News for 09 April 2016
All the news for Saturday 9 April 2016
Black Sticks stun Australia to progress to final
Photo: www.photosport.nz
The Black Sticks Women have produced a scintillating 3-2 win over defending champions Australia to progress to the Hawke’s Bay Cup final.
Down by two goals in the first half, the Black Sticks grabbed the game by its scruff and scored three unanswered goals in front of a rowdy home crowd.
Strikers Charlotte Harrison and Olivia Merry scored late in the first half to equalise before Pippa Hayward delivered the winning blow in the 45th minute.
The result was all the sweeter for the Black Sticks with Stacey Michelsen playing her 200th test and Julia King her 100th.
New Zealand will battle it out for the title against Japan at 5:15pm tomorrow, while Australia are left to play China in the bronze medal match.
All games from finals day will be streamed live at hockeynz.co.nz/Video
The Black Sticks looked dangerous in the opening stages, but it was the Hockeyroos who grabbed the opening goal after Kathryn Slattery flicked in a loose ball at the end of the first quarter.
Australia extended the lead in the 22nd minute with Slattery running the ball through traffic and catching goalkeeper Sally Rutherford wrong footed.
Trailing by two, the Kiwis lifted and quickly responded through a well-executed move which saw Harrison pull one back for her side.
Right on the stroke of halftime the Black Sticks equalised following a strong ball into the circle which Merry tapped in.
Just seconds out from three quarter time the crowd went wild when Gemma Flynn sent a crash ball into the circle where Hayward pounced and scored to give her side a 3-2 lead.
Australia fought desperately to find a levelling goal in the dying minutes but the Black Sticks remain stoic on defence.
Meanwhile, one goal was enough for Japan to defeat China and progress to the final. Japan came into their semi after topping their pool and beating India in the quarter finals.
Hawke’s Bay Cup – Finals
Sunday 10th April
7th/8th Playoff, Korea vs Canada, 10:00am
5th/6th Playoff, Ireland vs India, 12:45pm
Bronze Game, China vs Australia, 3:00pm
Final, Black Sticks vs Japan, 5:15pm
BLACK STICKS 3: (Charlotte Harrison, Olivia Merry, Pippa Hayward)
AUSTRALIA 2: (Kathryn Slattery 2)
Halftime: 2-2
Hockey New Zealand Media release
Hockeyroos go down in NZ
Aussie women to face China for 3rd after semi defeat
By Lawrence West
Australia’s Hockeyroos went down 3-2 to their New Zealand Black Sticks rivals in the semi final of the Hawke’s Bay Cup in Hastings after letting slip a two goal lead.
The result means the Hockeyroos will face China in the third place playoff on Sunday, missing out on a place in the final for the first time in the tournament’s three year history. New Zealand will play Japan for the title.
Kathryn Slattery had given the Hockeyroos a 2-0 advantage early in the second quarter with two well taken goals from close range before New Zealand fought back, wiping out the deficit by half time through goals from Charlotte Harrison and Olivia Merry.
In a typically tight and hotly contested trans-Tasman affair, both sides created further chances in the second half with New Zealand enjoying the best of them; Australian goalkeeper Ashlee Well was the busier of the goalkeepers, pulling off a string of saves to deny the likes of Kayla Whitelock and Anita Punt, although her counterpart Sally Rutherford was called upon to deny Jodie Kenny from a powerful penalty corner and could only watch as Georgie Parker deflected narrowly wide.
It was the hosts that found the vital third goal through a well taken strike from Pippa Hayward with seconds remaining until the three-quarter time break; the New Zealander collecting a long pass from the left before entering the circle and calmly finishing with a well taken shot.
Hockeyroos coach Adam Commens was pleased with how his side had contested the game, acknowledging the quality of opponent and of the match.
“As usual it was a hard fought match between Australia and New Zealand and on this occasion New Zealand came out on top. They’re a top side, although it was disappointing to give away the two-goal lead. I thought we conceded a couple of soft goals, particularly the third goal with just three seconds to go to the break – we should really be intercepting that ball before it reaches the player.
“There are some details to tidy up, which is why we come to tournaments like this, so we can sort these things before we get to Rio. Overall, we’ve played fantastically well this week. We’ve been strong in defence and before today we had only conceded one goal.”
Demonstrating just how well matched the two sides are, in their last ten encounters, including this one, there have been five draws, while the Hockeyroos have won three times and New Zealand twice.
The Hockeyroos’ will face China in the third place playoff at 1:45pm AEST on Sunday.
Hawke's Bay Cup - Semi Final
HOCKEYROOS: 2 (2)
Kathryn Slattery 14, 22 (FG, FG)
NEW ZEALAND BLACK STICKS: 3 (2)
Charlotte Harrison 24 (FG)
Olivia Merry 30 (FG)
Pippa Hayward 45 (FG)
Results & Fixtures, today
India 1-0 Canada
Korea 3-3 Ireland (0-1 shoot-out)
Japan 1-0 China
New Zealand 3-2 Australia
Finals & Classification Fixtures, Sunday 10 April
7th/8th: Canada v Korea (8:30am AEST)
5th/6th: India v Ireland (10:45am AEST)
3rd/4th: China v Australia (1:45pm AEST)
1st/2nd: Japan v New Zealand (3:15pm AEST)
Hockeyroos’ squad v New Zealand, Hawke's Bay Cup
Started
Madonna Blyth (Brisbane, QLD) 329/70
Jodie Kenny (Wamuran, QLD) 169/94
Karri McMahon (Berri, SA) 93/9
Georgina Morgan (Armidale, NSW) 35/6
Georgie Parker (Berri, SA) 96/31
Brooke Peris (Darwin, NT) 84/13
Casey Sablowski (South Coast, NSW) 241/44
Emily Smith (Crookwell, NSW) 146/59
Kathryn Slattery (South Stirling, WA) 45/13
Ashlee Wells (Moe, VIC) 72/0
Mariah Williams (Parkes, NSW) 43/5
Used Substitute
Edwina Bone (Evatt, ACT) 104/2
Jane Claxton (Adelaide, SA) 91/9
Anna Flanagan (Canberra, ACT) 165/34
Gabrielle Nance (Kingscliff, NSW) [SASI] 29/2
Ashleigh Nelson (Wagin, WA) 204/69
Unused Substitute
Rachael Lynch (Melbourne, VIC) 144/0
Grace Stewart (Gerringong, NSW) 11/5
Hockey Australia media release
Green Army Beat Korea In Dramatic Penalty Shootout 
Determination and pride aren’t sufficient enough to describe the Green Army’s win over world number 9 and Olympic-bound Korea. 2 goals in the final minute brought the game to a nail-biting shoot-out with Ayeisha McFerran the hero for Ireland.
The game didn’t start at the same pace seen in the previous matches of this tournament as Korea opted to fall away in their press and seemed content to wait for Irish errors. Opportunities for both sides were few and far between in the opening half but Korea displayed surgeon-like precision when their chances arose. A penalty corner in the 8th minute saw Seul Ki Cheon rocket the ball high into the right corner to give Korea the lead. Both teams struggled to retain possession as the heavens opened on a wet and gloomy day in Hawkes Bay. The Irish midfield struggled to be the engine-room that had caused New Zealand and Australia so many problems and an uncharacteristic turnover by Chloe Watkins lead to an absolutely unstoppable reverse strike by Bomi Kim. As half time approached, Korea appeared to have given themselves a healthy lead when Cheon stepped up and sent another penalty corner drag into the roof of the net, 3-0 to Korea.
A notable shift in the Green Army reigned in the third quarter as they won 4 penalty corners and began to connect with the passes that had eluded them in the opening 30 minutes. Better transition of the ball opened spaces for strong runs by Anna O’Flanagan and Naomi Carroll, who was dogged in her attack throughout. Carroll’s just-reward came 30 seconds into the 4th quarter when Nikki Evans slotted the ball to her for a strike; the goal was conceived from 3 accurate passes out of defense and into the Korean circle. The Green Army increased the pressure and as the clock ticked down the pride and determination alluded to earlier came to the forefront. Watkins showed her experience as she placed the ball over the diving goalkeeper following a rebound from O’Flanagan’s initial shot, 3-2 with 40 second left. Graham Shaw pulled Goalkeeper Ayeisha McFerran and opted for an additional outfield player, it was to be all or nothing. A visionary run and tap pass from Sinead Loughran found it’s way to Lena Tice, via Deirdre Duke, who showed composure far beyond her 18 years as she swept the ball goalward and through the keeper, 3-3 with 20 seconds on the clock!
The penalty shoot-out was one for the goal keepers as Anna O’Flanagan was the sole goal scorer in the testing conditions. One cannot underestimate McFerran’s role in the victory as she controlled the circle like it was her domain, forcing the Korean strikers out to awkward angles and pressurizing them into shots.
The victory means Ireland are guaranteed to finish above their tournament ranking ,7th, as they face India in the 5th/6th place match tomorrow at 1:45am. Watch live here!
Speaking after the gutsy victory coach Graham Shaw said “We believe we can get into the top ten in the world and we’re going to work incredibly hard to get there. It’s fantastic to be here playing against the top nations and to test ourselves. This team have shown the character they have, I’m incredibly proud”.
Hawkes Bay Cup
Ireland 3 (Carroll, Watkins, Tice)
Korea 3 (Cheon x2, Kim)
Penalty Shuttles
Ireland 1 (O’Flanagan) – Watkins, Frazer, O’Flanagan, Pinder, Daly
Korea 0 – Cheon, Park, D Kim, O Kim, B Kim
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
Canadian women come up short in Hawke’s Bay playoff with India
Shaheed Devji
PHOTO: Kate Gillis battles with Indian player Navjot Kaur in the Hawke’s Bay Cup playoff in New Zealand (Courtesy of Hawke’s Bay Festival of Hockey)
Canada’s women’s field hockey team dropped a 1-0 decision to India in a Hawke’s Bay Cup playoff match Saturday morning in New Zealand and will now play for 7th place on Sunday at 10:30am local time (3:30pm PT/6:30pm ET on April 9 in Canada).
Canada went toe-to-toe with the thirteenth ranked Indians for the majority of the match but wasn’t able to beat goalkeeper Savita for the equalizer.
The game began with India dictating the play for the first few minutes, which resulted in the game’s first corner of the match given to the Indians in the 6th minute. The attempted deflection was missed and Canada came out unscathed.
That’s when the Canadians began to mount an attack, as for the next five minutes they pushed back and earned a corner of their own. Karli Johansen’s dragflick was stopped by Savita as she moved to her right and the game remained scoreless into the second quarter.
Canada continued to control play and in the 16th minute earned another penalty corner after good baseline work from midfielder Natalie Sourisseau.
Johansen once again got the ball and this time tried to fire it back to Kate Gillis, who injected the ball before heading to the near post. The timing was off and Canada couldn’t make good on the corner chance.
Only minutes later, India had their best opportunity to score as Rani was all alone in front of the Canadian goal but put her shot wide. The score remained 0-0 at half-time.
Canada opened the second half looking like the team that was going to break through first.
The Canadians possessed the majority of the ball early, mostly in the Indian end and were able to manage multiple circle entries in the third quarter.
The best chances to score came over a short span starting in the 33rd minute.
First, Abigail Raye fired a backhand cross-field to Gillis in the circle, who moved the ball quickly to Brienne Stairs in front but Savita rushed out to make the save.
Then, Stairs had another chance in tight just moments later, which was stopped once again but resulted in a Canadian corner. Danielle Hennig lined up to take this one and fired a flick to the goalie’s right but was stopped.
Canada seemed to be doing everything right except putting the ball in the net.
It was India, against the run of play, who scored the game’s only goal. In the 43rd minute, Lilima Minz was fed a ball through the middle of the pitch and made her way tot the top of the Canadian circle before hammering a hard hit low past Kaitlyn Williams to give India the 1-0 lead.
In the 51st minute, Thea Culley and Stephanie Norlander both had chances from point blank range but both had their shots blocked and deflected wide. Johansen put another dragflick on goal shortly after on another Canadian corner, but this time it was an Indian defender saving it on the goal line.
In the end, the Canadians ran out of time and India held on for the 1-0 win.
Canada will now face the winner of Ireland-Korea in the 7th place match which will be played Sunday at 10:30am local time in New Zealand (3:30pm PT/6:30pm ET on April 9 in Canada). The game can be watched lived online at hockeynz.co.nz.
GAME NOTES:
Forward Kate Gillis and defender Abigail Raye both played in their 150th matches for Canada, making them the second and third players (in addition to Thea Culley) who reached that milestone during this tournament.
Field Hockey Canada media release
Transtasman rivalry on menu for Black Sticks women, men face Pakistan
By David Leggat
Black Sticks Women Photo / Andrew Cornaga
Without getting ahead of themselves, New Zealand probably expected to be facing Australia in tomorrow's Hawkes Bay Festival women's final in Hastings.
After all, the world's Nothree (Australia) and four-ranked nations were tipped to meet in the final, provided they played to that ranking.
However, Australia fluffed that enticing prospect by finishing second in their pool to Japan. That put them on course to face the Black Sticks in today's semifinal, the winner to play either Japan or China in the decider.
The last meeting between the teams was the Oceania Cup final in Stratford in November, the Aussies won by dint of a 2-1 penalty shootout, following a 1-1 draw in regulation time.
There's little between the teams. Each won one of the two clashes at the World League semifinal in Belgium last June-July, the difference being New Zealand won the pool match, Australia the knockout game. At the Oceania Cup, they draw in round robin play, with the Australians winning the big finale.
"Personally I always love playing Australia because you know it's going to be a tough battle, and we've got to match their intensity," experienced defender Emily Naylor said yesterday. "There is that real rivalry and it is something special because we are so even, and the rankings show that."
Naylor is New Zealand's most capped international with 268 caps. She can't remember how often she's faced Australia, but probably more than any other Black Sticks player.
She is back after taking a year out post-Commonwealth Games in Glasgow in 2014. Naylor reckons her game is steadily getting back to the standard she'd like.
"In the first few games you feel a bit rusty, a bit off the pace.
"But in this tournament my performances have got a bit better each game, and while there's always room for improvement, areas I need to work on, I think I'm slotting back okay," she said.
Beat Australia today and New Zealand will be favourites to win the eight-nation title for the first time.
The men's Black Sticks have a major issue to resolve in the Azlan Shah tournament in Ipoh, Malaysia.
The eighth-ranked New Zealanders have drawn their first two games, 3-3 against the hosts, and 1-1 against Canada in a below par start to their defence of the title.
In those two games, New Zealand won 21 penalty corners, but scored from just two - one in each match.
But on two occasions against the Canadians, the ball was poorly trapped, squandering the opportunity for primary drag flickers Kane Russell or Nic Woods to get a shot off.
New Zealand play 10th-ranked Pakistan tonight in a key match if the Black Sticks are to get up to the sharp end of the points standings in the round robin event.
Malaysia lead the table on four points, with Australia, Pakistan and India on three, New Zealand on two, Canada one and Japan none. New Zealand play Japan in their fourth game tomorrow night.
The New Zealand Herald
The Malaysian syndrome
By Jugjet Singh
AFTER two matches in the 25th Edition of the Azlan Shah Cup, Malaysia have scored seven goals but let in six, three of which went in, in the final five minutes of both matches.
During the New Zealand match on Wednesday, Malaysia were leading 3-2 but allowed the Kiwis to steal a point by letting in equaliser in the 55th minute.
And against Japan, the national players took a 4-1 lead but still, let in two penalty corner goals in the 54th and 59th minutes and escaped with full points because the clock ran out on the Japanese.
The tournament is being played on a 15-minutes each four-quarters format, with only 60 minutes of action.
This 'Malaysian' syndrome saw the country lose out on the Rio de Janeiro Olympics and also the Junior World Cup.
In the World League Semi-finals last eight match in Antwerp, Belgium, Malaysia were leading India 2-1 and were on the way to Brazil, but allowed India to score two goals and win 3-2. India double qualified for the Olympics as they also won the Asian Games gold.
And in the Junior Asia Cup in Kuantan, the juniors were leading South Korea 3-1 in the quarter-finals with two minutes to end. But coach Arul Selvaraj's boys collapsed and allowed the Koreans to score two goals and take the match to a penalty shoot-out.
The Koreans won the shoot-out and qualified for the Junior World Cup, Malaysia missed the boat by two minutes.
There are another dozen incidences where Malaysia lost because of lapses during the first five minutes, or the last five minutes -- something which the late Sultan Azlan Shah had reminded the players back in 2005 before sending off the Junior World Cup team to Rotterdam.
"Over the years we have lost out of playing in major tournaments, or medals, because of our lackadaisical attitude in the first five minutes as well as the last five minutes," said Azlan Shah then.
Shukri Mutalib was among the 2005 Junior World Cup players and he is still in action at the 25th Edition of the Azlan Shah Cup -- where Malaysia are still making the same mistakes.
Coach Stephen van Huizen has inherited a problem which was prevalent even during his playing days -- and it looks like Malaysia will never make progress in the hockey world if they can't overcome this mental block.
One can expect this syndrome to sneak in during four remaining pool matches in Ipoh as well.
Jugjet's World of Field Hockey
Unpredictable Malaysia
By Jugjet Singh
AUSTRALIAN coach Graham Reid was a little surprised when he saw a totally transformed Malaysian team in Ipoh, from the one which his World No 1 side toyed around in the recent Tests.
Malaysia were thrashed 7-1, 5-0 and 4-0 in the Tests, about three weeks ago, where Reid saw 'some youth with some potential and skills'.
"After watching them play New Zealand (3-3) and Japan (4-3), I notice this team is playing totally different from the one we played in the recent Test matches.
"In Ipoh they are more organised, committed, and play with zest," said Reid.
The Australian coach attributed the change to home fans, who seem to push them to the limit.
"We always relish playing in the Azlan Shah Cup, especially against Malaysia, because the packed stadium, drums and vuvuzela noise seems to spur the hosts.
"Australia also need to get adjusted to these type of cheering as we will soon be playing in the Olympics, which i expect to be watched by capacity crowds as well," said Reid.
Last year, Australia could only beat Malaysia 3-2 in the pool match, with the winner coming in the 59th minute.
National coach Stephen van Huizen said: "One can never prepare for a match against Australia as even though the team closes almost all holes, they have a knack of finding the smallest of cracks to score.
"Having said that, we have played some good Test matches against them recently, and we hope to give them a good fight."
And what makes the Australians, favourite to play in the final of the Rio de Janeiro Olympics so special?
"Culture. Its an inbuilt thing from our previous players who just refused to be beaten and this attitude has been passed down to the present team.
"Also, there are 30 other players who are capable of replacing me back home waiting for their break, and so, I'm not about to give it to them. This keeps all of us on our toes every minute of every match," said Australian skipper Mark Knowles.
STANDINGS
P W D L F A Pts
MALAYSIA 2 1 1 0 7 6 4
AUSTRALIA 1 1 0 0 5 1 3
PAKISTAN 1 1 0 0 3 1 3
INDIA 2 1 0 1 3 6 3
N ZEALAND 2 0 2 0 4 4 2
CANADA 2 0 1 1 2 4 1
JAPAN 2 0 0 2 4 6 0
April 8: REST DAY.
April 9: Japan v Canada (4pm), New Zealand v Pakistan (6pm), Malaysia v Australia (8.35pm).
April 10: Japan v New Zealand (4pm), Australia v Pakistan (6pm), Canada v India (8.35pm).
Jugjet's World of Field Hockey
Stephen: Our team will not repeat same mistakes in Ipoh
by S. Ramaguru
Japan player Kitazato Kenji (right) and Kayukawa Koji (far left) mark Malaysian player Nik Rosemi Aiman during the Sultan Azlan ShahHockey Cup .RONNIE CHIN/The Star
IPOH: Old habits die hard. And that’s the problem faced by the national men’s hockey team as they go up against world champions Australia at the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup Saturday.
Malaysia seemed headed for a win after cruising to a 4-1 lead over Japan on Thursday. Like usual, things began to fall apart for Malaysia.
In the last 10 minutes, the Malaysians crumbled to allow the Japanese to narrow the gap to 4-3. Luckily, Japan ran out of time and Malaysia trooped off for their first win.
It was the same in Malaysia’s opening match against defending champions New Zealand on Wednesday. Malaysia held the lead twice but allow New Zealand to fight back for a 3-3 draw.
Defensive lapses, sloppy marking, gaps in midfield and unforced errors littered Malaysia’s game. The previous teams were also bugged by this malaise.
National coach Stephen van Huizen, however, is not too concerned.
“I am sure the players will not repeat the same mistakes again. They will learn from the Japan game. We are happy to get a win. Four points from two matches is a good start for us.
“We need to build on this and improve as we go along. It is not going to be easy and we do not take anything for granted,” said Stephen.
Malaysia will play their third game today against world No. 1 Australia.
The Malaysians lead the seven-team standings but nobody is holding their breath for an upset.
Said Stephen: “We will try our best and put up a good fight. The Australians are in a class of their own and beating them will be near impossible. They have good players in all departments and play very hard.”
Australia, the three-time World Cup champions, began their campaign with a 5-1 thrashing of reigning Asian Games champions India despite not being at their best.
Australia coach Graham Reid, however, is not taking Malaysia for granted.
“Yes, we beat Malaysia in three friendlies recently in Perth but that’s another story. I am sure Malaysia will be an improved side tomorrow (today),” said Reid.
The Star of Malaysia
Old-timer Mark knows he is still good enough to play on
by T. Avineshwaran
File photo of Mark Knowles
IPOH: Retirement is far from Australian skipper Mark Knowles’ mind.
Knowles, who turned 32 last month, believes he still has the game to play at the highest level in world hockey.
“I hope to play in my fourth Olympics (in Rio de Janeiro in August). That’s going to be a major achievement for any player. At 32, I am at the tailend of my career but I’m not thinking of quitting yet.
“I’m fit and raring to go. I will always be available for selection and I want to play on till the next Commonwealth Games and World Cup (in 2018),” said Knowles.
Knowles has practically won everything in the sport. He was in the Australian team that last won the Olympic gold in Athens in 2004. Then in 2014, he won the World Cup in The Hague. Besides that, he has also won two Champions Trophy (2005 and 2012) and three Commonwealth Games golds (2006, 2010 and 2014).
To top it all, he was named 2014 World Player of the Year by the International Hockey Federation (FIH).
Knowles is now playing in the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup tournament. He helped Australia thrashed India 5-1 in their opening match at the Sultan Azlan Shah Stadium on Thursday.
Knowles, who has 276 international caps, said winning is everything for Australia.
“It has been the team’s culture. That’s the way we are. You cannot win it all but we will never stop trying. That is the Australian way,” he added.
Knowles also said he would be back to play in next year’s Sultan Azlan Shah Cup.
“This is not my last Azlan Shah Cup. I was 20 when I made my debut in 2004.
“I will surely be back next year. I love coming here,” he said.
The Star of Malaysia
Oltmans seeks improved show from Indian hockey team
India hockey coach Roelant Oltmans. (TOI Photo)
IPOH (Malaysia): Coach Roelant Oltmans has sought an improved show from the Indian team in the ongoing 25th Sultan Azlan Shah Cup hockey tournament after the 1-5 mauling by world champions Australia in a preliminary league fixture.
Wanting his wards to learn from the outing against the world's top side, Oltmans said the young members of the squad ought to have learnt several lessons on finishing touches while scoring.
Not too pleased with the confusion in his team's defence, Oltmans is eager to plug the visible gaps deep in the Indian territory, but also wants the strikers to learn from the manner Australia capitalised on four of their five forays into the circle.
"There was a clear lesson in effectiveness and how chances should be finished. Our boys must learn and gain from that," said Oltmans as the Indian team today restricted its rest day activity to physical exercises.
Missing numerous scoring chances continues to be the bane of Indian hockey and Oltmans rued that India failed to capitalise on several opportunities that they created against Australia.
"Improving our scoring ability in open play is an important aspect," said the coach. "We also need to show some progress in our defence."
The Indian team will tomorrow resume training for Sunday's game against Canada, who started the tournament with a 1-3 loss to Pakistan.
Canada rebounded strongly in the second outing yesterday to hold defending champions New Zealand to a 1-1 draw in hot and humid conditions.
Canada are among the four nations playing in the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup to have qualified for the Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro.
"Our task of providing high quality exposure to our young players includes testing them against top-notch sides. In that context, the match against Australia was very important for us," said Oltmans.
"You only get to assess you game when you play against top teams," said Oltmans, asserting that the outing against Australia yesterday would be a significant milestone in the career of the young players.
"They will learn to cope with the tremendous pressure exerted by Australia's turnover raids," he said.
Patience, says Oltmans, is vital for India to improve.
"Let's not get too hassled by the scoreline. Like any coach, I am obviously not happy at conceding five goals, but we are making progress," said Oltmans.
The coach said India were taking small steps forward. He said the gains of this tournament would reflect through the progress of these young players.
"India have got quite a few good results in Asia. Now, we need to show our progress in major tournaments," he said.
India have three points from their initial two outings of the Suntan Azlan Shah Cup, placing them fourth in the league standings.
Hosts Malaysia are on top of the standings with four points from two matches, followed by Australia and Pakistan on three points through victories in their lone outings so far.
Title holders New Zealand have just two points after drawing both their matches, while Canada have one from two games and Japan have lost both their matches.
The Times of India
Bereaved Manpreet to rejoin squad ahead of Canada game
IPOH (Malaysia): Bereaved Indian hockey midfielder Manpreet Singh will be rejoining the team for the Azlan Shah Cup on Friday after fulfilling his responsibilities back home following the sudden death of his father.
Manpreet was forced to return to India following the demise of his father hours before India's opening match in the Azlan Shah Cup against Japan.
Just after receiving the news, Manpreet immediately rushed back to be with his family.
As a mark of respect towards Manpreet's loss, India and their opponents of the first two games -- Japan and Australia -- sported black arm bands and observed a minute's silence prior to their matches.
Manpreet will now be available for India's next game against Canada on April 10.
"I have done my duties here, and I am thankful to the team and everyone involved for supporting me in this time," Manpreet said.
"My team mates are like my brothers, and at this time, I want to go there and be with them and support them as they have supported me."
The Times of India
Pakistan coach unimpressed by New Zealand
By Nabil Tahir
Both Canada and New Zealand were let down by some wayward finishing and Pakistan coach Junaid knows they must be better when they take on New Zealand tomorrow. PHOTO: AFP
KARACHI: Canada’s 1-1 draw against defending champions New Zealand at the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup in Ipoh, Malaysia yesterday left Pakistan head coach Mohammad Khawaja Junaid in good heart, with a match against the Black Sticks on the horizon.
“We have a chance of defeating New Zealand as they drew their match against Canada and we emerged comfortable winners against the North Americans,” said Junaid.
Having drawn 3-3 with hosts Malaysia in the last match on Wednesday’s opening day, New Zealand now need to win all their remaining matches in order to be assured of a place in the final.
But if Pakistan can help it then their opponents tomorrow will be heading for an early exit.
Junaid was left unimpressed by the defending champions, saying New Zealand made mistakes in all areas of the pitch. “They were not weak in just one area; they were weak in all areas,” he said.
Canada found Black Sticks keeper Devon Manchester a stumbling block as they were foiled in their first two penalty-corner set-pieces during the first quarter. But after four failed attempts, Gordon Johnston finally made the pressure count for Canada to give his side the lead in the 25th minute.
New Zealand, who had failed to get out of the blocks till then, were jolted by the goal and quickly went in search for an equaliser. However, it wasn’t until their ninth set-piece that Nic Woods found the back of the net to make it 1-1 in the 45th minute.
Australia thrash India 5-1
In the other match on day two, Australia thrashed India 5-1 in their opening match to send a strong message to other teams vying for the title.
Australia opened the scoring in the fifth minute through Blake Govers but India’s Rupinderpal Singh equalised just three minutes later when he converted a penalty corner.
But that parity was short-lived as the Aussies took the lead again in the 14th minute through Jacob Whetton to end the first quarter a goal up.
It was all Australia from there on in as Eddie Ockenden scored the third in the 20th minute followed by Simon Orchard’s strike in the 27th minute. Matt Ghodes then completed the rout by scoring in the 53rd minute to make it 5-1.
Malaysia hang on for 4-3 win over Japan
In the last match yesterday, two goals by skipper Razi Rahim helped Malaysia to a nail-biter of a 4-3 win over Japan. Rahim helped the hosts get off to a flier as he scored in the second minute, only for Japan to level through skipper Hiroki Sakamoto a minute later.
Rahim then gave his side the lead again in the 11th minute and then hit a shot that was well-saved by the Japanese keeper only for Haziq Shamsul to tap home the rebound in the 14th minute to cap an action-packed first quarter.
Fitri Saari made it 4-1 in the 32nd minute but Japan made the home crowd fret with two late goals — in the 54th and 59th minute — but were unable to complete a superb comeback.
The Express Tribune
We know Black Sticks’ weaknesses, claims Pakistan coach
By Nabil Tahir
Pakistan defeated Canada 3-1 in their opening match of the 2016 Sultan Azlan Shah Cup and eye a similar result against New Zealand today. PHOTO: MALAYSIAN HOCKEY CONFEDERATION
KARACHI: Pakistan coach Mohammad Khawaja Junaid expects his team to put on a good show today when they face defending champions New Zealand in the 25th Sultan Azlan Shah Cup in Ioph, Malaysia.
Junaid says he has identified the weaknesses that the lacklustre New Zealand showed in their two drawn matches — first in a 3-3 draw with hosts Malaysia and then a 1-1 stalemate with Canada — and plans to exploit them, while his charges have been working hard to polish their own finishing.
“The players must not miss any chances and have undergone special drills as well,” Junaid told The Express Tribune, while also admitting that the Greenshirts need to improve despite 3-1 win in their opening clash against Canada. “We have to improve our own scoring ability from open play and also need to focus on our defence.”
The coach is aware that the task at hand is a tough one but believes matches as big as this are pivotal to the team’s development. “It will be a tough match, but it is always exciting to play against a strong team against whom the young players learn the most,” said Junaid. “The players can only assess their game when they play against a top team. Pakistan will get a better idea of their position playing against Kiwis before the all-important showdowns against world champions Australia and arch-rivals India.”
Junaid, who is targeting a top-two finish for Pakistan in their group, further revealed his charges have worked hard on their blocking of straight goals. “From the matches we have watched of New Zealand and Australia, we have seen that they like to score straight frame goals from a distance,” added Junaid.
Captain Mohammad Irfan, meanwhile, is buoyed by the team’s performance against Canada and is confident of a similar result against New Zealand. “The team in the first match played according to plan and if we do the same in the next match, we will get the result,” said Irfan.
Pakistan’s next outing will be tomorrow against Australia. After a day’s rest, the team will then lock horns with India.
Meanwhile, in the remainder of today’s fixtures, Japan will be hoping to get their first win of the tournament when they take on Canada.
In the third match of the day, Australia who won their lone match to secure three points will face Malaysia, who are on top with four points from two matches – a draw and a win.
The Express Tribune
Junior Pan American Championship (W) - Day 5
A sunny morning with a nice Caribbean breeze blowing across the ground greeted the teams for the start of the penultimate round of the tournament. Uruguay needed a shootout for the second game in a row to defeat Mexico after a 0-0 regulation time draw, hosts Trinidad & Tobago defeated Caribbean rivals 3-1, Argentina won comfortably against Canada 9-0 and USA were also comfortable in a 5-0 win over Chile.
ARG vs CAN (semi-final)
Match three was the first semi-final, with tournament favourites Argentina taking on Canada under a scorching Caribbean sun.
Argentina got off to their usual dominant start pushing Canada right back into their 25-yard area. Magdalena Ladra had two clear opportunities from the right that she hit narrowly past either post. Ortiz gave her team the lead from a PC rebound on the left side base line with a reverse stick screamer past Logush in the Canada goal. A Trinchinetti tap in doubled the Argentina lead, but Canada started to get back into the game earning the first PC conceded by their opponents for the tournament so far. GK Rosseti was forced into a good save from the Dearmond shot from the set play. Argentina quickly resumed control and Jankunas scored 2 more goals before the halftime horn sounded for a 4-0 lead at the interval. Argentina started the second half by immediately attacking Canada who defended well. It did not take long for the pressure to lead to 2 PC goals by Trinchinetti with a rebound and Gorzelany with a drag flick. Canada continued to make Argentina work hard to break them down, but they could not keep up with the speed and movement of the attacks. Ortiz and Sanguinetti added a field goal each before Granatto scored a PS. The teams played out the next 15 minutes without further goals added to the game for a final score of 9-0. Argentina are the first to qualify for the final and the Junior World Cup.
CHI vs USA (semi-final)
The 4th and final match saw Chile take on USA in the second semi-final. The two teams got off to a fast start with both teams fighting for control in the midfield. Chile worked their way into the opposition’s half first, but the Americans held firm. Through their strong pressing game USA started to slowly take control and Major set up Paolino well for a tap in and Matson followed up with a PC variation goal. Krimerman was struck a scary blow on the back of the head from a cross, but Chile continued to fight. The Americans continued to dominate play and the halftime score remained 2-0. The second half started with Chile pushing to get back into the game and again the USA defence held firm. They then launched an attack of their own and Moyer’s quick shot and goal made the game a lot more comfortable. Hoffman scored a PC soon after and one more Matson goal sealed a hard fought 5-0 semi-final win against Chile.
MEX vs URU (5-8th)
The first 5-8th match of the day was Mexico taking on Uruguay. Mexico were coming off of a heavy defeat to Argentina while Uruguay were trying to bounce back from a disappointing penalty shootout loss to Canada.
The match got off to a slow start with many passing errors in the midfield and Uruguay enjoying the territorial advantage. Despite the cool conditions neither team was able to generate their high intensity from previous matches. Uruguay nearly brought the game to life with a couple well taken PCs, but were denied the lead by good saves from GK Inguanzo. Mexico had two players serve 2-minute suspensions at the same time and Uruguay still were unable to turn the numerical advantage into meaningful chances. Mexico battled hard and eventually got their first shot off in the 30th minute. The halftime horn sounded with the score still 0-0. Uruguay started the second half with more energy, pressing more aggressively and attempting to prevent transferring passes. Uruguay had a fantastic opportunity from a PC when a shot from Petrik Vidal was deflected wide by Vega. Then Mexico earned a PC but Rosainz drag flicked wide. In the 69th minute Tatton narrowly missed a PC variation. In the final minute with both teams pushing to win in regulation time saw a promising attack from Mexico broken up and Uruguay charge down the field only for the defence to clear. The horn sounded right after to send Uruguay to their second shootout finish in as many matches and giving Mexico their first defensive clean sheet. Uruguay held their nerve to win the shootout 3-1 and become the first qualifier in the 5-6th final.
TTO vs BAR (5-8th)
The second 5-8th match was hosts Trinidad & Tobago against fellow Caribbean team Barbados in a clash of huge regional rivals.
The hosts got off to the faster start, taking the lead from their 1st PC of the match in the 2nd minute. Then Trinidad & Tobago let Barbados off of the hook missing a simple goal line tap in and continued to make a lot of unforced errors. It was one of these errors that led to a Barbados counterattack and equalising goal. The goal seemed to energise Trinidad & Tobago and they dominated possession pushing Barbados deeper. With the exception of 2 PC attempts that were easily saved by Alleyne, Trinidad & Tobago did not threaten the Barbados goal and the halftime horn sounded with the teams even at 1-1. The second half started with Barbados pushing the host team back, aided by an early 2-minute suspension by Trinidad & Tobago’s Lee. Then it was Trinidad & Tobago’s turn to dominate possession and they eventually were rewarded with a PS goal by Abreu in the 47th minute. Barbados pushed forward again to dominate play for the next 5-minute phase. Then it was Trinidad & Tobago’s turn again to control the play, a period that ended with a lovely deflected goal by Govia. Barbados again pushed forward to get back into it, but two yellow card suspensions within two minutes gave the initiative back to Trinidad & Tobago and they kept the ball away from their opponents to kill off the game. Final score 3-1 to the hosts who join Uruguay in the 5th-6th match.
Final Round
The semi-final round is over the results continued to match the pre-tournament rankings. The matches on the final day of competition are Mexico vs. Barbados for 7-8th, followed by Trinidad & Tobago vs. Uruguay for 5-6th place, Canada vs. Chile for 3-4th and the grand finale Argentina vs. USA.
Pan American Hockey Federation media release
UJ hockey stars help SA qualify for World Cup
The SA U21 men’s hockey side took part in the recent Junior World Cup qualifier in Namibia. Photo: Stephen Halle.
AUCKLAND PARK – South African U21 men and women represented the country in hockey last month.
A contingent of University of Johannesburg hockey players returned from Namibia last month, excited with the experience gained from helping South Africa qualify for the Junior World Cup.
UJ fielded four players, Carmen Smith, Cheneal Raubenheimer, Kristen Paton and Marizen Marais, in the women’s U21 team, that won the tournament when they defeated Zimbabwe in the final. This enabled them to qualify for the World Cup to be played in Santiago, Chile, from 23 November to 4 December.
The men’s team, which included UJ’s Kyle Lion-Cachet, Tyson Dlungwana, Ryan Crowe, Stephan Halle and Amkelwe Letuka, qualified after they finished as the runners-up to Egypt in the African qualifier. The men’s World Cup takes place in India from 1 to 11 December.
Besides the players, others closely involved with UJ hockey contributed to the success of the South African teams. Garreth Ewing was the men’s head coach, Christy McCrorie was the women’s video analyst and hockey manager, Elize le Roux, attended as a technical official. In addition, UJ alumnus Patrick Tshutshani coached the SA women’s team.
“My personal view is that the UJ players did very well and were all excited to be representing their country. I believe we can be proud of their contributions,” said Le Roux.
“The exposure and experience they gained was very good and although the competition perhaps was not as strong when compared to facing European teams, the African tournaments are never easy. As an institution, we could not be prouder of the efforts our hockey members put into the qualifier and I think everyone learned from the experience,” Le Roux added.
The SA U21 members now face the senior men’s and women’s inter-provincial tournaments at the Randburg Sports Complex on Malibongwe Drive, hosted by [Southern Gauteng hockey association http://www.sgha.co.za/] from 24 to 30 April. The national sides that competed in Namibia will compete as individual teams at the inter-provincial, which will be a an opportunity to prove themselves ahead of the Junior World Cups.
Northcliff and Melville Times
USWNT to Host Chile in May for Test Series
COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. – The U.S. Women's National team will host Chile in a three-match test series at Spooky Nook Sports, the Home of Hockey in Lancaster County, Pa. in May. This international series against Chile is part of Team USA’s preparatory matches before the Rio 2016 Olympic Games and another opportunity to support the team’s journey.
"We are looking forward to hosting Chile at Spooky Nook Sports in May," said Craig Parnham, USWNT Head Coach. "The three-game series will present us with another opportunity to assess our group in a competitive environment as we approach the Olympic Games in August. It also provides a chance for the local community to come and watch international hockey here in Lancaster and support the Olympic team as we move into the final phases of preparation before the Rio Olympic Games."
The last meeting between the two teams was at the 2015 Pan American Games in Toronto, Canada. The USWNT was tested defensively in the match but held full-field composure and early scoring helped lead the team to a 2-0 victory in their second pool play match.
After several training weeks, the USWNT is ready to face another challenge as they do everything possible to prepare for the Olympic Games. This series will be played on the outdoor AstroTurf field at Spooky Nook Sports.
Tickets for the Chile series will go on sale Wednesday, April 13 at 12 p.m. EST and will be for sale on usafieldhockey.com.
USA Field Hockey members will have an exclusive 48 hour pre-sale ticket opportunity Monday, April 11 at 12 p.m. EST to Wednesday, April 13 at 12 p.m. EST.
USA vs Chile Series Schedule:
Saturday, May 14 USA vs Chile, 7:30 p.m. EST
Tuesday, May 17 USA vs Chile, 7:30 p.m. EST
Thursday, May 19 USA vs Chile, 7:30 p.m. EST
Tickets are $10 for discounts (children under 18, senior citizens and military), $18 for adults (USA Field Hockey Members) and $20 for adults (general public). There will be an option to purchase full series tickets for $25 for discounts, $46 for adults (USA Field Hockey Members) and $50 for adults (general public). Parking is included in the ticket price.
Group tickets will also be available for each game, when 10 or more tickets are purchased from a like ticket category. A match discount will then be applied per ticket. This is a great option for clubs, middle and high school teams, collegiate programs or any group of friends wanting to experience international field hockey competition together.
"This will be a chance for hockey fans to see our Olympic athletes at the Home of Hockey as they prepare for the Rio 2016 Games," said Simon Hoskins, USA Field Hockey Executive Director. "The evening games will be under lights and will provide for an exciting atmosphere as Team USA defends their unbeaten streak at their home field stretching back to March 2014."
USFHA media release
Butali Sugar Warriors shift focus on tricky USIU
Coach Tom Olal has tipped striker Alex Kubasu to hit double figures against the champions.
Brian Musasia of Butali Sugar Warriors in action during their Kenya Hockey Union men's Premier League match against Nakuru Hockey Club on April 3, 2016 at City Park Stadium. PHOTO | MARTIN MUKANGU | NATION MEDIA GROUP
Champions Butali Sugar Warriors will be aiming to open a four-point lead atop the Kenya Hockey Union (KHU) men’s Premier League table with a win over United States International University of Africa (USIU-A) at City Park Stadium on Saturday.
The encounter is one of the eight matches lined up this weekend, six in Nairobi and two in Nakuru, as the 2015/2016 season nears its conclusion.
Focus will be on the men’s Premier League where Butali, who have 64 points, lead second-placed Kenya Police by a single point with five matches left.
With the two rivals meeting next Saturday, Butali will be eager to go into the fixture with a four-point cushion should they beat the students.
USIU are one of the two teams that took points off the lakeside team during the first leg after a 1-1 draw while Police beat them 2-1 in their only defeat this season.
Butali coach Cliffe Okello has urged his charges to be more clinical in front of goal as well remain focused for the entire match.
“USIU are our bogey team, you don’t know what to expect from them and we therefore have to be prepared for anything as we seek the three points,” Okello warned.
Butali will turn to veteran striker Zack Aura, who scored a hat-trick in last weekend’s 4-1 win over KCAU, to lead the attack alongside Kenyan international Emmanuel Simiyu.
Defenders Saidi Okwemba and Kenneth Nyongesa are fit after suffering knocks last weekend. USIU have however, vowed to wreck Butali’s title ambitions as they seek to cement their third spot placing.
Coach Tom Olal has tipped striker Alex Kubasu, who has scored nine league goals this season, to hit double figures against the champions.
“He (Kubasu) tormented the Butali defence during the first leg and he is ready to take them on again. Pressure is on them because they cannot afford to lose this match,” Olal said. USIU will complete their weekend assignments with a match against debutants Parklands on Sunday.
The match is one of two crunch games for Parklands this weekend in their bid to avoid relegation. They take on fifth-placed Greensharks on Saturday afternoon at City Park in a game they cannot afford to lose.
Parklands lie in 13th place, six points ahead of Mvita XI. With bottom placed Mombasa Sports Club already relegated, the battle for survival is on.
“Every match for us is now like a final and we need to ensure we get as many points as possible so as to stay up,” Parklands coach Saeed Gakuria said.
Nakuru hockey club welcome 2012 champions Sikh Union this afternoon before hosting high-flying Parkroad on Sunday.
FIXTURES (All matches at City Park Stadium unless stated)
Saturday:
Premier men: Nakuru v Sikh Union- 3pm (Nakuru), Greensharks v Parklands (4pm), USIU-A v Butali (6pm)
Sunday:
Premier men: Strathmore v KCAU (9am), Parklands v USIU-A(11am), Nakuru v Parkroad (Nakuru) – 11am
National women: USIU v Vikings (1pm)
National men: Wazalendo Youth v UON (3pm)
Daily Nation
German Hockey Great Christian Blunck Optimistic About Pakistan Hockey's Revival
By Ijaz Chaudhry
The author and Cristian Blunck
Christian Blunck, the former German hockey captain, was in Pakistan recently on the personal invitation of Shahbaz Ahmed, secretary PHF.
Born in Hamburg, country‘s major hockey centre, hockey is in his blood. Mother Greta Blunck was a German hockey star of 50s and 60s. The highlight of his long international career (1989-98) was the 1992 Olympics where Germany won the gold after 20 years with Blunck playing a major role- he was declared‘ Player of Tournament‘.
“Shahbaz is my old buddy since the playing days. He also played along with Tahir Zaman for my club Harvestehuder in the Bundesliga in 1996 and helped us win the title. That cemented the bond further. Now, Shahbaz has been entrusted with the task of resurrecting Pakistan hockey, he desires my cooperation. “
Like every hockey lover, the present state of Pakistan hockey saddens Blunck.
“This country has given so much to hockey. Achievements are not confined to the ground. It was this country that gave World Cup and Champions Trophy to the hockey fraternity- their brain child. I grew up envying Pakistanis‘ skills. All this makes it very depressing to see them out of the World Cup and the Olympics- unbelievable. Can you imagine a soccer World Cup without Brazil?“.
What are the reasons for the decline in your opinion?
“I have visited Pakistan as a member of the German team for the 1990 World Cup and a couple of editions of the Champions Trophy. In those day, a well-structured system was in place here. It seems everything has gone to dogs. The pool has greatly shrunk. Very little activity is seen at all the tiers: school, clubs, departments....
Talking of departments, in our times, we used to envy Pakistani players as they all had good jobs. Presently, a very few departmental teams are left. Then, I have been told, most of the players in these departments don’t have permanent jobs, only contract employees. The incentives and financial security is no longer there for the hockey players“.
“I suggest them to develop club structure as in Europe. As for the national side, there should be a short term plan for the 2018 World Cup aiming at not only Pakistan’s qualification but also a good show there. A four year long term plan for the 2020 Olympics needs to be mapped out as well.“
Above are suggestions. He also narrates his long term role to help Pakistan hockey.
“It will be a sort of an ambassadorial role for Pakistan hockey in Europe. I will negotiate not only with the German Hockey federation but also other national hockey associations of Europe to extend cooperation with Pakistan. This entails arranging tours of teams from Pakistan to these countries; not only national side but also the junior and academy teams. I would also try to convince the European federations to send teams to Pakistan.
It will be beneficial for Pakistan hockey if its players appear in the European leagues. The up and coming youngsters would get good exposure even by appearing in the second or third tier of the national leagues. The gain will be mutual. The flair of Asian hockey still attracts people in our part of the world.“
How you see your old buddy Shahbaz’s appointment as the secretary PHF?
“Right man for the right job. I am hopeful that he would bring Pakistan hockey out of the doldrums. The biggest name in Pakistan hockey over last few decades, he has the clout to bring international hockey in his country and also lure sponsors. He has brought a good team with him in Khawaja Junaid and Tahir Zaman as the head coaches of the national senior and junior team respectively; both are well versed with the modern trends of coaching. It will also be useful to have foreign consultants with the Pakistan hockey for additional input; may be for a short duration. Remember, Hans Jorritsima’s contribution in Pakistan winning two major events in 1994, the World Cup and the Champions Trophy.“
‘Budi‘ Blunck firmly believes Pakistan has the capability to bounce back
“Potential is still there but last few years have been so bad. I watched a few matches of the national junior championships at Lahore’s National Hockey Stadium. The natural skills and body movements we associate with the players from the sub-continent were very much on display. If properly worked upon, these boys can bring about a revival.“
What are your views about the sport of hockey in general?
“It is very encouraging to see more and more strong national sides emerging on the international scene. In our times, it was mainly a four horse race between Germany, Australia, Netherlands and Pakistan with occasional intrusion by Spain. In recent years, we see so many other nations such as England, Belgium, Argentina, New Zealand and even Ireland and France. India is also showing signs of catching up. Hockey’s power base has expanded which is good for the game.
Hockey used to be a strictly amateur sport. Now players are getting paid in leagues around the world. The Dutch league is comparable to the European soccer leagues in structure, organisation and following. Top stars earn around 100.000 Euros a season. Hockey India League has surpassed even the Netherlands‘ Hoofdklasse, at least in terms of the financial gains. It is amazing to see players getting 100,000 dollars for just five weeks‘ work.
It is very heartening to know that Shahbaz is planning a league in Pakistan on the similar lines and the negotiations are already underway with the business houses in this regard. If the plan materialises, Pakistan hockey is bound to bounce back“ -Blunck concluded.
Ijaz Chaudhry writes on hockey and other sports. For more about him and his work, visit www.sportscorrespondent.info
Fieldhockey.com
Two female OIympians to lead newly structured FIH Athletes' Committee
Michael Green with new FIH Athletes' Committee Co-Chairs Annie Panter (left) and Marsha Cox (right)
Following the upcoming departure of German Olympian Michael Green as Chair, the International Hockey Federation (FIH) Athletes' Committee will be led by two female Olympians - South Africa's Marsha Cox and England and Great Britain's Annie Panter.
The former athletes, who have five Olympic Games appearances and over 400 international caps between them, take on the joint roles of Chair for a two-year period following the FIH Congress in Dubai, United Arab Emirates in November 2016.
This structural change was approved by the FIH Executive Board earlier this week in Lausanne, Switzerland after the recommendation was put forward to them by the Athletes' Committee.
This is an important step for the FIH as it continues to implement good governance and gender parity across all areas of the organisation in-line with Olympic Agenda 2020's recommendations to foster gender equality and comply with basic principles of good governance.
Marsha and Annie were two of the four candidates to be elected directly by their peers at the Rabobank Hockey World Cup in June 2014. Earlier this year they were nominated as joint Chairs by their fellow Committee members to ensure continuity throughout several projects.
Over the past two years, the Athletes’ Committee has become increasingly active, which has seen the Committee's Chair take on a significantly greater workload. In the light of this, and the personal situation of the current members, both Chairs will take on a number of responsibilities, which they will be preparing for over the coming months.
Annie will assume the role of athletes’ representative on the FIH Executive Board and Competitions Committee, while Marsha will remain an athletes’ representative for International Olympic Committee and international relations activity on behalf of FIH, as well as on the Umpiring Committee and the Event Portfolio Working Group.
Germany's Michael Green leaves his position as Athletes' Committee Chair after six years in this position. Over this period he has led an overhaul of the Committee, ensuring gender balance and transparency throughout, whilst also making huge progress in terms of both the influence they have across the Federation as well as with communication to the athletes they are representing.
Speaking about his time as Chair, Michael said: “Personally, my proudest moment has been the implementation of our first ever Athletes’ Committee elections at the World Cup in 2014, where we had voting participation of 93%. However, over the past six years we have also made significant progress in terms of Athletes´ representation in all FIH Committees and Panels, as well as improving continental representation by building strong relationships with the Federations.”
Talking about the future he commented: “Marsha and Annie are the perfect candidates to take on this role. They are both determined to help Continental Federations establish their own Athletes´ Committees whilst also continue the good work we have been making with international relations. Athletes are the heart of the Olympic movement and through our Athletes’ Committee, with Marsha and Annie at the helm, they will continue to play a hugely important role in decision-making.”
FIH CEO Kelly Fairweather meanwhile paid his compliments to the departing Chair. He said: “Michael has been a crucial component in the development of the FIH Athletes’ Committee over the past six years. His energy and enthusiasm has been inspirational. On behalf of the Executive Board and all of our athletes, we thank him for his tireless effort and dedication to his work.”
He continued: “He does however leave it in very capable hands. Marsha and Annie have shown great desire to continue the great progress that the Athletes’ Committee has made. All athletes can be assured that these two strong personalities will be passionately driving their best interests to ensure their voice is heard when it comes to key decisions for the sport of hockey.”
The Athletes’ Committee plays an important role in the FIH Hockey Revolution, a 10-year strategy aimed at making hockey a global game that inspires the next generation. Through their direct contact with athletes they are helping drive many of the key initiatives designed to achieve the main goals of this strategy. For more information about the Hockey Revolution, click here.
FIH site
PAHF projects Central to American development
Indoor hockey is one of many tools being used to develop hockey in Central America Photo: PAHF
One of the main focus areas for the Pan American Hockey Federation (PAHF) – as it has been for the past 10 years – is to get more Central American countries playing hockey. Guatemala led the way, but now countries such as Panama, Costa Rica, Honduras, El Salvador and Nicaragua are all getting on board.
To assess the need for hockey programmes and to work on developing a strategy, PAHF took on a Continental Development Officer (CDO). The first role of the CDO was to carry out research into where hockey was being played and where PAHF could be promoting the sport. The next step was to put a plan in place, co-opting enthusiastic volunteers and setting up programmes to introduce hockey to the population.
PAHF’s support comes in the form of supplying low cost equipment; supporting the all-important relationship between the national hockey associations and the National Olympic Committees; and providing coaching courses.
Hockey played in Central America has traditionally been indoor hockey. This has been due to the non-availability of suitable outdoor pitches. At first, nations were happy to run coaching courses and promote hockey through schools, but over time, the national associations began calling for something more. So, in 2014, the first national indoor tournament was played between three nations – Costa Rica, Panama and Guatemala.
Guatemala has won both editions of the men’s event since it was introduced, while Panama are the reigning champions of the women’s event. The tournament has grown to five teams, with Honduras and El Salvador joining the ranks of competitors.
Julio Neves is under no illusion about the enormity of his task. He is Managing Director of a hockey federation that has 29 National Association's (NAs) and his task is to keep building that number, with the ultimate goal of getting more people playing hockey across the vast region of the Americas.
Neves is one of two paid officers who run the Pan American Hockey Federation (PAHF). The other officer is Laura Macchiotti, the Operations Manager, and behind them are a very proactive group of Board Members and volunteers. But, as Neves says, it is a very small group for such a big task.
“The NAs were saying that they wanted something to get the athletes excited, so we decided to change our perspective. In 2014, PAHF gave $10,000 towards running a Central America Indoor Tournament, rather than putting the money into coaching courses,” explains Neves, in one sentence summing up the difficulty of prioritising limited funds.
PAHF now provides umpires and officials for the games and also holds a training course for all officials prior to the event. The tournament will continue as an indoor hockey tournament for one more edition, but Neves believes it will switch to Hockey 5s by 2017.
For hockey to be sustainable in the Central America region, PAHF relies on finding the right people to run the sport in each country. “It is the way we operate. PAHF relies on passionate people to get things done. In Coco Budeisky (PAHF President), we have a man who wants to see action and he wants to participate. For example, Belize is the next nation we would like to see form a national association. Coco has been leading talks with the National Olympic Committee of Belize, building relationships.”
For Neves, development is in two stages. The first stage is to raise the profile of the sport, the second is to help countries make a commercial success of the sport.
“This is where I see the importance of the FIH Hockey Revolution,” explains Neves. “Our NAs are used to getting state money to support their sport, but hockey is a minority sport and will never get much funding. Some teams have to decide whether to send a men’s team or a women’s team to an event. Take Guatemala as an example – they had to decide between sending a team to the Junior Pan Am Championships or to the Hockey World League, that is a difficult decision.
“We hold up the USA as an example of a National Association who has realised the importance of making the sport commercial. That is our next step – helping NAs to fund raise.”
Promoting hockey in Central America is an on-going challenge, but with Guatemala becoming the first Central American team to enter the Hockey World League, it is one that the small team at PAHF are confident of meeting.
Developing and innovating; increasing the level of professionalism in the administration of the sport; building the profile of hockey and generating more followers are the four key goals of the FIH 10-year Hockey Revolution and these are the drivers at the heart of PAHF’s work in Central America.
FIH site