Welcome to the Fieldhockey.com Archives

Daily Hockey news updated @ 10:00 GMT

News for 20 September 2016

All the news for Tuesday 20 September 2016


Russia, Wales and France women qualify for Hockey World League Round 2

Top three finishes in Douai seal qualification for Russia, Wales and France



Russia women upset the FIH Hero World Rankings by claiming a superb event triumph at the Hockey World League Round 1 event in Douai, France.

Ranked at number 28 in the world, the team coached by former New Zealand international Anthony Thornton came into the event as the third highest ranked team, behind hosts France (WR: 24) and Austria (WR: 27).

However, the Russians recorded convincing victories over Switzerland (4-0), Wales (2-0), France (4-1) and Austria (8-0) at Douai’s Stade Demeny, finishing top of the table with maximum points and a hugely impressive goal difference of +17.

Bogdana Sadovaia was the star of the show for Russia, scoring eight times in her four games including a four goal haul against Austria. Remarkably, all of Sadovaia’s goals came from open play, with the 26-year-old scoring at least once in each of her side’s four matches at the event.

Speaking to the FIH in March, ex-Black Sticks star Thornton - who represented New Zealand at the Barcelona 1992 Olympic Games - said that he had set his team the clear target of achieving qualification for the 2018 Hockey World Cup. Their victory in Douai takes them one step closer to achieving that ambition, and the dominant nature of their performances suggests that they are a team to be feared in Hockey World League Round 2.

Russia were not the only team to exceed expectations in Douai, with 30th ranked Wales claiming a remarkable second place finish thanks to three wins from four matches to seal their place in Round 2.

Wales claimed victories against two higher ranked opponents, with goals from Tina Evans and Joanne Westwood earning a 2-0 triumph over Austria and Lisa Daly, Phoebe Richards, Leah Wilkinson and Sarah Jones all on target in their superb 4-1 win over home favourites France.

A third place finish for France was good enough for them to book their ticket to Hockey World League Round 2, finishing ahead of Austria in fourth and fifth placed Switzerland.

Fast-paced and action-packed, the Hockey World League is the tournament that gives hockey fans the chance to see their team go all the way to the World Cup and Olympics. Composed of four rounds and played over two years, the Hockey World League shines a spotlight on the sport around the world. Even the smallest hockey-playing nations have the opportunity to write their own chapter in hockey’s history books. More information about the Hockey World League and the upcoming events can be found by clicking here.

FIH site



Calypso Stickmen complete Bajan sweep

Nigel Simon

T&T senior men’s hockey training squad completed a four-match sweep of Barbados after securing a 4-1 penalty strokes shoot-out win following a 2-2 draw at the National Hockey Centre, Tacarigua, on Sunday night.

The win by the Glen “Fido” Francis-coached “Calypso Stickmen” followed up Thursday’s 3-1 triumph in their opener—a 4-3 penalty-strokes victory after a 1-1 draw on Friday and 3-2 win on Saturday.  

On Sunday, the Barbadians who are using the matches as part of their preparations for in their 2016 FIH World League Round One series in Mexico later this month scored the opening goal for the third consecutive match, when Akeem Rudder converted from a penalty corner in the 17th minute.

However, within four minutes, T&T scored with a penalty corner of its own by Malvern teenager Kieron Emmanuel.

But, the euphoria of scoring definitely worked against the home team as a minute later, Barbados regained the lead through Kris Holder only for in-form Akim Toussaint of Paragon to save T&T's blushes with his team’s second penalty-corner goal of the contest in the 45th minute.

In the shoot-out, experienced T&T goalkeeper, the reigning “T&T Hockey Board “Player of the Year” came up big with saves on attempts from Che Warner, Justin Catlin and regulation time goalscorers Rudder and Holder, after Laurando Davis scored the opener.

On the other hand, T&T’s Teague Marcano, Marcus Pascal, Shaquille Daniel and Toussaint all converted to secure the 4-1 win on penalties.

The Barbadians travel to Salamanca, Mexico for their 2016 FIH World League Round One series against Guatemala, Panama, USA and the host country from September 27 to October 2 while T&T flicks off its campaign next year as host of a Round Two group at Tacarigua.

When the inaugural FIH World League competition was held in 2012, T&T under the supervision of Francis topped its Round One series on home after victories over Chile (2-1), Barbados (3-1) and Venezuela (9-2) at Tacarigua.

But, the Second Round qualifier in Rio de Janeiro proved much more challenging as T&T suffered losses against Argentina (9-2), South Africa (10-2) and Chile (0-4) but won against Brazil (6-2) and USA, 4-3 via a penalty stroke led by Francis as well.

The Trinidad Guardian



Pakistan rout Oman 3-0 in third U-18 hockey test

LAHORE - Young Pakistan hockey team routed visitors Oman 3-0 in the third test of the four-match Under-18 hockey test series here at the National Hockey Stadium on Tuesday.

Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) management played not only their reserves over long periods of time but also gave chance to a couple of standbys.

The team even had a new captain for the match in full back Rizwan Ali.

The new look side looked unsettled early on and the first 10 minutes witnessed mainly mid field game.

Pakistan gradually gained rhythm and the first real chance came in the 12th minute but Zain Ijaz failed to trap the ball in the circle.

The hosts had their first penalty corner in the 17th minute, Amjad Ali’s high flick to the top left corner gave the rival custodian no chance.

It was also Pakistani’s first penalty corner goal of the series.

Pakistan didn’t take the foot off the gas and a spate of penalty corners ensued.

Poor stoppage was the main reason for the wastage.

Finally off the fifth penalty corner in the 24th minute, Amjad again found the target, this time through a strong push on goal keeper’s left side.

When the sixth penalty corner arrived, Pakistan opted for an indirect drill as Amjad was on the bench but the Omani defence cleared the ball.

Oman’s best chance of the first half came in the last minute, a sweeping move resulted in a fine opportunity but Rashad Hameed faltered.

Pakistan remained in control throughout the last 25 minutes.

At the half time, Pakistan was leading the match 2-0.

On resumption, Pakistan were off the blocks quickly.

In the 37th minute, a chance fell to Waqar via Ahmad Nadeem’s spade work but he shot wide and high.

Immediately afterwards, Nadeem sent a beautiful minus to the top of the circle but it wasnt availed.

Suddenly, Oman looked ominous and thrice penetrated into the scoring zone in quick succession but the Pakistani defence stood firm.

After sustaining pressure for almost 10 minutes, Pakistanis regrouped and began raiding the Omani goal and managed to successfully transform the 11th penalty corner into the goal by Amjad Ali through a very strong high flick which went to Omani goal keeper’s right side.

Thus the Bannu boy completed his hat trick in the 67th minute.

Pakistan’s coach Mudassar Ali Khan said: “We gave chances to our reserve players and also experimented with new tactics.

Purpose is to provide good match practice and confidence to the players before the boys Asia Cup in Bangladesh starting in a few days.

Though, we didn’t score as many goals as in the second test but Pakistan dominated most of the time while converting penalty corners was a big plus point.”

The Nation



PHF looking forward to hosting teams from Argentina, China: Khalid

LAHORE: Regarding Oman junior team’s visit as significant in reviving international hockey in Pakistan, president of the Pakistan Hockey Federation, retired Brig Khalid Khokhar, on Monday hoped more foreign teams would be touring the country.

“The visit of Oman’s U-18 squad has broken the deadlock over the return of international hockey to Pakistan. [After the Oman series] we now look forward to hosting Argentina’s junior team in December this year and Chinese senior team early next year,” Khalid told APP in an exclusive interview here.

The PHF chief was upbeat about the return of international hockey to Pakistan after the visit of Oman’s U-18 squad, terming the series with the Gulf nation’s team a lifeline for hockey at home.

“During the past several years our hockey suffered badly due to the foreign teams’ refusal to tour Pakistan. However, the visit of Oman’s U-18 team is a positive sign for Pakistan hockey as the series will motivate other foreign teams too [to tour Pakistan] in due course of time,” said Khalid.

He said Argentina’s junior team would arrive in the first week of December to play a three-match series against their Pakistan counterparts, prior to the green-shirts’ participation in the Dec 8-18 Junior World Cup in Lucknow.

“The Argentine team’s visit will be followed by the tour of China’s senior team in early 2017.”

Khalid added: “During our recent visit to China we had fruitful meetings with the officials of Chinese hockey federation; during these meetings we discussed the details of a bilateral series between [senior teams of] Pakistan and China.

“First the Chinese team will visit Pakistan after which our senior team will undertake a return tour to China as part of the planned bilateral series.”

He said the PHF was making all possible efforts to ensure the return of international hockey to Pakistan, adding in this regard it had already started the process of sending invitations to a number of Asian hockey nations to visit Pakistan.

“Resumption of international hockey in Pakistan is not an overnight process, there is no shortcut to it. What is important is the continuation of efforts on our part to convince foreign teams to visit Pakistan where they will be provided foolproof security,” the PHF chief emphasised.

The federation — in order to promote the national game across Pakistan — was working on different plans, including broadening the base of the game and reshaping junior and senior teams.

“We have formed a new junior team; we are also in the process of rebuilding our senior outfit by infusing new blood, keeping in mind the main objective of our senior team which is to qualify for the 2020 Tokyo Olympics,” he asserted.

Admitting that the present financial condition of the PHF was not sound, Khalid acknowledged that government’s financial help would indeed enable the federation to lift and promote the game.

“Financial assistance [from government] will help the PHF continue its efforts to develop the game and ensure participation of national sides in tournaments abroad,” he said.

“Currently, we are in the process of evolving a system to lure more business houses to hockey for generating funds, and we are getting gradual success in this regard. In recent months, we successfully organised two elite national-level tournaments, in Lahore and Karachi, with the patronage of private sponsors,” the PHF president stated.

Dawn



Pontifex retires from international hockey


Photo: www.photosport.nz

One of the Black Sticks’ greatest ever goalkeepers, Kyle Pontifex, has drawn the curtain on a fantastic international career.

The 36-year-old Wellingtonian has decided it’s time to switch focus to an ongoing work career along with dedicating more time to his young family.

Pontifex made his debut against Malaysia in 2001 and represented New Zealand in 176 tests during a period which spanned over 15 years.

He protected the cage at three Olympic Games (Athens 2004, Beijing 2008, London 2012), two Commonwealth Games (Melbourne 2006, Delhi 2010) and two World Cups (Monchengladbach 2006, Delhi 2010).

“I think it’s a pretty natural decision, I’ve been playing for a long time and it’s about time I move on with life,” he said.

“I’ve got a career at ANZ to continue, an MBA [Master of Business Administration] to finish and a wife and two young kids who would love to see a bit more of me.”

Pontifex took a lengthy hiatus from the international scene following the London 2012 Olympics but made a comeback last year and enjoyed working under head coach Colin Batch.

While he missed selection for this year’s Rio Olympic Games, Pontifex said he had absolutely no regrets.

“I certainly don’t regret making a comeback last year and really enjoyed my time with a new crop of players. Hopefully my experience and what I offered in the squad environment played a part in helping the guys in Rio.

“Playing at the 2011 Champions Trophy at home in Auckland was the highlight of my career. To be part of an event of that calibre on home soil was amazing and one I’ll never forget.”

Over 15 years playing for New Zealand he saw the game of hockey change a great deal, especially on a positional level as a goalkeeper.

“The biggest change has been in the equipment, back in 2001 a lot of players were still using wooden sticks and carbon ones were only just being developed.

“The speed the ball travels now is incredible compared to back then and as a goalkeeper you need to be really onto it from penalty corners with players who have made an art of flicking at high speeds.”

While this is the end of his international career, Pontifex still plans to play club hockey and remain in contention for his regional representative side the Capital Cobras.

“I’d just like to say a big thank you to ANZ who I have worked for right through my international career and have helped me a lot along the way, along with OBO and Mizuno who have been fantastic with the equipment I’ve used over the years.

“Thank you to all the coaches, support staff, fellow players and friends – but most importantly my wife and kids who have been incredibly supportive all the way.”

Black Sticks head coach Colin Batch thanked Pontifex for his professional and mature approach to the game.

“Kyle returned to the squad last year in preparation for Rio and straight away his level of professionalism was evident. He brought a maturity and honesty to the squad which we valued highly,” Batch said.

“He has achieved a great deal throughout his hockey career however, he was still able to combine a business career and family life.

"He has set a wonderful example of what can be achieved through good organisation and planning, we wish Kyle and his family all the best for the future.”

Hockey New Zealand Media release



Kyle Pontifex retires from international hockey for the second time


Veteran Black Sticks goalkeeper Kyle Pontifex has retired for good from international hockey. GETTY IMAGES

Kyle Pontifex is definitely done with international hockey this time.

The 36-year-old Wellington goalkeeper made a return to the Black Sticks fold last year after his heroic efforts to help Capital capture the 2015 National Hockey League title, having first retired from international competition after his third Olympic Games in London in 2012.

He was able to boost his tally of test appearances to 176 when selected for tests in October last year, but was not selected for the Rio Olympics.

Despite that, he said he had no regrets about coming out of retirement one last time.

"I certainly don't regret making a comeback last year and really enjoyed my time with a new crop of players. Hopefully my experience and what I offered in the squad environment played a part in helping the guys in Rio.

"Playing at the 2011 Champions Trophy at home in Auckland was the highlight of my career. To be part of an event of that calibre on home soil was amazing and one I'll never forget."

Pontifex said it was time to scale back his hockey again.

"I think it's a pretty natural decision, I've been playing for a long time and it's about time I move on with life.

"I've got a career at ANZ to continue, an MBA [Master of Business Administration] to finish and a wife and two young kids who would love to see a bit more of me."

Pontifex plans to continue playing club hockey and remain in contention for his regional representative side the Capital Cobras.

Over 15 years playing for New Zealand he saw the game of hockey change a great deal, especially on a positional level as a goalkeeper.

"The biggest change has been in the equipment, back in 2001 a lot of players were still using wooden sticks and carbon ones were only just being developed.

"The speed the ball travels now is incredible compared to back then and as a goalkeeper you need to be really onto it from penalty corners with players who have made an art of flicking at high speeds."

Black Sticks coach Colin Batch said Pontifex had added a lot to the squad over the past year.

"He brought a maturity and honesty to the squad which we valued highly. He has achieved a great deal throughout his hockey career however, he was still able to combine a business career and family life."

Stuff



British hockey player Sam Ward delighted to move on from Rio Olympics heartbreak

By Mike Haymonds


Sam Ward scored a brace as Holcombe beat Surbiton at the weekend. GETTY

SAM WARD banished the memory of Britain’s men’s failure at the Rio Olympics by scoring a double in Holcombe’s 3-2 win over Surbiton on the opening day of the England Hockey League season.

Holcombe were unbeaten as Premier league winners last season before falling at the Championship play-offs. But their league title still gave them entry to the EuroHockey League and a trip to Northern Ireland in two weeks’ time. Rio Olympians George Pinner and Dan Fox also played on Saturday while Barry Middleton, Ashley Jackson and Iain Lewers were missing.

Ward, who confirmed he will bid for a place at the Games in Tokyo in 2020, said: “I’m enjoying back playing club hockey after I took two weeks off after Rio. The mood in the club is good and we aim to build momentum leading into Europe.”

Wimbledon and Hampstead & Westminster made winning starts, beating Brooklands MU (4-1) and Canterbury (7-2) respectively.

Beijing and London Olympian James Tindall made an immediate impact by scoring three times in as many minutes to put newly promoted Old Georgians three up inside eight minutes and hit a fourth in a 6-1 victory over Fareham.

In the Investec Women’s League, last season’s Premier champions Surbiton drew 2-2 at Holcombe while University of Birmingham beat Bowdon Hightown 4-1.

Daily Express



TNB Cup: All the best

by Jugjet Singh


Terengganu HT players celebrate their MHL League title after beating Tenaga 3-1 on Sunday.

CHAMPIONS Terengganu Hockey Team (THT) received an easier TNB Cup semi-finals draw when they were paired with fourth placed Maybank Monday.

League runners-up Sapura will have a tougher time after drawing third-placed Kuala Lumpur Hockey Club (KLHC) in the other semi-finals.

Both first-leg the semis will be held on Wednesday at the Kuala Lumpur Hockey Stadium, with the return leg on Friday.

THT has the League title, Sapura the Alagendra Cup, KLHC the Charity Shield while Maybank is the only team without silverware yet this season.

And THT are on a mission to complete their third consecutive double in the Premier Division of the Malaysia Hockey League.

"Even though we have been paired with a team which finished fourth in the League, I believe it will not be an easy match as Maybank are, and have also shown in the last two seasons, that they are a fighting side," said THT coach Sarjit Singh.

Sarjit remembers well, as THT played Maybank in both the previous TNB Cup semi-finals.

"Coincidentally, we also played Maybank in the semi-finals of the TNB Cup in the last two seasons. And we lost both the first legs, and only qualified for the final by making a comeback in the second legs.

"Maybank have also given every team in the MHL a good fight, and we need to play much better to win the first leg itself this season," said Sarjit.

For the record, THT beat Maybank 5-1 and 5-2 in the League.

Maybank team manager R. Premkumar said: "We have a development squad made up of youth and seniors as guide. It has been a close season for us, and I believe we have nothing to lose as underdogs in a two-leg semi-finals."

Sapura coach Yahya Atan has done his homework, and is ready to face KLHC. KLHC won both the League matches 5-2 and 3-0.

"We lost earlier after leting in two first quarter goals in both the matches, but after studying the match videos, I know what not to do against KLHC in the TNB Cup," said the experienced coach.

Yahya will also be tightening his penalty corner run-outs, which were ineffective in the League against KLHC.

As for KLHC team manager Ahmad Anuar Sham, he had a limited choice of either being paired against seeded sides Sapura, or THT.

"Both the seeded teams are strong, so it really did not matter who we played in the semi-finals. We will have to give our best in both the legs to play in the final," said Ahmad.

WEDNESDAY: TNB Cup semi-finals First Leg: Terengganu HT v Maybank (KLHA, 6pm), Sapura v Kuala Lumpur HC (KLHA, 8pm).

President's Cup: TNB Thunderbolts v Politeknik (Tun Razak, 6pm), UiTM-KPT v SSTMI Tun Razak, 8pm).

Vivian Soars Cup: Semi-finals: SSTMI v PKS-Uniten (Ministry of Education, 6pm), Blue Warriors v ATM Pernama (Ministry of Education, 8pm).

Jugjet's World of Field Hockey



Terengganu HT League champions again

By Jugjet Singh

TERENGGANU Hockey Team (THT) defended their Malaysia Hockey League Premier Division League title for the third consecutive year when they beat Tenaga Nasional 3-1 at the Batu Buruk Stadium Sunday.

It was an unexpected title, as coach Sarjit Singh and his men were not in contention as the title charge was led by Sapura until the eighth match.

Yesterday, Fitri Shaari (5th), Tengku Ahmad Tajuddin (18th), Ismail Abu (32nd) delivered for THT while Ramadhan Rosli scored for Tenaga in the 33rd minute.

THT received RM100,000 while second placed Sapura won RM60,000 and third placed Kuala Lumpur Hockey Club (KLHC) RM40,000.

THT and Sapura will be seeded while KLHC and Maybank will draw lots today to decide who they play in the TNB Cup semi-finals which will he held on Wednesday.

"We were not in contention after the first round matches but made a late charge in the second round to defend our League title. As I said before its easier to win a title that to defend it, and my players have won three consecutive League titles and I am very proud of them," said Sarjit.

After Tenaga beat Kuala Lumpur Hockey Club (KLHC) 2-1 on Friday to put THT in contention for the title, Sarjit and his men played by the book yesterday.

"There was no fancy play or trying too hard as we kept our composure and won the match. Now, we are looking forward to win our TNB Cup for the third consecutive year as well," said Sarjit.

RESULTS -- Premier Division: Terengganu HT 3 Tenaga Nasional 1, Kuala Lumpur HC 4 UniKL 1, Sapura HC 2 Maybank 1.

Division One:

Quarter-finals Second Leg:
  Nur Insafi 0 TNB Thunderbolts 5.
  (TNB Thunderbolts won on 8-1 aggregate)
  ATM Airod 2 SSTMI 1
  (SSTMI win on 6-4 aggregate)
  Ipoh City Council 3 v Uitm-KPT 2
  (Aggregate 4-4, Uitm-KPT win shoot our 3-2)
  BJSS 1 Politeknik 5
  (Politeknik won on 8-3 aggregate)

PREMIER DIVISION

            P  W  D  L  F  A  Pts

THT         10 7  1  2  29 16 22
SAPURA      10 7  0  3  17 16 21
KLHC        10  6  2  2  30 14 20
MAYBANK     10 3  1  6  18 32 10
UNIKL       10  2  1  7  9  17 7
TENAGA      10 1  3  6  17 25 6

Jugjet's World of Field Hockey



Champions Terengganu to play Maybank in TNB Cup semis

by S. Ramaguru



KUALA LUMPUR: Premier Division champions Terengganu have received a favourable draw for the semi-finals of the TNB Cup (overall title) of the Malaysia Hockey League (MHL).

The east coast side, who are aiming for a third double in the MHL, will play Maybank in the last four.

The other semi-final pits former champions Sapura against Kuala Lumpur Hockey Club (KLHC).

Terengganu coach Sarjit Singh, however, was cautious after the draw.

“The teams this year are better prepared and there are no early favourites for the overall title. If you look at the results in the preliminary round, all six teams have won matches and it will be foolish to take any team for granted,” he said.

“Maybank are a good side and I do not see it as an easy match.”

This is the third time that Terengganu and Maybank will be squaring off in the semi-finals for the overall title.

In the previous two outings, the matches were divided – with each winning one match. But Terengganu won on aggregate both times.

“So, there’s something to learn from the past. Maybank have the ability to win and the knockout stage is always a gamble,” said Sarjit.

Maybank team manager R. Premkumar admitted that Terengganu will be the favourites but believes they still have a chance to nick it.

“We hope they will make mistakes ... we know they can be beaten and that’ll give us the confidence to try harder,” he said.

This season, Terengganu have had the upper hand over the Tigers. In the two matches they played, the champions won 5-1 and 5-2.

Sarjit also revealed that his midfielder, Harmeet Singh, will be out for the rest of the season after fracturing a finger in the game against Sapura last Friday.

“Otherwise, my team is ready and raring to go,” said Sarjit.

All the Premier Division matches will be held at the KL Hockey Stadium.

The Star of Malaysia



Only TNB Cup can make Sapura happy

by S. Ramaguru



KUALA LUMPUR: Many teams would be happy with winning a title and finishing second in the league.

But not Sapura, who lifted the inaugural Tan Sri P. Alagendra Knockout Trophy and finished second to Terengganu in the Premier Division.

That’s because, according to Sapura team manager Louis Gregory, their target was to win either the league or the overall title (TNB Cup).

“The knockout trophy is just a bonus. We’re happy to have won it, but we won’t be satisfied until we win TNB Cup,” he said after the Cup draw on Monday.

As fate would have it, Sapura will face former champions Kuala Lumpur Hockey Club (KLHC) in the two-leg semi-finals.

In the preliminary rounds, Sapura lost 5-2 and 3-0 to KLHC.

Despite the two defeats, Sapura were still in the running for the Premier Division title until the final weekend. A 4-1 away loss to Terengganu dashed their title dreams and they ended up second.

Sapura coach Yahya Atan, who is handling the team for the first time, attributed that loss to their tendency to give away early goals.

“That has been our bane in crucial matches. We need to ensure that the team is fully focused right from the start. I believe we can beat KLHC,” he said.

KLHC, who finished third this season after being No. 2 for two seasons, are also hoping for better fortune in the fight for the overall title.

KLHC team manager Ahmad Annuar Sham Kamar said that they will not underestimate Sapura despite having beaten them twice this season.

“It’s still anybody’s game. All four teams have a chance,” he said.

The Star of Malaysia



Ritu named in camp, uncertain about attending

Former Indian women’s hockey captain Ritu Rani, who was dropped from the team for the Rio Olympics citing “attitude” issues, has been named among the 29 probables for the National camp beginning on Sunday in Bhopal.

The 24-year-old Ritu led the Indian women to their first Olympic appearance in 36 years but had fallen out of favour with the team management after reportedly “not being focused enough”

She had also got engaged during that time. Having led the side for almost a decade, the talented midfielder had been left out of the Rio-bound side barely a month before the Games. In her absence, Sushila Chanu was named skipper. Ritu, however, is yet to decide on joining the camp or her future with the National side. Having got married on August 18, she admitted she was still in the process of settling into the new surroundings even as she expressed anguish at missing out on the Games. “No one spoke to me before including my name in the list, I got to know only a couple of days before. After all that happened, including being accused of not contributing to the team and not being focused enough, I am not sure of joining the camp. I haven’t decided anything yet, however, let’s see how things go,” Ritu told The Hindu.

The probables: Goalkeepers: Rajani Etimarpu, Savita, Sonal Minz; Defenders: Deep Grace Ekka, Deepika Thakur, Sunita Lakra, Sushila Chanu, Hnialum Lalruatfeli, Namita Toppo, Rukmani Dodray; Midfielders: Ritu Rani, Lilima Minz, Navjot Kaur, Monika, Renuka Yadav, Lily Chanu, Nikki Pradhan, Narinder Kaur, Lalhlunmawii, Navdeep Kaur; Forwards: Rani Rampal, Poonam Rani, Vandana Katariya, Anuradha Devi, Preeti Dubey, Sonika, Anupa Barla, Jyoti Gupta and Punam Barla.

The Hindu



Neelam to lead India in the Dhaka Sub Junior Asia Cup

s2h team



Delhi, 19 September 2016: Proven defender Neelam Sanjeev Xess will lead India in the U-18 men’s squad for the Boys U18 Asia Cup to be held at Dhaka, from 24-30 September 2016.



Hardik Singh will be the Vice-Captain. Both Neelam and Hardkik were the only two players in the team who had already donned Indian colours

Rest all are making international debut.

Both players have also been part of the junior team that won the EurAsia Cup earlier this year and will form the backbone of the defence for the team.

They also travelled to England to play Tests for Indian colts against Scotland and England. undefined Pankaj Kumar Rajak and Tanuj Gulia, will be the custodians in goal for the squad. Manipur boys, Rabichandra Singh Moirangthem and Ibungo Singh Konjengbam will lead the line for the team in the midfield and attack respectively. The duo were prolific in the Hockey India Sub-Junior National Championship held at Imphal in May 2016.

One Thousand Hockey Legs' player Kishore Arya will add strength to the midfield.

Team:
Goalkeepers: Pankaj Kumar Rajak, Tanuj Gulia
Defenders: Nilam Sanjeep Xess (Captain), Hardik Singh (Vice Captain), Vidhan Patel, Harshdeep Kapoor, Shivam Anand
Midfielders: Dharminder Singh, Kunwardilraj Singh, Rabichandra Singh Moirangthem, Kishore Arya, Harish Mutagar
Forwards: Dilpreet Singh, Mohammad Umar, Ibungo Singh Konjengbam, Sunny Malik, Shivam Anand, Abhisek

Stick2Hockey.com



India name 18-member hockey squad for Under-18 Asia Cup

NEW DELHI: India on Monday named an 18-member squad to be led by defender Nilam Sanjeep Xess for the Under-18 Asia Cup hockey tournament to be held in Dhaka from September 24 to 30.

While Sanjeep Xess has been named the captain, defender Hardik Singh will be his deputy.

Both Sanjeep Xess and Hardik have been part of the junior team that won the EurAsia Cup earlier this year and will form the backbone of India's backline.

Pankaj Kumar Rajak and Tanuj Gulia are the two goalkeepers in the squad, while Manipur's Rabichandra Singh Moirangthem and Ibungo Singh Konjengbam will man the midfield and forwardline respectively.

Speaking on the squad announcement, Hockey India secretary general Md Mushtaque Ahmad said, "Our aim to reach new heights of hockey rankings internationally has to start from the junior level. We are hosts of the Junior World Cup in December 2016 and keeping that in mind we are constantly ensuring our junior teams across different levels get good exposure to international hockey.

"I would like to take this opportunity on behalf of Hockey India to thank Sports Authority of India for their initiative in the launch of the National Hockey Academy in Delhi. Many of these young athletes will get their first exposure to international hockey and through this experience it will help them prepare for their future career in the sport."

Team:

Goalkeepers: Pankaj Kumar Rajak, Tanuj Gulia

Defenders: Nilam Sanjeep Xess (Captain), Hardik Singh (Vice-Captain), Vidhan Patel, Harshdeep Kapoor, Shivam Anand

Midfielders: Dharminder Singh, Kunwardilraj Singh, Rabichandra Singh Moirangthem, Kishore Arya, Harish Mutagar

Forwards: Dilpreet Singh, Mohammad Umar, Ibungo Singh Konjengbam, Sunny Malik, Shivam Anand, Abhisek.

The Times of India



To retire or not is Sardar's decision: Manpreet Singh

Jaspreet Sahni

NEW DELHI: If they feel scorched after the Rio Olympics, nobody will blame them. After an initial high, the low was dispiriting. The draw against Canada started the slide and the loss to Belgium turned India's hockey campaign into a vertical dip at the Games.

The team returned three quarters dejected - consolation being that the eventual gold medallists, Argentina, couldn't beat India at the group stage.

It's not easy to pick yourself after seeing the work of four years being shredded to pieces by just one defeat. Reaching the semifinals would have ticked quite a few boxes but Belgium left PR Sreejesh & Co to lick their wounds.

India climbing to No. 5 after the historic Champions Trophy silver headlined the team's Rio campaign. Fanatic hopes circled around a medal, practical ones lay in a top-five finish. None of it could be achieved.

A player's perspective around such sympathetic stage is always gripping - how they receive the low and get back on the field to start preparing again, for another four years. TOI caught up with star midfielder Manpreet Singh to get an insight into all that. Excerpts:

How difficult was it to digest the quarterfinal defeat in Rio?

It was very hard! It did not work out as planned and the whole team was really disappointed as we could have ended with a higher position but we are learning and growing from every mistake. Having said that, there were lots of good things to learn.

You beat Ireland, almost held Germany, beat Argentina and lost narrowly to the Dutch. But Canada draw must have hurt.

We got many chances but couldn't avail those. We conceded silly PCs (penalty corners). The team had analysed Canada's videos before the game and went out to play full press because of which we created many chances. But it was not our day. Perhaps we were short of luck as well.

Winning and losing is part of sport but was the team surprised losing to Belgium?

Yes, because we were leading 1-0. We made some mistakes. That match hurt us the most. Our rhythm was good, but we couldn't play at the same level. We were in a state of shock. We all hoped to do well, but the result was like 'how did it happen!'

As a player, what do you tell yourself in order to get back to training after a heartbreaking campaign?

Rio Olympics was an evolving and learning process for me personally to do even better. I need to move on from the shock defeat (against Belgium) to focus better and train harder for coming matches.

How will you rate Sreejesh as captain considering he led India to Champions Trophy silver before the Rio low?

Sreejesh bhai is a good goalkeeper who has a lot of passion in what he does. As a captain he keeps on motivating us with his cheerful and positive attitude. No matter what the result is, he stands tall in supporting us.

You played as central midfielder, Sardar was in attacking line. What's your opinion about that change?

Sardar playing as a central striker was coach's plan to balance the team. It works well for the team with his skills and experience and also he defends very well.

After Rio, India dropped from No. 5 to 6 in FIH rankings. Do you think winning consistently is still a problem?

We won the Champions Trophy silver but went down (in rankings) after the Olympics. We have to regain the winning momentum to get back up. We can't change what has happened. Next up is Asian Champions Trophy in Malaysia for which we will soon assemble in Bangalore.

Sardar might have played his last Olympics in Rio. Is he close to retirement in your opinion?

No, I don't think so. He's doing very well for the past couple of years to be where he is now but after all it is his decision.

What difference did you see playing under Sreejesh now and Sardar before?

I don't see any difference because on the field we consider all 11 players as captains with their own responsibilities. Everyone knows how to play in the assigned roles.

Have you set targets for yourself in terms of what you want to achieve in your career? Captaincy next?

As I mentioned earlier, it's a team game. Whether I'm the captain or not, I feel all the 11 players share the same responsibilities. My next target is to work really hard, get out of my comfort zone, push India into top three teams in world rankings and win an Olympic gold.

The Times of India



Warriors stay on course for play-offs

By BRIAN YONGA


Butali Sugar Warriors' Maxwell Fuchaka in action during their Kenya Hockey Union men's Premier League match against Sikh Union on August 6, 2016 at City Park Stadium. PHOTO | CHRIS OMOLLO |  NATION MEDIA GROUP

Champions Butali Sugar Warriors and Kenya Police picked up vital wins in their Kenya Hockey Union men’s Premier League matches at the weekend to stay on course to qualify for the play-offs.

Butali won 3-2 away to Nakuru Hockey Club for their fourth straight win while 2013 champions Police were in fine form, beating Parkroad Badgers 4-0 at City Park Stadium.

In the women’s Premier league, Strathmore University Scorpions moved level with league leaders Telkom Orange and second-placed Amira Sailors both of whom are on seven points after a laboured 1-0 win over Vikings.

Butali’s win at Menengai High School grounds saw them move to 12 points in Pool ‘A’, five clear of second-placed Strathmore University Gladiators who beat USIU 2-0 to rise to second.

With three more matches left to play, Butali will need two more wins to confirm their place in the playoffs.

UNIVERSITY DERBY

The top two teams in the pool qualify for the end of season playoffs. Butali captain Kenneth Nyongesa has urged teammates to maintain the momentum.

“Our ambition of retaining the title is very much alive. We are focused on winning all our remaining matches to head into the playoffs full of confidence,” he said on Monday. USIU dropped one place to third after they lost to rivals Strathmore in the university derby. Clayson Luvanda and Constant Wakhura were on target for Strathmore in the pulsating encounter.

Sikh Union Nairobi are also in the running for a playoff spot after they came from behind to beat Kenyatta University Vultures 2-1. The win keeps the 2012 champions in fourth place on six points while Parklands are fifth on five.

In Pool ‘B’, Kenya Police went top of the table after a first half demolition of the Badgers saw. The cops top with seven points but the following three teams are all on seven points and have each played three games, one less than the law enforcers.  KCA-U, Greensharks and Chase Sailors follow in that order.

In the women’s league, the Scorpions kept their title hopes alive thanks to Judy Apondi’s strike that finally broke Vikings’ resistance in a tough encounter. The win moved the university side to third place with seven points, behind leaders Orange and second placed Amira Sailors who are all on seven points.

Daily Nation



Goal-scorer lists at the end of the group stage

Check out the latest goal scoring lists for both the men’s and women’s sections of the South African PHL.

Kate Koenig (Lakers) and Sylvia van Jaarsveld (Rangers) are level pegging on four goals each in the women’s section. Meanwhile, Ignatius Malgraff (Elephants) has shot to the top of the men’s list with seven strikes.

Women’s List:

Surname Name Team FG PC PS Total
KOENIG Kate Lakers 3   1 4
van JAARSVELD Sylvia Rangers 4     4
DEETLEFS Lisa-Marie Rangers   3   3
HAWKER Lisa Rangers 3     3
JUBB Jacinta Lakers 2 1   3
de JAGER Louise Rangers   1 1 2
FLEMING Kalia Wings 1 1   2
GOUWS Simone Rafters 1 1   2
JOHNSON Robyn Wings 2     2
MENTOOR Belinda Wings 2     2
NINA Lauren Bunters 2     2
STELLA Kara Lakers 1 1   2
WALRAVEN Nicole Rafters 1 1   2
BAXTER Stephanie Lakers   1   1
BOWYER Kaz Lakers   1   1
DAVIDS Ilse Wings   1   1
GLASBY Tarryn Daisies 1     1
HILL Charne Bunters   1   1
JACOBS Lizanne Rafters 1     1
MARAIS Elmien Bunters 1     1
McEWAN Heather Wings   1   1
McNULTY Catherine Wings   1   1
MILLER Kaydee Bunters 1     1
NORTJE Anche Wings   1   1
RAUBENHEIMER Cheneal Rangers 1     1
ROBERTSON Megan Rafters 1     1
WOOD Bianca Bunters 1     1
            0
Total     29 16 2 47

Men’s List:

Surname Name Team FG PC PS Total
MALGRAFF Ignatius Elephants 7     7
NORRIS-JONES Lloyd Gazelles 4   1 5
WEST Ricky Cavemen   4   4
AGAR Dave Dragons   3   3
HETEM Ross Mambas 2 1   3
MACKAY Cameron Cavemen 3     3
PANTHER Brandon Mambas 2 1   3
CROWE Ryan Gladiators 1 1   2
HENSBURG Kurt Gazelles 1 1   2
HORNE Keenan Gazelles 1 1   2
HYKES Julian Elephants 1   1 2
KIMFLEY Damian Elephants 2     2
LOUW Lance Cavemen     2 2
MEYER Lyall Mambas   2   2
PAUTZ Richard Elephants 2     2
ABRAHAMS Rusten Elephants 1     1
ARENDSE Reece Gazelles 1     1
BUCHANAN Cullem Mambas 1     1
CAINCROSS Chad Dragons 1     1
CLEAK Brynn Cavemen 1     1
COMERASAMY Cerezo Mambas   1   1
DE SOUSA Matthew Gladiators 1     1
de VOUX Pierre Gazelles 1     1
DRUMMOND James Cavemen   1   1
DRUMMOND Tim Dragons 1     1
FREDERICKS Lyndon Gazelles 1     1
GONSALVES Nick Dragons 1     1
GONSALVES Ross Mambas 1     1
GUISE-BROWN Tim Gazelles   1   1
JONAS Luthando Gazelles 1     1
JONES Jarryd Cavemen 1     1
JULIUS Ryan Gladiators 1     1
LAMPRECHT Gertjie Gazelles 1     1
LETUKA Amkelwa Gladiators 1     1
MACLACHLAN Jason Gazelles 1     1
MBEKENI Sinoxolo Elephants 1     1
McMANUS Stephen Gladiators 1     1
MEA Mohamed Dragons   1   1
MOKALE Khumo Gladiators 1     1
NTULI Nqobile Gladiators 1     1
PATRICK Jarryd Cavemen 1     1
SCHOOLING Luke Dragons 1     1
Total     49 18 4 71


SAHA Premier Hockey League media release



Maryland field hockey hopes Olivia Reiter’s contributions continue against Princeton

By James Crabtree-Hannigan


The team celebrates midfielder Olivia Reiter's goal in Maryland field hockey's 4-1 win over Indiana at the Field Hockey and Lacrosse Complex on Sept. 17. (Reid Poluhovich / The Diamondback)

After scoring her first collegiate goal Saturday against Indiana, Maryland field hockey forward Olivia Reiter pumped her right fist and turned around to greet her teammates.

Without slowing down, she hopped into the air as she gave an emphatic high-five to forward Linnea Gonzales. The force of the high-five nearly stopped Gonzales in her tracks, which was helpful as Gonzales had to quickly reverse course to catch up with Reiter.

"I was pumped," Reiter said.

It was a celebration for a goal that Reiter had waited for since arriving in College Park in January 2015. After she won a pair of state championships at Severna Park, Reiter graduated early and enrolled at Maryland for the spring semester and has worked to earn playing time with the Terps this year.

"It was pretty scary, I was the only one that came in early," Reiter said. "I didn't have any other new people that were confused … but I quickly figured it out."

When coach Missy Meharg had pitched the idea of Reiter joining the team for a grayshirt semester, Reiter liked the idea.

"I was pretty over high school," she said. "It wasn't too complicated, so I went for it … I thought it would be a cool experience to get ahead and not be as nervous on my first day of preseason freshman year."

Despite the head start, Reiter didn't see the field much last year. She played in 11 of the team's 23 games and accumulated three shots.

Still, she said her first season was "an awesome experience," and impressed her team with her work ethic and attitude.

"She'll just run through a wall for her teammates," Meharg said. "That's what she does for us."

The start of Reiter's sophomore year has been a stark contrast to her first season.

She's appeared in each of the Terps' first seven games and started in five of them. She's already taken more shots than she did as a rookie, and Saturday against Indiana she scored her first college goal.

This season also has included a position change for Reiter. Listed as a midfielder to start the year, Meharg made the switch to forward official before Saturday's game, when she asked that Reiter be announced as a forward during the starting lineups.

"It's pretty funny, I've played like every position," Reiter said. "I started as a defender, then [Meharg] moved me to midfield, and then this fall she moved me to forward. She basically told me 'I want you to score.'"

After finding the back of the net against Indiana, the No. 7 Terps hope the Severna Park native can continue her contributions in Tuesday's matchup at No. 10 Princeton.

"She's very strong and she'll keep running and she'll counter-defend, and she's also really a team player," Meharg said. "When people talk to [Reiter], she wants to do what the people behind her want."

Midfielder Lein Holsboer has also noticed that Reiter feeds off input from her team.

"She really likes to be talked to," Holsboer said. "We give her a lot of encouragement from the backline."

Reiter said the reason she listens to her team is simply because "that's what being a good teammate is." It's one of the many little things she does that has helped her find her niche as a sophomore.

Meharg, who's in her 29th year coaching the Terps, called her "one of the most hard-working young women [she's] ever worked with." Holsboer said she's the "most hard-working person on the team."

So though it may have taken some time for Reiter to produce the on-field results, they're not surprised that she's breaking out in her sophomore campaign.

"It's not always the most technically talented and savvy, it's the people that believe in the people behind them and have the energy to have the fitness to drive to win," Meharg said. "I'm so happy that she got on the board."

The Diamondback

The Diamondback is a privately funded, student run news outlet for Maryland University. If you are enjoying their articles please consider making a small donation to their efforts by following the link to their site.



Harvard Field Hockey Drops Weekend Slate

By William Quan

This final weekend of action before the beginning of conference play was an opportunity for Harvard to tune-up one last time as the squad prepares to host Yale next Friday. But both games against Northeastern (4-2) and UMass (4-3) ended in disappointment for the Crimson (2-4).

Harvard was within striking distance in both games, but failed to close out the matches in the end. Against Northeastern, the Crimson’s furious rally was not enough to overcome its first-half deficit. In contrast, Harvard fell flat against the Minutewomen after an early second half equalizer by senior forward Marissa Balleza.

UMASS 3, HARVARD 1

The Crimson came out fighting against Massachusetts in Amherst, ready to get back on a winning streak. The game was deadlocked until the 30th minute when UMass junior defender Melanie Kreusch scored off of a penalty stroke.

After the second half commenced, senior forward Marissa Balleza continued her torrid scoring by stealing the ball in the UMass defensive zone and maneuvering around the goalkeeper to score her fourth goal of the season. She is now only five goals away from the all-time career mark, set by Judy Collins ’99 at 43, with eleven games to go until the season ends.

“From the beginning of the season, I knew that Marissa was going to be a leader in our front field,” said coach Tjerk van Herwaarden. “Her skill set, her determination to go to goal, and the ability to finish on goal sets a great example for our younger players.”

The Minutewomen responded ten minutes later with two quick goals by junior midfielder Sarah Hawkshaw and Melanie Kreusch, her second of the game. The Crimson could not come back from that deficit, and ended up winless on the weekend.

“Marissa had a great goal and if we finished a bit more we could have come back,” said co-captain Sarah Finnemore. “Overall, I think played pretty strongly. We just have a few things that we need to work on to get the outcome that we want.”

NORTHEASTERN 4, HARVARD 3

Harvard and Northeastern battled until the end of regulation on a blustery Friday evening at Berylson Family Field Hockey Field, but the Huskies hung on despite a furious late rally by the Crimson.

“I don’t think we eventually got what we deserved to get,” said van Herwaarden. “It’s sometimes part of the sport. I think we actually did very well. The team worked really hard.”

Northeastern struck early twice to give them a commanding advantage over Harvard.

Harvard climbed back into the contest briefly with a 24th minute goal by senior midfielder Abbey Thornhill. But Northeastern owned the first half. They closed with a 29th minute goal by junior forward Jamie Bartucca, who displayed great skill maneuvering around several Harvard defenders, leading to a second-chance goal off a rebound.

Senior forward Marissa Balleza ignited a second half Harvard rally with a diving lunge to net the ball in the 41st minute. The Crimson put on an immense amount of pressure down the stretch, controlling possession and outshooting the Huskies 11-3 in the second half.

“We need to get more return on the investment,” said van Herwaarden. “I mean, we do a lot of hard work, we had a couple of really good opportunities, and we have to be a little bit sharper. Also, we have to play tougher on the rebounds.”

A second goal seemed to seal Northeastern’s victory, but a late goal by Harvard in the 68th minute set up a frenzied couple final minutes. Two final opportunities off penalty corners gave Harvard the chance to complete the comeback, but a shot flew just over the backboard to end the game.

“Just the effort that was put in, especially by a lot of the younger players, shows you how much potential this team has and how much we can do,” said captain Kyla Cordrey. “Maybe it was a wakeup call to lose this game, but I think we have to put it behind us and move forward….We still haven’t hit Ivy’s yet.”

The Crimson



Canada’s Olympic field hockey players recap Rio in one word

Shaheed Devji


Canada’s field hockey team takes the field in a match against Ireland on August 11, 2016 at theOlympic Games in Rio, Brazil (By Yan Huckendubler)

It’s coming up to a month since the Closing Ceremony of the 2016 Olympics in Rio. After a strong showing and a bump in the World Rankings to 12th from 15th, Canada’s Olympic field hockey players have had some time to reflect on the Games.

When asked to choose one word to sum up the experience at the 2016 Olympic Summer Games, here is how Canada’s 16 Olympic field hockey players responded:

Unforgettable – #2 – Benjamin Martin

The Olympics was an incredibly profound experience, and the highs and the lows of the Games are moments I will hold with me the rest of my life.

Motivating – #4 – Scott Tupper

Any time you compete amongst the best teams in the world, and get the taste of it, it’s extremely motivating to get back to that level, and compete there on a more regular basis.

Dreaming – #5 – Devohn Noronha Teixeira

The best moment was the first game vs Germany, running out on the field and officially becoming a Canadian Olympian.

Infatuating – #7 – Gabriel Ho-Garcia

From the opening ceremonies, to competing, to the life in the athlete’s village; my whole experience at the Rio Olympics has inspired a determined passion to return to the Olympic Games again no matter the hard work it will require.

Inspiring – #10 – Keegan Pereira

My best memory was post-game on the field after playing India, sitting against the pitch barrier, thinking about the long road to get to the Olympics, how our tournament had gone and then thinking about how badly I want to be back in 2020.

Humbled – #11 – Jagdish Gill

After an 18 year journey of discipline, persistence and sacrifice, I am humbled to reach an international stage of excellence.

Sacred – #14 – Adam Froese

In sport there are few games you get to play that are truly worth something. The Red Caribou have been fortunate enough to play a few of those in the last 3 years. In Rio we were able to play five in a row that would determine our fate at the Olympics and the legacy we set moving forward. Personally, I feel we missed it. We missed the mark on a few areas that led us to not reach the desirable goal we set for ourselves. That being said, those five games cannot be taken away from us now, and will go down as arguably five of the biggest games of our lives.

Humbled – #16 – Gordon Johnston

At the Olympics I was so proud to finally represent Canada with the pride and passion that has driven me all my life. I felt so humbled to a part of something so much bigger than me, something that meant so much more than my experience.

Thrilling – #17 – Brenden Bissett

Thrilling, because it was an awesome and incredible experience. Best memory would be the walk out during the opening ceremony.

Privilege – #19 – Mark Pearson

Representing Canada, continuing the proud legacy of Men’s Olympic Field Hockey and competing in front of so many family and friends was truly a privilege.

Overwhelming – #21 – Matthew Sarmento

When you remove yourself from the situation and realize where you are and the work youve done to get there, it was truly unique and a lot to take in.

Honoured – #23 – Iain Smythe

Honoured to be able to represent our amazing country at the Rio 2016 Olympics.

Pinnacle – #26 – Matthew Guest

My best memory was standing over the push back in the first game against Germany.  At that moment I remember thinking we had truly made it back to the world stage

Bittersweet – #27 – Sukhi Panesar

The Olympic experience was incredible and I wouldn’t trade it for the world, but ultimately, disappointment in how we placed leaves me with the desire to be back and achieve more.

Inspiring – #29 – Taylor Curran

Being in that atmosphere and competing against the world’s best was incredibly inspiring and motivating, and it just got me so excited to get back to training and trying to get better!

Everlasting – #30 – David Carter

Although the tournament didn’t go as we had planned and our end result didn’t match our pre-tournament goals, 16 men will forever be known as Canadian Olympians with memories of interacting with sporting superstars and walking alongside each other into the Opening and out of the Closing Ceremonies, all the whilst our closest friends and families continued their incredible support 11,000 kilometres from home!

Field Hockey Canada media release



England Hockey statement on leaked medical information

England Hockey is very disappointed that three of our athletes' personal medical information has been released without their permission.

Athletes obtain Therapeutic Use Exemptions [TUEs] through an independent, robust system, having been prescribed by specialist medical practitioners. Athletes are fully entitled to use prescribed medicines when permitted by WADA to enable them to compete.

With permission of the three athletes, and in the interests of transparency, we can confirm the following:

Crista Cullen was prescribed two inhalers (Ventolin and Seretide) in January 2008 for the prevention and treatment of exercise-induced asthma, following appropriate investigations to confirm the diagnosis.

Alex Danson was prescribed two inhalers (Ventolin and Seretide) in January 2008 for the prevention and treatment of exercise-induced asthma, following appropriate investigations to confirm the diagnosis. She received an injection of methyl-prednisolone (an anti-inflammatory corticosteroid) into her ankle in September 2008, following a well-documented injury to her ankle joint. She also was prescribed an oral dose of Dexamethasone in September 2014, (an anti-inflammatory corticosteroid) as an emergency in an Argentinian hospital following a concussive head injury, to help reduce swelling around the brain.

Sam Quek was prescribed a Ventolin inhaler in February 2008 for the treatment of mild exercise-induced asthma, following appropriate investigations to confirm the diagnosis.

England Hockey, Great Britain Hockey and our athletes are fully committed to clean sport in compliance with the WADA code.

England Hockey Board Media release



FIH President unveils Sikh Union Nairobi Club’s ‘Mahan Hall of Fame’

by Dil Bahra
 

Del Mudher, the curator, and Leandro Negre at the unveiling ceremony yesterday
 
Leandro Negre, President of International Hockey Federation (FIH) opened Sikh Union Nairobi Club’s ‘Mahan Hall of Fame’ in Nairobi yesterday. The Hall of Fame is named after Mahan Singh Sandhu who is regarded as the father of Kenya hockey. He was the coach of Kenya team at their first Olympic outing in Melbourne in 1956.

Negre, a former Spanish international, has long standing friendship with the Club. He played at Mexico Olympic Games in 1968 where Kenya’s team included nine Sikh Union players. And at Mexico Olympics, Kenya’s coach was Sikh Union’s Hardial Singh Kular who later became a Vice President of the FIH. The First World Cup held in Barcelona, Negre’s hometown, in 1971 was masterminded by Pablo Negre, Leandro’s father. At this World Cup, the Kenya team, captained by Avtar Singh Sohal, included ten Sikh Union players. The team practiced on one of the three hockey pitches at the Negre residence. And it was against the Spanish team that Kenya lost in the semi-final of that World Cup. It is a fitting tribute and honour to the Club, with such a rich history, to have the President of the FIH visit the Club.

Sikh Union Nairobi has a very rich and glorious history, and is rightly so, which is now being highlighted. Three of the Club players went on to captain the Kenya team at Olympic Games and World Cups – Surjeet Singh Deol (Senior) was the captain at Melbourne 1956 Olympic Games; Avtar Singh Sohal captained the team at a record three successive Olympic Games from 1964 to 1972 and the World Cup in Barcelona and Surjit Singh Rihal who captained the team at the second World Cup in Amstelveen in 1973 and was selected as captain for the Montreal 1976 Olympic Games which Kenya boycotted at the eleventh hour.

The premier tournament in East Africa was the M R D’Souza Gold Cup, organised by the Kenya Goan Sports Association. The annual tournament, played during the Easter weekend, from 1952 to 1983, attracted the World’s best teams. Sikh Union Nairobi won this Gold Cup 15 times during this period.

SikhsinHockey.com who have comprehensive information on all Sikhs worldwide who have played at Olympic Games and World Cups were delighted to assist with this project and share our vast collection  of Kenya Hockey records. We were able to put Del Mudher, the Club’s curator, in contact with past members who live in all parts of the globe. We provided the profiles of all the Olympians & World Cup players and coaches and umpires.

It was Mudher’s good fortune to have two of Kenya and Sikh Union Legends to give him all the first-hand information. In Nairobi he had Avtar Singh Sohal who played for Sikh Union from 1957 to 1978 and captained Kenya from 1962 to 1972. And in the UK, he had Surjit Singh Rihal who played for Sikh Union from 1969 to 1989 and was Kenya team’s captain from 1973 – 1981. Both Avtar and Surjit are regular contributors to our website.

Mudher worked tirelessly to create such a stunning tribute to the Club’s Olympians, World Cup players and Administrators which in years to come will inspire the younger generation.

A comprehensive history of the Club, with photos from 1920s is recorded on our website (www.sikhsinhockey.com). Profiles of all Sikh players and coaches who have played at Olympic Games and World Cups are also on our site.

Whilst our website records the enormous contribution by Sikhs, Sikh Union Nairobi is a multi-cultured Club. Reginald (Reggie) Alexander, who was a Club Patron was Chef de Mission at the Melbourne 1956 Olympic Games. He was the Founder member and Chairman of the Kenya Olympic Association, founded in 1955, and member of the International Olympic Committee from 1960 for 30 years. He accompanied the Kenya Olympic team at five Olympic Games – from 1956 to 1972.

Jack Simonian kept the goal for the Club in the 1960s when they won all the major domestic competitions. Simonian represented Kenya at three successive Olympic Games and was regarded as one of the best goal-keepers in the world. Hilary Fernandes, a triple Olympian, was the captain when Sikh Union won the M R D’Souza Gold Cup in 1968.  His brother, Leo, another Olympian also played for the Club.

Krishan Aggarwal (double Olympian) and Boniface Riga who played at the second World Cup were also among the many non-Sikh players who were members of the very successful Sikh Union Nairobi Club.

Hats off to Del Mudher for his insight in collating the rich history and putting it on display and preserved it for future generations.

Sikhs in Hockey



A giant amongst Hockey men - a tribute to Brian Victor (Puffy) Edwards (1936 - 2016)

BY STEVE JASPAN


Brian (Puffy) Edwards. Image: KZN Inland Hockey Facebook page

The news of the death of Brian Edwards has sent shock waves through the South African hockey community.

It is doubtful, when one assimilates the length and breadth of this remarkable man’s contribution to hockey, whether the likes of him will ever grace the South African hockey scene again.

I have known Brian Edwards since 1970 having played against him in the latter part of his career; been coached by him, as a fellow selector, hockey administrator – you name it – he really has done just about everything in hockey with a level of excellence that is amazing in South Africa’s sporting scene – nowadays awash with plenty of mediocrity.  Brian’s contribution to hockey shines like a beacon and dwarfs the considerable efforts of his peers.

Brian was a brilliant tactician and amongst the finest coaches I have ever encountered in World Hockey.  The combination in the early 70s of him as coach, Froggy Miot (Manager), Brian Belchers (Captain) and Neville Berman (Vice-Captain) was a management team made in heaven (or forged on Mt.  Olympus).  These four incredible people complemented one another perfectly and this culminated ultimately in the SA Men’s National Team beating West Germany (the then Olympic Champions) to win the gold medal in the 8 Nations Tournament at The Wanderers in 1974.  (By then Neville Berman had replaced Brian Belchers as Captain).  Others say that the zenith of his coaching achievements was the 1980 Saints Tour,  (really the National Team under the radar in those delicate times).

Brian, was nicknamed Puffy by some of his hockey mates in a time where nicknames were very much part of the ethos.  It was a time that, Gary (Hangkas) McLeod, Don (Bags) Perry, Dave (Moose) Ryder and many of his team-mates and opponents were quick to find a nickname to highlight a misdemeanor or characteristic.  This nickname was bestowed upon him in the days in which he represented SA Universities and Natal (120 caps) with such distinction between 1959 and 1971.

Between 1963 and 1969 he played for South Africa as a dashing and dangerous inside forward, captaining the team against Spain in 1967.  I remember watching the final test at The Wanderers and marveling at his skill and tenacity.

It must have been during his distinguished playing career that his appetite for coaching was sharpened and to add to his stint as SA Men’s Coach he later became SA Women’s Coach between 1991 and 1994 with a notable series victory over England.

His coaching extended to indoor and, when Midlands became a separate hockey province he poured tens of thousands of hours in to coaching provincial men’s and women’s teams from his beloved province for well over 30 years.

Brian has been a pillar of Midlands hockey and, his club, Collegians, fulfilling every conceivable role from Chairman (1953-1997), Executive Member (1998-2016), coach, selector, mentor and advisor.  I’m sure he was a benefactor and donor as well. 

At Council meetings of the SA Hockey Association you could bet your bottom dollar that at various times the most searching questions would be posed by Brian with his sharp intellect and accounting skills to the fore.

During his illustrious career he received State Presidents Award for meritorious service to sport (twice) and the SAHA Presidents Award in 2003.

It is quite staggering how one man could have given so much to country, province and club for so long and the hallmark of Brian Victor Edwards was the sheer quality of his input.

If the first statue were to be commissioned of a South African Hockey person it would surely be of him – one of the most respected figures in the history of South African Hockey.  To his sisters, Janet and Margaret, brother – Doug, his wife Felicity, daughter Debbie, son Gareth and the extended family and friends – we extend our heartfelt condolences.

Rest assured, few have left bigger footprints in the “hockey” sands of time!!



A tribute to Louis Venter - a massive but unassuming contributor to South African Hockey

BY STEVE JASPAN

Louis Venter passed away in Cape Town approximately 2 weeks ago at age 85 and the Western Province and South African hockey community mourns the death of one of its most loved hockey characters.

My first impression of Louis was him umpiring a premier league hockey game in Johannesburg in 1970.  Whilst his physical stature may not have been as imposing as Granville (Granny) Rolfe, he managed the game with total control. 

Louis had overcome polio in his twenties and surprised doctors by taking on many physical challenges.  He ensured misdemeanors were handled with a quiet warning word or a little dash of humour engendering the respect of players and fellow umpires.  This epitomized Louis and why he was universally respected as a national umpire.  He umpired at SA’s inter-provincial tournament and SA Country Districts from 1964 until the late 70s, after which he became a national umpires selector and in the late 70s had also assumed the mantle of Chairman of Western Province Hockey and a Council Member of the SA Hockey Association.

He had managed provincial teams, coached club teams including the University of Cape Town’s brilliant champion team of the early 70s which produced the likes of Ian Richter and Don Welham, both of whom had celebrated stints in the green and gold.

Louis was also the Technical Delegate (TD) at numerous inter-provincial tournaments not only ensuring that the tournaments ran like clockwork but also helping to nurture a generation of great SA umpires such as Dan Thysse.  He certainly was a major figure in creating the solid base that has made SA Hockey a leader in producing world class umpires.  He probably allowed himself a small chuckle of satisfaction when people asked how a medium sized hockey nation, for so long in the hockey wilderness, punched well above its weight when it came to producing umpires of the highest calibre.

His involvement as Chairman of WP Hockey and as SA Council Member at a very delicate time required diplomacy and skilled administration as he and other hockey stalwarts such as Dave Metter, Froggy Miot and John Marquard piloted the hockey boat through the very choppy waters of the despised apartheid era.

In the late 70s Louis’ wonderful wife, Lorraine, became Secretary of WP Hockey (probably a first in SA Men’s Hockey) and the husband and wife combination together with other superb administrators ensured WP hockey administration was at the forefront and the envy of other provinces. Tournaments such as the IPT at Milnerton and many more were a joy to attend.  Prior to the advent of artificial surfaces, he had identified the importance of indoor hockey in developing skills; as a development tool and a game of sheer fun and he ensured that the hosting of tournaments in Cape Town often included European Teams, a precursor to this common practice nowadays.  He also edited and produced SA Hockey’s first magazine entitled “Whistle Happy” and it brings back myriad memories to page through one of the back numbers of the magazine – nowadays a hockey collector’s item.  This means of communication and constructive criticism extrapolated into the digital age would be a revelation!

He shared many hours of fun,friendship and humour with another great hockey stalwart, Vic de Mink, and these two epitomized the camaraderie of hockey.

When we measure the impact a person has made it is often seen in the love and respect with which his peers hold him.

Whether it be fellow umpires and selectors such as Bobby Gagel and Graham Loudon-Carter, fellow administrators such as Don Perry, journalists such as Iain Cameron-Strange, players such as Ian Richter and Don Welham, we all have wonderful memories and anecdotes of Louis – a warm, generous, kind, loyal and courageous person and friend.

He was acknowledged formally by SA Hockey when he became an Honorary Life Vice-President of SA Hockey-fitting acknowledgement for his herculean efforts.  A very successful businessman, he loved and cherished his family and his beloved wife, Lorraine and son, Raoul were the light of his life.  Our thoughts are with them in these sad days.

The Western Province and South African hockey community were very fortunate that this man who overcame adversity, loved his parallel unpaid career in hockey, second only to his family.

That’s why our hockey scene is so much the richer and why all who had spent quality time with him felt he had enriched their lives.

Fieldhockey.com uses cookies to assist with navigating between pages. Please leave the site if you disagree with this policy.
Copyright remains with the credited source or author