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All the news for Thursday 25 January 2018

2018 4 Nations Invitational Tournament (M) - Day 2
Hamilton (NZL)

IND v BEL     5 - 4
NZL v JPN     6 - 2

Rank	Team	GP	W	D	L	GF	GA	GD	P
1	India	2	2	0	0	8	6	2	6
2	Belgium	2	1	0	1	7	7	0	3
3	Japan	1	0	0	1	2	3	-1	0
3	New Zealand	1	0	0	1	2	3	-1	0

FIH Match Centre

India at last scales Belgium 5-4 in a thriller

s2h team

Fighting Indians managed to scale never-say-die Belgium 5-4 today at Hamilton in the 4-Nations Invitation Cup. India took lead twice (1-0, 4-3) only to see the valiant rival come out with a new trick in their bag to equalize every time. When in the last moments, young Dilpreet Singh tapped in a pass from Ramandeep Singh, it stood uneroded to give Indians a first full-time win over neo-powers Belgium in many years.

As expected, the encounter was entertaining with goals flowing from both side easily, enthralling the crowd. India took the lead with Rupinder Pal converting its first Penalty Corner in the fourth minute, and then he struck again off India's 3rd penalty corner in the 42nd minute. Lalit Upadhyay, Haramanpreet Singh, and the young Dilipreet were other scorers for India.

Belgium matched every Indian goal with a innovation in its penalty corner conversion techniques.

A reckless tackle on a speeding Indian forward proved fatal for Tauranga leg of 4-Nation winners Belgium early in the match against India at Hamilton today. Rupinder Pal Singh sent his drag into the middle of the cage to give India an early lead (1-0) in the fourth minute. It survived the rest of first quarter.

Within a minute in the second quarter, John-John Dohmen capitalized on a lapse from youngster Varun Kumar while clearing a goalmouth melee. As Varun would look for a favourable decision from umpire, alert Dohmen hit the ball high, which entered the goal on the right side top of the cage (1-1). This is clearly an easy goal to concede.

Indian pressed hard and created quite a few chances to wrest the lead. In particular, India came close to achieve their target twice. First, midway through second quarter, Lalit Upadhyay broke through and sent a nice cross across goalmouth only to see Belgium defender Dorian Thiery diving full length to deflect the ball. One would have thought the same act from any of the Indian forwards would have given them the lead!

At the closing stages of second quarter, moments after Arman Qureshi got a green card suspension, India got its second penalty corner, a soft one. Rupinder Pal Singh however could not make a dent now. His low flick was padded away by the goalie.

Both sides changes sides with honours even.

Last three minutes of third quarter saw two goals emanating. Rupinder Pal converted India's third penalty corner to level the score (2-2). The lead just lasted for another two minutes. PR Sreejesh stopped Belgum's penalty corner attempt, but a forward managed to drag the ball along the sidelines to effect a minus of which Alexander Henxricx struck to the left of stranded goalie. Sreejesh needs to be backed up, which did not happen in this case(3-2).

This lead was nullified by India in the first minute of fourth quarter, which saw four goals. Rupinder Pal took a drag only to see rival goalie blocking but Harmanpreet put the rebound into the cage (3-3).

Thereafter, both teams matched in every department of the game, with a result goals raining.

After wasting its fifth penalty corner, Lalit posted Indian lead in the 53rd minute (4-3).

Belgium got a soft penalty corner in the 55th minute of which Tom Book struck to bring parity (4-4). And then young Dilpreet Singh did his best piece of act to deny Belgium a draw.

India will now meet Japan in its third pool match.

Stick2Hockey.com

India beat Belgium 5-4

NEW DELHI: Indian men's hockey team registered a thrilling 5-4 win over Rio Olympic silver-medallists Belgium in their second match at the second-leg of Four-Nation Invitational Tournament, on Wednesday.

With this win, India are in the pole position to book a place in the gold medal match.

After defeating New Zealand 3-2 yesterday, India got the better of their higher-ranked opponents, courtesy two goals from drag-flick specialist Rupinder Pal Singh. Rupinder opened the account for India in the 4th minute with the first of his two PC conversions.

India got five penalty corners in total in the match and even though Rupinder's shot was blocked three times, two of those deflections were capitalised by the Indian forwards that resulted in two goals.

The winning goal was struck by the youngster Dilpreet Singh in the 59th minute. Lalit Upadhay and Harmanpreet Sigh were the other two scorers for India.

The Times of India

Vantage Black Sticks edged by India


Photo: www.photosport.nz

The Vantage Black Sticks Men have suffered a narrow 3-2 defeat to India on opening day at the University of Waikato Four Nations in Hamilton.

With the game locked up 1-1 at halftime, runners up from the Tauranga leg of the series India took advantage with two quick goals in the third quarter which ultimately proved the difference.

Striker Hugo Inglis celebrated a fantastic milestone with his 200th international appearance for New Zealand at just 26 years old.

Man of the moment Inglis said it was nice to bring up his 200th in front of a home crowd but bittersweet given the result.

“It’s a nice achievement personally but disappointing that we weren’t able to come away with the result tonight,” he said.

“They’re a tough side with great skills and dangerous on the counter attack so we need to find a way to not allow them to be so clinical.

“We’re looking forward to getting stuck in against Japan and are looking forward to the challenge.”

India struck first in the seventh minute when Lalit Upadhyay found the ball at his feet in the circle and slipped one past goalkeeper Devon Manchester.

The Kiwis equalised midway through the second quarter with Daniel Harris sweeping a deflection into goal following the initial shot from Inglis.

India surged ahead early in the second half with two quick-fire penalty corner goals from Harjeet Singh and Rupinder Singh.

The Black Sticks were still well in the contest when they pulled the visitors’ lead back within one goal in the 37th minute through a strong Kane Russell penalty corner drag flick.

Despite pouring on the pressure in the final 20 minutes, New Zealand weren’t able to find a way through the Indian defence for the levelling blow.

The Vantage Black Sticks go up against Japan at 7:30pm tomorrow night, following the Belgium vs India match at 5:45pm.

Both tests will be streamed live and then available on demand through the Vantage Black Sticks Facebook page (facebook.com/nzblacksticks).

Tickets are still available online through www.dashtickets.co.nz or at the gate.

DAY ONE RESULTS – GALLAGHER HOCKEY CENTRE, HAMILTON

VANTAGE BLACK STICKS: 2 (Daniel Harris, Kane Russell)
INDIA: 3 (Lalit Upadhyay, Harjeet Singh, Rupinder Singh)
Halftime: 1-1

BELGIUM: 3 (Loick Luypaert, Tom Boon, Tanguy Cosyns)
JAPAN: 2 (Koji Yamasaki, Tsubasa Yamamizu)
Halftime: Belgium 3-1

Hockey New Zealand Media release

Black Sticks fall in Four Nations tournament opener

By Christopher Reive


Kane Russell was strong in the Black Sticks' loss to India. Photo / Photosport.

A frantic finish wasn't enough for the Black Sticks to topple India, falling 3-2 in the opening match of their Four Nations campaign in Hamilton on Wednesday.

After finishing in third at the competition in Tauranga last week, the Black Sticks eyed a strong start against Tauranga's runners-up.

However, it was the Indian side who got on the board first, scoring from a penalty corner seven minutes into the match.

Down by one after the opening 15 minutes, the Black Sticks hit back through Daniel Harris who tapped a rebounded shot from Hugo Inglis into an open net.

The sides were locked at 1-1 headed into halftime, but two goals from penalty corners gave India a two-goal buffer in the third quarter.

The New Zealand side needed to be the next to score to have a chance of staying in the match and thanks to Kane Russell, they were.

Russell scored from a penalty corner to bring his side within one goal with a quarter to play.

Despite the New Zealand side pushing numbers forward and launching a number of promising attacks, the equalising goal eluded them as they were handed a one-goal defeat.

Earlier in the day, Belgium survived a scare against Japan, also winning 3-2.

The tournament continues on Thursday with India facing Belgium before the Black Sticks take on Japan.

The New Zealand Herald

Black Sticks caught snoozing in 3-2 loss to India

By Olivia Caldwell


New Zealand's Hugo Inglis was unable to get the win in his 200th match for the Black Sticks. JOHN COWPLAND/PHOTOSPORT

The Black Sticks lamented lost opportunities in a 3-2 defeat to India in the second round of the Four Nations hockey tournament.

Failed penalty corner attempts and confusion in the defensive circle have left the Black Sticks ruing what could have been on Wednesday night.

India were able to slot the few opportunities, they had while the Black Sticks struggled to find form in what were hot conditions at Hamilton's Gallagher Hockey Centre.

Double centurion Hugo Inglis put the loss down to not being clinical and letting chances go begging in the attacking circle.

"Yeah, a bit disappointing not to get the result, they're a tough side and they're a team that's improving and dangerous on the counter attack."

Player of the first round, Marcus Child, was back in form on the flank  in the early stages with breaks along with Nick Ross in the midfield, who connected with Child and Inglis. The trio showed their collective experienced throughout the match.

The Black Sticks were dominant and directed play in the first half, however India were the first to strike seven minutes in through a loose ball in the circle deflected by striker Lalit Upadhyay.

The Indians nearly struck twice within minutes, however Kiwi goalkeeper Devon Manchester saved several shots on goal to keep the Black Sticks in the first quarter.

The Aucklander has been a main stayer for the Black Sticks with over 110 caps for the side and will be a huge influence on the Black Sticks chances at the Commonwealth Games.

However he was subbed off for the second half by coach Darren Smith, which changed the momentum of the match.

Stalwart Stephen Jenness was in his usual solid form feeding his forwards some good opportunity ball in the circle, however the strikers were unable to convert any of the long ball sent to the circle and slotted only one of their penalty corner opportunities in the entire match.

Daniel Harris was able to get the first reward in general play after some great lead up play by Inglis who beat three players in the circle in his 200th match.

Inglis again showed why he has been a constant selection, easing his way into the circle to force a penalty corner off some clumsy Indian defence. Inglis on the post was unlucky not to get a stick on a well fed ball to the right post from Shea McAleese - the third penalty corner to go begging.

Danger player and Indian midfielder Rupinder Singh proved difficult near the circle and gave India another attacking opportunity through a penalty corner early in the third quarter. The Black Sticks found themselves confused and the ball was slotted in the back of the net past reserve goalkeeper George Enerson.

Shortly after Singh nailed his drag flick straight past Enerson to take a healthy 3-2 lead and leave New Zealand in doubt. They were able to strike back shortly after through Kane Russell on their only successful penalty corner.

India dropped the intensity after this and the Black Sticks received another penalty corner opportunity, which went high and wide, just as the home side's chances of a win.

Earlier, Olympic first round winners and silver medallist Belgium overcame Japan 3-2.

BLACK STICKS: 2 (Daniel Harris, Kane Russell)
INDIA: 3 (Lalit Upadhyay, Harjeet Singh, Rupinder Singh)
Halftime: 1-1

BELGIUM: 3 (Loick Luypaert, Tom Boon, Tanguy Cosyns)
JAPAN: 2 (Koji Yamasaki, Tsubasa Yamamizu)
Halftime: Belgium 3-1

Stuff

India's defence showed stiff resilience in victory over New Zealand

Sundeep Misra

After a captivating and enthralling first leg of the 4-Nation Hockey Invitational in New Zealand where India picked up silver, the national team kept itself on course with a rousing 3-2 win over hosts New Zealand. Like the sunshine that covered the ground completely and then slowly ebbed away, so did India’s game. But the resilience inside the Indian defence was like a brick wall. If it was breached, then the defenders also need to pick up a portion of the fault, especially on the first Kiwi goal where the reaction was as delayed as a 50-year-old running an Olympic sprint final.

Yet, they controlled portions, rotated the ball and stayed on course for another shot at a second 4-Nation Final in Hamilton.

The scorers for India were Lalit Upadhyay (7th), Harjeet Singh (penalty corner, 32nd) and Rupinder Pal Singh (penalty corner, 36th). The hosts scored through Daniel Harris (23rd) and Russel Kane (penalty corner, 37th).

India was in with their seniors all playing–Rupinder Pal, Manpreet and Harmanpreet–the main stays of the team. The only one who was missing was Chinglensana, rested for this encounter and would be available for the match against Belgium. The start was fast and the breaks came from the flanks rather than any superlative runs through the middle. Later in the second and especially in the third and fourth quarter, Vivek Sagar, in his first senior tournament, showed the deft stick-work and his smart positional play that gave him a spot in the Indian national team. His control was impeccable and the best part about the Madhya Pradesh player was his swift switching inside the middle of the field and also in the striking circle. Deft stick-work apart, he sent the Kiwi players the wrong way by just turning his stick one way and going the other. With a good speed, he was able to break quite a few times.

The opening goal came in the seventh minute, a deflection scored by Lalit Upadhyay from inside a sea of Kiwi and Indian bodies. Early goals in such encounters are a must; they put the opponent under pressure and allow the attacking team to press further. With two minutes left in the first quarter, both Ramandeep Singh and Dilpreet Singh had chances but the Kiwi goalkeeper Devon Manchester brought off smart saves.

Build-ups for New Zealand were excellent in the second half, a low period for the Indian team. They were pushed back and New Zealand also had three penalty corners to show for their dominance. Two penalty corners, early in the quarter were saved even though the Indian defence were looking into the sun. Phillips Hayden was the main creator during this period, switching play from the right flank to the middle, upsetting the rhythm of the Indian side. The Kiwis also changed the point of play very fast. Within seconds, relaying the ball from flank to flank and then suddenly charging through the middle. It was Hugo Inglis who created the first goal. Going past two Indian defenders and then with a reverse hit forcing Sreejeesh to take it on the pads. The rebound fell free and as the Indian defenders waited, expecting the other to go for the ball, out of nowhere swooped in Daniel Harris and swept it into goal. Careless from the Indians but an amazing piece of work from the Kiwis. At 1-1, they were getting into the Indians head. The Kiwis kept pressing. They even had a third penalty corner and the deflection was just missed by Inglis who had a good match on a day he earned his 200th cap.

After the break, India came out positively. Sjoerd Marijne must have given them a piece of his mind for the constant back-pedalling in the second quarter and the silly errors that gave advantage on the turnovers to the Kiwis. It was Mandeep Singh who created the first penalty corner for India in the match. Lovely piece of trickery on the edge of the striking circle and India was set. What followed could have been a piece of miscommunication or a brilliant improvisation. Harjeet Singh, instead of stopping the ball, just took it standing; the switch extremely sudden and his hit went off George Muir’s stick, ballooning into the Kiwi goal. India led 2-1.

Vivek also came into his own way, all lovely wristy feints as the New Zealanders fought to hold the Indians back. Lalit earned another penalty corner, India’s second. Rupinder Pal Singh was on the ground and his speedy angling flick cut through the defence and goalkeeper to give India a 3-1 lead.

New Zealand, however, fought back immediately and they had their 4th penalty corner. Russel Kane’s powerful flick was wide as Sreejesh tried unsuccessfully to reach it. New Zealand had cut the scores to 2-3.

India was quite solid in the midfield and defence in the fourth quarter. They held the midfield strongly and even Satbir rotated quite effectively. What Satbir lacked was a final pass that could break through the defence. Otherwise, his play was creative and he managed to bottle up space. Vivek was all over the midfield. In one particular move, he picked up the ball at the midfield and in a burst of space went in with Manpreet and almost scored but couldn’t control the last touch on the ball. New Zealand brought off their goalkeeper with two minutes to go and in a final do-or-die push had a wonderful opportunity but the ball after eluding the Indian defenders came off the post with Satbir clearing it away.

With three points in the bag, India now look forward to Belgium on Thursday. Speaking on the first leg, Indian coach Sjoerd Marijne said, “Consistency is not done in one day and that it takes time. Yes, I already see improvement and we will keep working on the finishing.” With four wins in their last four matches against New Zealand, consistency seems to be on the upward trajectory against the Kiwis.

Firstpost

Victory for Scotland women in third test against Wales


Photo by Nicholas Evrard

Scotland women defeated Wales 1-0 in the third test of five in Gran Canaria as part of the squad’s preparation for Gold Coast Commonwealth Games.

The Scots got off to a flyer and took the lead early doors. The ball was slipped to Karin Belch and she picked out Katie Robertson who deflected the ball into the roof of the net. It was another good goal for Robertson who was also on target in Scotland’s 1-0 over Wales in the first match of the series.

Laura Swanson played up front in this match and enjoyed a good outing in attack, getting into good positions and had a few chances to score. Swanson’s first chance was in the opening quarter; forcing the keeper to make a good diving save.

Charlotte Watson also looked lively throughout the third test. Watson came close to scoring, but another good diving save denied the Scotland striker – the keeper reached with her left pad to deny Watson from a back edge shot.

Ali Howie was next to come close when she had a shot saved on the line by a Welsh defender as Scotland went hunting for more goals.

Swanson fired a good effort over the bar in the third quarter before Nikki Lloyd had a good shot saved from a narrow angle.

Scotland women’s Head Coach Gordon Shepherd said, “The first half was really good performance, we played with great tempo.

“In general, the first and third quarters were very good – we dominated and looked dangerous. The second and fourth quarters were more even, but Amy Gibson in goal didn’t touch the ball once during the game. We’ve defended very well in all the matches so far. We’ve also had periods of good attacking play, especially today and in the first game.

“We’re looking forward to the next match, we’ll make changes to give players opportunities to stand out for selection. This time we’ll be looking to kick on from the win and see more improvement in the next match.”

Scottish Hockey Union media release

Telkom sink plucky GRA in Accra

By BRIAN OTWAL IN ACCRA, GHANA

Champions Telkom on Wednesday remained on course to clinch a record 10th Africa Cup for Club Champions hockey title after edging out Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) 1-0 on day six of the competition.

Veteran defender Terry Juma’s strike a minute to the end settled the tight contest at the Theodosia Okoh Hockey Stadium.

The win moved Telkom top of the standings with 12 points after four matches and they are yet to concede a goal in the competition. The Kenyan side now need to avoid defeat in their final match against Ghana Police on Thursday to seal their place in Saturday’s final.

GRA dropped to second with nine points, same as rivals Ghana Police, who thrashed Yobe Desert Queens 4-0 in earlier match. GRA face Kada Queens from Nigeria in their final match.

The top two teams at the end of the preliminary round will clash in Saturday’s final.

Telkom coach Jos Openda was pleased with the result and called on his charges to finish the job against Ghana Police.

“We managed to overcome a tough team that was backed by a huge home support. The team played according to instructions and we are well on course to retain the title,” Openda said.

In Wednesday’s match, Telkom dominated early proceedings but could not sound the boards with Jackline Mwangi, Audrey Omaido and Juma all missing chances as the teams headed to halftime goalless.

After the break, GRA buoyed by their home support, pushed for the opening goal but forwards Coffein Erstina,Vivian Narkuor and Sarfoa Owusu’s could not find a way past the Telkom defence marshalled by Juma, Lucy Wangeci and Flavia Mutiva.

REMAINED UNBEATEN

Both teams pressed for a winner in the fourth quarter with Telkom wasting two short corners, while Cynthia Anyango saved brilliantly from Narkuor. With the game seemingly headed for a draw, Telkom won another short corner and this time they were not to be denied as Juma connected well with Mutiva’s dragged corner to give her side the three points.

The win saw Telkom preserve their unbeaten run against the Ghanaians at the continental club showpiece. Telkom had won their previous five meetings prior to Wednesday’s clash.

The battle for the men’s title is shaping out to be between defending champions Eastern Company and El Sharkia both from Egypt.

El Sharkia lead the table with seven points same as their compatriots, but the latter have a superior goal difference.

Niger Flickers and GRA men are third and fourth respectively on four points each, while Ghana Trustees lying fifth on three points.

Daily Nation

No stopping the red-hot Telkom

Hockey queens Telkom are two matches away from a record 10th Africa Cup of Club Championships crown.

By Elizabeth Mburugu



Yesterday, the reigning continental champions extended their smooth run when they beat arch rivals Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) 1-0 to close in on their title defence bid.

Not even cheers from the crowds that had turned up at Theodosia Okoh Hockey Stadium in Accra, Ghana, to rally behind hosts could stop the Kenyan girls from stamping their authority.

Veteran Terry Juma’s goal just seconds to the final whistle made all the difference in a hotly contested match that almost ended goalless.

Jos Openda, the Telkom coach, praised his charges for their bravery and ability to remain focused. “I’m glad my players were strong enough to shake off pressure that the crowd piled on them,” Openda said. Openda, who has led Telkom to nine Africa titles, said their strategy was to take one match at a time.

From the onset, the two sides mounted a series of attacks as they played defensively with their back lines well-guarded. Just like in their previous encounters, they created equal chances in the first quarter, though none of them utilised them to take the lead. Jackline Mwangi and Audrey Omaido came close to putting Telkom in the lead, but the Ghanaians battled to keep their fans' moral high.

GRA gathered confidence and moved into Telkom’s half. Eristina Coffeein connected well with Vivian Narkuor and Sarfoa Owusu as they threatened to break the deadlock, but their efforts were thwarted. Telkom defenders Terry Juma, Lilian Aura, and Maureen Okumu stopped the Ghanaians’ surge. 

But it was do-or-die in the last 15 minutes as each team trained their sights on Saturday’s final. Telkom failed to convert their first two penalty corners count while GRA wasted their chances, with goalkeeper Cynthia Onyango stopping the opponents attempts. Telkom’s Juma successfully converted a short corner in the 59th minute to glide into the finals.

The Standard Online

UniKL share the spoils with MHL leaders

By Aftar Singh


Keep it coming: Mohd Sallehin Abdul Ghani of TNB-Thunderbolt (left) dribbling past KLHC’s Mohamad Sukri Abdul Mutalib during their MHL match on Wednesday.

KUALA LUMPUR: Universiti Kuala Lumpur (UniKL) clawed their way back to hold Terengganu to a 1-1 draw in the Malaysia Hockey League (MHL).

The university team, who have never beaten the east coast team since making their debut in the MHL in 2011, bounced back from a goal down to share a point at the Batu Buruk Hockey Stadium in Kuala Terengganu yesterday.

Terengganu took the lead off a field attempt by national forward Faizal Saari in the 34th minute.

UniKL, who drew 2-2 in the first round match against Terengganu last Sunday, managed to equalise through Izwan Firdaus Ahmad Tajuddin in the 51st minute off a field goal.

UniKL, who did not have the services of two players – Australian Tim Deavin and Ashran Hamsani, pushed their forwards in search of the winning goal but their efforts failed to materialise.

Deavin was suspended one match for collecting eight demerit points and Ashran was down with a hamstring injury.

UniKL skipper Muhd Marhan Mohd Jalil was back in action after recovering from a hip injury and he put up an inspiring show.

Terengganu lead the six-team Premier Division standings with 12 points from six matches while UniKL are in fourth spot with nine points from two wins, three draws and one defeat.



The Star of Malaysia

Why You Should Attend the USWNT vs. The Netherlands Series



PALO ALTO, Calif. - The U.S. Women's National Team vs. The Netherlands not only marks both squad's first international competition of the year, but it marks the first-ever ticketed series in Palo Alto, Calif. In the past, the USWNT has played friendly matches in Southern California at the Chula Vista Elite Athlete Training Center but all of them have been closed to the public. To aid in the organization's first-leg of the mission statement, this four-game series will help Grow the Game in an ever developing region.

Along each step of the way, Stanford University has been prominent for this series. It is a a staple in the Bay Area for field hockey enthusiasts as well in USA Field Hockey's Region 11. As the USWNT's 2018 competition schedule kicks off in the Golden State, so too does a little piece of history. The first-ever ticketed event of its kind on the West Coast is poised to have a significant impact in future growth of field hockey, beginning with a giant exclamation mark on the road to the Vitality Hockey Women’s World Cup London 2018. While the location may change, the goal is the same on home turf!

All that is missing is you!

All tickets for the Saturday, January 27 game are sold out and all tickets in Section A for the Sunday, January 28 game are sold out. All other matches are trending in the same direction. Tickets will be for sale at the door for remaining games that are not sold out.

CLICK HERE TO PURCHASE TICKETS

To help rally the crowd to be big, bold and loud throughout the four-game event, Theme Nights have been established. Click here to view the nights and join in on the fun.

All games will be live streamed on usafieldhockey.com.

USFHA media release
 

USA Field Hockey Announces 2018 Hall of Fame Induction Class



COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. - USA Field Hockey is pleased to announce the 2018 Hall of Fame Induction Class. After the last induction in 2016, the organization is thrilled to celebrate the outstanding honors and prestigious achievements of those individuals who have given back to the game to help grow the sport in the United States.

The 2018 USA Field Hockey Hall of Fame and Awards Gala will take place on Saturday, March 17 at the Lord Baltimore Hotel in Baltimore, Md. This exciting opportunity falls during the inaugural USA Field Hockey Summit, presented by AstroTurf, and will definitely be a memorable experience. For the 2018 edition, USA Field Hockey has created several additional awards to more broadly recognize, honor and celebrate individuals across the hockey community whose contributions have made a major and lasting impact on the game of field hockey in the United States. These award winners were voted on by fans and will be recognized at the ceremony.

Over the next few weeks prior to the USA Field Hockey Hall of Fame and Awards Gala, we will be honoring each of the 2018 Hall of Fame Inductees, Honorary Members and Award Winners.
Join USA Field Hockey members, coaches, umpires, fans and your friends in honoring our sport's finest by purchasing a ticket by clicking here.

2018 Hall of Fame Inductees:

    Steve Danielson
    Keli Smith Puzo
    Amy Tran Swenson

2018 Hall of Fame Honorary Members:

    Helen Allen
    Barb Carriero

2018 USA Field Hockey Humanitarian Award Winner:

    Jean Lipski

USFHA media release

HA Confirms Final Spots For National Senior Women’s Squad

Ben Somerford



Hockey Australia (HA) today announces Kalindi Commerford and Jodie Kenny have been added to the 2018 National Senior Women’s Squad.

Commerford and Kenny both participated in last week’s Test Series against Spain in Perth and have been elevated from the National Women’s Development Squad.

Their additions round out the 27-player 2018 National Senior Women’s Squad ahead of a huge year which includes the Commonwealth Games in April and World Cup in July-August.

Commerford, 23, is a midfielder/striker who hails from Canberra and originally played for Ulladulla Jets. She re-located to Perth to chase a career with the Hockeyroos, having been part of last year’s National Women’s Development Squad.

Wamuran product Kenny, 30, returns to the Hockeyroos set-up having made 186 appearances and scored 100 goals, including the late equaliser in the 2014 Commonwealth Games gold medal match, before taking time away from the game after the 2016 Rio Olympics to start a family.

Hockeyroos head coach Paul Gaudoin said: “Kalindi had solid performances against Spain. She has a real strength on the ball, a solid passing range in the midfield and very good fitness levels.

“Jodie was also solid in the Spain series. She displayed an understanding of what we’re doing and her experience was demonstrated in the matches. She also adds another dimension to our penalty corner options.

“It’s great now to have our 27-player squad formalised for 2018, before we move on to selection for the 18-player team for the Commonwealth Games.”

The Commonwealth Games on the Gold Coast will take place from 5-14 April. The Hockeyroos are pooled with New Zealand, Canada, Ghana and Scotland.

SQUAD LIST
Athlete (Hometown, State)
Jocelyn Bartram (Albury, NSW)
Kristina Bates (Port Melbourne, VIC)
Edwina Bone (Orange, NSW) *Plays for ACT
Lily Brazel (Sydney, NSW) *Plays for VIC
Jane-Anne Claxton (Adelaide, SA)
Kalindi Commerford (Canberra, ACT)
Ashlea Fey (Sunshine Coast, QLD)
Madison Fitzpatrick (Cabarita Beach, NSW) *Plays for QLD
Savannah Fitzpatrick (Cabarita Beach, NSW) *Plays for QLD
Jordyn Holzberger (Ipswich, QLD)
Emily Hurtz (Sydney, NSW) *Plays for VIC
Jodie Kenny (Wamuran, QLD)
Stephanie Kershaw (Townsville, QLD)
Rachael Lynch (Warrandyte, VIC)
Karri McMahon (Berri, SA)
Georgina Morgan (Armidale, NSW)
Gabrielle Nance (Kingscliff, NSW) *Plays for SA
Kaitlin Nobbs (Newington, NSW)
Brooke Peris (Darwin, NT)
Madi Ratcliffe (Warrnambool, VIC)
Kathryn Slattery (South Stirling, WA)
Emily Smith (Crookwell, NSW)
Grace Stewart (Gerringong, NSW)
Renee Taylor (Everton Park, QLD)
Ashlee Wells (Morwell, VIC)
Mariah Williams (Parkes, NSW)
Georgia Wilson (Mahogany Creek, WA)

Hockey Australia media release

Dar Academy Boys Shine against World XI

By Ijaz Chaudhry

Pakistan witnessed international hockey after a long time when  a World XI comprising stars from the top hockey nations played two matches against Pakistan Juniors.

It was no surprise to see four players from Pakistan's biggest nursery Dar Hockey Academy appearing for the home team: Waqar Younis (goal keeper), Adeel Latif, Awais Arshad and Ibrahim.

Adeel Latif emerged as one of the stars for the Pakistan Juniors. He scored his side's only goal in the first match, won 5-1 by the World XI.

Youngster had created quite a stir as his goal put Pakistan 1-0 ahead and the colts managed to hold onto the lead till the half time.

However, the experience of the World XI proved too much for the Pakistani youngsters.

The juniors gave a much improved display in the second match at Lahore and held the World XI to a 3-3 draw.

Here, Adeel Latif scored the goal of the series. Picking the ball near the centre line, he made a mesmerising run along the right flank and cutting into the circle netted the ball after his first attempt rebounded off the goal keeper's pads.

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

Fieldhockey.com

UK Club Players of the Year

Hollie Pearne-Webb		Sam Ward

Olympic gold medalist Hollie Pearne-Webb and Rio Olympian Sam Ward have won the prestigious UK player of the year awards for 2017, chosen by members of the Hockey Writers’ Club.

The awards were made at the Club’s annual presentation lunch on Wednesday January 24, 2018 at the Royal Thames Yacht Club, Knightsbridge, London.

Surbiton defender Pearne-Webb, 27, is Investec women’s player of the year. She was a major contributor to England’s efforts on the international stage in what was a rebuilding year following Great Britain’s success at the 2016 Rio Olympics.

In August 2017, she was named player of the tournament at the European hockey championships in Amsterdam, the Netherlands – an award that is traditionally dominated by host-country winners and forward or midfield players. England took bronze in that tournament, defeating Germany 2-0 in the bronze-medal game.

Mercian men’s player of the year award winner Ward, 27, also won a European championship bronze medal in August, with England defeating Germany 4-2 in the bronze-medal game in Amsterdam. England also qualified for the World Cup with a third-place finish in the World League Semi-Final in London in June. Early in 2017, Great Britain won the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup in Malaysia, defeating Australia 4-3 in the final in May.

On hearing she had won the Investec women’s award, Pearne-Webb said: “It is a surprise. I said the same thing at the Europeans – I don’t really think about awards. But I am so honoured to receive this Hockey Writers’ Club player of the year award because the previous recipients are such great players. I am very happy, very surprised and very honoured.”

The defender made her international debut in 2013. She began hockey with Belper Hockey Club and has also played at Beeston and Surbiton. Pearne-Webb, then Webb, famously netted Great Britain’s winning shootout goal in the 2016 Olympic Games gold match against the Netherlands.

“It is a new squad since 2016 and we have made a really good start into this Olympic cycle,” she said. “There are a lot of fresh faces and it has been a really exciting time getting to know those players. I am really looking forward to next two or three years, and this year in particular with what we have ahead. There is so much potential there.”

Major tournaments of 2018 include the Commonwealth Games in Australia in April, then the women’s Hockey World Cup in London in July.

“What we have ahead is so exciting for everyone in the squad. All the home nations are going to the Commonwealth Games and then we have a home World Cup for the England players – we are incredibly excited about that.”

We all stuck together, says Ward

Ward, made his international debut in 2014. In 2017 he rejoined his boyhood club of Beeston after two seasons with Kent club Holcombe. He began hockey as one of the “Banana Bunch”, a mixed programme then run by Leicester Ladies, before moving to Beeston, aged nine.

Ward said of his award: “It is an honour, but a bit of a shock and I really appreciate it. Looking at the past winners, I am honoured to be on that list. They are some of the best hockey players in the world and to be following the likes of them is an incredibly proud moment for me.

“Internationally it was a good year,” Ward said. “It started with Great Britain winning the Sultan Azlan Shah Trophy. But for me the biggest reward was the bronze medal in the Europeans in Amsterdam. We all stuck together in what I can only describe as one of the toughest games of my career – and we took the bronze medal. That is all down to the hard work the staff and all the players have put in.”

Ward netted eight goals in the World League Semi-Final at Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park in June to help England qualify for the World Cup. “It is always great to score a load of goals. It was a fantastic summer for me and that is probably one of my best tournaments goals-wise. But at the end of the day it is about us focusing on what we want to do as a team and if the goals contribute to that, it is brilliant,” he said.

Ward is now relishing his return to club hockey at Beeston, who went into the winter break second in the premier division of the England Men’s Hockey League. “I can never thank Holcombe enough for what they have done for me, but it is special to go back to your childhood club and pull on the jersey that you pulled on from the age of nine.

“This year we want to push on and first of all make sure we make the play offs, but then I think we all aspire to win the league and to try and make Europe again,” he said.

Ahead internationally for Ward is the defence of the Sultan Azlan Shah cup in March; the home nations compete in the Commonwealth Games in Australia in April; and the World Cup is in India, starting in late November.

“The Commonwealth Games is going to be an incredible event,” Ward said. “Then I have never played in a World Cup myself, so I cannot wait until the end of the year and hopefully playing there.”

A close vote

The voting was close in both the men’s and women’s player of the year awards, which are decided by a poll of UK members of the Hockey Writers’ Club. In the men’s vote Ward finished ahead of Surbiton, Scotland and Great Britain striker Alan Forsyth. Third place was a tie between England and Great Britain goalkeeper George Pinner (Holcombe) and England and Great Britain’s Barry Middleton (also Holcombe).

In the women’s vote, Pearne-Webb pipped England and Great Britain forward Lily Owsley (University of Birmingham) for first place. Another Great Britain and England forward, Sophie Bray (Kampong, Netherlands) was placed third.

During 2017 the Hockey Writers’ Club also presented Pearne-Webb with the Marjorie Pollard Salver as the best player at a major tournament nominated by the club (the European championships). The corresponding men’s award, the Chris Moore Salver, was won by Barry Middleton (World League Semi Final, London).

HOCKEY WRITERS’ CLUB - UK PLAYERS OF THE YEAR - PREVIOUS WINNERS

1983 Margaret Gleghorne; Paul Barber
1984 Karen Brown; Richard Leman
1985 Linda Carr; Sean Kerly MBE
1986 Moira McLeod; Ian Taylor
1987 Violet McBride; Imran Sherwani
1988 Barbara Hambly OBE; Jon Potter
1989 Vickey Dixon; David Faulkner
1990 Maggie Souyave; Andy Halliday
1991 Joanne Thompson; Jason Laslett
1992 Jane Sixsmith MBE; Rob Hill
1993 Sandie Lister; Julian Halls
1994 Karen Brown; Simon Mason
1995 Tammy Miller; Ian Jennings MBE
1996 Kathryn Johnson; Bobby Crutch;ley
1997 Karen Brown; Jon Wyatt
1998 Carolyn Reid; David Hacker
1999 Christina Cullen MBE; Chris Ashcroft
2000 Jane Sixsmith MBE; Mark Pearn
2001 Jane Smith; Danny Hall
2002 Leisa King; Robert Todd
2003 Kate Walsh; Simon Mason
2004 Christina Cullen MBE; Barry Middleton
2005 Crista Cullen; Jonathan Ebsworth
2006 Crista Cullen; James Tindall
2007 Kate Walsh; Barry Middleton
2008 Beth Storry; Ali McGregor
2009 Helen Richardson; Ashley Jackson
2010 Helen Richardson; Barry Middleton
2011 Alex Danson; Mark Pearn
2012 Kate Walsh; Barry Middleton
2013 Maddie Hinch; Adam Dixon
2014 Susannah Townsend; Iain Lewers
2015 Maddie Hinch; Iain Lewers
2016 Maddie Hinch; Dan Fox
2017 Hollie Pearne-Webb; Sam Ward

Hockey Writers' Club media release

Higgins Group Youth and Junior award winners

The recipients of the Hockey Writers’ Club Higgins Group youth and junior awards for 2017 have been chosen with the presentations to be made at the annual awards presentation lunch on Wednesday January 24, 2018 at the Royal Thames Yacht Club, Knightsbridge, London.

Mr Richard Higgins, Chairman of the Higgins Group plc, will present the awards. The UK players of the year for 2017 will also be announced at the lunch.

The judging panel sought information from coaches, clubs and schools, with the judges considering not just hockey ability but players’ personal qualities and potential for future development.

Past winners of Higgins awards include Rio Olympic Games gold medalists Maddie Hinch and Sophie Bray.
 
Winners

Youth, Girls 18 and under – Hannah Griggs (Kent College and Canterbury HC);
Youth, Boys 18 and under – Matthew Ramshaw (Oakham School and Loughborough Students HC)
Junior, Girls 16 and under – Maddie Goodman (Sandbach High School and Bowdon HC);
Junior, Boys 16 and under – Xavier Teyletche (Repton School and Repton HC);

Youth, Girls 18 and under

Hannah Griggs gained 15 caps at England U18 level during 2017, a season in which she also captained the international side during some matches. She began hockey at Canterbury Hockey Club, aged eight, where she went on to make her Investec Women’s Hockey League premier division debut on her 16th birthday, a game where she also scored. Hannah has also represented the club in European competition. She was named Canterbury Ladies Hockey Club’s most promising junior player, 2017. This season she has captained the 1st X1 team at Kent College. At her club she has organised a school-holiday coaching programme for juniors and has coached some of the sessions.  She has also undertaken hockey, athletics, tennis and cricket coaching at her former junior school.

Youth, Boys 18 and under

Matthew Ramshaw earned recognition at England U21 squad level during 2017, when he was also part of the England U18 squad for the summer Six Nations tournament. During the year he was also selected for the prestigious Great Britain Men's Elite Development Programme – a programme designed for turning promising young players into future Olympians. He already has experience at the highest level of domestic hockey, playing in the England Men’s Hockey League premier division with Loughborough Students. This season he already has five goals in the league’s Conference North. Matthew is first XI hockey captain at Oakham School, where he impresses not just with his competitive spirit and hockey ability on the pitch, but also his willingness to work with and encourage other players at the school. He also sets an inspiring example with his dedication to training and the gym.  Matthew’s hockey career began at Airedale Hockey Club (Saltaire, West Yorkshire). He has also played for Ben Rhydding.

Junior, Girls 16 and under

Maddie Goodman reached England U16 training-squad level during 2017. She thrives on all physical challenges, representing her school, Sandbach High School, in a number of sports, and gaining county selection in cricket and athletics. In the 2016/17 hockey season, Maddie won the Cheshire Hockey League player of the year award, with Triton Hockey Club, while still only 14 years old. In 2017 she joined Bowdon Hightown where, just three days after her 15th birthday, she scored her first goal for the first team in a friendly match.  She plays regularly for the club’s 2nd XI and balances school work, with an average of four trips to Manchester each week for training and matches. This is on top of her athletics training and her involvement in school activities such as coaching and umpiring.

Junior, Boys 16 and under

Xavier Teyletche is currently a student at Repton School where he plays for the first XI, is Captain of the u16 teams and part of the England U16 training squad. In 2016/17 he was selected a year early for the England U16 training squad, and also earned his first caps. As a hockey player, he is notable both for his performances on the pitch – where his skills and tactical aptitude make him stand out – as well as his dedication to training and developing his hockey. Xavier also currently plays for Repton men’s 1st XI in the Midlands Regional Hockey League and is part of the Midlands Performance Centre set-up.

Xavier started playing hockey at the age of 4 at Surbiton HC under the tutelage of family friend Brett Garrard and others such as Matt Daly, James Tindall and Nigel D’Cruz. A late developer, Xavier has never been able to count on physical strength or speed to play hockey and so has had to rely more on quick hands and speed of thought to allow him to compete with his peers. Aged 13, he was captain of the Whitgift U16 indoor team that won the 2016 national finals as well as the U14 national outdoor finals that same year. At the same time, he moved up through Surrey county and regional selection with Tonbridge Tigers.

A year later he won the u16 indoor title yet again, this time in the colours of his new school Repton and was a runner-up in the club u16 final for Repton HC.

These youth and junior awards are sponsored by the Higgins Group plc.

Roll of Honour
UK YOUTH AND JUNIOR AWARDS sponsored by Higgins
2004 Rebecca Herbert; Darren Cheesman
2005 Nikki Kidd; Ashley Jackson
2006 Maddie Hinch; Dan Barstow
2007 Sophie Bray; Liam Doidge
2008 Alice Sharp; Ben Arnold
2009 Sarah Haycroft; David Condon
2010 Alice Sharp; Andy Bull and Harry Martin
 
From 2011 onwards the Higgins sponsorship was increased to allow a Junior (16-and-under Award to be added.)
 
THE HIGGINS YOUTH AWARD
(Age 18-and-Under)
2011 Martha Baker; Joe Sharp
2012 Emily Defroand; Luke Taylor
2013 Rebekah Walker; Chris Proctor
2014 Holly Hunt; Liam Sanford
2015 Charlotte Calnan; Toby Reynolds-Cotterill
2016 Kate Axford; Tim Nurse
2017 Hannah Griggs; Matthew Ramshaw
 
THE HIGGINS JUNIOR AWARD
(Age 16-and-Under)
2011 Joanna Leigh; James Albery
2012 Charlotte Daly; Conor Caplan
2013 Alice Wills; Jack Turner
2014 Lizzie Neal; Jack Whelan
2015 Ellie de Heer; Josh Pavis
2016 Darcy Bourne; Alex Pendle
2017 Maddie Goodman; Xavier Teyletche

Hockey Writers' Club media release

Hockey Writers’ Club award for Pat Rowley

by Dil Bahra


Patrick Rowley (left) with the late Graham Wilson at Euro Hockey Finals in London in 2015. Photo: Dil Bahra

Patrick “Pat” Rowley B.E.M. has been awarded by the Hockey Writers Club with the Graham Wilson Award for services to hockey journalism.

He was presented with the award by the late Graham Wilson’s wife, Lisa at the Club’s annual awards presentation lunch on Wednesday January 24, 2018 at the Royal Thames Yacht Club, Knightsbridge, London.
 
The Citation reads:
Graham Wilson Award For Services to Hockey Journalism, 2017.
Pat Rowley BEM,
For a lifetime of writing, playing and enhancing the sport of hockey world-wide, pre-eminent among his peers.
By order of the Hockey Writers’ Club.
 
Patrick is the second recipient of the Graham Wilson prize. It was awarded in 2017 to George Brink, who has been publishing hockey news from all over the world for over 20 years, on his fieldhockey.com website.
 
Rowley, now 84, a former Chairman of the HWC and the AIPS Hockey Commission, contributed at various times in his career for just about every UK national newspaper and news agency. He worked for “The Guardian” for 50 years, “The Sunday Times”  and was also a former Deputy Sports Editor of “The Observer”.
 
On the international scene, he founded “World Hockey”, the former magazine of the International Hockey Federation, and was it’s editor for 25 years. He reported on 14 Olympics.
 
He was the author of “The Book of Hockey”, had the first hockey programme  on radio (LBC) and was for many years, a television commentator, originally with Europa TV.
 
He was awarded the British Empire Medal for his services to hockey two years ago.
 
Rowley said of today’s award,  “I am flattered and  honoured to receive this award.  I was delighted when I heard the HWC was to name an award in memory of Graham Wilson. That was entirely justified. Graham did an enormous amount to publicise the game, particularly with his regular columns in the Daily and Sunday Express.”
 
"I enjoyed many journalistic assignments with him, one of the most memorable being to Pakistan. He was a great friend, often my golf partner and always the best  of  companions.”
 
Fieldhockey.com

Hockey Writers' Club Award winners announced


Hollie Pearne-Webb

Olympic gold medallist Hollie Pearne-Webb and Rio Olympian Sam Ward have won the prestigious UK player of the year awards for 2017, chosen by members of the Hockey Writers’ Club.

The awards were made at the Club’s annual presentation lunch on Wednesday January 24, 2018 at the Royal Thames Yacht Club, Knightsbridge, London.

Surbiton defender Pearne-Webb, 27, is Investec women’s player of the year. She was a major contributor to England’s efforts on the international stage.

In August 2017, she was named player of the tournament at the European hockey championships in Amsterdam, the Netherlands – an award that is traditionally dominated by host-country winners and forward or midfield players. England took bronze in that tournament, defeating Germany 2-0 in the bronze-medal game.


Sam Ward celebrates v Malaysia MHWL

Mercian men’s player of the year award winner Ward, 27, also won a European championship bronze medal in August, with England defeating Germany 4-2 in the bronze-medal game in Amsterdam.

England also qualified for the World Cup with a third-place finish in the World League Semi-Final in London in June. Early in 2017, Great Britain won the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup in Malaysia, defeating Australia 4-3 in the final in May.

On hearing she had won the Investec women’s award, Pearne-Webb said: “It is a surprise. I said the same thing at the Europeans – I don’t really think about awards. But I am so honoured to receive this Hockey Writers’ Club player of the year award because the previous recipients are such great players. I am very happy, very surprised and very honoured.”

 “It is a new squad since 2016 and we have made a really good start into this Olympic cycle,” she said. “There are a lot of fresh faces and it has been a really exciting time getting to know those players. I am really looking forward to next two or three years, and this year in particular with what we have ahead. There is so much potential there.”

 “What we have ahead is so exciting for everyone in the squad. All the home nations are going to the Commonwealth Games and then we have a home World Cup for the England players – we are incredibly excited about that.”

Ward said of his award: “It is an honour, but a bit of a shock and I really appreciate it. Looking at the past winners, I am honoured to be on that list. They are some of the best hockey players in the world and to be following the likes of them is an incredibly proud moment for me.

“Internationally it was a good year,” Ward said. “It started with Great Britain winning the Sultan Azlan Shah Trophy. But for me the biggest reward was the bronze medal in the Europeans in Amsterdam. We all stuck together in what I can only describe as one of the toughest games of my career – and we took the bronze medal. That is all down to the hard work the staff and all the players have put in.”

Ward netted eight goals in the World League Semi-Final at Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park in June to help England qualify for the World Cup.  “It is always great to score a load of goals. It was a fantastic summer for me and that is probably one of my best tournaments goals-wise. But at the end of the day it is about us focusing on what we want to do as a team and if the goals contribute to that, it is brilliant,” he said.


Barry Middleton 400th appearance

The voting was close in both the men’s and women’s player of the year awards, which are decided by a poll of UK members of the Hockey Writers’ Club. In the men’s vote Ward finished ahead of Surbiton, Scotland and Great Britain striker Alan Forsyth. Third place was a tie between England and Great Britain goalkeeper George Pinner (Holcombe) and England and Great Britain’s Barry Middleton (also Holcombe).

In the women’s vote, Pearne-Webb pipped England and Great Britain forward Lily Owsley (University of Birmingham) for first place. Another Great Britain and England forward, Sophie Bray (Kampong, Netherlands) was placed third.

During 2017 the Hockey Writers’ Club also presented Pearne-Webb with the Marjorie Pollard Salver as the best player at a major tournament nominated by the club (the European championships). The corresponding men’s award, the Chris Moore Salver, was won by Barry Middleton (World League Semi Final, London). 

England Hockey Board Media release

Ward named Hockey Writers Club player of the year for 2017


©: Frank Uijlenbroek/world Sport Pics

Sam Ward was named the Hockey Writers Club player of the year for 2017 following a year in which he played his part in winning a European championship bronze medal in August, with England defeating Germany 4-2 in the bronze-medal game in Amsterdam.

England also qualified for the World Cup with a third-place finish in the World League Semi-Final in London in June. Early in 2017, Great Britain won the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup in Malaysia, defeating Australia 4-3 in the final in May.

Ward said of his award: “It is an honour, but a bit of a shock and I really appreciate it. Looking at the past winners, I am honoured to be on that list. They are some of the best hockey players in the world and to be following the likes of them is an incredibly proud moment for me.

“Internationally it was a good year,” Ward said. “It started with Great Britain winning the Sultan Azlan Shah Trophy. But for me the biggest reward was the bronze medal in the Europeans in Amsterdam. We all stuck together in what I can only describe as one of the toughest games of my career – and we took the bronze medal. That is all down to the hard work the staff and all the players have put in.”

Ward netted eight goals in the World League Semi-Final at Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park in June to help England qualify for the World Cup. “It is always great to score a load of goals. It was a fantastic summer for me and that is probably one of my best tournaments goals-wise. But at the end of the day it is about us focusing on what we want to do as a team and if the goals contribute to that, it is brilliant,” he said.

In the men’s vote Ward finished ahead of Surbiton, Scotland and Great Britain striker Alan Forsyth. Third place was a tie between England and Great Britain goalkeeper George Pinner (Holcombe) and England and Great Britain’s Barry Middleton (also Holcombe).

Surbiton defender Holly Pearne-Webb, 27, was the women's award winner. In August 2017, she was named player of the tournament at the European hockey championships in Amsterdam, the Netherlands – an award that is traditionally dominated by host-country winners and forward or midfield players. England took bronze in that tournament, defeating Germany 2-0 in the bronze-medal game.

Euro Hockey League media release