News for 06 April 2016
All the news for Wednesday 6 April 2016
Black Sticks wrap up pool play unbeaten
Photo: www.photosport.nz
The Black Sticks Women have defeated Ireland 3-1 to finish top of Pool B and conclude pool play undefeated at the Hawke’s Bay Cup.
Trailing by one goal at halftime, the Black Sticks equalised through Anita Punt in the 32nd minute before two stunning goals in the final 10 minutes from Stacey Michelsen and Charlotte Harrison sealed the result.
It was a fitting celebration for Harrison, whose goal marked her 200th international cap in style.
Tonight’s win sees New Zealand secure three wins from three games in the pool phase after overcoming India (1-0) and China (3-1) in earlier games at the tournament.
The top seeded Black Sticks now face a clash against Korea (bottom of Pool A) in the Quarter Finals at 4:45pm on Thursday.
All four of Thursday’s Quarter Finals will be live streamed at hockeynz.co.nz/Video
Black Sticks assistant coach Sean Dancer said it was a tough game against an improving Irish side.
“Ireland were always going to be a strong opponent, and they gave us a really good contest which is a good thing going into the quarter finals,” he said.
“We weren’t so good in the first half and we had to weather the storm under pressure. In the second half though our girls really fired up performed strongly.”
In the final game of the day, Ireland silenced the crowd in the ninth minute after taking advantage of a defensive error and rushing into the circle, where Nicola Evans knocked home a goal past goalkeeper Georgia Barnett.
The Black Sticks created chances throughout the first half but Ireland were physical on defence and carried their lead into halftime.
New Zealand came out of the break with added spark and equalised from a penalty corner variation which Punt rocketed into the roof of the net.
Michelsen gave the Black Sticks their first lead with eight minutes on the clock when the ball fell at her feet in the circle and she sent a lethal reverse shot past the keeper.
Just one minute later the advantage pushed out further when a counter attack caught the Irish defence off guard and Michelsen found an open Harrison to put a goal away from close range.
In other results today Japan continued their great run at the tournament with a 2-1 win over Korea, Australia defeated Canada 4-0 and China kept India winless with a 2-1 result.
Hawke’s Bay Cup – Quarter Finals, Thursday 7th April
10:00am - Japan (1st Pool A) vs India (4th Pool B)
12:15pm - China (2nd Pool B) vs Canada (3rd Pool A)
2:30pm - Australia (2nd Pool A) vs Ireland (3rd Pool B)
4:45pm - Black Sticks (1st Pool B) vs Korea (4th Pool A)
BLACK STICKS 3: (Anita Punt, Stacey Michelsen, Charlotte Harrison)
IRELAND 1: (Nicola Evans)
Halftime: Ireland 1-0
Hockey New Zealand Media release
2 Late Goals Deny Green Army
Two goals in the fourth quarter cost the Green Army dearly in an otherwise impressive performance by the young side.
Ireland started the match with the same intensity that was on display in their 4-0 win over India and it took just 9 minutes for the Green Army to get on the scoresheet. Daly snatched the ball from the Hawkes Bay sky, thanks to a powerful aerial by Mullan, and powered down the left wing. Her reverse strike into the circle was met by the waiting Evans and deflected into the goal for a deserved lead. The pace of the game was nothing short of blistering and the Irish midfield was on hand to intercept plenty a New Zealand long ball and build from the back through Frazer and Sargent.
The New Zealand press, notoriously strong, didn’t seem to faze the Irish in the first half as they passed the ball around the back and patiently drove it out with impressive breaks from Pinder and Carroll. Patience and composure were the order of the first 30 minutes as the Green Army went into half time with a 1-0 lead.
A penalty corner for the Black Sticks 2 minutes into the second half was slotted high into the goal by Punt to draw the game level at 1-1. Ireland were forced to absorb a lot of pressure as the ball rarely made its way into the New Zealand half of the pitch but a further 2 PC’s for New Zealand were well stopped by the Irish.
A hint of indiscipline, 3 green cards and 1 yellow, and loose passing were the weak links in the Irish armour and an experienced New Zealand squad were able to take advantage. A green card for Daly was followed by a yellow for Watkins in the space of 3 minutes and New Zealand took full advantage. Michelson and Harrison’s goal were slotted home within 2 minutes of each other while Ireland was down to 10 players. A reverse strike by Michelson left McFerran with no chance and a quick break resulted in a 2 on 1 situation with Harrison scoring on the post.
2 goals in 2 minutes was the undoing of the Green Army but 1-1 at 52 minutes against the world number 4 leaves plenty of positives to take as the squad prepare for their quarter-final against Australia on Thursday (3:30am GMT). Watch live here!
Speaking about the match coach Graham Shaw said “We started well, built some nice attacks, controlled the phases and it was quite an even game at half time. There were some key moments out there we didn’t transition quick enough but we’re very pleased we performed to the level we know we can; we’ll take the positives from it and learn from our mistakes”.
The Green Army will face Australia on Thursday and Shaw said “We know if we can perform and execute in the key moments, and stay in it for 60 minutes we can get a result. We have outstanding hockey players in our group and we’re looking forward to Thursday”.
Hawkes Bay Cup
Ireland 1 (Evans)
New Zealand 3 (Punt, Michelsen, Harrison)
Squad:
McFerran (GK), O’Byrne, Watkins, Daly, Frazer (Captain), Sargent, Wilson, O’Flanagan, Duke, Evans, Smithwick (GK), Matthews, Tice, Pinder, Loughran, Carroll, Beatty, Mullan
Irish Hockey Association media release
Black Sticks finish unbeaten as Korea quarterfinal looms in Hastings
In her 200th international, Charlotte Harrison celebrated a goal in the Black Sticks' 3-1 win over Ireland in Hastings. John Cowpland/Photosport
A quarterfinal against ninth-ranked Korea looms for the women's Black Sticks at the Hawke's Bay Cup after they completed pool play unbeaten.
Led by a goal in her 200th international by Charlotte Harrison, New Zealand beat Ireland 3-1 to finish top of pool B with three wins from as many matches at Hawke's Bay Regional Sports Park near Hastings.
Trailing by one at halftime, the Black Sticks equalised through Anita Punt in the 32nd minute before two stunning goals in the final 10 minutes from Stacey Michelsen and Harrison sealed the result.
The top seeded Black Sticks now face a clash against Korea, who finished bottom of pool A, in the quarterfinals at 2:30pm on Thursday.
Black Sticks assistant coach Sean Dancer said it was a tough game against an improving Irish side, ranked 15th in the world to New Zealand's fourth.
"Ireland were always going to be a strong opponent, and they gave us a really good contest which is a good thing going into the quarter finals," he said.
"We weren't so good in the first half and we had to weather the storm under pressure. In the second half though our girls really fired up performed strongly."
In the final game of the day, Ireland silenced the crowd in the ninth minute after taking advantage of a defensive error and rushing into the circle, where Nicola Evans knocked home a goal past goalkeeper Georgia Barnett.
The Black Sticks created chances throughout the first half but Ireland were physical on defence and carried their lead into halftime.
New Zealand emerged with added spark and equalised from a penalty corner variation which Punt rocketed into the roof of the net.
Michelsen gave the Black Sticks their first lead with eight minutes on the clock when the ball fell at her feet in the circle and she sent a lethal reverse shot past the keeper.
Just one minute later the advantage pushed out further when a counter attack caught the Irish defence off guard and Michelsen found an open Harrison to put a goal away from close range.
In other results, Japan continued their great run at the tournament with a 2-1 win over Korea, Australia defeated Canada 4-0 and China kept India winless with a 2-1 result.
New Zealand's Anita Punt and Ireland's Zoe Wilson contest the ball during their Hawke's Bay Cup match. John Cowpland/Photosport
Stuff
Black Sticks Women finish top qualifiers
Stacey Michelsen scored for the Black Sticks. Photo / Getty
New Zealand dodged a bullet to finish top qualifiers from pool B at the women's Festival of Hockey event in Hastings tonight.
The world No 4 team were 1-0 down to No 15 Ireland at halftime, courtesy of a Nicola Evans goal. However Anita Punt, from a penalty corner, Stacey Michelsen, with a reverse stick shot, and Charlotte Harrison, in her 200th international, scored to give the Black Sticks a 3-1 win, to follow victories over India and China.
Black Sticks assistant coach Sean Dancer said it was a tough game against an improving Irish side.
"Ireland were always going to be a strong opponent, and they gave us a really good contest which is a good thing going into the quarter-finals," he said.
"We weren't so good in the first half and we had to weather the storm under pressure.
In the second half though our girls really fired up performed strongly."
New Zealand will now play world No 9 Korea in the quarter-finals on Thursday.
In other games yesterday, China beat India 2-1, while in pool A, world No 3 Australia beat Canada 4-0 and Japan beat Korea 2-1.
The other quarter-final matchups have India (ranked 13) playing Japan (10), Australia meeting Ireland and China (5) playing Canada (19).
Wins for New Zealand and Australia would have them clash in Saturday's semifinals.
The New Zealand Herald
Hockeyroos to face Ireland
Hawke's Bay Cup quarter finals confirmed
The Hockeyroos will play Ireland in Thursday’s Hawke’s Bay Cup quarter final after the Irish women finished third in Pool B following a 3-1 defeat to hosts New Zealand Black Sticks on Tuesday.
The match begins at 12:30pm AEST (10:30am AWST) and will be shown live via Livestream here or in the viewer below.
Thursday’s contest will pitch Anna Flanagan against her Irish counterpart Anna O’Flanagan – one of the best name match-ups in world hockey.
The Australian women last met Ireland in a Test match in Dublin in September 2012, winning 3-0 thanks to an Emily Smith double and one from Jodie Kenny.
Overall, Australia’s record against Ireland reads played 23, won 21, drawn 1, lost 1.
Ireland, ranked 15th in the world, began the Hawke’s Bay Cup with a 4-0 loss to China but rebounded with a 4-0 win of their own, against India, ranked 13th.
Hawke's Bay Cup Quarter Final Draw (times AEST)
8:00am - Japan v India
10:15am - China v Canada
12:30pm - Australia v Ireland
2:45pm - New Zealand v Korea
Hockey Australia media release
Koreans next for Sticks
By Anendra Singh
Black Sticks player Charlotte Harrison keeps Irishwoman Zoe Wilson in check. Photo / Paul Taylor
The dust has settled as the protagonists continue to play mind games in the world's most elite invitational women's international hockey tournament in Hastings.
Hosts New Zealand shrugged off a sluggish start to beat the plucky Irish 3-1 last night to book a quarterfinal berth as the top qualifiers in pool B against fellow Rio Olympic-bound South Korea tomorrow in the Hawke's Bay Cup of the annual Festival of Hockey.
"I've got to give a lot of credit to Ireland because they put us under a lot of pressure so we tried a few different people in different positions to answer a few questions around us as well," Black Sticks coach Mark Hager said.
Hager said the winless South Koreans from pool A would not be any easier than Ireland in probably one of the toughest crossovers in the competition.
"They have a very good corner back three and they have some good high strikers so if we're not on our game they could punish us."
Hager wanted his women to scrutinise their start against Ireland during their videotape brainstorming session today.
"I thought our start was very poor. We knew they were going to come and put us under pressure but we didn't play to that," he said, feeling his women opted for "slow hockey".
"We weren't selfish but we just played within ourselves and didn't move the ball quickly. When we got comfortable and we were up we started to move the ball so you can see what happens when we can do that but we'll have to do that for the whole game."
With the game locked at 1-1 into the third quarter, the Samantha Charlton-captained Black Sticks didn't have it all their way.
It took a last quarter flurry in the space of two minutes to whip the crowd into cheers and on their feet.
Ireland had made a bold statement with a 1-0 lead at halftime despite the hosts dominating possession. Their goal came in the 13th minute from a high-fiving Nicola Evans following a goalmouth melee.
New Zealand lynchpin Anita Punt levelled terms, 1-1, just 90 seconds into the second half after flicking the ball into the roof of the net following a penalty corner.
Teammate Stacey Michelsen made it 2-1 in the 52nd minute from the left flank after drilling the ball shoulder high.
The stung Irish were still coming to terms with that when Michelsen became provider to Charlotte Harrison, playing her 200th international, a minute later to extend the lead to 3-1.
"I'm very, very happy," Harrison said. "It was a very nice set up by Stacey so it's very special because I'm playing alongside a great bunch of girls so it means a lot today."
She echoed the sentiments of Hager, feeling they could have started the game better but, in saying that, quite pleased the Black Sticks showed character and resolve to pull away with a two more goals in the end.
"Korea will be a tough game but in the preparation for Rio it's always good to have a hard quarterfinal."
No doubt, for Harrison, like her teammates, Rio is the dream but she has to put in the hard yards.
"It's going to be hard ride so only 16 will go so I'm going to have to train hard and play well to make sure I push for a spot," said the Northland rep who made her debut in 2005, thanking her teammates "for a great journey so far".
Her younger sister, Samantha, is pursuing a degree in education while coaching hockey in Auckland.
"She's doing really well. She's focusing on teaching now but I don't think her international hockey days are over just yet so she'll make a comeback one day when she's ready," the trained beautician said of her 24-year-old former Black Stick.
In other quarterfinal matches tomorrow, pool A top qualifiers Japan play last-placed India, China face non-Olympians Canada, defending champions Australia will cross sticks with Ireland after their 4-0 win yesterday against Canada left coach Adam Commens seething.
Hawkes Bay Today
Harrison reaches mark she never thought she would
Charlotte Harrison in action during the Festival of Hockey pool match against India. Photo / Getty Images
Black Sticks striker Charlotte Harrison's ticked off a milestone she once wondered she'd ever reach.
Harrison's played her 200th test for New Zealand, scoring the final goal in a 3-1 win over Ireland at the Hawke's Bay Cup.
Harrison, who's first played for the Black Sticks as a 16-year old, was dropped at the end of 2013 and only returned to the squad last year.
She's now cemented herself in the team, but says she did question whether to keep playing hockey.
Harrison says she's glad she chose to keep going and is really enjoying it at the moment.
New Zealand is unbeaten after three pool games and plays Korea tomorrow in the quarter-finals.
The New Zealand Herald
Women lose thriller to China
Rani Rampal takes on a Chinese player during their pool match in the Hawke’s Bay Cup. HI
Hastings (New Zealand): The Indian women’s hockey team’s dismal run continued as it suffered a narrow 2-1 loss to world No. 5 China in its last pool match of the Hawke’s Bay Cup here.
India had lost to New Zealand and Ireland in their previous matches.
After a goalless first quarter, Rani gave India the lead in the 19th minute. Yu Qian scored the equaliser in the third quarter before Wang Mengyu sealed the match with another goal in the final quarter.
The match started slowly with most of the battles taking place in the midfield and both teams struggling to penetrate the circle. China had the best opportunity in the first quarter with a penalty corner but it was well saved by Savita.
India came to life in the second quarter with Rani scoring off a swiftly-worked counter-attack from the right. China immediately hit back, and won a penalty corner, but another save from Savita ensured India went into the break with a 1-0 lead.
The third quarter saw resolute defending from India as China controlled most of the possession. Monika, in particular, was very good at marshalling the defence and dropping deep to ensure the numbers denied China any openings. With the last play of the quarter, though, China scored the equaliser through Yu.
The final quarter saw several chances for both teams. Deepika took charge and had a couple of half chances that went wide of the post. Wang scored the winner through a penalty corner with five minutes left on the clock.
“Crucial mistakes at the end of the final quarter denied us the points. Our defence was secure, but we now need to focus on getting the ball up the field quicker to score goals,” coach CR Kumar said.
India play Japan in the quarterfinals on Thursday.
The Tribune
Junior Pan American Championship (W) - Day 4
Photo J-M Photography
A sunny morning with a nice Caribbean breeze blowing across the ground greeted the teams for the start of the knockout phase of the tournament. Argentina booked their spot in the semi-final with a dominating 18-0 win against Mexico. Canada held their nerve to win a shootout over Uruguay 0-0 (5-3) setting up a semi-final showdown against Argentina. Chile defeated hosts Trinidad & Tobago 5-0 to move on to the semi-finals. Then USA completed the semi-finalists by comfortably winning 11-0 over Barbados.
ARG vs MEX
The opening match of the knockout round saw Pool A winners Argentina play Mexico, who placed 4th in Pool B. The game got off to the familiar pattern of Argentina quickly into their pressure game leading to a goal in the first minute. They continued to score regularly despite many good saves by GK Inguanzo. The pick of the first half goals was Ladra’s solo run past 4 defenders to score to the left of Inguanzo. The second half did not start with the same intensity as the first, but Argentina continued to score regularly. Every time Mexico seemed to slow down the flow of goals, Argentina found another level. Granatto’s lovely reverse stick pass for von der Heyde to score their 16th goal exemplified the intensity with which Argentina played. Inguanzo made way for Amaya to applause from the Argentina supporters, who appreciated an outstanding performance in the face of overwhelming pressure. For good measure Las Leoncitas added two more before the final horn ended the game with them 18-0 winners.
CAN vs URU
Match two saw Pool B runners up Canada play Uruguay, 3rd placed in Pool A. The weather changed dramatically to a downpour. This seemed to delight the Canadians who came out to enjoy one of the few rainfalls in recent weeks. The game started under overcast skies and a cautious start from the teams. It was an intense midfield battle with many turnovers in the middle of the field. The teams traded PCs, but either team’s defence held strong. The halftime horn sounded with the teams scoreless with 1 goal looking like it might be enough to win the game. The second half brought the sun and more of the same first half story with a midfield battle for possession. A good Cookson run led to a Cole shot wide of the mark. Uruguay forced Logush to make a save from a PC as they pressed for the lead. Faiczak missed a glorious chance in the final seconds to win it in regulation time for Canada, but the scores ended 0-0 to send us to our first penalty shootout of the competition. Canada held their nerve to win the shootout 5-3 and book a semi-final spot against Argentina on Thursday. Uruguay will play Mexico in the 5-8th classification match.
CHI vs TTO
Match three was Pool A runners up Chile play hosts Trinidad & Tobago, 3rd placed in Pool B. Chile started off the stronger team scoring a pair of PCs after forcing numerous turnovers. After a period of intense Chile pressure, Trinidad & Tobago started to attack, forcing a few desperate tackles. The game opened up more as the half progressed and by the time the halftime horn sounded the teams were evenly matched. The second half started as the first ended with most of the play in the middle of the field. A Chile PC was finished by Krimerman for her hattrick. Trinidad & Tobago created some good chances, but lacked the killer instinct needed to score. Chile started to defend deeper and play on the counter attack and the tactic worked well as Trinidad & Tobago grew tired. Two deflected goals in quick succession effectively killed off the game and at the final horn Chile celebrated moving on to the semi-finals.
USA vs BAR
The 4th and final match saw Pool B winners USA play 4th place in Pool A, Barbados. Barbados came out aggressively, trying to push their opponents back. The Americans managed the pressure easily before going on the offensive themselves. It took them 9 minutes to score, but then the goals started to come more regularly. The Americans made good use of their PCs, scoring 4 of 7 goals from the set play before the halftime horn sounded. USA continued to dominate ball possession, but strong defending and some good saves by GK Alleyne kept the score unchanged until a Barbados PC turned into a USA counterattack and goal in the 50th minute. Two more PC goals and an excellent reverse stick shot finished the scoring on a dominant performance in an 11-0 win for USA to close out the quarterfinal round.
Semi-final & 5-8 Classification Matches
The first knockout round is over with the semi-final and 5-8th classification match-ups known. The first match is Mexico vs. Uruguay, followed by Trinidad & Tobago vs. Barbados in the 5-8th place classification matches. Then the semi-finals follow with Argentina vs. Canada and Chile vs. USA. The quarterfinals have followed the pre-tournament rankings so far, the top 4 teams advancing to the semi-finals on Thursday.
Pan American Hockey Federation media release
Strong Scoring Performance Lifts U-21 USWNT Over Barbados
TACARIGUA, Trinidad - The U.S. U-21 Women's National Team's strong scoring performance at the Junior Women's Pan American Championship Quarterfinals against Barbados led them to an 11-0 win. Team USA will move on to play Chile in the Semifinals on Thursday, April 7 at 4 p.m. EST.
The game got off to a quick start with the forward line jumping into action off of the starting whistle. Margaux Paolino (Villanova, Pa.) and Sophia Tornetta (Plymouth Meeting, Pa.) found their way to the circle quickly and really set the tone for the half. As the momentum built, the goals started rolling in. The first from Paolino in the 9th minute after some nice eliminations and a smooth shot, resulted in a reward for the pressure she generate. The second goal came just two minutes later on a right side deflection by Amanda Magadan (Randolph, N.J.) off a penalty corner drag.Gab Major (Royersford, Pa.) got on the score sheet next after some quick circle eliminations and an impressive low-angle backhand shot resulted in a goal to make it USA 3, Barbados 0.
The forwards and midfielders kept the pressure on, generating goal number four after an intercept by Sophia Tornetta, who quickly passed it to Erin Matson (Chadds Ford, Pa.) who bumped the ball to Nicole Woods (Beverly, Mass.) for a one-time tip in. Ashley Hoffman (Mohnton, Pa.) made her presence known on the penalty corner unit with some quality drag flicks from the top. On a penalty corner opportunity, Hoffman drug the ball onto Barbados’ goalkeepers pads were Sophia Tornetta was there to grab the rebound and one-time it into the roof of the goal to make it USA 5, Barbados 0.
Hardly work offensive continued to persist as Matson grabbed her first goal of the game off a nice passing combination between her, Paolino and Laura Hurff (Newark, Del.). The first half ended when Hurff delivered a penalty corner sweep right to Magadan for the right side deflection into the goal. Halftime score, USA 7, Barbados 0.
The beginning of the second half brought with it a dip in tempo, but Team USA managed to energize themselves and their teammates. In the 50th minute, Woods put away goal number eight. Holding possession of the ball, Team USA was patient to work the ball from the back field into the midfield line to create different attacking lines. The movement and patience paid off as the U-21 USWNT earned multiple penalty corners.Matson earned her second goal of the game by finishing a pop shot from Magadan off a penalty corner rebound to make it USA 9, Barbados 0.
Ten minutes later Team USA capitalized on a penalty corner chance as Hurff put a strong low drag flick into the right hand corner. The scoring for the day was topped off when Tara Vittese (Cherry Hill, N.J.) eliminated a defender at the top of the circle to burry a backhand shot into the cage making the final score USA 11, Barbados 0.
"I think the game went well for us, obviously with a lot of goals in the first half," said Janneke Schopman, U-21 USWNT Head Coach. "I think in the second half, Barbados tried to slow the game down and created some fouls that slowed the game down even more. We had a bit of trouble dealing with that, but I said to the girls that it's fine. It's unusual for us to play Barbados. We're not use to their style of play. I'm happy we finished on a high note and scored a couple of goals and we're now moving on to the semifinal which was the goal for today."
Tomorrow is a much-deserved rest day before Team USA heads into the Semifinals. Team USA will pick-up play against Chile in the Semifinals on Thursday, April 7 at 4 p.m. local time.
USFHA media release
Canadian women win in quarterfinal shootout at Junior Pan Ams
Shaheed Devji
PHOTO: Priya Randhawa and her teammates celebrate after defeating Uruguay in a quarterfinal shootout at the 2016 Junior Women’s Pan American Championship (By Lorena Angus)
Canada’s Under-21 Women’s National Team won a do-or-die quarterfinal match 5-3 in shootout Tuesday at the 2016 Junior Women’s Pan American Championships in Trinidad and Tobago.
With the win, the Canadian women move on to face Argentina in the semifinal on Thursday, April 7 at 1:45pm in Trinidad. Watch the game live online here.
“We wanted to put them under pressure and I thought we played a really good match,” says Junior Women’s National Team head coach Steph Andrews. “We moved the ball well; we probably didn’t finish off our opportunities I don’t think as we should have. But it was a close match.”
Neither team was able to score throughout regulation time, but it wasn’t for a lack of chances.
In fact, the Canadians had a penalty corner in the 69th minute but narrowly missed out.
We were just trying to push through and take every opportunity as we could,”says Priya Randhawa, one of the team’s more experienced players. “If one didn’t come we’d have another and just keep fighting until the very last second because it could have been anybody’s game.”
But with neither team able to convert on their chances during the game, a shootout was necessary to decide who would move on to the tournament semifinal against Argentina.
All of Canada’s five shooters in the shooutout – including Randhawa, who shot last and clinched the win – were able to score. The other shooters were Margaret Pham, Ellie Cookson, Nikki Woodcroft, and Jaslan Stirling.
Lauren Logush played the entire game in goal and made a key save off Lucia Castro in the second round of the shootout, to eventually give Randhawa and Canada a chance to win.
“It was a really close match and it could have been anybody’s game,” Randhawa adds. “I’m really proud of what we’ve accomplished so far.”
The winner of the Canada-Argentina semifinal will face the winner of the United States and Chile in the tournament final.
Field Hockey Canada media release
Asia's biggest hockey tourney Sultan Azlan Shah Cup celebrates its silver jubilee
IPOH (Malaysia): The invitational Sultan Azlan Shah Cup will on Wednesday celebrate its silver jubilee with the start of the 25th edition of the tournament that has grown to become Asia's biggest hockey event, and one of the foremost on the annual international roster.
Starting with the inaugural tournament in 1983 as a biennial event, the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup has been an annual feature in the International Hockey Federation (FIH) calendar since 1998.
Since then, 2002 was the only year it was not staged, because Malaysia was hosting the World Cup in Kuala Lumpur under Sultan Azlan Shah's leadership.
An opening ceremony on Wednesday will exhibit a montage tribute to the Late Sultan Azlan Shah of Perak, the ninth Yang di-Pertuan Agong (King) of Malaysia, whose association with the game of hockey is epitomised in numerous ways.
The continuity of the event is now a hockey legacy of the Late Sultan, a former vice-president of the FIH and head of the Asian Hockey Federation, who personally attended all the tournament until he passed away in 2014.
Datuk Rahim Mohd Ariff, chairman of the tournament organising committee on behalf of Perak Hockey, says the Late Sultan's entire family will attend the opening ceremony of the tournament's silver jubilee edition.
"The people of Perak State and the hockey fraternity across the country take a lot of pride in the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup, which is scheduled around the late Sultan's birthday," says Rahim, who has been the chairperson of the organising body since the tournament was permanently moved from Kuala Lumpur to Ipoh as per the desire of Sultan Azlan Shah.
"It is the only international hockey tournament in the world named after a person. It is also the longest running invitational tournament," says Rahim.
"A lot of other tournaments began during the past few decades, but they could not continue long."
Involved in several capacities from player, administrator and patron of the game that he was fond of, the Late Sultan Azlan Shah's persistence ensured that top hockey talent from around the world came and exhibited their dazzling skills in front of admiring audiences in Kuala Lumpur and Ipoh.
Chief organiser Rahim said the tournament always sought to promote Asian hockey and with that focus in mind, the organisers had always invited four Asian teams. This decision has recently endorsed by the Asian Hockey Federation.
He said the event has always run smoothly, except for the torrential rains in 2010 that flooded the pitch on the day of the final encounter.
"The FIH's tournament director that year was a South African, who had never encountered such a situation," said Rahim.
"The the problem was resolved when the Sultan directed him to declare India and South Korea as the joint champions."
The declaration of joint champions had never happened before but in Ipoh that day, it was the perfect solution.
The Times of India
Journey to Tokyo Olympics begin in Ipoh for hockey team
by S. Ramaguru
Stephen van Huizen will guide the team at the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup in Ipoh. - Bernama
IPOH: Malaysia’s hockey journey to the 2020 Olympics begins Wednesday at the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup.
Having failed miserably in qualifying for this year’s Rio de Janeiro Olympics, the Malaysian Hockey Confederation (MHC) set about rebuilding the team. And coach Stephen van Huizen has been tasked with moulding a side capable of making it to the 2020 Olympics.
For now, there’s no pressure on Stephen as his target at the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup is to improve on last year’s sixth-place finish.
This time, seven teams will battle for honours in the 25th edition at the Sultan Azlan Shah Stadium in Ipoh.
Defending champions New Zealand, Australia, Canada and India are all bound for Rio while Malaysia, Pakistan and Japan are working their way into recognition again.
Stephen said the tournament would be useful to gauge where Malaysia stand, especially against those Olympic-bound sides.
“Each team here have their own goals. For us, this is the start of a long road to 2020. Now, we get to assess the material we have.
“We’ll be playing matches against top sides. It will give us an insight into what sort of team we’re grooming. As we’re using a new playing structure, these matches will provide some answers for us,” said Stephen, who was named head honcho last October.
Stephen, however, will have to rely on two untested goalkeepers – Mohamed Hafizuddin Othman and Hairi Abdul Rahman – following an injury to 37-year-old goalkeeper S. Kumar.
“Both Hafizuddin and Hairi will get ample chance to shine. I have no preference at the moment. It’s up to the two players to show what they can do,” he said.
Stephen has also included three Project 2016 players – defender Mohamed Najib Hassan, midfielder Joel van Huizen and forward Nik Mohamed Aiman Nik Rozemi – in a youthful but experienced side.
“What I’m looking for is progress from match to match. We also need to remain focused and be consistent.
“There’s no pressure on the team right now. But if the players want to stay long-term in the team, they must deliver,” said Stephen.
Malaysia’s test will start with a clash against world No. 8 New Zealand. A winning start is what the local fans hope to see as Malaysia, the world No. 13, begin the first step towards Tokyo.
The Star of Malaysia
New Zealand calling on fans to fill stadium for Malaysia clash
by S. Ramaguru
IPOH: The more the merrier.
Defending champions New Zealand are not intimidated and have called on fans to come in droves to watch their opening match against Malaysia in the 25th Sultan Azlan Shah Cup at the Sultan Azlan Shah Hockey Stadium on Wednesday.
New Zealand team manager Dean Couzins said he would love to see a full crowd at the 10,000-capacity stadium.
“I believe a full stadium will spur my players and raise their game a notch higher. An NZ-Malaysia match is always a touch-and-go affair,” said Couzins.
The two sides met four times in Malaysia’s tour of New Zealand last month. The Kiwis recorded two wins (4-1 and 4-2), one loss (3-2) and one draw (0-0).
Said Couzins: “We are looking forward to a winning start. But we know each other so well, so I’m expecting a tough match.”
Unlike Malaysia, the Kiwis are preparing for the Rio de Janeiro Olympics in August.
As part of their run-up to the Games, world No. 8 New Zealand have brought a vastly-experienced line-up.
The Black Sticks have recalled veteran midfielder Shea McAleese, whose last appearance was at the World League Semi-Final in Argentina last year.
Besides the 221-cap McAleese, New Zealand have also included Ryan Archibald (306 caps), captain Simon Child (253), Arun Panchia (176), Bradley Shaw (172) and Hugo Inglis (165).
“We do have some younger players coming through the ranks like midfielder Hayden Phillips. He will be making his senior debut in this tournament,” added Couzins.
The Kiwis have twice won the Ipoh tournament. They were champions in 2012 and last year when they beat Australia 3-1 in a penalty shootout after a 2-2 draw.
Malaysia have never won the tournament but finished runners-up on five occasions.
The Star of Malaysia
Black Sticks preparing for heat at Azlan Shah Cup
The men's Black Sticks at the international men's hockey test against India. Photo / Getty Images
A stark reminder of the gruelling toll international hockey can take on players.
The men's Black Sticks are preparing to play hosts Malaysia in their opening game of the Azlan Shah Cup overnight, with the team so far experiencing 35 degree heat, stifling humidity and thunder storms.
Black Sticks striker Nick Wilson says it results in some pretty significant fluid loss.
Wilson says they average player loses about four kilos per game, so they have to be very conscious of refuelling.
The Black Sticks are the defending champions.
The New Zealand Herald
India to kick start Olympic preparation with Azlan Shah Cup
IPOH (Malaysia): Eyes firmly set on a much-improved performance in Olympics, an experimental Indian men's hockey team will kick start its preparation for the quadrennial event with the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup, where it will meet Japan in its opening match, here on Wednesday.
Eight-time Olympic gold medallist, India's tune-up for the Rio Games will get underway tomorrow at this quaint capital of Malaysia's Perak state as the opening fixture against Japan allows the team an opportunity to find its feet before running into stronger oppositions that include reigning world champions Australia.
With the Olympic Games just four months away, India want to make the most of their appearance in the 25th edition of the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup, while promising to improve upon their bronze medal effort of last year.
Boosted by their bronze medal win in the Hockey World League Finals at Raipur in last December, India will test the ability of several youngsters in reproducing their strategic training in match situations in the Azlan Shah Cup.
India have picked a squad with many young players from the core group as coach Roelant Oltmans is eager to test their ability and match temperament before he decides on the team for the Olympic Games in August.
Oltmans makes no bones about the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup being a test for the youngsters, inducted into the Indian squad in place of several seasoned players, who have been provided much-needed rest.
"International sport is all about showcasing your skills on the big stage. The young players will be under scrutiny," said Oltmans, a former Dutch national coach who has now spent considerable time in different roles with the Indian squad.
"The Sultan Azlan Shah Cup is a chance for the young Indian players to prove that they are ready for major competitions, but they should not be put under too much pressure," said the Dutch hockey legend, who is also aware of the expectations from Indian hockey fans.
Aiming to focus on one game at a time, Oltmans is aware that they can't afford to take any team lightly.
But India's major challenge is expected from a strong Australian outfit, which is keen to reclaim the title from Oceania rivals New Zealand.
Australia have won the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup on eight occasions, followed by India's five title triumphs. Last year, Australia were beaten 3-1 in a penalty shootout by New Zealand after a thrilling 2-2 draw in regulation period.
Between them, Australia and New Zealand have won the last five titles since 2011.
The last of India's five titles came in 2011, when they shared the trophy with South Korea as torrential showers washed out the final encounter.
Besides Australia and New Zealand, the only country here to have qualified for the Olympics is Canada.
Asian Games gold medallists India, the lone men's team from this continent to qualify for the 2016 Olympics, will lead the challenge of four Asian sides.
Former world champions Pakistan, hosts Malaysia and Japan complete the lineup for the tournament that will be played on a round-robin basis, with the top two teams clashing in the final and the next two in the bronze medal play-off game.
Australia have brought their strongest squad to Ipoh. Leading the Australian charge is ace striker Jamie Dwyer, a veteran of 351 international appearance. He is backed by robust defenders like Mark Knowles (275 international caps) and Chris Cirrello (177 caps).
Seeking back-to-back titles, defending champions New Zealand have recalled veteran midfielder Shea McAleese to the squad after a nine-month break. McAleese's 221 international appearance for New Zealand are next only to the experienced duo of Ryan Archibald (306) and skipper Simon Child (253).
Sultan Azlan Shah Cup's scheduling this year has made it a vital cog in India's Olympic preparation. India's only other major hockey outing before Rio will be the Champions Trophy in London in June.
The Ipoh outing will be a test of the Indian players' ability to assess different styles of play and strive to match them.
Captained by Sardar Singh, the Indian team includes some seasoned performers like vice-captain SV Sunil, Rupinder Pal Singh, Kothajit Singh and Manpreet Singh.
Matching the performance of these experienced teammates will be a test for the youngsters.
The Times of India
India begin warm-up for big year
Men’s team plays its first tournament of the Olympics year; faces Japan in opener today
The Indian team will feature many youngsters such as Harmanpreet Singh (in pic) and Harjeet Singh. File
Ipoh (Malaysia): An experimental Indian men’s hockey team will kick start its preparation for the Olympics with the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup, where it will meet Japan the opener tomorrow.
The opening fixture allows the team an opportunity to find its feet before running into stronger oppositions that include reigning world champions Australia.
With the Olympic Games just four months away, India want to make the most of their appearance in the 25th edition of the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup, while promising to improve upon their bronze medal effort of last year.
The tournament is a vital cog in India’s Olympics preparation — their only other major outing before Rio will be the Champions Trophy in London in June.
Boosted by their bronze medal win in the Hockey World League Final at Raipur in December, India will test the ability of several youngsters in the Azlan Shah Cup.
India have picked a squad with many young players from the core group as coach Roelant Oltmans is eager to test their ability and match temperament before he decides on the team for the Olympics.
“International sport is all about showcasing your skills on the big stage. The young players will be under scrutiny,” said Oltmans.
“The Sultan Azlan Shah Cup is a chance for the young players to prove that they are ready for major competitions, but they should not be put under too much pressure,” he added.
Captained by Sardar Singh, the Indian team includes seasoned performers like vice-captain SV Sunil, Rupinder Pal Singh, Kothajit Singh and Manpreet Singh along with junior India players Harjeet Singh and drag-flicker Harmanpreet Singh.
India’s major challenge is expected from a strong Australian outfit, which is keen to reclaim the title from Oceania rivals New Zealand. Australia have brought their strongest squad, which includes Jamie Dwyer, Mark Knowles and Chris Cirrello.
Australia have won the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup on eight occasions, followed by India’s five title triumphs.
The last of India’s five titles came in 2011, when they shared the trophy with South Korea as torrential showers washed out the final encounter.
Besides Australia and New Zealand, the only country here to have qualified for the Olympics is Canada. Former world champions Pakistan and hosts Malaysia complete the line-up for the tournament.
The Tribune
We are playing to win, says Pakistan hockey coach
KARACHI: Pakistan national hockey team coach Khawaja Junaid believes Pakistan have the ability to go all the way in the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup, scheduled to begin today in Malaysia.
Pakistan have missed the last two editions of the tournament due to a lack of funds and are buzzing to make up in this year’s cup and Junaid remains confident of the blend of senior and junior players.
“This is our first big assignment of the year and we want to start on a winning note. The team that we have assembled, despite having some inexperienced players, is strong enough to at least finish in the top four,” Junaid told The Express Tribune.
Seven teams, defending champions New Zealand, hosts Malaysia, Australia, India, Japan, Canada and Pakistan, are participating in the event and Junaid believes the Greenshirts should comfortably defeat Canada, Japan and Malaysia.
Meanwhile, skipper Mohammad Irfan, who will be leading the side for the first time, admits that while captaincy has increased the pressure on him, he is looking forward to leading the national side in an international tournament.
“We missed the last edition due to some issues but are lucky to be able to participate this year,” Irfan told The Express Tribune. “I’m already feeling the pressure of being a captain but I am really looking forward to lead the team in Malaysia. It’s a dream come true. We have young players in the squad, but the coaches have been brilliant in setting up the training routines and now we just have to translate those skills in the field.”
The Express Tribune
Canadian storylines at the 2016 Sultan Azlan Shah Cup
Shaheed Devji
PHOTO: Adam Froese celebrates his shootout winning goal against Malaysia at the Champions Challenge in Kuantan (Courtesy of FIH/Helmi Dawi)
Whenever Canada plays in a tournament with many of the top teams in the world, there are always interesting sidebar storylines above and beyond tournament implications.
This year Sultan’s Azlan Shah Cup is no exception.
Here are some storylines to follow as Canada makes its way through the tournament:
Canada and Pakistan to meet for first time in 6 years
When Canada opens the tournament against Pakistan on April 6, it will be the first time the two teams meet since the 2010 World Cup of Hockey in Delhi, India. Canada and Pakistan played in the 11th-12th match, with Canada coming out on top by a score of 3-2.
Six players from this year’s Azlan Shah Cup roster played in that game. They were Scott Tupper, Richard Hildreth, Mark Pearson, Keegan Pereira, Taylor Curran and David Carter. Philip Wright, a current member of the Men’s National Program, also played in that match.
Canada and Pakistan open the Azlan Shah Cup on April 6 at 4:00pm in Malaysia (1:00am PT/4:00am ET in Canada).
India match a preview of Olympic pool play
The match schedule for the 2016 Olympic Games has yet to be confirmed but the pools are widely known. Canada plays in Pool B with the Netherlands, Germany, Argentina, Ireland, and India, which means when Canada and India play at the Azlan Shah Cup on April 10, it will be a preview of what might be to come in Rio.
The Indians have left a few key players at home, but that won’t make the match much easier for the Canadians, as India is a perennially dangerous team in men’s hockey.
The two teams last met at last year’s Azlan Shah, with India claiming a 5-3 victory. Canada’s goals came from Oliver Scholfield, David Jameson, and Jagdish Gill, who was born in Calcutta, India before moving to Canada.
Canadians face familiar foes in Blacksticks
While New Zealand is also going to the Olympics, they have been drawn into Pool A – opposite to Canada’s Pool B – and won’t face Canada at the Olympics until at least the quarterfinal. But that doesn’t mean the Azlan Shah match won’t have any intensity.
Canada and New Zealand played in a heated and highly meaningful match last June at the Hockey World League Semifinal in Buenos Aires, Argentina.
With a potential spot at the 2016 Olympics on the line, the game went into a fourteen round shoot, with Canada triumphing on an Adam Froese winning goal. David Carter made 8 saves in the shootout, and Gordie Johnston converted on multiple attempts to keep Canada alive.
The win propelled Canada to Olympic qualification, while New Zealand had to wait anxiously overing the coming months before their bert was also solidified.
Canada and New Zealand play at 6:00pm on April 7 in Malaysia (3:00am PT/6:00am ET in Canada).
Malaysia match has potential to be headliner for Canada
They are worlds apart geographically, but over the years Canada and Malaysia have managed to strike up a rivalry in men’s field hockey.
The animosity dates back to the 1998 Commonwealth Games in Kuala Lampur when emotions got the better of the two teams and a game turned physical after the match.
More recently, Canada and Malaysia have found themselves in more emotional and meaningful matches in Malaysia. Last year at the Azlan Shah Cup, after Malaysia won a round robin game between the nations 4-1, Canada beat the host team in a shootout to finish 5th, handing the Malaysians a last place finish.
In 2014, another shootout win over Malaysia at the Champions Challenge in Kuantan sent Canada to the final and its best finish ever at the tournament. Adam Froese also got the shootout winner in that match. This came after Canada.
Canada and Malaysia meet again on April 12 at 8:35pm in Malaysia (5:35am PT/8:35am ET in Canada).
Field Hockey Canada media release
By the numbers: Canada at the 2016 Sultan Azlan Shah Cup
Shaheed Devji
Canada opens the 2016 Azlan Shah Cup on Wednesday in Ipoh, Malaysia. Here is a preview of the team and tournament in the form of of key numbers.
1 – Games Taylor Curran needs to reach 100 senior international matches played for Canada
1 – Highest world ranking of teams playing at the 2016 Azlan Shah Cup (Australia)
3 – Games Scott Tupper needs to pass Patrick Burrows and take sole possession of 9th in all-time men’s games played for Canada with 225
4 – Canada’s best finish at the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup (in 1998)
4 – Teams at the Azlan Shah Cup who are going to the 2016 Olympics (Canada, Australia, New Zealand, India)
4 – Times David Carter and Scott Tupper have participated in the Azlan Shah Cup.
4 – Games Jagdish Gill and Matthew Sarmento need to reach 50 senior international matches played for Canada
5 – Where Canada placed at the 2015 Sultan Azlan Shah Cup
6 – Minimum number of games Canada will play at the tournament (6 round robin games; 1 against each team)
7 – Maximum number of games Canada will play at the tournament (if they place in the top six after round robin play, they will play in the placing round)
7 – Games Scott Tupper needs to play to pass Chris Gifford and take sole possession of 8th in all-time men’s games played for Canada with 229
8 – Of the 25 editions of the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup (including 2016), Canada has participated in eight tournaments
13 – Players on Canada’s 2016 Azlan Shah Cup roster who played at last year’s tournament
14 – Canada’s world ranking heading in to the 2016 Sultan Azlan Shah Cup
16 – Lowest world ranking of teams playing at the 2016 Azlan Shah Cup (Japan)
Field Hockey Canada media release
Rape allegations did disturb me mentally, says India Hockey captain Sardar Singh
To be honest, it did disturb me mentally. But it really comes down to how strong you are, and how you take on such things, says Sardar Singh
Rutvick Mehta
Sardar Singh will lead the Indian hockey side at the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup starting in Malaysia on Wednesday (Getty Images)
India hockey captain Sardar Singh opens up to Rutvick Mehta about controversial allegations of rape against him and how he overcame it. Excerpts from an exclusive interview
The past couple of months have been like a roller-coaster ride for you. You were accused of rape, and despite all that was going on, you lead your team — Punjab Warriors — to the Hockey India League (HIL) title. How did you manage to let those issues not affect your game?
Yes, it was a tough time. But I told myself that such things happen to even the biggest sportspersons and the biggest people in other fields around the world. They face such things head on. Even I did the same, and I will continue doing the same. But the important thing is how you remain mentally strong and focus on your work. For me, my hockey is first. Even my family comes next. Hockey has given me everything that I have right now. Hockey has given me the fortune of representing my country at the highest level. So that kept me motivated. Throughout that episode, I told myself only one thing: put hockey above everything else.
But surely, the rape allegations must have affected you in some way...
To be honest, it did disturb me mentally. But it really comes down to how strong you are, and how you take on such things. It's only you who can fight such issues by talking to yourself and maintaining your inner peace and belief. I firmly believe that there's nobody else that can make you strong. It has to come from within. And that's what I did.
Were you disturbed with the timing of the entire saga, coming months before the crucial 2016 Rio Olympics?
Yes, somewhere down the line I was disappointed. The sport has given me so much, and there was a major hockey event going on when this happened (HIL). And then there are a few big tournaments coming up before the all-important Olympics. So yes, I did feel let down, but what could I have done? There was nothing I could do. Jo aapke haath mein hai, wahi karte raho (Do only what is in your control).
But there's one thing I'd like to say now, and that is a big thank you to all the hockey lovers in the country who stood by me through all this. Hockey mere zehen mein hai (Hockey is in my conscience). And I promise till the time I am fit, I will play as hard for my country as I have in all these years. I want to get the glory days of Indian hockey back before I go.
People wrote you off before the start of the HIL and when you fetched a lower-than-expected prize at the auction. Do you look at the HIL triumph as an answer to your critics?HIL and when you fetched a lower-than-expected prize at the auction. Do you look at the HIL triumph as an answer to your critics?
(Laughs) Look, in this world, you will come across lots of different kind of people, each of them having their own mindset and thoughts. People will talk good about you, people will talk bad about you. But the only thing you can control is yourself, and how you can give your best on the field.
So yes, the HIL victory was really great. The day our team was announced, I was confident that we will finish on a high with the level of players that we had. Our focus was unmatched this season, and we only spoke about winning the tournament, nothing less than that. In the final, our body language stood out. We looked like a bunch of people hungry for the title.
Looking ahead, how was the team's national camp in Bengaluru after a long international break?
The good thing is that we have got a new pitch in Bengaluru, one that has the same turf as the Olympics. So that's a really positive thing for us, that both men and women are training on the same pitch. We have a good four-five months to make best use of this turf and train really hard. Other than that, the boys are improving with each passing day. Our coaches are focussing on minute details that often costs us in games, and are working hard on our skills. So this camp has been really good for us.
The Sultan Azlan Shah Cup starting today will be a key tournament to assess the team before the Olympics, isn't it?
It's a good tournament, where the world's best teams will participate. So we'll get to know our level before the Olympics, and where we stand in comparison to the best teams around the world. We'll also know the areas that we need to address as a team and individually. Our target in this tournament is to replicate and implement the strategies that we have worked with the coaches in this camp. We want to play good hockey, and stick to the plan. If we do that, the results will surely come.
But you have rested a few seniors players for the event. So how much are you focussing on the results and how much on testing the junior players?
The new players that have come in have been selected on the basis of their performances in the HIL. The likes of Harmanpreet (Singh), Harjeet (Singh) are doing really well in training as well. They do not give the felling that they are junior players, and even we appreciate them and their skills. They have a great chance in this tournament, because senior hockey is not very different from what they are playing right now in the juniors. But yes, there will be some pressure on them turning out for the senior team for the first time, but the experienced players will make sure it doesn't affect them.
It's only you who can fight such issues by talking to yourself and maintaining your inner peace and belief. I firmly believe that there's nobody else that can make you strong. It has to come from within. And that's what I did
DNA
British great Mason, Mastering the World Cup all over again
Photo: England's Simon Mason with Malaysia player Raj Ganesan
England and Great Britain hero Simon Mason shares his experiences from the Masters Hockey World Cup 2016 in Canberra, Australia
Olympian Simon Mason amassed 120 caps for England and 74 for Great Britain during a 12-year international career as a goalkeeper. During that time he played in three Olympic Games - Atlanta 1996, Sydney 2000 and Athens 2004, and three Hockey World Cups. He recently returned to the World Cup scene as part of the England Masters team competing in Canberra, Australia. He shared some of his experiences with the International Hockey Federation (FIH)...
Never before have I gone to a tournament where the level, opponents, logistics and approach have been a total unknown. No amount of experience can calm the nerves of meeting a new team with a desire to win a world level competition.
When the competition is the pinnacle of Masters Hockey, when the chance to represent your country is something that has been strived for, trained for, saved for (most Masters teams are entirely self-funded and two weeks in Australia isn’t cheap!), I should have know that whilst the social functions, friendships, travel and fun are all hugely important, once you step across the white line onto the field of play, the competition is everything.
53 teams from 15 countries, both genders and several age groups contributed to more than 1,000 players amassing at the ACT Hockey Centre in Canberra to battle for the Masters World Cup titles.
Although some countries couldn't attend because of distance and cost - the raw energy and desire to win the competition shown by some teams, combined with the camaraderie and friendship shown by others, have made for a truly special event.
As a social ‘snapshot’ - the collecting of pins, the swapping of kit, is of a level I have never seen outside the Olympics. Players having a genuine desire to meet fellow athletes from other countries, to exchange a memento at the start of the game, just seconds before an epic encounter where little quarter is granted.
It provides a brilliant contrast. Never before have I experienced relationships that are described as ‘best friends’ for 99% of the time and ‘fiercest rivals’ for 60 or 70 minutes.
Masters Hockey has proved to be a unique, wholly enjoyable experience. A chance to make new friends from across the world and to renew some acquaintances from battles of years gone by. To enjoy exceptional hospitality and take part in a world class event, giving hockey players the chance to simply keep playing when they may have thought the best years were gone. At the same time, it is an opportunity for athletes like myself the chance to excel. How many people can claim to be World Champions, at any level?
I don’t know what exists in other sports to rival this experience? Players talk about their starting playing age being seven, eight, nine or 10 and still being active 50 years later and representing their countries.
If activity is a key to physical well-being, social interaction the key to happiness, and competition crucial to keeping the mind sharp, then Masters Hockey may well be the holy grail for the hockey family.
By Simon Mason, England Masters Goalkeeper / Olympian
To follow the Masters Hockey World Cup 2016, click here.
The Masters Hockey World Cup is another example of the inclusiveness of hockey. Regardless of age, background or ability, hockey is a sport for all. This is a crucial aspect contributing to the FIH Hockey Revolution, a 10-year strategy aimed at making hockey a global game that inspires the next generation. Creating innovative and exciting hockey events, increasing the degree of professionalism throughout all areas of the sport, building a recognised image for hockey and generating more followers around the world are all strategy goals which the Masters Hockey World Cup is contributing to. For more information on the Hockey Revolution, click here.
FIH site
England Hockey Promotion Playoffs: Round Up
Canterbury's Craig Boyne celebrates
The battle to play in next season’s Premier Division started in earnest this past weekend, with four men’s teams and four women’s teams going head to head to get those all important first points on the board.
In the Men’s Promotion Playoffs Canterbury, fighting to retain their place in the top flight via the playoffs for a second consecutive season took on Richmond, winners of the East Conference. The match was a see-saw encounter with first blood going to the Kent side through Australian star Craig Boyne, opening the scoring in the 12th minute. Rhys Linnell cancelled that effort eight minutes before the break. Two goals in five second half minutes, a second from Boyne and an open play goal from James Oates seemed set to give the Polo Farm side a dream start as their lead stretched to 3-1. Richmond however were not done yet. Top scorer Charlie Ellison blasted home a trademark penalty corner with nine minutes left and then, just two minutes later Josh Smith levelled it up at 3-3. There was to be one final twist, however as Oates bagged his second, Canterbury’s fourth to seal the win and break Richmond hearts.
The other match paired Cardiff and Met winners of the West with Loughborough Students, top of the North. The game was a tight affair with no score at the break but just two minutes after the interval, England U21 international Ed Horler broke the deadlock with a penalty corner goal, his 18th strike of the season. Luke Taylor added another, also from a penalty corner in the 54th minute and then put a gloss on the score from the penalty spot in the final minute, swelling his goal tally to 27 for the season.
The teams now head to Lee Valley Hockey and Tennis Centre for the remainder of the promotion playoffs with Cardiff and Met facing Canterbury on the Saturday and Loughborough taking on Richmond. The Sunday will pit Loughborough against Canterbury and Cardiff against Richmond as the teams fight tooth and nail to make it into the top flight next season.
The race for the Investec Women’s Premier Division is also hotting up with the first round of games taking place at Nottingham Hockey Centre, also this past Sunday.
Wakefield, winners of the North Conference came back for another crack at promotion after missing out in the playoffs last year. Their first opponents were Sutton Coldfield. The Mighty Pinks have been in devastating form in front of goal this campaign, notching 69 goals in 18 matches. They fell behind thanks to a ninth minute goal from Emily McGrath but then hit their stride with three strikes of their own from Sarah Parkinson-Mills’ penalty corner, Charlene Mason’s 44th minute strike and a penalty stroke from Jennifer Parkinson-Mills. Emma Berry gave Wakefield hope with 17 minutes remaining but they were unable to find an equaliser and Sutton Coldfield held on.
Slough celebrate their equaliser against Bowdon Hightown
Slough, who also came to playoffs last season as winners of the West Conference are back again, as winners of the East. Their first match was against Investec Women’s Premier Division side Bowdon Hightown who are fighting for survival. Kim Tanner struck the opener in the fifth minute for the Seahorses but Lizzy Totten levelled for Slough in the 17th minute. Both sides had chances to go into the lead but it was Harriet Ward’s strike five minutes after half-time that proved to be the difference, handing Slough a 2-1 win.
Sutton Coldfield and Slough, the two winners on week one of the playoffs face off on Saturday 16 April at Lee Valley Hockey and Tennis Centre whilst Bowdon and Wakefield will also do battle.
England Hockey Board Media release
Bajwa announces plans to set up hockey academy
LAHORE: Former Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) secretary Asif Bajwa announced on Tuesday plans to set up an international hockey academy here with the collaboration of a German-based organization Education For Better Future (EFBF).
Addressing a news conference with EFBF chairman Dr Dietmar Clodo, Bajwa said the players would also get free education and their healthcare would be the responsibility of the academy.
“The country has given me a lot of respect and dignity and now it is time for me to return the favour by producing players,” Bajwa said.
“German hockey players would also visit the academy to impart training to the boys.”
Clodo informed that the EFBF doesn’t ask for any money or donation from any sector as it has its own resources to promote sports, education and healthcare in Pakistan.
“In the second phase, academies for football and cricket would also be established,” he added.
Dawn
Hockey Australia Announcement - Asian Sports Partnership
1,000 children to benefit from Hookin2Hockey as a part of the Asian Sports Partnership
As a part of the International Day of Sport for Development and Peace, Hockey Australia today announced that it would take the successful Hookin2Hockey program over to India with the aim of encouraging 1,000 children and coaches to take part in the sport.
Hockey Australia has been working together with the Department of Foreign Affair and Trade, and TATA Steel to develop a hockey program for the Asian Sports Partnership which will run out of two centralised locations – Jamshedpur and Rajgangpur.
The scheme will be delivered locally with Hockey Australia coaches leading school clinics and junior development to help re-build hockey participation in the school environment.
To ensure the legacy of Hookin2Hockey in these areas, the development of local coaches will be included as a part of the sessions, with all equipment used to be gifted to the programs by Hockey Australia.
A Gala competition will be held in September at the conclusion of the School clinics to further encourage participation and the future of hockey in Jamshedpur and Rajgangpur.
Hockey Australia Chief Executive, Cam Vale said: “As a leading sporting organisation, we are delighted to be able to take our Hookin2Hockey program to India as a part of the Asian Sports Partnership.
“Being able to help develop hockey at a grass roots level, and hopefully assist in the on-going up take of the sport in Jamshedpur and Rajgangpur is something that we’re very proud of.”
Hockey Australia media release
PMB Girls’ High pupil - ‘wizard with a stick’
Michael.Zondi
Livewire Pietermaritzburg Girls’ High School defender Emihle Methusi (green, right) gets the ball away from a Treverton player at the Pietermaritzburg Central Regionals of the Spar KZN School Girls’ Hockey Challenge two weeks ago. PHOTO: supplied
“YOUR time is limited; don’t waste it living someone else’s life. The first time I stepped onto a hockey field it was new and foreign, but exciting at the same time.”
These are the words of 17-year-old Emihle Methusi from Pietermaritzburg Girls’ High, who plays for the first X1 hockey team that won the Pietermaritzburg Central Regionals of the Spar KZN School Girls’ Hockey Challenge two weeks ago.
Emihle, a Grade 12 pupil, is a defender in the team that will be competing in the Spar tournament finals at St Mary’s in July. This is her third year in the competition - her team finished with silver in last year’s tournament and a bronze in the 2014 tournament and winning it would mean a lot to her.
“It would mean the world not only to me, but also to the entire team. I know the amount of hard work everyone has put in and the dedication that they have shown so far. Ms Div, our coach [Ms Taryn de Winnaar] and the ‘Green Machine’ supporters have also put in a lot of effort and it would mean a lot to them too.”
The “wizard with a stick” started playing the sport at the age of six and her favourite hockey player is Argentine Olympic medallist, Carla Rebbechi.
“Being able to play with people who share the same passion and love for the game as I do is what I enjoy the most,” she explains.
Her toughest game was the Spar Inland League decider against St Anne’s in 2014.
When she is not on the turf she enjoys listening to music, and her other aspirations, in addition to playing hockey, is to study quantity surveying when she completes matric this year.
Her motto in life is to live life to its fullest.
“Your time is limited - don’t waste it living someone else’s life. Don’t be trapped living with the result of other people’s thinking.
“Don’t let the noise of others drown out your own inner voice. Most importantly have the courage to follow your own heart. It somehow already knows what you truly want to become, everything else is secondary,” she says.
Girls’ High is one of four teams that have secured their place in the grand finals out of a total of 10. They join Sarel Cilliers, winners of the Northern KZN Regional, St Anne’s from the Pietermaritzburg North Regional and Durban Girls’ College from the Durban Central Regional.
The next regionals of the Spar KZN School Girls’ Hockey Challenge are the Durban South Regionals on Saturday, 9 April at the three Schools’ Trust in Glenwood, and the Durban North Regionals at Danville on Sunday, 10 April.
News24
Hockey programme keeps kids off street
Gary Van Dyk
Four-year-old Trevino Arendse shows off his skills at the holiday hockey programme in Kensington last week.
The push is on again to make hockey a dynamic winter sport in the Kensington-Factreton-Maitland (KFM) area and to discover the sport’s stars of tomorrow.
Close to 300 schoolchildren in the area gave up their leisure time last week to participate in a three-day Play Sport4Life holiday hockey programme.
Under the guiding eye of former hockey players Shireen George and Charmaine Wildschut, and Charmaine’s daughter, Thora, who is a current provincial player, the children aged between five and 15 years were put through their paces and shown the basics of hockey while the skills of others were fine-tuned.
The much-needed initiative was started by Charmaine Wildschut, who has a long association with hockey in the Cape. Discussions with Shireen George who is with the Department of Cultural Affairs and Sport and the Western Province Hockey Union, took it a step further.
Play Sport4Life, the not-for-profit community organisation with a high profile in the area, came on board when local schools invited them to a meeting to kick the idea along.
“We thought it was a wonderful idea and threw all our resources into organising the holiday hockey program,” said the head of Play Sport4Life, Miles October.
“We had 12 qualified coaches, all certified by the Western Province Hockey Union, available to give these kids ongoing guidance.
“This is just the beginning. Hockey is played extensively at other schools in the Peninsula, yet is sadly lacking among the youth in the KFM area. Charmaine, to her credit, wants to redress this situation and we are there to help as part of our commitment to community support.”
October added that the organisation has already provided 400 brand new hockey sticks and associated equipment to schools in the area.
“We have been told that there are five new hockey pitches planned across the Peninsula. We want one of those pitches to be in this area.”
There has already been promising signs for the future. A makeshift KenFac team put together by a Play Sport4Life coach, played at the recent youth hockey festival at Vygieskraal. They won all their matches.
Shireen George was very excited that the programme was a great success.
“We identified raw talent across all the age groups and it was heartening to see the interest and enthusiasm from the kids. We kept many kids off the streets these holidays. That has to be a plus,” she said.
“Ultimately, we want hockey to be part of the sports curriculum at all schools in Kensington, Factreton and Maitland, and hopefully start a club in the area. With the great turnout at the holiday programme, we are sure to see hockey become a top sport in the community.”
The programme culminated with an award ceremony where all participants were presented with a certificate in recognition of their participation and commitment to the programme, as well as a goodie-bag and snacks.
For more information on Play Sport4Life contact Nazlie Dollie on +27 71 386 6573.
News24
Triple Olympian Denys Carnill dies.
By Patrick Rowley
Denys Carnill, the former Great Britain and England hockey captain, has died a few weeks after celebrating his 90th birthday last month.
He played in three Olympics, Helsinki (1952), Melbourne (1956) and Rome (1960), winning a bronze medal at his first Olympics.
A left back, he was capped 45 times for England and 27 times for Great Britain, in an era when very few internationals took place annually
He learnt his hockey at Hitchin Grammar School and later played for Oxford University and Cheltenham.
John Cockett who played with him at the 1952 and 56 Olympics, says of Carnill, “He was not only sound but very quick and a lovely bloke to have alongside you”.
His funeral on Friday week will be a private family occasion but Dean Close where he taught for many years are to hold a Memorial Service later in the year.
Carnill was also an accomplished cricketer, representing Hertfordshire.
Fieldhockey.com