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News for 12 October 2018

All the news for Friday 12 October 2018


3rd Youth Olympic Games - Day 5
Buenos Aires (ARG)

Men's results

VAN 1 ZAM 17
POL 3 MAS 4
ARG 3 MEX0
AUS 2 AUT 0
BAN 4 KEN 3
CAN 2 IND 5

Pool standings

Men's Pool A

Rank Team Matches Goals  
Played Won Draw Lost For Against Diff Points
1 5 5 0 0 15
2 5 4 0 1 12
3 5 2 0 3 6
4 5 2 0 3 6
5 5 2 0 3 6
6 5 0 0 5 0

Men's Pool B

Rank Team Matches Goals  
Played Won Draw Lost For Against Diff Points
1 5 5 0 0 15
2 5 4 0 1 12
3 5 3 0 2 9
4 5 2 0 3 6
5 5 1 0 4 3
6 5 0 0 5 0


Women's results

RSA 2 IND 5
AUT 14 VAN 0
AUS 1 MEX 1
ARG 5 URU 0
NAM 3 ZIM 3
POL 0 CHN 4

Pool standings

Women's Pool A

Rank Team Matches Goals  
Played Won Draw Lost For Against Diff Points
1 5 5 0 0 15
2 5 4 0 1 12
3 5 3 0 2 9
4 5 2 0 3 6
5 5 1 0 4 3
6 5 0 0 5 0

Women's Pool B

Rank Team Matches Goals  
Played Won Draw Lost For Against Diff Points
1 5 5 0 0 15
2 5 2 1 2 7
3 5 2 1 2 7
4 5 1 2 2 5
5 5 1 1 3 4
6 5 0 3 2 3

YOG Official site



Quarter-Finals set for YOG 2018


Zambia v Vanatu on Day 5. Photo: FIH/WSP

The Quarter-Final slots at the Buenos Aires 2018 Youth Olympic Games are set following the conclusion of the Pool stages of the men's and women's hockey events.

In the men's competition, Pool A saw Malaysia and Poland go head to head in the morning. This proved one of the most exciting matches of the day, which Malaysia edged 4-3 to pick up their fourth win in the Argentinian capital. Despite their loss, other results meant that Poland also join Malaysia in the Quarter-Finals.

Argentina, who had already qualified having won all their matches, continued their impressive form as they defeated Pan American rivals Mexico 3-0 in front of another packed house.

Despite their loss, Mexico's Luis Villegas remained upbeat. He said: "YOG has been a beautiful experience for me and my team. This is obviously not the result we expected but I will go back home with a big smile as I played with the best players in the world. It was amazing!”

Earlier, Zambia's 17-1 victory against Vanuatu was enough to guarantee them a place in the Quarter-Finals as well thanks to their superior goal difference to Mexico.

In men's Pool B, defending champions Australia continued their dominance as they defeated a spirited Austria 2-0.

In the following match Bangladesh clinched a spot in the Quarter-Finals thanks to a thrilling 4-3 win against Kenya.

In reaching the Quarter-Finals they joined Pool B winners Australia, third placed Austria and India, who finished in second place thanks to their 5-2 win against Canada today.

In the women's event, Pool A saw Argentina, India, South Africa and Austria reach the Quarter-Finals.

In their matches today, India and South Africa were first up and didn't disappoint the masses of local fans.

The Asian giants who have been performing well ran out 5-2 winners and despite South Africa's loss they had done enough in their earlier matches to qualify.

Austria then picked up their biggest win of the event so far as they defeated Vanuatu 14-0 to ensure their qualification.

Those teams join Argentina in the Quarter-Finals, the hosts making it five wins from five as they defeated local rival Uruguay 5-0 to the delight of local fans.

In women's Pool B, China, Australia, Poland and Namibia will all play in the Quarter-Finals.

Arguably the match of the day was the all African derby between Namibia and Zimbabwe. This winner takes-all tie could have gone either way, but the 3-3 final scoreline was a fair reflection of the match, and enough to keep Namibia in the medal hunt.

Speaking afterwards her match, Namibia's Crous Sonet said: “We are so happy right now! We were not sure of the outcome of this match against Namibia. Now that we went and qualified we feel relieved and we are thrilled to play Argentina on their own ground. We know the crowd will definitely be there for them but we are ready to play our best!”

Earlier in the day Australia drew 1-1 with Mexico, while Pool B winners and defending champions China defeated Poland 4-0.

To find out who is playing on day 6 click here.

#YOG2018

FIH site



Indian women beat South Africa 5-2, enter hockey 5s quarterfinals

The Indian women's hockey 5s team beat South Africa 5-2 in their final Pool A match to advance to the quarterfinals of the Youth Olympic Games.

The Indians finished in the second spot in their pool with 12 points, behind leaders Argentina.

Mumtaz Khan (2nd, 17th minute), Reet (10th), Lalremsiami (12th) and Ishika Chaudhary (13th) scored in India's convincing victory over South Africa on Thursday as the team ended the pool stages on a winning note after Wednesday's defeat to hosts Argentina.

India took the lead inside two minutes as Mumtaz Khan scored off her first shot. Both the teams had their chances in the first period and it was South Africa's turn to make the most of the opportunity as they scored the equalizer in the 10th minute through Kayla de Waal.

However, India's Reet made sure that her team went into the half-time break with a 2-1 lead as she scored with just five seconds left before the end of second period.

The start of the second period saw India's Mumtaz Khan force two saves off the South African Goalkeeper Mishka Ellis, but it was Lalremsiami who benefited from the constant pressure as she scored India's third goal in the 12th minute.

Iskika Chaudhary also registered her name on the score-sheet as she popped up in the 13th minute to extend India's lead to 4-1, while Mumtaz Khan scored her second of the match in the 17th minute to make the scoreline 5-1 in India's favour.

South Africa tried to make a comeback into the match in the dying stages but could only pull a goal back in the 19th minute through Angela Welham, as India registered their fourth win in five matches to secure the second spot in Pool A.

Daily News & Analysis



Australian Sides Into Youth Olympics Hockey 5s Quarters

Ben Somerford



Australia’s Hockey 5s quarter-finals draw has been confirmed after the final round robin matches were completed at the 2018 Youth Olympics in Buenos Aires on Friday morning.

The Australian men’s team finished top of their pool after a 2-0 win over Austria on Friday morning and will play Zambia (midnight AEDT).

Australia’s women’s team claim a 1-1 draw with Mexico on Friday morning, meaning they finish second in their pool and will play South Africa in the quarters (5am AEDT).

Mexico had taken a 13th minute lead from Nicole Verdugo, but the Aussies levelled in the last minute through Courtney Schonell to seal second spot.

In the men’s, Alistair Murray scored another goal to give the Aussies a ninth-minute lead before captain Bradley Marais sealed the win in the second half against Austria.

Click here to view men’s report

Click here to view women’s report

For the first time ever, there will be 24/7 streaming Youth Olympic Games coverage through www.olympics.com.au/live-stream.

Australian Schedule (all times AEDT):
Men’s Hockey
Monday 8 October 1am – Australia 7 Kenya 0
Tuesday 9 October 4am – Australia 4 Bangladesh 3
Wednesday 10 October 1am – Australia 6 Canada 3
Thursday 11 October 7:45am – Australia 4 India 3
Friday 12 October 1:45am – Australia 2 Austria 0
Saturday 13 October 5am - Australia v South Africa

Women’s Hockey
Monday 8 October 3:30am – Australia 10 Zimbabwe 0
Tuesday 9 October 1am – Australia 3 Namibia 4
Wednesday 10 October 5:30am – Australia 8 Poland 0
Thursday 11 October 12:15am – Australia 1 China 3
Friday 12 October 5:30am – Australia 1 Mexico 1
Saturday 13 October 12am - Australia v Zambia

Selected Australian Teams:
Men’s Hockey
Lain Carr (18), Matcham, NSW
James Collins (18), Perth, WA
Miles Davis (17), Sydney NSW
Brad Marais (18), Melbourne VIC
Craig Marais (16), Melbourne, VIC
Alistair Murray (18), Tincurrin, WA
Jed Snowden (16), Melbourne, VIC
Christian Starkie (17), Perth, WA
Ben White (18), Blackburn, VIC

Women’s Hockey
Caitlin Cooper (17), Perth, WA
Naomi Duncan (16), Sydney, NSW
Amy Lawton (16), Emerald, VIC
Morgan Mathison (18), Gold Coast, QLD
Indianna Robertson (18), Bentleigh, VIC
Courtney Schonell (17), Narellan Vale, NSW
Jolie Sertorio (16), Peppermint Grove, WA
Maddison Smith (18), Albion Park, NSW
Grace Young (15), Yowie Bay, NSW

Hockey Australia media release



Malaysia live dangerously in Buenos Aires

By Jugjet Singh

KUALA LUMPUR: The Malaysian men's hockey 5s team lived dangerously before beating Poland 4-3 in Group A of the Youth Olympics in Buenos Aires today.

Malaysia have qualified for the quarter-finals, and will know their opponents after the Argentina-Mexico match, as well as the other Group B matches are over.

Akhimullah Anuar Esook gave Malaysia a first minute goal, and Amirul Hamizan Azahar made it 2-0 in the second minute, but Poland were not ready to fold.

Goals from Gracjan Piotr (sixth), Eryk Bembenek (seventh) and Michal Nowakowski (11th) saw Malaysia trailing 3-2.

However, Syarman Mat Tee (15th) and Akhimullah's (15th) goals handed Malaysia full points.

New Straits Times



Unlucky Kenya fall to Bangladesh in Youth Olympics

By GEOFFREY ANENE

Kenya threw away a two-goal lead as they lost their fifth straight match 4-3 to Bangladesh in the men’s five-a-side field hockey at the Youth Olympic Games in Buenos Aires, Argentina on Thursday.

In the explosive Pool ‘B’ encounter, captain Ouma Olando and Brian Ogenche gave Kenya a 2-0 lead after sounding the boards in the fourth and sixth minutes.

However, Mohsin Mohammad reduced the deficit in the seventh minute, before Sawon Sarower made it 2-2 a minute later.

Olando put Kenya back in the lead in the 11th minute, but Bangladesh fought hard to equalise through Hassan Mohammad in the 15th minute, before Arshad Hossain notched the winner in the 18th minute.

The African Youth Games bronze medallists will now play in the classification match of positions 11 and 12 (last) against Vanuatu, which finished last in Pool ‘A’.

Kenya started their campaign with a 7-0 thrashing against Australia on October 7, before suffering a 4-3 loss at the hands of Canada on October 8.
Related Content

They then lost 7-1 against India on October 9 and then succumbed to a 4-3 loss against Austria on October 10, before the Bangladeshis denied them what would have been their first victory.

In other Pool ‘B’ matches, Australia beat Austria 2-0.

In Pool ‘A’ matches, Argentina thrashed Mexico 3-0, as African Youth Games silver medallists Zambia recorded a n emphatic 17-1 win over Vanuatu as Malaysia hit Poland 4-3.

Zambia’s win was enough to put them in quarterfinals, where they join Argentina, Malaysia and Poland from Pool ‘A’, while Australia, India and Austria are into the last eight from Pool ‘B’.

Bangladesh will complete the last eight list if Canada does not defeat India on Thursday night.

Daily Nation



Another win sees Team SA in hockey quarters


Team SA’s hockey team pose for a picture after their match with Vanuata, supplied.

Team SA women’s hockey team displayed yet another top performance in their match against Austria which they won 2-1, qualifying for the quarter-finals at the Youth Olympics in Buenos Aires.Although the score had been 1-1 at half-time, the two goals from Kayla de Waal helped Team SA beat their opponents and win their third match out of four.

Team SA have won three matches against Vanuatu, Uruguay and Austria but lost 4-0 to Argentina.

In their opening match on Sunday team SA won 4-3 against Uruguay. The team won yet another match when they faced Vanuata in their second preliminary match on day two of the Games.

Team SA played very well and displayed good skills which landed them a clean sweep 11-0 win against the newly-formed Vanuata team. With three goals coming from De Waal, Zimkitha Weston(three), Angel Nkosi (three), Jacolene McLaren and captain Angela Welham.

South Africa were beaten for the first time in three matches when they went down 4-0 to the powerful Argentinians, who led 3-0 at half-time. Team SA is scheduled to play against India on Thursday, with hopes to bag another win.

Hockey medal games will be played on 14 October at the Youth Olympic Park Hockey Field.

Meanwhile team SA swimming men’s 4x100m medley relay team placed third in the heats which qualified them for the finals, where they took seventh position.

Some other swimmers are set to compete in their finals and the athletics are set to begin on Thursday.

Team SA



Kenya fall to Austria in Youth Olympics

By GEOFFREY ANENE


Kenya's Richard Wanganga in action during the African Youth Games in Algiers, Algeria in July 2018.

Kenya's woes at the ongoing Youth Olympic Games in Buenos Aires, Argentina continued on Wednesday as they lost 4-3 to Austria in the men’s five-a-side field hockey.

Kevin Lugalia’s men gave as much as they got, but Marcin Nyckowiak denied the Kenyan lads a point after netting the winner for Austria a few seconds from time.

Yannick Matousek put the Europeans ahead in the second minute, but Kenya’s response was almost immediate, with Brian Ogenche Nyabuto levelling matters in the fourth minute. Paul Drusany restored Austria’s lead in the ninth minute before Nyckowiak made it 3-1 a minute later.

Kenyans pulled one goal back just before halftime through Richard Wanganga. The 2018 Africa Youth Games bronze medallists then equalised four minutes after the break courtesy of Nyabuto. However, just when Lugalia’s charges thought they had earned their first point in the event, Austria struck the winning goal seconds from the final.

The loss was Kenya’s fourth in a row in Pool ‘B’ after heavy defeats to Australia (7-0), India (7-1) and Canada (4-3).

This latest defeat effectively ended Kenya’s slim hopes of advancing to the quarter-finals as they will need a miracle of beating Bangladesh by more than five unanswered goals and Canada to lose by a huge margin in order to finish fourth in Group 'B'. The first four teams from the group will enter the last eight. At the moment, Australia, India and Austria are through.

Australia lead the table with 12 points after stunning tournament favourites India 3-2 on Wednesday. India and Austria occupy position two and three respectively with nine points each. Canada and Bangladesh have three points apiece, while Kenya is last without a point.

Argentina lead Pool ‘A’ with 12 points after winning their fourth consecutive match 4-2 against Malaysia on Wednesday. The Argentines along with second-placed Malaysia are through to the quarter-finals.

Poland and Mexico are also on the brink of reaching the last eight. They are placed third and fourth respectively with six points apiece. A huge win for fifth-ranked Zambia against bottom-placed Vanuatu plus a big victory for Malaysia against Poland or a big win for Argentina against Mexico could see the African side sail through on goal difference.

Zambia have amassed three points, while Vanuatu is without a point. The last round of group stage action is on Thursday, with Kenya facing Bangladesh at 6.30pm.

Daily Nation



Face-saving day for Malaysia

By Jugjet Singh

KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia will be on a face-saving mission tomorrow while Japan battle for a place in the final of the Sultan of Johor Cup at Taman Daya Stadium.

Coach Nor Saiful Zaini's boys have only one draw against New Zealand to show from four matches, and they face Japan in their last pool match.

However, Japan are tied on seven points with Britain and need a win to keep their chances alive. India have confirmed their final slot on 12 points with a match in hand against Britain.

Win, lose or draw against Japan will still see Malaysia play for the fifth spot against New Zealand. For the record the Kiwis forced a 5-5 draw in their earlier encounter.

"Of course this is a very disappointing situation for my players but still, they will end the tournament with international exposure, which is sorely lacking for this group," said Nor Saiful.

"We will be playing for pride in the next two matches, and I expect Japan to throw everything they have against us Friday," said the Olympian.

For Saiful, the biggest problem in his team is “ball watching”.

"They tend to freeze during crucial moments and end up 'ball watching'. This was the cause of the big defeat against Britain (5-1), and we will drill this aspect into them to make sure it does not happen against a speedy Japan side."

New Straits Times



OMAN ACT: Oltmans sets semis as early target

By Jugjet Singh

KUALA KUMPUR: The Malaysian Hockey Confederation (MHC) will field a mixed squad for the Asian Champions Trophy in Oman on Oct 18-28.

The other teams in the fray are India, Pakistan, Oman, Japan and South Korea.

Malaysia, who ended with a bronze in the last edition, will be coached by Roelant Oltmans who feels that even though penalty corner flicker Razie Rahim and midfielder Fitri Shaari are not on the list, there is no reason not to do well.

"Even though Razie is out with a hamstring while Fitri wants to attend his University convocation, it has opened up an opportunity for others. We have a balanced squad and we are heading to Oman to give a good fight to all the other teams," said Oltmans.

Malaysia will open accounts against Asian Games champions Japan, and Oltmans has set semifinals as an early target.

"We will begin with a tough match against Japan, and it will be like the Asian Games final. We will first play to reach the semi-finals, and from there aim higher," said Oltmans.

MALAYSIA -- S. Kumar (gk), Hairi Rahman (gk), Shukri Mutalib, Syed Syafiq Syed Cholan, Faiz Helmi, Najib Hassan, Nabil Fiqri, Marhan Jalil, Azri Hassan, Meor Azuan, Joel Samuel, Norsyafiq Sumantri, Firhan Ashari, Amirol Aideed, Tengku Ahmad Tajuddin, Faizal Saari, Nik Aiman, Shahril Saabah.

Malaysia's fixtures: Oct 18: Malaysia v Japan (10.55pm); Oct 20: Malaysia v Oman (1.10am); Oct 22: Malaysia v South Korea (10.55pm); Oct 24: Malaysia v India (1.10am); Oct 25: Malaysia v Pakistan (10.55pm).

Jugjet's World of Field Hockey



We are playing laptop hockey: Pillay

Tirkey says the pace of the modern game has made it too technical

Uthra Ganesan


Though Dhanraj Pillay and Dilip Tirkey had a different approach towards the game, both agree that Indian hockey is not what it used to be. Photo Credit: Sabyasachi Jana

For all the years they played together, Dhanraj Pillay and Dilip Tirkey remained fire and ice of Indian hockey. Striker and defender, fiery and calm, flamboyant and subdued — the two were poles apart. More than a decade after they quit playing, they remain the same.

The only thing they agree on is the fact that Indian hockey remains nothing like what it used to be. And neither is sure whether all the changes have been for the best.

‘All about discipline’

“Success is all about discipline. I can proudly say that my discipline towards the game was impeccable. I never took it for granted or disrespected the game that has given me everything. Now things have changed,” Pillay said.

“The one advice I always followed was to stay away from newspapers during a tournament. A good report may make me overconfident and a bad one spoil my game.

“Today, there is so much of social media, all players are always busy with their phones. I would only suggest that team bonding is crucial and that cannot come from social media, you have to spend time with each other,” he added bluntly.

Pillay himself is hardly present on the social media, similar to Tirkey, a former Rajya Sabha member and a key figure in Odisha politics now.

As two of the fittest players ever in Indian hockey, they feel better fitness is the hallmark of the current side.

“We cannot even compare the fitness levels now with our time. This team is at par with Australia, Germany, Holland, the sides who set fitness standards back then.

“But we used to beat them in skills, by which I don’t mean only dribbling. In this exhibition match, you saw Deepak Thakur score twice. It was because of his game sense, positioning, ability to control the ball and finish off with a goal. That is now missing,” Pillay explained.

Tirkey, on his part, added that the pace of modern hockey made it too technical. It is difficult for a player to even understand what is happening and yet he has to get into action immediately. Not easy to think creatively in such a situation,” he shrugs.

Pillay is more curt. “Even for a genius it takes time to get into the mix on the field.

“I cannot understand substitutions every two-three minutes with everything decided by equipment from outside. We are playing laptop hockey, not field hockey,” he declares.

No easy matches

As for the World Cup, there will be no easy matches. Tirkey is confident the crowd will continue to support the home team and that will propel it to success.

Pillay warns of complacency and backlash from the same public if the team played mediocre. Between them, the two remain hopeful of the ultimate glory on home soil.

The Hindu



Sam Ward: Great Britain hockey has new lease of life under Danny Kerry

By The Hockey Paper


Ward hopes GB form will help England at men’s World Cup PIC: Grant Treeby

Sam Ward says new coach Danny Kerry has added a “new spark” to the team as England aim towards a first World Cup title.

Great Britain came away from the Toshiba International against Belgium as 2-1 winners last week, a mini series (1-1) which will go a long way to determining Kerry’s England World Cup squad.

“He’s a breath of fresh air and I’m really looking forward to the future with him,” Ward said of Kerry’s swap from the women to the men last month.

“He has brought a new spark to the team while the big thing for us is that I would describe us in the last few years as being so close to the top nations.

“To go and beat them [Belgium] in capped games like that, that’s what we live for and that’s what we need to do.

“That grows our confidence massively going into a World Cup.”

England will next play a Four Nations tournament with the Netherlands, Spain and Ireland to further prepare themselves for their trip to India next month.

Ward notched his 50th international goal and will accrue 100 caps in his next match, meaning that he is virutally averaging a goal every other game for England and GB.

Yet it is the build-up work of his team-mates – notably in the Belgium series – which Ward believes will be a major contribution down the line.

“The boys were fantastic personally I was a bit average. I wasn’t very pleased with my own performance,” he admitted

“Aldo [Alan Forsyth] was fantastic, two assists and it’s great to play up front with him for GB.”

Ward’s series contribution came off the back of his debut for Old Georgians in the Conference East last weekend.

And the striker said that a step down from the Men’s Premier Division, where he scored four goals on debut, will not hamper his form at international level.

He added: “It’s brilliant to play somewhere like Old Georgians. It’s a different environment and a different style of hockey. It grows the overall game of hockey and that’s what it’s all about.”

The Hockey Paper



Welsh Goalie David Kettle Announces Retirement

Laura Hallsmith



Wales’ most capped goalkeeper, David Kettle has today announced he is to retire from international hockey, ending a distinguished career. Having represented Wales since age 14, playing in all junior sides, he made his Welsh debut in 2009 during the World Cup qualifying tournament in New Zealand.

Kettle co-captained the Welsh side for four years, competing in the 2014 and 2018 Commonwealth Games and playing an integral part in Wales’ promotion to the top tier of European hockey last year. Retirement at this stage in his career means Kettle will not join Wales next August when the squad head out to Antwerp to compete in this top division but it’s a decision Kettle explains he’s comfortable with:

As custodians of the shirt, we always talk about leaving things in a better place than when we started. I can move on with my head held high knowing that we are now one of the top 8 teams in Europe and have gone toe to toe with some of the world’s best sides. I’m incredibly proud of what this young side has achieved and I have no doubt they will take Wales to even greater heights in the future.

Over the years, Kettle has racked up numerous successes at club level, having played for Cannock, East Grinstead and Surbiton in the Euro Hockey League. He’s also benefited from and enjoyed playing professionally in both the Malaysian and Australian Hockey Leagues.



He retires today as the most capped goalkeeper in Welsh history, amassing 106 outdoor and 19 indoor caps. Reflecting on his career, Kettle added:

Obviously competing in the 2014 and 2018 commonwealth games was a real highlight. I was incredibly proud to captain the side for 4 years but it is the friendships I have made and the stories we share that I will cherish the most.

Graduating from the University of Birmingham with a master’s in international business; where he continues to lecture and mentor, Kettle has confirmed he’ll be taking a complete break from the game, concentrating on both his career with Barclays, which runs parallel to his own business interests:

It’s a bit of a step into the unknown to be honest, which is quite scary but also very exciting. I’m going to continue with my climbing and will be heading to Nepal in April. I’m still working out what else I will do but I definitely won’t be taking up golf.

Earlier this year Kettle bravely opened up to BBC Sports Editor, Dan Roan around his struggles, battling mental health problems; struggles that consumed him so viciously he made the decision to step away from international hockey altogether. Having thankfully worked through his battle with depression, Kettle felt overwhelmed with the positive response on the back of the interview last May. Furthermore, UK Sport have since announced their plans to launch a comprehensive mental health strategy, which’ll include the crucial new role, Head of Mental Health.

Commenting on an international career spanning nearly a decade, Wales’ men’s Head Coach, Zak Jones said:

Although David’s announcement was not wholly unexpected, having had a number of conversations with him recently, it is always difficult to lose someone of his ability, experience and quality from the programme. It has been a privilege working with David and watching him develop as both a person and athlete during his time in the Wales set-up.

Whilst his goalkeeping ability speaks for itself, David also brought an in-depth knowledge of the game and notable leadership qualities to the squad both on and off the field.  He has been a huge and integral part of the squad over the past few years and has been instrumental in helping to develop the squads ability to truly compete with the higher ranked nations.

David’s experience, attitude and influence will be missed by all, but I hope that his retirement enables him to explore the opportunities he wishes to pursue away from hockey.  I would like to take this opportunity to formally thank him for everything he has contributed to the programme and Welsh Hockey as a whole over the years and also to wish him all the very best for the future, both personally and professionally.

A firm fixture amongst the Welsh line up, David ‘Dragon’ Kettle will be sorely missed by his team and all of us across the hockey family. We wish him the very best with his future.

Hockey Wales media release



Wiese Adds Barber and K. Kaeppeler to USMNT Roster



COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. – Following the U.S. Men’s National Team Europe Summer Training Tour, Head Coach Rutger Wiese and coaching staff have added two athletes to the roster. Kevin Barber (Camarillo, Calif.) returns to represent Team USA after taking four years off and Kei Kaeppeler (Stuttgart, Germany), brother of Aki, joins the squad after a successful campaign abroad.

“The staff, team and I are very excited to welcome these two men [back] on the team,” commented Wiese.

Both athletes trained and competed with the USMNT during their 22-day overseas trip to France, Spain, Scotland and Ireland. Kaeppeler earned his first official international cap on July 3 against Spain, accumulating seven total while on tour. He was also a threat on offense, scoring one against Scotland in the final meeting and one in each game against Ireland.

Barber grew up in Camarillo, Calif., an area known for producing male field hockey players. At the age of 6, his parents put a stick in his hand just 10 minutes before he was expected to play his first game at Moorpark College and the rest is history. He was instantly attracted to the sport and continued to play alongside some of his friends. What also aided in his development and passion was that he was surrounded by mentors and USMNT legends like Shaun Nakamura, Pat Cota, Ryan Langford, Malachi Mahan, Sergio Centeno and Larry Amara.

After joining the Junior U.S. Men’s National Team circuit in 2006, Barber was named to the U.S. Men’s National Team in 2007. He got his first taste of international competition in 2008 when he competed and helped lead the U.S. U-21 Men’s National Team to a third-place finish at the Junior Pan American Championship in Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago. Just a year leader, he was a key contributor to the USMNT’s silver medal at the Pan American Games in Santiago, Chile. He was also part of the squads that competed at the 2011 Pan American Games (Guadalajara, Mexico), 2012 FIH World League Round 1 (Chula Vista, Calif.) and 2013 FIH World League Round 2 (Rio de Janiero, Brazil). Barber was even part of the U.S. Men’s National Indoor Team and helped lead USA to a silver medal at the 2014 Indoor Pan American Cup in Montevideo, Uruguay.

Even though he took some time off competing on the pitch from 2014-18, Barber still stayed heavily involved through coaching. A Level 2 Certified Coach, he has been coaching within the Futures Program in Region 11 for many years.

“Being selected for the USMNT is a great honor,” commented Barber. “The opportunity to represent our country in international competition, while striving to reach my highest potential as an athlete, is not one that I take for granted. For the last few years, I’ve been focused toward my education and seeking out the experiences that have oriented the path of a career after field hockey. Prior to this past summer, my last game for the USMNT was in 2014. The current team is organized to make real moves this year and reach a new standard of performance. There is some great talent in the group and many of the guys have been pushing their level while competing full-time in leagues throughout Europe. Finding my way back on to the pitch is no walk in the park, but I’m excited for every chance I get be a part of it.”

“Kevin and I have met and spoken several times over the past year about a comeback and I am very excited that he’s decided that he wants to be part of the U.S. Men’s National Team program again,” said Wiese.

A native of Stuttgart, Germany, Kaeppeler got his start playing field hockey because it was something his older brother did. Like Barber, he started playing when he was 6-years-old and instantly had a passion for the game. He became heavily involved within the Germany club system, playing with the HTC Stuttgarter Kickers until he was 13, before transferring to TSV Mannheim Hockey.

An experienced defender throughout his youth, Kaeppeler helped his U-16 club team win back-to-back German Championships in 2012 and 2013. Two years later, he was promoted to the Bundesliga first team where he transitioned to midfield. In 2017 he was part of the German U-21 Men’s National Team that won the U-21 European Championship.

Being a very versatile player, Kaeppeler played as a striker for the USMNT while on the Europe Summer Training Tour.

“It is a big chance to play for the USA team,” commented Kaeppeler. “We aim high and try our very best to improve our hockey and inspire young players. It is a mission to make hockey more popular in the States, by having successful national team.”

“We are very excited to have the Kaeppeler brothers reunited on the field, now for Team USA,” said Wiese. “Kei is a very exciting player, with a great drive forward.”

USFHA media release



Ad for indoor hockey coaches raises plenty of issues

‘Voluntary’ status of the position will automatically rule out many top coaches

Johnny Watterson

There is an interesting advertisement on Hockey Ireland’s website for an indoor hockey coach for both the men’s and women’s national teams. It seems to be a positive thing that Hockey Ireland are finally taking the indoor game seriously. Or are they?

The task for the appointed coaches will be to take a team to the European Indoor Hockey Championships in 2020. Given how Three Rock Rovers have performed in Europe over the last few years that is a reasonable target.

However, what is outlined in the job spec is that the position is voluntary, which marks the indoor coach as less important appointment than the outdoor coach, who is in a paid position. That will automatically exclude many top coaches from applying and will ensure a local coach.

The job spec does not say whether the indoor players selected to play can come from the outdoor team or if they are a squad of specialist indoor international players culled from outside the group that goes to the World Cup in India next month and who after that will be preparing for the outdoor European Championships next summer.

It also does not specify whether Hockey Ireland are considering the idea of a closed or partially closed season to organise a focused Irish tournament whereby players will not be squeezing in sessions and matches between their outdoor and indoor club hockey and national commitments.

In essence, whichever Irish coach is chosen for the two jobs he or she does not know where they will get their players or what sort of preparation they can expect.

“The head coach is required to work closely with key performance staff and will be specifically responsible for a physiotherapist, an assistant coach and a team manager,” it says in the job spec. Is that normal?

Maybe. Just asking. But what would be helpful is a fully laid out explanation about what players are eligible and therefore what quality is available and how they can best prepare within the current system so that the totally amateur coach can do a totally professional job.

The Irish Times



Van der Weerden’s Oranje-Rood bond on Barcelona trip


©: Frank Uijlenbroek / World Sport Pics

Mink van der Weerden says Oranje-Rood’s weekend in Barcelona can have a bonding effect for the Eindhoven club as they look to marry youth and experience this season.

This season, Oranje-Rood feature a large number of young faces with teenagers Jim van de Venne, Bodie Berenos, Max de Bie, Max Kuijpers and Sander van Berkel all getting their first taste of the action as did 20-year-old Gijs van Merrienboer. Teun Beins was another teen in the line-up.

They have joined a panel with the experience of former world player of the year Rob van der Horst, Bob de Voogd, Thomas Briels, Pirmin Blaak, Muhammad Rizwan and van der Weerden.

Passing on that vast array of knowledge to the next generation is a key part of this team’s development according to the club captain.

“It was a really important weekend for us,” van der Weerden told the EHL website. “There is a gap in age and experience for us, in terms of lifestyle and looking after yourself and this kind of things.

“We are trying to work on closing the gap, getting to know each other better and better as well as our tactical preferences. A five-day trip is really helpful for this kind.”

They proved too strong for Scotland’s Grange in game one, winning 6-0, before finding it tough to break down Austria’s SV Arminen. Two goals from Benny Stanzl against his compatriots did the damage in a 2-1 win.

“We knew Arminen would be a good game. Benny knows these guys really well what they are capable of and how structured their defence. We had the ball a lot of the time. In the end, they managed to keep us away from their goal; we had a couple of chances which could have, should have gone in.

“But still they managed to defend in a really structured way and made it hard for us. We had to remain calm and not get too stressed out about it that they might get an equaliser.”

The two wins sent Oranje-Rood through at the top of Pool A, confirming they will host the KO16 in Eindhoven next Easter from April 17 to 22.

“Really looking forward to it. It made our task of qualifying for the KO16 here in Barcelona even more important.

“It’s an honour to host as a club. We did a really good job in organising it two years ago and every one of us is really keen to play in front of our home crowd in such a tournament.”

Euro Hockey League media release



McCann reflects on Mannheim doing “enough” to get ahead of Wimbledon


©: Frank Uijlenbroek / World Sport Pics

Mannheimer HC coach Michael McCann said his side did “enough” to get by as they won EHL ROUND1 Pool B by virtue of goal difference ahead of Wimbledon.

They opened up with a 7-2 win over Dinamo Elektrostal on Saturday, outdoing Wimbledon’s 5-2 result against the Russians but a crucial couple of goals.

It meant they needed a draw against the English side on Sunday to get through and they just about did it. A Gonzalo Peillat drag-flick had them in control but the English side had the best of the second half, drawing level at 1-1 but could not find the winner.

As such, the German side marches on to the KO16, getting what they needed from their weekend in Barcelona amid a very busy period for the club.

“It’s enough!” McCann said after the draw with Wimbledon. “From a coaching perspective, you always want to play top hockey and get everything right. Then, if it’s 1-1, then it’s 1-1. But we didn’t play our best hockey so, from a coaching perspective, I want a bit more.

“But if we look at the performance over the weekend, going from a 5pm game on Saturday to a 2pm game on Sunday and our third double weekend in three weeks, I think the boys deserve to go through.

“We had enough corners and a few early chances to finish it off but, at the end of the day, we have done enough to qualify for the KO16 which is something we weren’t able to do in the past – getting through the phase we were in – so that’s a very positive thing.”

They are set to play two big games in Hamburg next weekend in the German league, another couple of big tests after a tough battle in Barcelona which gave McCann plenty of food for thought.

“Wimbledon are a good hockey team; they don’t five or six England internationals for no reason. They came out very well in the second half; we stopped playing a little bit, particularly when we had the overload for 10 minutes.

“We played across the front of them and didn’t play with a lot of courage, which is something we spoke about, like we had something to lose.

“Our guys are developing that and it is part of our processes for this season, to make better decisions to get this kind of result when the game is in the balance. Maybe we need to defend the last five minutes on our hands and knees; it that’s the case, we do it. Today was an example of that.”

Euro Hockey League media release



Pallarols proud of Junior’s efforts despite falling just short in goal-hunt


©: Frank Uijlenbroek / World Sport Pics

Junior FC coach Roger Pallarols said he had no harsh words for his players as they gave everything but ultimately could not get the goals they needed to reach the KO16 of the EHL.

A late corner concession on Saturday evening against Three Rock Rovers meant that the Sant Cugat club had to outdo the Irish club’s 6-0 scoreline against Racing Club de France on Sunday.

They started brilliantly, building a 3-0 lead inside 22 minutes, but numerous chances went close but not close enough as they eventually won 5-1, two goals short of their target.

After the match, Pallarols told Tots Sant Cugat he could not have asked for more from his players in what was Junior's first European appearance in their 101-year history.

"I have nothing to reproach the team,” he said. “All the players have taken a big step forward and I am very happy and proud of them. The team was faced with a very complicated situation and they gave it everything.

"We had countless goalscoring opportunities but we did not have full effectiveness and, at this level, you are made to pay.

"Now we have to focus and put our ambition into the Copa del Rey and the league and see if we can return soon to the EHL."

Euro Hockey League media release



Vics Hopeful For Big Crowd As AHL Returns To Melbourne

Ben Somerford



They’re the reigning Australian champions in both men’s and women’s divisions and the Australian Hockey League (AHL) is returning to Melbourne for the first time since 2013.

It’s got all the ingredients for a bumper crowd, when the Vikings and Vipers host the WA Thundersticks and Diamonds at Melbourne’s State Hockey and Netball Centre on Saturday from 2pm (AEDT).

Vikings midfielder Josh Pollard says: “I seriously can’t wait, it’s going to be amazing.

"It will be a highlight I reckon - last AHL, in Melbourne, home crowd - I seriously can’t wait. I know a few of the boys are coming down to watch on the sidelines, so that will be really good and I’m really pumped for it actually.

“Hopefully it is a big crowd and we can put on a show for everyone."

The Vikings will play as a curtain-raiser before the Vipers take on the Diamonds, the only time throughout the AHL rounds when the women will play second.

Viper Kary Chau said she was excited to play in front of a home crowd too.

“What drew me back this year was the fact that this would essentially be the last time we get to represent Victoria as a state, so that also has a lot of meaning behind it as well,” Chau said.

“For me personally, I honestly can’t remember the last time I played in Melbourne (for Victoria), so being able to play in front of a home crowd is hard to come by.

“I think everything Hockey Victoria have done to drive the Victorian Hockey Fan Package and the promotions around it to get the event out there is great.

“I’ve been around for a long time, so it is kind of fitting that I will be able to play a few games in Melbourne in front of a home crowd.”



As part of the Victorian Hockey Fan Package, supporters can access 14 matches over 18 months including the 2018 AHL, 2019 FIH Pro League and the 2019 revamped Australian Hockey League.

This year’s AHL matches include meetings with WA and SA, before the competition moves to the Gold Coast for the finals from 25-28 October.

Victoria will be hoping to defend their titles, with the Vikings aiming for a rare three-peat, which hasn’t been achieved in the men’s competition since the early 90s by the Thundersticks.

"We’re going for the three-peat and we have the team to do it,” Pollard said.

“Everyone has the belief we can do it, and it would be a massive achievement because they are not easy to win that is for sure.

“I reckon New South Wales will be right up there this year. Their list at the moment is pretty good.

“But again you say that and then you think of Queensland and WA as well, so I think the ‘Big Four’ will be very competitive again."

Both sides started the AHL with big wins, the Vipers beating the NT Pearls 13-0, while the Vikings defeated the NT Stingers 12-4 in Darwin.

The Vipers are unchanged for his weekend’s clash while the Vikings have been forced into a handful of changes with Johan Durst, Josh Simmonds and Aaron Kleinschmidt unavailable due to Kookaburras call-ups but welcome back ex-Aussie pair Andrew Philpott and Tim Cross.

Arguably, Victoria are least affected of Pollard’s ‘Big Four’ by international call-ups which bodes well for their bid to top the pool and position themselves ideally for the finals.

Tickets for the 2018 AHL Finals on the Gold Coast are on sale now.

Hockey Australia media release



PREVIEWS: English Men's Hockey League

After their EuroHockey League battles last weekend, Wimbledon return to action in the Men’s Hockey League Premier Division with a tough clash against top of the table Holcombe on Sunday.

Currently bottom of the early table, Wimbledon narrowly missed out on progressing in Europe but will now turn their attentions to the domestic league.

“The key thing for us is that we were really pleased with our performance at the EHL even though we didn’t progress,” said Wimbledon’s Team Manager Tina Dullaghan. “We have to use that as a platform moving forward to the league program.

“Holcombe are a tough team to play against, but we’re confident. We know what we need to do to get into the top four at the end of the season; last year we won our last 12 games, so we know we can do it.”

Meanwhile, Hampstead and Westminster head to Sevenoaks as they bid to make it four out of four in the Premier Division, while Surbiton are on the road to Brooklands MU on Sunday as they bid to stay unbeaten this season.

Newcomers the University of Exeter have a tough away match at Beeston, while on Saturday Reading are hosting East Grinstead.

Brighton and Hove will be aiming to make it three out of three in the Men’s Conference East, but they face another unbeaten team this Saturday in Cambridge City.

Elsewhere, last season’s champions Oxted are top of the early table and will want to stay there with a victory over bottom of the table Richmond.

Newcomers the University of Bristol have won both their Conference West matches so far, and will want to continue that form as they entertain Olton & West Warwicks on Sunday.

Elsewhere Oxford Hawks play host to Chichester, while Saturday evening’s match sees Isca take on the University of Birmingham.

In the Conference North, two unbeaten teams play each other on Saturday evening with the University of Durham at home against the University of Nottingham.

And Bowdon will want to make it three out of three when they go to Alderley Edge on Sunday.

FIXTURES

Men’s Hockey League

Saturday, 13 October 2018

Premier Division
Reading v East Grinstead 18:30

Conference East
Southgate v Teddington 17:30

Conference North
Belper v Loughborough Students 14:00
Univ of Durham v Univ of Nottingham 18:00

Conference West
Isca v Univ of Birmingham 18:30

Sunday, 14 October 2018

Premier Division
Brooklands Manchester Univ v Surbiton 12:15
Wimbledon v Holcombe 14:00
Sevenoaks v Hampstead & Westminster 14:00
Beeston v Univ of Exeter 14:00

Conference East
Canterbury v City of Peterborough 12:45
Oxted v Richmond 12:45
Brighton & Hove v Cambridge City 13:00
Old Georgians v Old Loughtonians 14:00

Conference North
Alderley Edge v Bowdon 14:00
Doncaster v Leeds 14:00
Preston v Sheffield Hallam 14:00

Conference West
Cardiff & Met v Havant 12:30
Fareham v Team Bath Buccaneers 13:30
Univ of Bristol v Olton & West Warwicks 13:30
Oxford Hawks v Chichester 14:00

England Hockey Board Media release



PREVIEWS: Investec English Women's Hockey League


Univ of Birmingham's Jo Turnbull celebrates a goal. Credit Andrew Smith

Both unbeaten after the first three matches, the University of Birmingham head to Surbiton on Saturday for what could prove a crucial clash for both sides in their Investec Women’s Hockey League Premier Division campaign.

Last season’s champions Surbiton top the early table with two wins and a draw, while the University of Birmingham are third, having drawn twice and won once in their first three games.

“The girls always look forward to a trip to Surbiton,” said the University of Birmingham head coach Phil Gooderham. “We always have a good game with them as we both play quite attacking hockey. And having a few of our old players down there now, it will be good to see them.

“We didn’t have a great pre-season because of player availability, so we started the season a little bit under cooked, but we’ve been getting better and getting used to playing together again. We would’ve liked to have won all three of our games, but it hasn’t been a bad start.”

Elsewhere, East Grinstead go to bottom of the table Slough, and will look to take the win having held Surbiton to a draw last weekend.

Holcombe are another unbeaten team so far, and they play host to Kent rivals Canterbury on Saturday evening.

Buckingham are at home against Bowdon Hightown, while Clifton Robinsons go to Beeston in the top flight’s other match-up.

In the Investec Women’s Conference East, two unbeaten sides face each other on Saturday with Hampstead and Westminster going to Sevenoaks, while Cambridge City will also want to make it three wins in a row when they go to Bedford.

Last season’s champions Stourport are unbeaten after the first two weeks of the Investec Women’s Conference West, and they will want to remain so as they play at Isca on Saturday.

Also unbeaten, Olton and West Warwicks are hosting Barnes, while Gloucester City could also make it three out of three as they go to Reading.

The only two teams with 100% records, Ben Rhydding and Leeds are preparing to face each other in the Investec Women’s Conference North on Saturday.

Elsewhere, Loughborough Students head to Belper while the University of Durham are in action at home against Fylde.

FIXTURES

Investec Women’s Hockey League

Saturday, 13 October 2018

Investec Premier Division
Buckingham v Bowdon Hightown 12:00
Slough v East Grinstead 12:30
Surbiton v Univ of Birmingham 13:00
Beeston v Clifton Robinsons 14:00
Holcombe v Canterbury 18:00

Investec Conference East
Bedford v Cambridge City 13:30
Wimbledon v Ipswich 14:00
Southgate v Harleston Magpies 14:00
Horsham v St Albans 15:30
Sevenoaks v Hampstead & Westminster 16:30

Investec Conference North
Univ of Durham v Fylde 12:00
Belper v Loughborough Students 12:00
Brooklands Poynton v Sutton Coldfield 13:00
Ben Rhydding v Leeds 13:30
Leicester v Timperley 15:00

Investec Conference West
Olton & West Warwicks v Barnes 12:00
Isca v Stourport 12:00
Oxford Hawks v Exe 12:00
Trojans v Swansea City 12:00
Reading v Gloucester City 16:30

England Hockey Board Media release



New realm for Irish hockey as second-tier league begins

Irish hockey enters a new realm this weekend with the second tier of the men’s EY Hockey League coming on stream.

Stephen Findlater

Irish hockey enters a new realm this weekend with the second tier of the men's EY Hockey League coming on stream.

The competition features two groups of four with the top two from the home-and-away round-robins going through to the end-of-season playoffs for a shot at promotion.

UCD look set to be one of the contenders following their 4-3 away win over Instonians in the Irish Senior Cup last weekend. They start with a short trip to Railway Union while Bangor and Bandon contest the other tie in Pool A.

Pool B features Instonians against UCC and Ulster Premier champions Kilkeel against Corinthian. In the top tier, Three Rock Rovers start with a first home date of the season, taking on Lisnagarvey.

On the women's side, the EY Hockey League tie of the round sees UCD host Loreto, a meeting between last year's regular season winners and the Champions Trophy victors.

Irish Independent



Weekend College Games



Each week, USA Field Hockey highlights some of the top college games in Division I, II and III.

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 11

DIII: Ferrum vs. Hendrix | 7:00 p.m. ET
Last weekend, Ferrum suffered a 0-6 loss to Old Dominion Athletic Conference (ODAC) foe Shenandoah. Unable to convert on their scoring opportunities, the Panthers still fought Shenandoah until the very end. The loss dropped Ferrum to 2-8 overall and 0-3 in conference play. Ferrum will be looking to end their three-game losing streak when they take on Hendrix this Thursday night. Hendrix is coming off a 1-3 loss to Southern Athletic Association conference opponent Sewanee on Sunday. Sewanee jumped out to an early 2-0 lead and despite their efforts, the Warriors could not mount a comeback. Hendrix is now 2-7 overall and 1-2 in conference play. The last time these two teams met, Ferrum defeated Hendrix 2-1 in overtime. Expect this game to be a thrilling back and forth match for the full 70 minutes.

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 12



DI: No. 15 Northwestern vs. No. 14 Rutgers | 4:00 p.m. ET
Northwestern will host Rutgers in Evanston, Ill. for a Big Ten match-up. No. 15 Northwestern is coming off a close 1-2 loss to No. 22 Ohio State this past Friday. After a scoreless first half, both teams came out fired up in the second. Ohio State took the lead but Northwestern responded two minutes later to tie it up. The Cats' comeback came to a halt when Ohio State scored with 11 minutes left to secure the win. The loss dropped them to 8-6 overall and 3-2 in conference play. No. 14 Rutgers split the weekend falling 1-3 to No. 2 Maryland on Friday and defeating Georgetown 7-0 on Sunday. Despite the loss, Rutgers showed grit against a very talented Maryland team and were able to bounce back on Sunday against Georgetown. Rutgers is now 9-4 overall and 1-4 in conference play and is assistant coached by current U.S. Men's National Team athlete, Ajai Dhadwal. Tune into see who moves up in the Big Ten conference in this closely ranked match.

DII: Bentley vs. New Haven | 3:30 p.m. ET
Bentley will host New Haven in a Northeast-10 (NE-10) conference match-up in Waltham, Mass. Bentley split their last two conference games, losing to No. 4 Merrimack 2-3 on Saturday and winning against American International 4-2 on Tuesday. The Falcons trailed most of the first half against AIC, but scored off a penalty corner to tie the game. The second half opened with a pair of goals for Bentley to extend the lead. AIC reduced the differential by one before Bentley tallied an insurance goal for the victory. The Falcons are now 7-4 overall and 3-3 in conference play. Last Friday, New Haven lost 0-6 to NE-10 opponent Franklin Pierce. The Chargers responded on Tuesday clinching a 2-1 win over another conference team Southern Connecticut State. New Haven is now 2-7 overall and 1-5 in conference play. The last time these two teams played, New Haven defeated Bentley 12-0.

DIII: No. 32 Denison vs. Wooster | 4:30 p.m. ET
Denison will host Wooster in a North Coast Athletic Conference (NCAC) match-up in Granville, Ohio. No. 32 Denison had a big weekend defeating conference foe DePauw 5-2 this past Saturday. The Big Red had five different goal scorers in the conference win to improve them to 10-2 overall and 8-0 in conference play. With the win, Denison has extended its winning streak to five games and will look to remain undefeated in conference play when they take on Wooster this Friday. Wooster defeated conference foe Ohio Wesleyan 4-3 this past Saturday. A crucial part of the victory was the fact that Wooster didn’t allow Ohio Wesleyan to score a goal in the first half. The win improved the Fighting Scots to 10-2 overall and 6-2 in conference play. Tune into see who moves up in the NCAC conference.

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 13

DI: Holy Cross vs. Lafayette | 11:05 a.m. ET
Holy Cross will host Lafayette for a Patriot League match-up in Worcester, Mass. Holy Cross is coming off a big 5-4 overtime victory over La Salle to earn their third straight victory of the season. La Salle struck first but the Crusaders were able to rally back and go up 3-1. La Salle went on to scored three unanswered goals but Holy Cross quickly answered to knot the game at four goals apiece. Holy Cross secured the win by scoring in the fifth minute of overtime. Holy Cross is now 3-9 overall and 2-1 in conference play. Lafayette is coming off two wins, a 5-4 victory over Patriot League opponent Colgate on Saturday and a 2-1 win against UPenn on Monday. Despite the close score in the first match, Lafayette held a 19-5 shot advantage over Colgate. The second victory was a different tale as the Leopards were out shot 11-4 and out cornered 10-1 against UPenn, but capitalized when it mattered. Lafayette improved to 5-8 overall and 2-1 in conference play. With both teams currently 2-1 in the Patriot League, expect this game to be a tough battle until the very end.



DII: No. 8 Pace vs. Saint Anselm | 1:00 p.m. ET
Pace will host Saint Anselm in a NE-10 match-up in Pleasantville, N.Y. No. 8 Pace is coming off a 4-1 win against NE-10 opponent Assumption College on Tuesday. This victory was the sixth straight for Pace extending their season-high winning streak. Pace showed their offensive threats outshooting Assumption 12-3 and also had a 9-6 advantage in corners to move them to 9-1 overall and 5-0 in conference play. Saint Anselm is coming off a 6-1 win over St. Thomas Aquinas this past Sunday. The Hawks dominated on attack with 25 shots on goal and 20 penalty corners and this win gives them four-straight victories to improve to 6-3 overall and 3-1 in conference play. The last time these two teams met, Saint Anselm defeated Pace 2-1. Expect this game to be another close one and tune into see which team can extended their winning streak.

DIII: No. 15 Trinity vs. No. 1 Middlebury | 11:00 a.m. ET
Trinity will host Middlebury in Hartford, Conn.in a New England Small College Athletic Conference (NESCAC) game this Saturday. No. 15 Trinity is coming off a 2-1 win over NESCAC foe Bowdoin last weekend. Trinity scored with less than seven minutes left in the match to secure the win over Bowdoin. On Tuesday, Bantams defeated Springfield 6-0, tallying the first goal just 15 seconds into the game. The win improved Trinity to 9-2 overall and 5-2 in conference play. Trinity has now won its last eight straight games and will look to continue their momentum when they take on Middlebury this Saturday. No. 1 Middlebury is coming off a huge 2-1 overtime win over conference opponent Tufts. Middlebury scored just 1 minute and 12 seconds into overtime to defeated the third-ranked Tufts. The Panthers also picked up a non-conference win on Tuesday against Rensselar, 4-0. This improved them to 11-0 overall and 6-0 in conference play. Tune into see if Trinity will give Middlebury their first loss of the season or if Middlebury will remain undefeated.

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 14

DI: Georgetown vs. Towson | 1:00 p.m. ET
Georgetown will host Towson in Washington, D.C. Georgetown split games last weekend defeating Big East conference opponent Temple 3-2, but then falling to Rutgers 0-7 on Sunday. The loss halted Georgetown’s three-game winning streak so expect them to be looking to get back on track with a win over Towson. Georgetown is currently 9-4 overall and 2-2 in conference play. Towson suffered back-to-back losses last weekend falling 0-6 to Colonial Athletic Conference foe William & Mary on Friday, followed by a 1-5 loss to Richmond on Sunday. The loss was the seventh straight for the Tigers making their record 1-11 overall and 0-3 in conference play. The last time these two teams met, Georgetown beat Towson 5-1.

DII: Mercy vs. Bellarmine  | 1:00 p.m. ET
Mercy will host Bellarmine in Dobbs Ferry, N.Y. Mercy is coming off a close 2-3 loss to University of New Haven this past Tuesday. Despite matching their season high two goals, Mercy was unable to stop New Haven from scoring three goals and securing the win. The Mavericks dropped to 1-8 overall and the loss was their fifth straight. The team will be looking for a huge win over Bellarmine this Sunday to help them get back on track. Bellarmine is coming off a 0-6 loss to Lindenwood University. The Knights held strong on defense but were unable to get any shots on goal. The loss dropped them to 5-5 overall and extended their losing streak to four. Both teams will be looking to end their losing streaks.

DII: No. 16 Williams vs. No. 9 Bowdoin  | 1:00 p.m. ET
Williams will host Bowdoin in a NESCAC match-up in Williamstown, Mass. No. 16 Williams is coming off a 3-4 double overtime loss to Skidmore. During a very back and forth match, Skidmore scored with less than six minutes left to force Williams to overtime. A scoreless first overtime led to a second where Skidmore scored in the 85th minute of play to secure the win. The loss moved Williams to 6-2 overall and 4-1 in conference play. The loss also ended a three-game winning streak for the Ephs. No. 9 Bowdoin is coming off a 4-1 win over conference opponent Colby this past Sunday. The Polar Bears scored three second half goals to extend their lead and earn the victory and improved to 9-2 overall and 4-2 in conference play. Last year’s game between these two teams ended up going to double overtime with Williams defeating Bowdoin 3-2. Expect this game to be another close one with lots of back and forth action.

USFHA media release



Maryland and Rutgers set to visit IU field hockey

By Jared Rigdon


Claire Woods, left, and Ciara Girouard, right, celebrate scoring against Stanford on Sept. 7 after a goal by Woods at the IU Field Hockey Complex. The Hoosiers will play Maryland and Rutgers this weekend. Sam House

The IU field hockey program finally got the two wins it needed last weekend.

IU beat Michigan State and St. Louis, ending its Big Ten Conference losing streak that stretched all the way back to 2016.

For the Hoosiers, getting a conference win has been a big source of confidence heading into the back stretch of the season.

“It felt great," senior midfielder Claire Woods said. "It’s amazing. It’s been a while since we had one of those and since we’ve been here, we hadn’t beaten Michigan State so that was really important to us."

IU will once again welcome a tough slate of conference opponents to Bloomington this weekend as ranked Maryland and Rutgers teams will visit the IU Field Hockey Complex.

IU’s matchup against Maryland will start at 3 p.m. Friday, while Sunday’s contest with Rutgers will begin at noon.

Maryland leads the conference in goals scored, while Rutgers is third. For IU, another strong defensive performance like last weekend's will be crucial.

For 139 of the 140 minutes played last weekend, IU kept its opponents scoreless, before St. Louis snuck in a last-minute goal.

“It’s really disappointing that we didn’t always have strong performances early in the season, but I think that did force us to have strong defense to hold off teams,” senior back Elle Hempt said. “I think it’s those early season lessons paying off in the second half.”

The IU offensive attack has struggled this season. The Hoosiers have scored just 16 goals in 13 contests, good enough for eighth in the Big Ten. A fourth of those goals came this weekend with one against Michigan State and three against St. Louis, adding an extra boost of momentum for IU.

“It’s been a while since we were able to get goals, especially field goals so that was great to have different people scoring,” Woods said. “Everyone just had such a great weekend so we’re all looking to play again.”

Maryland comes in this Friday at 13-1, having suffered its only defeat in its last outing against Penn State. The Terrapins are coming off an appearance in the National Championship game last season and boast the highest scoring offense in the conference. The task will be daunting, but this is exactly how IU Coach Janney Misselhorn said she wants it.

“They play a fast style of hockey and they’re going to move the ball quickly which is exactly the type of game we want to play,” Janney Misselhorn said. “I think we’ve matched up fantastic against other top-10 teams we’ve played so we just need to keep them off the boards early and make it a game in the second half.”

Indiana Daily Student



Barnstable hosts its first-ever ‘Pride’ game

By Steve Derderian



HYANNIS — The Lady Gaga song “Born This Way” boomed over the stadium speakers.

Barnstable senior defender Nick Bulman and the rest of the Red Raiders field hockey team bounced around, trying to stay loose before Friday’s game against Nauset.

Meanwhile, the stadium railings were decorated in rainbow banners, rainbow-colored flags and signs hung from the press box with phrases such as “Love is Love” and “Don’t Hide Your Pride.” Players had rainbow-colored tape, shoelaces, socks and other items.

This was more than an average game.

“My name is Nick Bulman. I am 18, and I am transgender,” Bulman said to begin his pre-game speech in front of the entire stadium.

Bulman was named an honorary captain for Barnstable’s first-ever “Pride” game, supporting the safety and inclusion for LGBTQ athletes. His words seemed to move those present, especially his teammates, many of whom had tears in their eyes.

“For those of you part of the LGBTQ community here today, take a look around. Notice the loving faces surrounding you,” Bulman said in his speech. “Personally, I’ve been blessed with amazing teammates and coaches that have been so vocal in the love of our sport and my identity.”

After Bulman spoke and hugged all his teammates and coaches, both teams extended their solidarity by signing a poster with a pledge to “Respect each other” and “Stand up” for the safe space for LGBTQ athletes. Spectators signed a matching poster near the entrance.

“In sports, you need a place where you feel you can belong,” Barnstable coach Ashley Bishop said.

Bulman, who transfered to Barnstable from Sandwich after his family moved during his sophomore year, has played field hockey since seventh grade.

This past summer, he came out to his peers as transgender. He went from being called Nicole to Nick, in addition to starting medical treatments.

He said the support has been unwavering. In fact, his teammates proposed the game idea after attending Boston University’s Pride Week game against Colgate on Sept. 22

“We really wanted to put this on to show our our support, not only for Nick, but for everybody in the sports community who feels like they can’t play, but they can play,” Barnstable senior Julia Fone said.

Bulman went on to help Barnstable win, 3-0, the fifth straight time the Red Raiders shut out their opponents. Ali Carpenter scored on a penalty stroke to get it going, while Julia Fone and Abby Corey added insurance tallies, and goalie Abby Al-Asousi earned her eighth shutout this season.

When the final horn sounded, teammates rushed near their net to celebrate, turning it into a group hug surrounding Bulman, one last display of love and support.

“It’s been a long road, getting ourselves positioned to have this happen,” Bulman’s mother, Jaime Gallagher, said. “I’m happy for Nick because I think this is one of the best days of his life, and he’s out from under cover.”

The Cape Cod Times

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