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All the news for Wednesday 27 June 2018

Rabobank Hockey Champions Trophy Breda 2018 - Day 3
Breda (NED)

Day 3 results

ARG v BEL (RR)     1 - 1
NED v PAK (RR)     4 - 0   

Upcoming 27 Jun 2018

15:00     IND v AUS (RR)

Pool standing

FIH Match Centre

Netherlands continue resurgence at Men’s Rabobank Hockey Champions Trophy 2018


Robbert Kemperman was on target as home favourites the Netherlands claimed a second successive win in Breda. Copyright: FIH / World Sport Pics

On Day 3 of the Men’s Rabobank Hockey Champions Trophy 2018, host nation the Netherlands put themselves back in title contention with an important win against Pakistan, while Argentina and Belgium - gold and silver medallists at the Rio 2016 Olympic Games, respectively - could not be separated on another fine day of action in Breda.

With both teams having suffered defeats on Sunday - Argentina (FIH Hero World Ranking: 2) were beaten by India and Belgium (WR: 3) were overpowered by the Netherlands - the rematch of the gold medal game at the Rio 2016 Olympic Games was an opportunity for Los Leones and the Red Lions to get things back on track. The final score of 1-1, with Gonzalo Peillat’s early penalty corner drag flick for Argentina being cancelled out seven minutes after half time by Amaury Keusters, was a decent outcome for the South Americans, moving them onto four points and keeping them within touching distance of the required top two finish in order to reach the competition final. However, the result all but ended Belgium’s hopes of a first ever Champions Trophy title, leaving them fifth in the table with two points from their three matches.   

“I think it was a really good game for us”, said Argentina attacker Lucas Vila in the post match interview. “We didn’t play a good match against India two days ago, so today our main objective was to play better. I think we did it, played with much more confidence. Maybe we deserved a little more, but we didn't win enough penalty corners for Gonzalo (Peillat). I think it was a good point and if we win our last two pool matches (against Pakistan and Australia) we should be fighting for the trophy.”

Home favourites the Netherlands (WR:4) continued their resurgence in the competition by claiming a second successive victory, following up Sunday’s 6-1 triumph over Belgium with a comfortable 4-0 win against Pakistan (WR:13). The result put the Dutch top of the standings, above India on goal difference but having played a game more. Oranje scored two goals in the both the second and fourth quarters, with Robbert Kemperman and Valentin Verga giving the Dutch a 2-0 advantage ahead of half time before Thijs van Dam and Mirco Pruijser completed proceedings.

Speaking after the match, Robbert Kemperman expressed his pleasure about the way his team have bounced back from their opening day defeat against Argentina to record convincing victories against Belgium and Pakistan. “We had a difficult start but we have recovered well and should be pleased. We want to make the final but it is going to be difficult. We play Australia and India and they are both very good teams so we will see what happens.”

Away from the Champions Trophy, four teams that will take part in next month’s Vitality Women’s Hockey World Cup London 2018 were also in action on Tuesday, as the Rabobank 4-Nations Women’s 2018 competition got underway in Breda. Japan (FIH Hero World Ranking: 12)  claimed a 3-1 victory over Asian continental rivals China (WR:8), with Aki Yamada, Kana Nomura and Motomi Kawamura on target for the Cherry Blossoms. Hosts the Netherlands (WR:1) were also winners on the opening day of that competition, defeating Spain’s Red Sticks (WR:11) 2-0 thanks to field goals from Kitty van Male and Frederique Matla.

The Men’s Rabobank Hockey Champions Trophy 2018 continues on Wednesday 27th June 2018 with only one match, although the outcome of the contest could prove significant in the race for a top two finish and the place in the competition final that comes with it. Table-toppers India take on the unbeaten Australia at 15:00 Central European Standard Time (UTC+1), with the winner putting themselves in with a real chance of featuring in the title match. The day will also feature two matches in the Rabobank 4-Nations Women 2018 event, with Spain facing Japan at 17:00 before the Netherlands and China take to the field at 19:30.

A full schedule as well as broadcasting and official competition information can be found on FIH.CH, with extended coverage coming via the FIH social media channels.

A number of spectator tickets are still available for the remaining competition days. For more information, please click here.

#HCT2018

FIH site

Netherlands outplay Pakistan 4-0

By Ijaz Chaudhry

Hosts Netherlands who had defeated the strong Belgian side 6-1 in their previous game, had another big win in the Hockey Champions Trophy in Breda, defeating Pakistan 4-0.

It was Pakistan's third defeat in as many matches.

Netherlands dominated the play for large periods, repeatedly entering the opponents territory through fast and well coordinated moves.

They had a number of open play opportunities plus four penalty corners, scoring two goals in each half.

Pakistan had a few circle penetrations but hardly threatened the Dutch goal. At times, especially in the second half, they appeared completely clueless.

SCORERS:
Robbert Kemperman (14'), Valentin Verga (29'), Thijs van Dam (47')
and Mirco Pruijser (50' off penalty corner)

In the only other match of the day, Olympic Champions Argentina drew with Belgium 1-1

Penalty corner expert Gonzalo Peillat put Argentina ahead in the 14th minute. Belgian equaliser came through a field goal by Amaury Keusters in the 37th minute.

PHF Media release

Confident India aim to upstage Australia


Indian hockey players celebrate their win against Argentina in the Champions Trophy Hockey 2018, in Breda, Netherlands on Sunday , PTI

Their campaign off to a dream start with back-to-back wins, India would look to continue the giant-slaying spree when they take on world champions Australia in their third match of the FIH Champions Trophy hockey tournament, in Breda (Netherlands) on Wednesday.

In pursuit of their maiden Champions Trophy title in the 37th and final edition of the event, the Indians could not have asked for a better start, mauling arch-rivals Pakistan 4-0 before stunning world No.2 and reigning Olympic champions Argentina 2-1 in their opening two games.

India are now leading the six-team standings with six points from two wins, just ahead of Australia (4 points). The top two teams in the round robin league will face each other in the summit clash on Sunday.

The Commonwealth Games debacle behind them, the Indians came out with new vigour and purpose here under new chief coach Harendra Singh, who swapped roles with Sjoerd Marijne as the women's team coach. Under Harendra, who took over for the fourth time in his career, the Indian team looked a completely transformed side, desperate to make amends for the Gold Coast disaster.

Preferring to field youth alongside experience, Harendra has managed to instill confidence among the players and it is evidently visible in India's impressive performances in the opening two games here. While the Indian strikers looked in imperious form, scoring brilliant field goals, the backline, the team's perennial concern, has also produced a stellar show and was rock solid against Pakistan and Argentina.

Young Dilpreet Singh has been phenomenal upfront along side Mandeep Singh, SV Sunil and Lalit Upadhayay but Ramanadeep Singh will not take any further part in the tournament after fracturing his right knee in the opening match against Pakistan. He is set to return home.

The seriousness of Ramandeep's injury was confirmed after an MRI scan, which means the striker could be out of action for a period of four to six months. The midfield, under the talismanic Sardar Singh, too rose to the occasion and has been building good link-ups with the forwards, resulting in the field goals. But the Kookaburras would not be easy to edge past given their record of rising to big challenges effortlessly.

Australia drew 3-3 with Belgium before beating Pakistan 2-1 to garner four points. And when it comes to playing against India, they have always managed to be at their best. In fact, it is Australia against whom India lost in a shoot-out in the final of the last Champions Trophy in London. And that result would definitely be on the Indian players' minds when they take the turf on Wednesday.

After facing Australia, India would take on Belgium on Thursday before drawing curtains to the round robin campaign with a match against hosts Netherlands on Saturday.

Daily News & Analysis

India lose Ramandeep ahead of Oz clash

Indian striker Ramandeep Singh has been ruled out of the ongoing FIH Champions Trophy due to a knee injury. The MRI reports on Monday came as a big blow to the team on the eve of its crucial tie against defending champions Australia.

“Ramandeep complained about a pinch in his right knee at half-time during our match against Pakistan. When we rested him for Argentina match and took him for an MRI, it was revealed that he has sustained a fracture injury in the centre of his right knee,” said chief coach Harendra Singh.

Ramandeep played a crucial role in India's wins against Pakistan, so the team will sorely miss his services when it takes on Australia, Belgium and the Netherlands in the next few days. “We will certainly miss him, we missed him against Argentina too. He is an experienced player and the way he creates space and takes shots has worked for us. Playing high speed hockey with 17 players can get a bit tiring for the players. But that should not deter us from earning a place in the final,” said Harendra.

The Tribune

Hockey Series Open - Zagreb 2018 (Men) - Day 2
Zagreb (CRO)

Results 26 June
SVK v SUI (RR)     1 - 2
AUT v WAL (RR)     3 - 0

Pool standings

FIH Match Centre

Wales fail to fire in defeat by Austria


Michael Korper helped Austria win the 2018 Indoor World Cup and Eurohockey titles

Wales suffered a convincing 3-0 defeat by Austria at the Hockey Series Open in Croatia.

Zak Jones' side rarely threatened against opponents five places above them in the world rankings.

Dominic Uher opened the scoring before Michael Korper twice fired in from penalty corners.

Wales can still progress to the next round as one of the best two teams and face Switzerland on Thursday, 28 June (18.30 BST).

Wales came into the game full of confidence following their opening 6-1 win over Slovakia.

But they failed to halt Uher's run from the left as he cut inside before firing past James Fortnam in the final seconds of the first period.

In a game of few chances, Gareth Furlong missed twice in quick succession from penalty corners during the second period.

Korper showed how it is done with goals in the 41st and 54th minutes to take Austria top of the pool, ahead of Wales on goal-difference.

Wales' Owain Dolan-Gray, who had scored in their opening win, said: "With a team like Austria who have some very good players, they're very clinical and they took their chances and we just weren't quite good enough and didn't take our chances."

BBC Sport

Hockey Series Open - Singapore 2018 (Men) - Day 3
Singapore (SGP)

Results 26 June

INA v HKG (RR)     0 - 3
TPE v MYA (RR)     5 - 4
THA v SGP (RR)     1 - 4

Pool standings

Hockey Series Open - Singapore 2018 (Women) - Day 3
Singapore (SGP)

Results 26 June

INA v THA (RR)     0 - 16
KAZ v MAS (RR)     1 - 8
SGP v HKG (RR)     0 - 0

Pool standings

FIH Match Centre

Malaysia thrash Kazakhstan to maintain unbeaten streak

By Aftar Singh

KUALA LUMPUR: Forward Hanis Nadiah Onn scored a hattrick to steer Malaysia to an 8-1 win over Kazakhstan in the women’s World Series hockey tournament in Singa­pore.

The Johorean was on target in the seventh, ninth and 49th minutes at the Sengkang Hockey Stadium yesterday – to take her tally to four goals from three matches.

The other Malaysian goal scorers were skipper Siti Noor Amarina Ruhani (29th), Nuraslinda Said (39th), Nuraini Abdul Rashid (40th), Nur Maizatulhanim Syafi Sheik Fuad (46th) and Surian Awang Noh (58th).

Kazakhstan’s consolation goal came from Vera Domashneva in the 30th minute.

It was Malaysia’s third consecutive win after defeating Indonesia (18-0) and Hong Kong (10-0).

The 21-year-old Hanis was thrilled that Malaysia maintained their unbeaten streak in the meet.

“I found my scoring touch after failing to score a goal in the opening match against Indonesia. Against Hong Kong, I netted just once,” said Hanis.

“The win over Kazakhstan has put us in a good position to reach the final. We face our SEA Games nemesis Thailand tomorrow (to­day). We hope to collect full points,” said Asia’s 2016 Most Pro­mising Player award winner.

Malaysia will wrap up the round robin fixtures against Singapore on Friday.

Thailand also registered their third straight win by hammering Indonesia 16-0. In the first two matches, the Thais beat Hong Kong 4-0 and edged Singapore 1-0.

The Star of Malaysia

Masters hockey flourishing on the world stage


2018 World Cup events mark continued growth of Masters hockey

The ability to keep playing and competing in hockey no matter what your age or ability is one of the cornerstones of the International Hockey Federation's (FIH) Hockey Revolution strategy. By retaining people within the sport, hockey is helping individuals stay fit, active and physically and mentally healthy. It is also keeping a wealth of experience within the game as people who belong to clubs are often called upon to help out with managing teams, administrating or running events.

One flourishing area of participation is the Masters hockey scene. From club teams to national teams, more and more people are continuing to play hockey or returning to hockey after an absence. And many of them are living proof that while we might slow up a little with age, we don’t lose the skills and game understanding as we get older, If anything, tactical nous gets better with age.

There is also no lessening in terms of competitiveness as players get older. Just as the 20-year-olds are always chasing the win, so it is with the 50-80-year-olds. That desire to top the podium does not diminish with age.

And with this being World Cup year, it is not only at the Vitality Hockey Women’s World Cup London 2018 and the Odisha Hockey Men’s World Cup Bhubaneswar 2018 that the best of the best will be competing.

From 27 July until 5 August some of the great ‘golden oldies’ will be taking centre stage at the Exin Masters World Cup in Egara, Spain, while currently, the Grand Masters World Cup is taking place at the Real Club de Polo in Terrassa, Barcelona, Spain between 20-30 June.

"Masters Hockey can play an important role in the future wellbeing of the game through encouraging older players to continue playing and therefore being active members of their clubs and, in many cases, other hockey organisations."
Adrian Stephenson, World Grand Masters Association Consultant Director

The International Masters Hockey World Cup competitions are being held in Egara for 35+, 40+, 45+, 50+, 55+ and 60+ year-old men and women, while the 60+, 65+, (men and women) and 70+ and 75+ (men only) age groups are catered for at Grand Masters level in Barcelona. These events provide a real showcase for sporting endeavour and excellence at all ages.

The breadth of teams taking part is immense. In the 60+ age group at the Grand Masters Hockey World Cup, 18 teams are lined up in four pools. Teams from Singapore and Wales compete against the hockey strongholds of Australia and Germany.

In the women’s event, nine teams line up, with teams such as Argentina, England and the Netherlands thrashing it out for the title.

The number of competing teams has increased each year and it became clear that the alignment of Masters hockey was required to support future Masters events and encourage further development and growth at national and continental levels.

Answering that call, the FIH has worked with the International Masters Hockey Association and the World Grand Masters Association – to create one unified body, World Masters Hockey. This body comes into existence officially in 2019.

The teams that will run out onto the pitch this year at both Terrassa and Egara are a mixture of seasoned internationals, who have continued to play the game throughout their lives, and players who have taken the step from club hockey to international representation later in life.

Ian Baggot is one such player. President of Field Hockey Canada and a member of the Canadian Grand Masters side that recently competed in Barcelona, Baggot first became involved in the sport in 1988 after his three sons introduced him to field hockey.

In those early days of involvement in field hockey, Baggot was largely to be found in a sports administrator’s role, working in junior, club, provincial and national level. His hockey playing experience had been limited to school-age hockey and then, at 45, he took up the game again.

This year, he has reached the pinnacle of his sport, playing in the Canadian Grand Masters 60+ team, making his international debut at 70 years old.

“I love the nature of hockey,” says Baggot. “From the health aspects of physical fitness required, team bonds established with fellow players, rivalry but also respect and camaraderie for other teams and players. I particularly enjoy watching our younger generations getting to know the game, the thrill of new friendships and bonds between team-mates.”

For Baggot, his time as an ‘older' player has been nothing but positive. “This is my first experience with Masters, albeit I have enjoyed Golden Oldie festivals for many years. I have been impressed by the friendship at the event: despite strong on-field team rivalry, teams have a healthy respect for other players and teams.

“And on a personal level, the experience and preparation has brought rewards with better physical fitness – I run twice weekly and do regular gym sessions – as well as improved hockey skills. Both my fitness and game skills have improved, particularly as we play against younger rival teams during the regular league season.”

At grass-roots club level, keeping players in the game has numerous benefits. An article written on the World Grand Masters Association website by WGMA consultant Director Adrian Stephenson says: “Masters Hockey can play an important role in the future wellbeing of the game through encouraging older players to continue playing and therefore being active members of their clubs and, in many cases, other hockey organisations.”

For further information on the World Grand Masters Association Hockey World Cup click here.

For further information on the International Masters Hockey Association Exin Hockey World Cup, click here.

FIH site

Grand Master Hockey World Cup 2018
Real Club de Polo de Barcelona

Pool stages results
Grand Master Hockey World Cup 2018 Mens 60+
Grand Master Hockey World Cup 2018 Mens 65+
Grand Master Hockey World Cup 2018 Mens 70+
Grand Master Hockey World Cup 2018 Mens 75+
Grand Master Hockey World Cup 2018 Womens

Grand Master Hockey World Cup 2018 Mens TT 60+
Grand Master Hockey World Cup 2018 Mens TT 65+
Grand Master Hockey World Cup 2018 Mens TT 70+

FIH Match Centre - Masters

U.S. O-60 Men's Masters Team Wraps Up Pool Play with Win at FIH Grand Masters World Cup in Spain

BARCELONA, Spain –  The U.S. O-60 Men's Masters Team has been hard at work on the pitch in the FIH Grand Masters World Cup at the Real Club de Polo de Barcelona in Barcelona, Spain. As the first United States team to participate in the event, the red, white and blue demonstrated unwavering effort and grit in their opening matches. Despite this, USA dropped their opening three matches to South Africa, Scotland and Australia, they regrouped in their final pool play match to earn a victory against Canada.

Game 1: RSA 2, USA 1

In their first ever Grand Masters World Cup match, USA came out strong against South Africa in pool play. Highlighted by the individual production of Michael Coleman (Corona, Calif.), Andrew Dunning (Dubai, UAE), Peter Jones (Stamford, Conn.) and Eric McGinley (McLean, Va.), the red, white and blue took the game to their opponent from throughout the opening half. As they challenged early, USA first ever goal in the event came in the 8th minute after a far post ball from Dunning was deflected in by Lance Eichert (Conshocken, Pa.). The score would remain 1-0 through halftime, but the summer heat soon played a major factor in the team’s next 30 minutes of play. South Africa took advantage of these miscues early in the third quarter as Graeme Dott struck the goal in the 47th minute to tie the game 1-1. The squads would duel back and forth into the final minutes of the match before South Africa’s Glyn Bedford scored the go ahead goal in the 66th minute, making the final score 2-1.

Game 2: SCO 5, USA 1

In contrast to their opening game, USA was put on their back foot early on. Scotland took the lead in the 8th minute before captain Peter Bale (Salem, Ore.) scored the equalizer for USA in the 19th minute. USA amped up their pressure through the remainder of the half, but Scotland was able regain the lead in the 29th minute off a field goal by Donny Hay, putting the score at 2-1 at the half. As the third quarter got underway, USA struggled in the midfield battle. Scotland took full advantage during the final 18 minutes of play, scoring three times in quick concurrence to quickly make the score 5-1. Despite the scoreboard, goalkeeper Andrew Jardine (Thousand Oaks, Calif.) was credited with outstanding goalkeeper play throughout the match.

Game 3: AUS 6, USA 0

In their third pool play game, USA faced a well experience Australia side that are very strong contenders for a place the final. Having won their first two games 7-0 each match, USA knew the competition was going to be tough. USA played a more defensive formation, with a plan to protect the goal difference for points which will be key heading into the final pool play game.

At halftime, the score was 2-0 to Australia, as USA battled fiercely to keep the final score to 6-0.

After this contest USA and Canada were both sitting with 0 points in Pool B, not having won a game yet, meaning the match against our northern neighbors will be a tiebreaker. A win or draw for USA will push them into the 9th-16th half of the crossover playing field.

 "Each game has shown us improving, and the team is really gelling very well," said Bale, U.S. O-60 Men's Masters Captain-Coach. "The whole squad can be very proud of the work rate and commitment."

For his exceptional defensive efforts, sweeper Jones got his second man of the match award.

Game 4: USA 5, CAN 0

The U.S. O-60 Men's Masters Team's final pool match was against Canada. The winner proceeded into the 9th-16th standings. To open the scoring, Jones converted on a penalty stroke to give USA a 1-0 halftime lead.

Alva Serrette (Stone Mountain, Calif.) added two more in the third quarter. Captain Bale scored two himself in the final quarter.

In each game, USA has improved, and today everyone in the squad contributed to the 5-0 victory.

Tomorrow, June 27, the U.S. O-60 Men's Masters Team plays Ireland at 8:45 a.m. ET.

USA Field Hockey would like to take this time to extend condolences to team member Darryl Michael, who fell seriously ill during tournament play. The USA Masters Committee has set up a GoFundMe account to help support Darryl and his family with medical costs. Thanks to generous donations, the USA Masters Committee reached it’s funding goal in less than 24 hours and is continuing to accept donations to support their teammate through his recovery process. If you would like to contribute to the GoFundMe campaign, click here.

USFHA media release

2018 4 Nations Invitational Tournament (W) (NED) - Day 1
Breda (NED)

JPN v CHN (RR)     3 - 1
NED v ESP (RR)     2 - 0

Pool standings

FIH Match Centre

Green Army World Cup Squad Revealed



The Irish women’s hockey team will make their long awaited return to the World Cup stage this July in London, and today head coach Graham Shaw has named his panel of 18 players that will don the green jersey against the world’s best teams.

Speaking at the announcement, Shaw said “There were some difficult calls when selecting this World Cup squad, and that is a testament to the quality and depth we have in the larger panel. 2002 was the last time an Irish hockey team was present at a World Cup so we are very proud to be representing Ireland at the showcase event of our sport. But we are entirely focused on the task at hand and our first goal is to get out of the Pool; it will be tough given the calibre of the 3 teams in Pool B with us but that is what a World Cup is about, and we have a belief in our ability and know what we are capable of”. 

The Green Army sit in Pool B alongside hosts England, currently occupying the number 2 spot in the world, USA who sit at 7th and India ranked 10th. Indeed Ireland go into the tournament ranked 16th in the world and are seeded 15 out of the 16 teams. But they are a side more than capable of playing above their ranking and routinely do so, most recently beating Olympic bronze medallists Germany 2-1 in Dusseldorf.

The side’s first match of the tournament takes place on July 21st at 6pm against the USA, a traditionally physical side and renowned for their fitness in world hockey.  Jackie Briggs in the US goal has been in fine form over the last 12 months, playing a crucial role at World League in Johannesburg as she helped her side to victory in penalty shootouts over both England and Germany. Equally Melissa Gonzalez is always one to watch for America, she took over the captaincy when Lauren Crandall retired and is a constant threat with her power and pace.  But Ayeisha McFerran in the Irish goal is equally proficient when it comes to shoot-outs and the experience of Shirley McCay, Ireland’s most capped female athlete, combined with the cool head of Zoe Wilson will be used to the threat the Americans pose, as the sides meet almost annually for a match series.

India come next, on Thursday July 26th at 2pm, and offer a different challenge entirely. The sides met in a crucial 7th/8th playoff tie at World League in Johannesburg last summer with the Green Army coming from a goal down to claim a 2-1 victory thanks to a stunning goal from Lizzie Colvin. But India have won the Asia Cup since then, beating higher ranked China in the final, and have had a couple of different coaches with Dutchman Sjoerd Marijne returning to the helm of the women’s squad following a period with the men’s team. They place a big emphasis on Savita in goal and their captain Rani for some creativity but the Green Army may well have the upper hand when it comes to skill and speed courtesy of Nicci Daly and Gillian Pinder. 

Hosts England are the final Pool B opponent for Ireland on Sunday July 29th at 7pm. Much can be made of the Olympic gold medallists and they retain a large portion of that history making team from Rio. But it was just 12 months ago that saw England snatch a victory over Ireland by only a single goal and they will be under pressure as hosts, having not made it to the European final as expected last August. Maddie Hinch is rightly the goalie of the moment and she will be tough to get past but the ever-threatening Anna O’Flanagan has beaten her before and combining her eye for goal with the determination of Nikki Evans will certainly test the English defence. It will be crucial for the Irish midfield, particularly utilising the experience of Chloe Watkins, to get the ball into the circle for the forwards. Katie Mullan, captaining the side, is adept at picking up the ball and bulldozing her way into dangerous areas and if penalty corners come then the Green Army are blessed with two talented drag flickers in the forms of Roisin Upton and Megan Frazer.

The winners of each pool progress straight through to the quarterfinal and the bottom placed team goes home. The second placed team in Pool B will play off against the third placed team in Pool A, and the third placed team in Pool B will play against the second placed team in Pool A.

World Cup Squad:
Name, Club, Position
Ayeisha McFerran, University of Louisville, GK
Grace O’Flanagan, Railway Union, GK
Yvonne O’Byrne, Cork Harlequins, Defender
Hannah Matthews, Loreto, Defender
Elena Tice, UCD, Defender
Zoe Wilson, Belfast Harlequins, Defender
Roisin Upton, Cork Harlequins, Defender
Shirley McCay, Pegasus, Defender
Katie Mullan, UCD, Midfield/Forward (Captain)
Nicci Daly, Loreto, Midfield/Forward
Gillian Pinder, Pembroke, Midfield/Defender
Megan Frazer, Mannheim, Midfield/Defender
Chloe Watkins, Bloemendaal, Midfield
Lizzie Colvin, Belfast Harlequins, Midfield
Deirdre Duke, UCD, Forward
Nicola Evans, UHC, Forward (Vice Captain)
Ali Meeke, Loreto, Midfield/Forward
Anna O’Flanagan, Bloemendaal, Forward/Midfield (Vice Captain)

Irish Hockey Association media release

Shaw to give Frazer every chance to hit World Cup fitness


The Irish women’s squad for the World Cup on Ticknock Hill. Pic: Inpho

Graham Shaw is confident Megan Frazer and Nicci Daly will be fit to play in the World Cup as he confirmed the duo in his final 18-player line-up for London next month.

Speaking at Softco HQ on Tuesday afternoon when announcing the line-up, he confirmed both are on the list with Naomi Carroll, Sarah Torrans, Sinead Loughran and Emily Beatty the unlucky ones to be placed on the reserves list.

“Nobody was ruled out through injury,” Shaw said when asked about former captain Frazer’s inclusion. “Megan played the second part of the German season and, as we see it now, she is fit to play in the World Cup. If anything changes, we will announce that but we feel we have the best 18 players to represent Ireland that are fit and ready to go.”

Frazer underwent her third surgery two weeks ago on her knee which she first injured in October 2016.

Shaw feels the “timescale is right for her to return to play”, adding that she is the kind of player it is worth giving as much time as possible to be part of the panel.

“For me, she lit up world hockey in 2014 and 2015 and was continuing that until the injury in 2016. It has been a very difficult period for her for 15 or 16 months. She’s a serious talent, one that we haven’t seen around Irish hockey much for the last number of years so we have to give her every possible chance she can impact our team.”

Daly, meanwhile, will return this week from a stress fracture in her foot. Shaw said she could have possibly played last weekend against Germany but they erred on the side of caution, waiting for the series against Japan in Cork to give it an extra few days to heal.

For both players, though, a slight tweak in the World Cup squad rules means that there is a greater possibility to give players a chance of taking part.

Previously, squads were limited to just 18 players with no facility to bring in replacements. This time around, replacements can be brought in for injured players – assessed and certified by a doctor – during the competition.

“You take a risk with players coming back from injury; that’s natural. We feel they will get through the next few weeks. The format does give you that bit of a comfort blanket if players do have a recurrence that you can bring in players that have been part of the squad.”

Other than this duo, the squad is one of the most experienced ones ever fielded with only Roisin Upton holding under 50 international caps.

Shaw added that it was the toughest selection he has ever had to make, knowing the sacrifices the players have put in to get to this stage.

“These women give every everything for it, they dedicate their lives to it. They get up early for the gym, train late at night. They also have their lives to deal with. Someone like Cliodhna [Sargent], with a young family, it’s incredibly difficult, something that we put a lot of thought into. We went through everything in depth and unfortunately, these players have missed out.

“It was difficult with her only returning to play in November; it maybe came a little bit too quick this time. She has given a lot to Irish hockey and her career is not over. She’s still part of our squad and we value her but, this time, we felt we had six more defenders just ahead of her at the moment.

The squad will head to Cork for eight days, thee games against Japan next Wednesday, Friday and Saturday before playing another couple of games in Dublin against Chile and Italy. Preparations finish with a practice game against South Africa in Lee Valley.

They take on these games in good spirits after last weekend’s fine win in the Three Nations Invitational competition in Dusseldorf.

“To beat Germany over there for the second year in a row was very pleasing. We tend not to focus very much on the results but results like that do give you a big boost. We put in a really solid performance and it’s a huge boost to take a scalp like that, to beat them in their home ground.”

As for the World Cup tournament itself, the spread-out nature of the games will work in Ireland’s favour in the coach’s eyes. They start on July 21 against USA and then meet India on Thursday, July 26 before finishing the four-team group on July 29 against hosts England in front of a sold-out crowd.

Top spot advances to the quarter-finals while second and third advance to a preliminary knock-out round of matches, battling to fill the other quarter-final spaces.

“This format suits us; they are one off games. In other tournaments, when fatigue sets in, the top teams come to the fore. With four and five days rest, it gives everyone a chance; you go in as fresh as you possibly can.

“The main aim is to get out of the pool and get to the knock-out games. We will approach each one trying to win it and feel we have a group of players capable of threatening any team in the world when we put in a performance we can be proud of.”

** The Hook will have further interview pieces with squad members in the coming week

Ireland squad for the Hockey World Cup (July 21 – August 5, 2018): Ayeisha McFerran (University of Louisville), Grace O’Flanagan (Railway Union), Yvonne O’Byrne (Cork Harlequins), Hannah Matthews (Loreto), Lena Tice (UCD), Zoe Wilson (Belfast Harlequins), Roisin Upton (Cork Harlequins), Shirley McCay (Pegasus), Katie Mullan (UCD), Nicci Daly (Loreto), Gillian Pinder (Pembroke), Megan Frazer (Mannheimer HC), Chloe Watkins (HC Bloemendaal), Lizzie Colvin (Belfast Harlequins), Deirdre Duke (UCD), Nicola Evans (UHC Hamburg), Ali Meeke (Loreto), Anna O’Flanagan (HC Bloemendaal)

The Hook

Ireland’s Megan Frazer returns for women’s hockey World Cup

By The Hockey Paper


Anna O’Flanagan, right, will line up at Hockey World Cup PIC: Worldsportpics

Irish coach Graham Shaw chose his 18-strong squad for the women’s hockey World Cup on Tuesday as the Green Army approaches its first tournament appearance since 2002.

Megan Frazer returns after an 18-month knee injury and will be a key addition for the tournament which begins in London next month.

She will line up alongside Chloe Watkins and captain Katie Mullan, while the Green Army will also rely on Frazer and fellow talented drag flicker Roisin Upton.

Shaw said: “There were some difficult calls when selecting this World Cup squad, and that is a testament to the quality and depth we have in the larger panel.

“2002 was the last time an Irish hockey team was present at a World Cup so we are very proud to be representing Ireland at the showcase event of our sport.

“But we are entirely focused on the task at hand and our first goal is to get out of the Pool; it will be tough given the calibre of the 3 teams in Pool B with us but that is what a World Cup is about, and we have a belief in our ability and know what we are capable of.”

Ireland begin their World Cup campaign against the USA on 21 July and will then play India and Olympic champions England in their next two group fixtures.

Ireland squad: Ayeisha McFerran, Grace O’Flanagan, Yvonne O’Byrne, Hannah Matthews, Elena Tice, Zoe Wilson, Roisin Upton, Shirley McCay, Katie Mullan, Nicci Daly, Gillian Pinder, Megan Frazer, Chloe Watkins, Lizzie Colvin, Deirdre Duke, Nicola Evans, Ali Meeke, Anna O’Flanagan

The Hockey Paper

Rosie Malone swaps football for hockey World Cup as Hockeyroos show youth

By Rod Gilmour


Australia show youth for women’s hockey World Cup with Rosie Malone inclusion

The Hockeyroos will compete at next month’s hockey World Cup with three squad members experiencing elite tournament hockey for only the second time and coach Paul Gaudoin admitting that midfield places are up for grabs two years out from Tokyo 2020.

Forward Rosie Malone is the standout name among several new faces in Gaudoin’s squad ahead of their departure to London and Australia’s attempt to win the World Cup for the first time in 20 years.

Malone’s decision to choose hockey over a W-League career has proved a wise one after she was reportedly close to playing in Australia’s women’s soccer league with Brisbane Roar.

The 20-year-old missed out on the Hockeyroos Commonwealth Games in April after joining the programme in Perth earlier this year and playing for the under-21 squad.

She impressed Gaudoin during the recent Tri-Nations series New Zealand, as the Hockeyroos exacted revenge over the Commonwealth champs.

Midfield duo Kalindi Commerford and Kristina Bates have also gained World Cup selection, while defender Georgina Morgan returns after injury and will line up for corner flicking duties.

“It’s an exciting team with some new faces,” said Gaudoin. “Midfielder Jane Claxton will be missed due to injury, but it provides a great opportunity for new talent to stake a claim for midfield positions.”

The world No 5 Hockeyroos will aim to win their first World Cup title since 1998 after finishing runners-up to the Dutch in 2014.

Argentina and the Netherlands have won two showpiece titles apiece since then.

World Cup squad:

Jocelyn Bartram, Kristina Bates, Edwina Bone, Kalindi Commerford, Madison Fitzpatrick, Emily Hurtz, Jodie Kenny, Stephanie Kershaw, Rachael Lynch, Rosie Malone, Karri McMahon, Georgina Morgan, Kaitlin Nobbs, Brooke Peris, Kathryn Slattery, Emily Smith, Grace Stewart, Renee Taylor.

The Hockey Paper

Hockeyroos on road to women’s World Cup discovery

In her first column for The Hockey Paper, Australia’s Georgia Wilson takes us behind the scenes as Australia prepare for London

By Georgia Wilson


Georgia Wilson writes exclusively for The Hockey Paper during the World Cup

The push back for the 2018 London Hockey World Cup seems ever distant at 7am on a Tuesday morning. There’s an absence of patriotic fans, cameras and autographs. Replaced instead by screaming winds, rain blurred vision and coaching commands.

A simple reminder of the approaching event creates an unspoken energy that manifests amongst the group with focus immediately shifting beyond the undesirable conditions and instead towards the real challenge that lies ahead.

Although being indirectly present from the daily training environment over the course of the past several months due to rehabilitating a knee injury, brief moments of viewing allow the opportunity to observe the vast improvement that has led to the group’s recent success.

A silver medal win at the Gold Coast Commonwealth Games instilled confidence, providing collective reward for individual efforts exerted over the course of a gruelling three-month pre-season period.

The Games challenged player recovery, seeing late night matches and minimal rest days’ test individual abilities and physical repair.

However, a heartbreaking loss during the final game harshly reminded the group about the dire consequences associated when failing to convert goal scoring opportunities but redemption over Commonwealth gold medallists, New Zealand in last month’s Tri Series nonetheless confirmed the valuable learning experience.

These successes act as a reflection of several recent changes that have been implemented to the programme. Individually tailored conditioning programmes simulate positional demands, involving specific players being removed from drill participation mid-skill circuit to cover various sprint and shuttle distances.

https://cdn.thehockeypaper.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/hockeyroos.jpeg

Introduction of the ‘yo-yo’ test as an additional fitness measure to the standard one-kilometre time trial and beep test has also enabled analysis of repeated sprint capability, with the test involving multiple 20-metre efforts alternated with short resting periods.

Thorough investment towards off-field activities also plays a vital role in our World Cup campaign. Unlike other tournaments, two travelling reserves will extend the number of athletes travelling to 20, with the group aware of the impact these two athletes will play in providing support.

Our sports psychologist has prepared us for every possible scenario.

What if we need to play with 10 players?

What if we are two goals down?

What if we go to a 1v1 shoot out?

We’ve prepared by reducing uncertainty. The ruthless draw format also leaves minimal room for error and opposition tactics and structures have been spread via video analysis and player driven discussions. World rankings will soon become irrelevant once the event begins and performance consistency assumes its place.

Despite the majority of the team about to make their first World Cup appearance, senior players who comprised part of the Hockeyroos silver medal performance at the previous World Cup in 2014 have willingly shared their knowledge, stressing the importance for individual players to adopt a competitive mentality and understand their role within the team.

Over the past several months, I’ve externally watched the groundwork be laid and the preparation completed. All that now remains is for my team to discover where we currently stand on a global stage and, more importantly, discover what we really want.

Let’s get it done.

Georgia is currently six months into a 12-month injury rehabilitation programme after tearing her left anterior cruciate ligament in January. You can keep up with her return to fitness on her Instagram page.

The Hockey Paper

German youth international Mechtold joins Mannheim


©: Ariane Schirle

Jon Mechtold will play for the Mannheimer HC next season and will vye for a place in their EHL panel following the 19-year-old attacker's move to the Neckarplatt from league rival Nuremberger HTC.

"I'd like to broaden my hockey horizons," Mechtold said of his move. "In Mannheim, I have optimal possibilities for this. It's a dream of mine to play in the EHL and be in the FINAL4. I'm really looking forward to my time at the MHC."

The high school graduate from Nuremberg played 27 international youth games for Germany and became German indoor champion with the NHTC U16 in 2016.

"I'm really looking forward to work with Jon and develop him further. He is a very talented striker who fits perfectly into our young, strong ‘99 (year of birth) group," coach Michael McCann said about Mechtold.

Euro Hockey League media release

Better fitness the key for Madibaz hockey


Midfielder Laython Coombs (right) will be an important part of the Madibaz men’s squad when the University Sport South Africa hockey tournament takes place in Bloemfontein from July 2 to 6. Picture: Christiaan Kotze/Saspa

The Madibaz men’s hockey team will be banking on better fitness and a sharper set-piece strategy when they compete in the University Sport South Africa tournament next week.

The country’s varsities will gather in Bloemfontein from July 2 to 6 for the annual competition in which the Nelson Mandela University side were silver medallists a year ago.

Madibaz learnt some tough lessons at the Varsity Hockey event last month and coach Cheslyn Gie said they had been working hard to improve their overall level.

“In Varsity Hockey we conceded goals late in our matches so we have improved our fitness levels,” said Gie.

“We have also worked on our set-pieces and hope to have a better return on them.

“In addition, we have reviewed our defensive shape, especially how we are looking to defend in our deep defensive zone.”

After being runners-up last year, Madibaz have had to regroup in the past six months, with a total of 14 first-year students being included in the 2018 squad.

“Our team has completely changed from the one that played in 2017,” said Gie.

“The majority of our players will be experiencing the USSA tournament for the first time, especially as injuries have sidelined some of our senior players.

“However, we are determined to improve on our Varsity Hockey results and have set ourselves the goal of making, at least, the semifinals.”

He added that players such as Ignatius Malgraff, who would lead the attacking line, Laython Coombs as a link and captain Alex Penhall in defence would have key roles to play.

Under coach Andrew Beynon, the women’s team face an equally testing week in Bloemfontein. Like their male counterparts, Madibaz will be fielding a young team for the tournament, which includes 11 first-years.

However, Beynon said they realised the significance of doing well at the USSA week and the players were determined to show their potential.

“In recent years we have ended around the sixth to seventh positions, but this year we have targeted a place in the top five,” he said.

“We have been working for up to three months in preparation for this tournament and have upped the intensity in the last few weeks.

“The competition will be strong but what I can say is that this group of girls have been extremely committed to the preparations for USSA.”

He added there was an air of excitement at the challenge ahead and he was confident, with the positive attitude in the team, that they had the ability to produce some good results.

Fullstop Communications media realise for Nelson Mandela University Hockey

USA Junior Premier Hockey welcomes officials from around Pan America

Nahanni McIntosh & Laurie Hogan


Nicole Dawson (BAR) and Kim Scott (JPOL TD)   

In order to promote the mission of providing an elite event as well as developing technical officials and umpires, Junior Premier Hockey invites officials throughout the Pan American Hockey Federation (PAHF) to join Junior Premier Outdoor League (JPOL). The 2018 season of JPOL hosted six officials from beyond the USA borders.

JPOL Region 4 welcomed Canadian umpires Courtney Watson and Vanessa Williamson.  This was Courtney’s first season with JPOL.  She is a regional umpire from Calgary who is mentored by JPH Director of Umpiring, Wendy Stewart. Vanessa is an FIH Indoor rated umpire and has traveled to umpire Junior Premier Indoor League (JPIL) and JPOL for many years.  This year Vanessa’s experience was put to work in the Umpire Manager leadership role.

JPOL Region 4 also welcomed three technical officials:  Laurie Hogan (CAN), who is listed on the FIH Advancement Panel, returned for a second season of JPOL – this time as Technical Delegate; Thiago De Mattos of Brazil is listed on the FIH Pro League Panel and was an official in the 2016 Olympics; Thiago paired with PAHF Continental Trainee, Justin Taitt of Barbados as the Technical Officers at the Region 4 site in Lowell, Massachusetts.

Additionally, PAHF Continental Trainee, Nicole Dawson of Barbados travelled to Regions 5 and 8 in Thorndale, Pennsylvania and Stafford, Virginia to join JPOL as Technical Officer.

The four technical officials Laurie Hogan, Nicole Dawson, Thiago De Mattos, and Justin Taitt were asked about the technical officiating paths that led them from all corners of Pan America to the hockey pitches of the USA.

Their stories follow….

How did you get started as a technical official?

“Field hockey was such a big part of my life for so long that I actually felt a real sense of loss when I stopped playing competitively,” says Laurie Hogan. “I tried umpiring, but I was put into a recreational league game in my community without any training or support so it did not go well and I had a really hard time,” she admits. “I found technical officiating to be a good alternative. It’s a way for me to continue being part of the game and a part of the team and, at the same time, give back to a sport that brought me so much.”

Like Laurie, Justin Taitt was looking for a way to contribute to hockey off the field. He started officiating during his club's invitational tournament in 2013 and from there moved on to the domestic league and tournaments like the Barbados Hockey Festival. Justin was mentored by Gina Belle, another official from Barbados.

Thiago De Mattos started playing hockey at 14. “Naturally, I got more involved as I got older. I started officiating in 2008 in Brazil. My international debut was in 2011 at the Pan Am Challenge,” he says. “I tried coaching and umpiring too, but I found my place at the tech table.”

Nicole Dawson says that she got her start when a retiring official from Barbados, Ms. Monica Cumberbatch, encouraged her to expand her hockey horizons because being a technical official would give her a greater appreciation of the game.  Nicole goes on to say that after being a player she thought the people at the table looked bored, but by working with her mentor Mrs. Harrietta Clarke, and asking questions and closely observing the game she realized technical officiating would be another avenue for her to pursue in her hockey career.

What have we learned from working with officials from other countries?

Laurie says “When I started doing this at home it was really to stay involved and continue the sport as there weren’t many others doing this role, I always said I do it for “The Love of the Game”.  Now that I’ve gotten more experience and started doing international events, my love of the game is just getting bigger.  I love the challenge of a new event, meeting new people at events and learning new tips and tricks every time I go somewhere new.”

Thiago agreed saying “Basically everything I know I got from my technical official friends from around the world.  Sharing experiences is one of the best ways to learn how to deal with challenging experiences.”

To date, what has been the biggest challenge for you? The most rewarding?

Nicole says that her biggest challenge has been controlling her emotions as she is a very emotional and expressive person.  She went on to say “my experience working with JPOL has helped me learn better techniques to manage time and desk duties, and the importance of managing your desk - respect is not given if we are not equipped to deal with the toasty parents and coaches whose tempers and nervousness flare with game expectations.”

Laurie agreed with Nicole adding that “the game gets emotional and sometimes controlling coaches can get complicated, especially when hockey in my home province of Ontario is so small and I’ve become friends with most of the coaches.”

Thiago shares “My biggest challenge was my first Technical Officer appointment in Russia in 2013. It was a different environment, there were language barriers with the locals and as it was my first appointment in this role I had a lot to learn with a group of people that I didn’t know before the appointment.  But as with every challenge, I learned a lot from the experience,” Thiago adds. “The most rewarding was definitely the Olympic final in my home town (Rio, 2016).”

As Nicole is just starting her career as a technical official, her experience with JPOL has been her most rewarding opportunity so far, “For me, the most rewarding experience so far has been the invitation from Lurah Hess to be a Technical Officer with JPOL in 2018” says Nicole, she went on to explain “I jumped for joy as I was long awaiting an opportunity to go further in hockey, and here it was.”

Laurie and Justin provide similar answers when asked about the most rewarding part of technical officiating:

“At the end of the game when coaches, managers or umpires comment on how I helped them,” Laurie says. “I want to make it a good experience for everyone so it’s nice when that actually happens.”

“At the end of a match when umpires, players or team officials say they had no issues and were able to concentrate on playing or umpiring and enjoy the match. That means a lot,” answers Justin. Don’t forget to thank your technical officials!

What we learned from our JPOL experience:

Nicole was very enthusiastic about her experience saying “JPOL 2018 has indeed fostered my hockey knowledge and expanded my experience and confidence. This tournament was so well organized that competency was able to be maintained throughout the days of play. Efficiency and coherence with running clocks and rules was highly important and this has developed my transparency in local games where time is not a major issue. I have learned so much from this tournament that imprints on my values and love for hockey to be better in my region.”

Laurie went on to say that she agrees, JPOL events are so well organized and planned that she uses that when planning events in Ontario.  Laurie went on to say “the use of parents as Judges really helps keep the parents involved and let’s them see a new side of the game.  I enjoy working with them and learning about their child’s hockey journey.”

Justin continued to say “I picked up game management tips from Thiago and Laurie and I really enjoyed meeting new hockey people and building new friendships. I look forward to seeing them at future tournaments.”

Turning the question around, we asked each what JPOL can learn from them.

Thiago hopes he was able to share some of his previous experience with the umpires and officials as well as the parents who came to judge.

Justin provides a more specific recommendation: If clubs nominated their Judge(s) early so that they can receive training/training material before the match - especially since the fixture does not give much time between matches.

Nicole hopes that JPOL can continue the integration of cultures as it was so well done, “I got to mix n mingle with umpires and technical officials.  My commitment and drive to be a better hockey official and player will indeed encourage others to be better in whatever they do.”

Laurie explains her philosophy of having fun and getting things done not being mutually exclusive. “When I do this job I try to show people that. I also find that having fun when working with coaches and managers helps build productive relationships. I hope I was able to show that it’s possible to get things done while still motivating people and having fun.”

If you would like to learn more about technical officiating opportunities within Junior Premier Hockey, contact JPH Technical Director, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Pan American Hockey Federation media release

England U18 Girls enjoy winning return to action


U18 Girls v Netherlands 2018

The England U18 Girls' squad returned to match play following a two month break, looking to build up momentum prior to the upcoming training camps against Germany & Belgium as well as preparing for the European Championships in July.

Game 1 - 23 June

England 8 (6)
Fiona Crackles (FG); Robyn Bentley (FG); Lynn Vanderstichele (FG); Millie Giglio (FG); Renee Ojikutu (FG); Fenella Scutt (FG); Issy Carey (FG); Izzy Petter (FG)

Scotland 0 (0)

Game 2 - 24 June

England 3 (1)
Vicki McCabe (FG); Jordan Homann (FG); Izzy Petter (FG)

Scotland 0 (0)

In the first match against Scotland, the team set off on the front foot from the whistle, scoring after seven minutes, and followed that goal up with a further five prior to half time. Scotland responded more robustly in the second half, keeping England's goal tally down to just two.

Scotland were determined to make the second match a more competitive affair and so it proved, although England still managed to secure a three-goal win.

The nine goals scored over the two games were notable for their quality, the fact being that they were all field goals, and also that they came from eight different players, with just Izzy Petter getting her name twice on the scorecard. 

After the games, Head Coach Sarah Kelleher said: “This was a successful return to competitive games after the exam period, with players coming back raring to go in the run up to the Euros in July.

“What was most pleasing was the intensity at which they played and the fluidity and connectivity as an unit. The players set a goal to be more clinical in front of goal, which they certainly delivered.

“Scotland stepped up their game as they progressed across the two matches providing us with a great starting point to our final Euro preparation.”

England Hockey Board Media release