey in Guwahati, India evoked a lot of interest across the two countries. For many, it was the marquee event of the multidisciplinary event which staged 22 sports over 12 days. The final was decided by a solitary goal netted by Pakistan’s Awais ur Rehman. The young striker, who had also scored two goals in the last league match against Bangladesh, had made his international debut in this very tournament. In fact, it was his first ever appearance in Pakistan’s colours, never gained selection for even the national juniors.

Sounds like a Cinderella story but it has been a long struggle.

The strongly built Lahore lad, not yet 20, narrates the journey, “My father Saif ur Rehman is himself a hockey player and remained active on the national circuit for a long time. He appeared in around 20 nationals for Lahore, Railways and Police, and also attended the national junior camp. He was selected for a tour of China in 1983 for the Pakistan Sports Board team but couldn’t make the trip because of a last minute injury.”

Saif ur Rehman instilled a love of hockey in his only son. Awais was enrolled in Model High school, Model Town which has a strong hockey tradition.

“That provided me with a great start. The school indulged in a lot of hockey activity and the team participated in a number of tournaments. We also won the Jaffer memorial tournament, the oldest school event of the Punjab. I have played at different positions in the forward line but my favourite spot has always been centre forward; love scoring goals. My idol is Hasan Sardar (arguably the greatest centre forward in the history of the game). I have spent many hours on internet watching his goal scoring techniques, positioning, etc. I also admire Rehan Butt. Though, not a centre forward, he was a wonderful poacher.”

Next, he was picked up by the PHF’s Lahore academy.

“I distinguished myself at the PHF inter academy competition. In two appearances, I was once a top scorer and on the other occasion, finished second.”

His remarkable scoring skills soon attracted departments.

“Customs were the first to spot me. In 2011, in the very first appearance for them, we won the national juniors and I was called for Pakistan juniors’ camp. Since then, I have attended every national junior camp. But despite scoring heavily in the junior camps as well as on the domestic circuit, I failed to win a selection; only named standby once.”

The frustration got to an extent the boy thought of hanging his stick.

“About a year back, I told my family that enough is enough. I won’t get a chance and it is better to quit the game. Even father appeared dejected “

Awais’s mother got him out of this.

“Son, hockey has been your life throughout and you have sacrificed everything for it. Hopefully, your chance would come soon.”

Persistence paid off and the dawn of 2016 saw his, and indeed the family’s dream, come true. The PHF decided to drop many senior players for the 2016 South Asian Games. It was the first senior camp for Awais and he earned the selection.

“It was my maiden appearance for Pakistan and I was a bit anxious; more so as we were playing in India. The team management handled it well. I was sent in the opening game against Sri Lanka but for a little duration. The next match was the high profile encounter against the hosts. Again, I was played for a short while. “
The youngster must have been impressive in his short stints on the field as he was played for the entire 60 minutes against the last league game versus Bangladesh. Awais displayed his scoring skills with a brace.

“Scoring my first international goals was a special feeling; boosted my confidence a lot”.

There was something more special awaiting him in the final.

“The final was against India. We, the younger boys, felt a bit nervous. The coaches eased our nerves, ‘pressure would be on the Indians as they are playing in front of an expectant home crowd.’

Tayebulla stadium was filled to capacity and the game was live on the Indian TV channels. Awais wasn’t in the starting XI. Many among the Pakistani squad had never appeared in such a high octane encounter. All this told and in the first quarter, Pakistan missed quite a few scoring chances. The feeling crept in, ’it wasn’t our day’.

Awais was introduced just before the interval and within a minute, he capped a good move to put Pakistan ahead just before the half time. The second half was more intense as the Indians tried their best to equalise but the green shirts managed to hold out.

Needless to say the post victory feelings were special for the debutant who had scored the only goal of the final.

“I remained transfixed for a while. Pakistan’s flag went up and the national anthem was played. Tears rolled in my eyes.”

Awais gained instant stardom.

“Media thronged our home even before the final ended. My parents and sisters were interviewed. When the team arrived at the Lahore airport, a large crowd, including my family, greeted us. Again, media invaded my place. The high point was the tea with the Prime Minister who also announced a reward of Rs one million for each member of the squad. “

“The whole thing was completely surreal”.

Presently, he plays for the PIA on the domestic circuit. After his Guwahati exploits, Awais has received an offer to play in the Bangladesh league.

It might be hard to keep one’s feet on the ground with such an immediate fame and attention but Awais knows it is just the beginning of the journey.

“My first aim is to cement a regular place in the national team. I desire to contribute something substantial towards Pakistan hockey regaining its lost sheen”.

And he knows one has to strive to achieve something- has already been through it.

Ijaz Chaudhry writes on hockey and other sports. For more about him and his work, visit: www.sportscorrespondent.info

Fieldhockey.com

Field Hockey Takes Root in Naperville

The Park District plans to offer another fall field hockey program.

By Scott Viau

One of the advantages of living in a suburban city like Naperville is the variety of sports and activities available for kids and adults. One by one, sports such as lacrosse, rugby, and cricket have taken root in Naperville’s increasingly diverse culture.

Nearly four years ago, a family moved to Naperville from the east coast, bringing the sport of field hockey with them. One of the world’s oldest sports, popular on the east and west coasts, field hockey was completely absent in Naperville clubs or schools prior to 2012. With support from the USA Field Hockey Futures Program and a program at the Glen Ellyn Park District, parent Monica Lodge began a field hockey club for girls at Naperville North High School in 2013.

To grow the sport, Lodge saw the need to introduce field hockey to middle school students and approached the Naperville Park District, proposing to run a clinic for 5th through 8th graders, with participation from the high school players. After a successful inaugural clinic in fall 2015, the Park District offered a one-day program on President’s Day, 2016, which attracted 30 participants.

The FUNdamentals Field Hockey Clinic quickly followed, also offered through the Naperville Park District and taught by Monica Lodge. The program is in session at Players Indoor Sports Center on Mondays and Wednesdays from 5 to 6 p.m. March 7-23, with 19 participants in grades 5-8, ranging from players with several years of experience to those who have never played before.

The Park District plans to offer another fall field hockey program in 2016 as well, to introduce middle school students to the game and to provide more opportunities for dedicated young players to prepare for competition on a high school team. Details about the program will be released with the Park District’s Autumn 2016 Program Guide in August.

One of the participants in the March clinic at Players, Khora Finch, is an eighth grade student at Washington Junior High School and looks forward to playing field hockey at Naperville North High School. “I like how it’s different from all other sports that I have tried,” explained Khora, who previously played soccer and has tried basketball and other sports.

“It's a high skill sport, requiring a high level of athleticism,” said Monica Lodge. “This sport provides athletes of nearly every shape and size a position they can be successful in. It’s also a great complement sport for kids who play other sports, such as lacrosse, in the spring. Field hockey challenges both the mind and muscles; it helps develop well-rounded athletes.”

Introducing kids to a variety of sports is central to the Park District’s mission to enrich the quality of life for our community, and to its core values of personal growth, health and wellness.

“We are pleased to be able to help bring a new sport like field hockey to Naperville,” said Program Manager Brock Atwell.

Naperville Patch