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News for 02 October 2020

All the news for Friday 2 October 2020


Saari brothers are back

By Jugjet Singh


Faizal Saari (right) and Fitri Saari.

Former Malaysian coach Roelant Oltmans dropped the Saari brothers in February, but they made their way back into the national team after "resting" for eight months.

Newly appointed coach Arul Selvaraj saw some magic in Faizal and Fitri Saari after watching them play in the recent Razak Cup and included them in the 38-man training squad.

They will battle for 25 spots in a month's time.

"I selected 38 players after watching then represent their states in the Razak Cup, and they will be given a month to fight for their spots in the final 25.

"Thirteen of them are 'new faces' with six making a comeback while seven are first timers who were not in the system earlier," said Arul.

Five of them are goalkeepers, 11 are defenders, 13 are midfielders while the rest are strikers.

The breakdown of the players from the states saw Kuala Lumpur (seven players), Terengganu (six), Perak (six), Pahang (three) Police, Perlis, Negri Sembilan, Sabah and Johor (two each), Selangor and Penang (one each).

Four former national players, who are injured and did not compete in the Razak Cup, were also included.

"The average age of the team is 25.3, and it indicates my long term plan for them.

"The final 25 trainees will undergo 11 weeks of training (Oct 5-Dec 19) which is an early preparation for the ACT (Asian Champions Trophy) in Dhaka (March 11-19).

"The 25 is also not the final list as the MHL (2021 Malaysia Hockey League will also be a selection platform," said Arul.

The coach stressed that he did not pick up dropped players, but it is his own selection process.

"I never had any problems with Faizal when I was coaching him earlier, and I selected him based on his performance in the Razak Cup (top scorer with 18 goals).

"He performed on and off the pitch and that's what I am looking for in a player," added Arul.

THE SQUAD

GOALKEEPERS: Zaini Mat Deris, Adrian Andy Albert, Hairi Rahman, Hafizuddin Othman, Shafie Sahrom.

DEFENDERS: Razi Rahim, Marhan Jalil, Najmi Farizal Jazlan, Syed Syafiq Cholan, Najib Anu Hassan, Syarman Mat Tee, Arif Syafie, Azri Hassan, Zulpidaus Mizun, Amirol Aideed, Aminuddin Zain.

MIDFIELDERS: Faiz Helmi Jali, Azuan Hassan, Ashran Mahsani, Nik Aiman Rozemi, Fakhri Ardillah, Fitri Saari, Hafiz Zainol, Shello Silverius, Norsyafiq Sumantri, Ramadan Rosli, Pavandip Singh, Harvinder Singh, Faid Farhad Shah.

STRIKERS: Tengku Ahmad Tajuddin, Haziq Samsul, Azrai Aizad, Faizal Saari, Nor Firdaus Rosdi, Syamil Azim Dzulkafly, Shahril Saabah, Nur Rahul Hriskesa, Firhan Ashaari.

New Straits Times



Good to see hockey activities resuming across country: Ramandeep Singh

Ramandeep spoke about his compatriots who have recovered from COVID and have joined the rest of the group, returning to normal activities.


Indian hockey team forward Ramandeep Singh (Photo | Hockey India Twitter)

BENGALURU: Experienced Indian hockey team forward Ramandeep Singh expressed excitement on hockey activities resuming across India and he encouraged young players to ensure they follow all the norms and SOPs provided by the National Federation.

"It is great to see activities resume at the local level after so many months. Many young players send me messages sharing their excitement and also ask me about the things they need to keep in mind when they restart playing hockey after so long. The first and foremost thing everyone must ensure is that they are following the SOPs provided by Hockey India and State Governments," Ramandeep, who is part of the ongoing National Coaching Camp in SAI, Bengaluru, said in a Hockey India release.

The forward also expressed excitement about the resumption of tournaments at the local level.

"I heard of a local-level tournament that happened in Jammu & Kashmir recently which was more of a celebration of returning to the sport and we have a popular annual local tournament happening in Punjab. It is great that Hockey India is encouraging everyone to make a safe return to the sport. I think this is a good sign and I would urge players to be safe and be responsible," he added.

Ramandeep also spoke about his compatriots who have recovered from COVID-19 and have joined the rest of the group, returning to normal activities.

"I think we are very fortunate that we have great support from Hockey India and SAI during these challenging times. They ensured we have the best facilities here. The players who had tested COVID positive have resumed activities and it's good to have them back. We are doing very basic activities now without stressing ourselves too much but starting October, our intensity will increase and I am confident we can hit max fitness soon," Ramandeep said.

The striker who was part of the Indian team during the FIH Hockey Pro League said he isn't too worried about not having international competitions this year.

"I don't think I am too worried about not playing international matches this year. It is important we first return to our old form and fitness and once we reach that level, we can play internal matches. We are a group of 33 players who are all extremely competitive and our assessment will be based on how we are doing in the National Camp. This automatically will motivate each one to bring out our best," the forward stated.

New Indian Express



Golden 2000 Hockeyroos squad hold virtual reunion



A host of the Hockeyroos’ 2000 Sydney Olympic gold medal winning squad have come together for a special reunion to reminisce and celebrate the 20 year anniversary of their achievement.

Twenty years ago to the day of the Closing Ceremony to signal the end of the Sydney Olympics, members of that successful Hockeyroos squad, together with coaching and backroom staff, joined the unique reunion that was held virtually online over ‘Zoom’ due to the COVID restrictions.

The gold medal in Sydney was the culmination of the Hockeyroos claiming three gold medals from four consecutive Olympic Games, solidifying that golden generation as one of, if not the greatest teams in Olympic history.

A contingent of the Perth based players congregated at Coach Ric Charlesworth’s residence for the online reunion, while superstar forward Alyson Annan joined from the Netherlands where she is currently in charge of their national women’s team.

“Even now I look back at that time and what we achieved and what we did…what we had was unique,” reflected Annan.

“We had such a good team and were such good mates and respected each other for who we were and what we had to offer, and that was part of our mission statement and I continue to refer to that with everything I do.”

“I look back at our time and it was absolutely fantastic.”

Among the laughs, fond memories and updates, Hockey Australia President Melanie Woosnam and CEO Matt Favier conveyed their congratulations.

“Everyone is so proud of this group,” said Woosnam.

“Attending an Olympic Games is a significant achievement in itself, and you managed to win a gold medal on one of the toughest sporting stages in the world, made even more special being a home Olympics in Sydney.”

There was also a special recorded video message from Australian Olympic Committee President John Coates AC, as well as former Australian swimming coach and patriotic Aussie Lawrie Lawrence, who led the charge in the crowd when the Hockeyroos defeated Argentina in the gold medal match.

“You established yourselves as the finest ever hockey team that the world had seen, and certainly the finest ever Olympic team that the Australian Olympic Team has fielded,” said Mr Coates in his message.

“We all remember that Final against Argentina. We all gathered in the quadrangle at the back of the Olympic Village and marched on mass to the hockey stadium.

For Charlesworth, who had a reputation of demanding perfection and excellence, it is a time he still looks back on with great pride.

“It was a difficult year. We had our ups and downs and we had to deal with incredible expectations,” recalled Charlesworth.

“In the end we were well prepared and when it came to playing in finals, we accordingly played pretty well.”

The reunion was organised by Hockeyroos trio Juliet Haslam, Lisa Carruthers and Alison Peek.

“This was a special team to be part of and winning a gold medal at a home Olympics is something that we all cherish, we all share that unique bond,” said Haslam.
 
“One of the keys to our success was that we had an entire squad of amazing, talented and dedicated players who bought the best out of each other, we were all about ‘team first’ and being committed to the cause.”
 
“We also had an exceptional coaching and off field team that left no stone unturned in our quest for excellence and success.”
 
“To be able to catch up and see what everyone is up to 20 years on and to reminisce about stories from 2000 and those Olympics was wonderful.”

The Hockeyroos’ gold medal triumph over Argentina was one of the most watched games of any sport in Australian history, with just under 5 million people reported to have tuned in.



Hockey Australia media release



Umpire Kerryl Chandler announces international retirement



One of Australia’s most respected umpires, Kerryl Brown (nee Chandler) has retired from officiating at international level.

Chandler (pictured above, right, next to friend and fellow umpire Tara Leonard) notified Hockey Australia after coming to the difficult decision to step back from the international arena to embark on the next chapter in her life.

“It’s now time to focus on my family who have supported me and carried me along the way,” said Chandler.

“My husband has experienced all of the highs and lows with me, ran multiple fitness tests and taken a back seat at times. I’m very fortunate he is also a hockey person so he understands what is required.”

Chandler’s first international umpiring appointment came at the Ford Trans-Tasman Trophy in 2016, before her most recent appointment being the SOMPO Cup in Japan in 2018.

“To umpire some of the world’s best teams while doing something you love, this is definitely a what’s not to love moment. The opportunities we get within our country is a massive honour, let alone jet setting to another continent.”

“The culture you get to experience and people you get to meet are absolutely incredible. It’s rare to experience events such as this, with complete strangers who have the same passion as you.”

Of her fondest memories is the day she made her international umpiring debut.

“My first international match was a huge eye opener in terms of stepping up to a new level, especially a Trans-Tasman with both teams being top tier in the world,” said Chandler.

“I was exceptionally lucky to be given charge of that game and got to debut alongside Ashlea Fey (who made her first appearance for the Hockeyroos), who I grew up playing with on the Sunshine Coast. Having both of our families in the crowd was pretty special.”



Hockey Australia President Melanie Woosnam congratulated Chandler on her officiating achievements.

“We sincerely thank Kerryl for all that she has contributed to hockey and congratulate her for being an outstanding and well respected umpire,” said Woosnam.

“Without the passion and dedication from officials such as Kerryl, hockey in Australia would not be as successful as it is today.

“On behalf of everyone at Hockey Australia we wish Kerryl the best in her future endeavours.”

Notably, Chandler will not be lost to the national hockey scene and is keen to remain involved in some capacity.

“I believe in giving back to the sport that has given me so many opportunities along the way,” said Chandler.

“The comradery you experience in hockey is life changing…it’s like one big family. If the opportunity arises, I would still love to take on any on field opportunities. Otherwise I will still be floating around either coaching or even just being a spectator.”

On her departure from international umpiring, Chandler also left some parting advice to other umpires aspiring to officiate at the top level.

“My advice would be to turn every setback into an opportunity as this helps to both motive and drive you. Have the belief in yourself to come out stronger both mentally and physically,” said Chandler.

“We have an incredible depth of experience and knowledge of umpire coaches in Australia, so I would encourage all budding umpires to use the feedback they receive to build their character which will in turn make their performances better because of it.”

Chandler’s inspiration for umpiring stemmed from her mother Kym who was also an international umpire.

Hockey Australia media release



Comeback kid Fürste reflects on incredible career (Part 1)



In part one of a special two-part interview, iconic Germany midfielder Moritz Fürste – the double Olympic gold medallist (Beijing 2008, London 2012), world champion (Mönchengladbach 2006), and the FIH Player of the Year for 2012 – talks about his recently announced comeback as well as offering some reflections on a sparkling career.

You are coming out of retirement to play in the Belgian league for Beerschot. Tell us how that came about

Moritz Fürste: “I would have never thought of coming back and playing hockey again. I didn’t play for the last two years, at all. But in life, it’s all about timing, and the timing was just right. I was starting to miss it, [the] corona [virus] hit the world and my company, which organises sports events, and we’ve moved most of the events to next year. Due to what I do here, organising fitness events, I’ve stayed pretty fit. I was working out; our sport is called Hyrox [an intensive bodyweight training programme], and I was doing training sessions for most of the time over the past couple of years. So, I feel like I can still try it, and the club was kind of desperate because they needed a player and couldn’t get anyone who was actually playing because all of the leagues have started, and it was very short notice last week. So, I spoke to my family and my partners here and decided, why not! Let’s try it again and play again. I am really excited about it because I have no idea if I can still trap a ball or do a pass – I have no idea!”

You said that you are a bit worried about whether you will be able to trap a ball. I’m sure it will come back to you pretty quickly!

Moritz Fürste: “Hopefully, yes! I was discussing that with the coach of Beerschot to be honest, because I literally have no idea. I have never stopped for such a long time. I quit tennis for 16 years when I focussed on hockey, and when I started playing tennis again … I still don’t remember how to properly hit a back hand with two hands, so I hope it will not take me two years to understand again, because this will be a one-time project, definitely. But in the end, I just hope I pick it up quickly so I can help the team.”

You had an enviable playing career in which you won every major international prize in the sport, including becoming a double Olympic champion, a world champion and the FIH Player of the Year for 2012. Do you find it hard to choose a favourite moment?

Moritz Fürste: “There is no highlight, I always say that. For me, it’s all about memories. There are no good or better memories, they are just memories. You cannot compare titles, like the Olympics. In Germany we have a saying that you cannot compare bananas and apples, because they are both fruits, but they are completely different things.

“I won a German indoor title in 2018, in my very last season [for Uhlenhorster Hamburg]. I hadn’t won a German title before that in my career. I won every title there is in international hockey, but never a German title. But we won it in 2018 with a real ‘comeback’ team, with three guys that I won the EHL [Euro Hockey League] title in 2008 and 2010, but then they quit. But they came back for one season, and suddenly we won this championship. Those memories and the story behind that, in a way, is ‘up there’ in my positive memory part of my brain.”

One of your first major titles was the 2006 Hockey World Cup, which was held on home soil in Mönchengladbach. That event must hold a special place in your heart.

Moritz Fürste: “I was the youngest player on the team, I scored a goal in the semi-final and the final. And then, being handed over the world championship trophy at the end – I don’t think I even knew back then what that meant. For me, I was like 21, just going there. The coach said, ‘okay, you can play now’, and I was a young kid. I just wanted to play, so I did. And then we won the world championship. If I’m looking back at it now, sometimes I feel that I would like to experience that again with the knowledge and experience that I have now, because things would have been completely different. But then again, maybe not. Maybe it all worked out because I wasn’t thinking it through so much.”

Whilst you won so many prizes in your career, you also lost a few big matches along the way. How do you reflect on those experiences?

Moritz Fürste: “Apart from the Olympic Games, I lost every final there is in world hockey. Everything. World Cup, European Cup, EHL twice, Champions Trophy twice, German championships six times. Apart from the Olympics, I lost every final at least once. Yes, we won a few things, but I was always realising what it means to lose important matches.”

Part 2 of our interview with Moritz Fürste will be published in the coming days.

FIH site



Previews: English Women's Hockey League Round 3



It will be an evenly-matched encounter as league newcomers Wimbledon take on the experienced team from Holcombe in the Women’s Hockey League Premier Division this weekend.

Holcombe have had a mixed start to the season. They lost their opening match to Loughborough Students before bouncing back to defeat Swansea 5-0.

Holcombe’s captain Harriet Pittard says: “We knew we had to get three points after travelling all that way [to Swansea], we trained hard and had a practice game in the week. Although a frustrating score the week before, I couldn't fault the effort put in by every player on the pitch, everyone gave everything.”

“I think we are still a new team, and still learning how we all play. It will come. We are always looking forward and learning with each session and game. We are working hard tactically to get up to speed with where Kevin [head coach Kevin Johnson] wants us, we are all determined to get to where we need to be - time, patience and hard work will get us there! It is a very exciting season ahead for us.”

Looking ahead to this weekend, Pittard says: “I haven't played Wimbledon in a long time so not sure I can comment on what to expect, they have some experienced players and it will be an evenly matched game, a real battle.”

In the opening match of the day Hampstead & Westminster, who had no game last weekend, will hope to make it two wins from two but they are likely to face an obdurate opposition in the shape of Loughborough Students, who have got their season off to a tremendous start with a win and a draw. That the draw was against Surbiton makes the single point much sweeter for Brett Holland and his team. The game will be played at Bisham Abbey as Hampstead’s Paddington Rec ground is not yet available this season.

Beeston will host promoted Swansea. Both teams are looking for their first points and goals of the season.

The University of Birmingham have a visit to Surbiton to plan for. Coach Richard Chambers will have studied the way in which Loughborough Students negated the Surbiton attack in last week’s 0-0 draw and will be looking for his team to do similar.

The fifth fixture sees early table-toppers East Grinstead play host to Buckingham. While the East Grinstead side might be expected to take the points on current form, there is a stubbornness and togetherness about Buckingham that should stand Zak Jones’ side in good stead. With a steady team, the core of which has been together for a while, captain Zoe Shipperley and her team-mates could be the side to knock the confidence out of Mary Booth’s high-flying squad.

Clifton Robinsons do not play this weekend.

note re - Welsh teams and players in EHL.

Rules related to Covid-19 including arrangements for local lockdowns are different in Wales and therefore Hockey Wales’ advice and guidance varies from England Hockey’s. England Hockey and Hockey Wales are working closely together to share information and decision-making as much as possible.

Swansea, the one Welsh women’s team playing in the EHL, have dispensation from the Welsh government to continue to train and play fixtures home and away against English teams, despite the current local lockdown measures in Wales. Therefore English and Welsh (and any other nationality) players at this level, living in Wales but playing for clubs in England, can currently continue to train and play. All of this also applies to umpires and match officials at EHL level.

For England Hockey’s full statement regarding this issue please click HERE.

Arrangements for spectators at clubs in all Divisions of the league will vary depending on their individual circumstances. Anyone wishing to attend a game is advised to check with the home team before travelling.

FIXTURES

Women’s Hockey League (Sat, 3 October 2020):

Premier Division
Hampstead & Westminster v Loughborough Students 12:30 at Bisham Abbey
Beeston v Swansea 14:00
Univ of Birmingham v Surbiton 16:00
East Grinstead v Buckingham 15:00
Holcombe v Wimbledon 16:00

Division One North
Brooklands-Poynton v Stourport 11:45
Gloucester City v Olton & West Warwicks 12:00
Belper v University of Durham 12:30
Bowdon Hightown v Ben Rhydding 13:30
Leicester City v University of Nottingham 15:30

Division One South
Trojans v Canterbury 12:00
Harleston Magpies v Isca 13:30
Sevenoaks v Wimbledon 2s 13:30
Cambridge City v Surbiton 2s 14:30
Reading v Slough 16:30

Conference East
Barnes v Horsham 12:00
Bromley & Beckenham v Southgate 12:30
Bedford v East London 13:30
Canterbury 2s v Hampstead & Westminster 2s 14:00
Chelmsford v St Albans 14:30

Conference North
Pendle Forest v Loughborough Students 2s 11:30
Doncaster v Fylde 12:00
Cannock v Wakefield
Leeds v Didsbury Northern14:15
Timperley v Alderley Edge 16:00

Conference West
Cheltenham v Team Bath Buccaneers 12:30
Clifton Robinsons 2s v Sutton Coldfield 14:00
Exe v Oxford University Postponed*
Oxford Hawks v Basingstoke 12:00
Univ of Birmingham 2s v Bristol Firebrands 12:30

* Currently Oxford University are unable to fulfil any EHL fixtures. Last Friday the University authorities confirmed that no University sports teams should travel outside the city of Oxford for a sporting fixture against another team, nor should they host fixtures against visiting teams from outside Oxford. Their match against Cheltenham last Saturday and this week’s game at Exe are postponed in line with EHL Covid19 regulations.  England Hockey will continue to monitor the situation and liaise with club officials.

England Hockey Board Media release



Update following extension of Local Lockdowns in the North

North hockey local lockdown update


Bowdon V Bretforton - England Hockey Championships O45s

Over the past few days the number of ‘Local Lockdowns’ has increased significantly in terms of the area covered and the extent of restrictions imposed. There are often differences in each area, and where restrictions are occurring England Hockey is communicating directly with the clubs and organisations in the affected areas.

So far organised outdoor recreational team sport approved on the government framework has been allowed to continue, including within the areas with tighter restrictions announced this week. This is testament to the confidence government has in the procedures put in place by sports clubs and the evidence for the low risk of transmission during play, backed up by social distancing outside of play. The travel guidance written within the full government advice also remains the same in these areas. In the areas of greater lockdowns spectators are restricted from attending matches.

However, we recognise that the speed at which the situation is changing in the North has led to concerns for clubs and teams and the North HA Executive and England Hockey have been discussing the best approach in the circumstances. Consultation with North League clubs has indicated a willingness from the majority to play league hockey if possible. The extent of travel across the North-wide divisions is recognised and solutions will be finalised and proposed to clubs in the coming days. In the meantime, league matches this weekend across the North can go ahead where clubs are comfortable to play, where clubs have concerns should contact their league secretary.

We are waiting for the full government guidance to be published on Thursday's announcement and will update further as required.

England Hockey Board Media release



Health risk fears over league hockey in local lockdowns


League hockey started on time this month PIC: UK Hockey Photos

Fears have been raised over league hockey rule variations during local lockdown phases, coronavirus risks to players travelling and teams being punished for being unable to fulfill fixtures.

England and Irish hockey covid-19 rulings state that teams face forfeiting matches with a 3-0 defeat, while different league sanctions in Ireland include teams forfeiting home advantage and teams entitled to postpone a maximum of 20% of fixtures in England.

Teams in Cork did not travel to Dublin last weekend for Irish Hockey League fixtures, while there are now concerns in England, especially in the northern leagues, of teams facing travel to neighbouring regions dealing with local lockdowns.

The issue has been compounded by Hockey Wales being forced to suspend local leagues after a rise in coronavirus cases, while Welsh teams in English leagues are able to play fixtures in England, including English local lockdown areas.

A former Irish international criticised Hockey Ireland this week over potential sanctions levelled against teams who may be fearful of travelling to scheduled matches.

Replying to Irish Hockey’s regulations issued to clubs, Dr Cliodhna Sargent wrote on Twitter: “Wow! Really @irishhockey really. This is how you treat players and teams who Express concerns over a virus that has killed thousands and left many more very sick!! Very disappointing.”

England Hockey rules regarding Covid-19 in local lockdown

— Where a team is subject to local restrictions due to the impact of Covid 19 that mean it is unable to fulfil a fixture it may choose to forfeit a fixture at no penalty other than the fixture being recorded as a 3-0 loss, subject to any further remission or penalty as imposed by the league, or request to postpone it.

— Where both teams are subject to local restrictions due to the impact of Covid 19 they may choose to postpone the fixture or forfeit it at no penalty other than the fixture being recorded as a 0-0 draw with one point awarded to each team, subject to any further remission or penalty as imposed by the league.

— A team will be entitled to postpone a maximum of 20% of scheduled and postponed fixtures due to unavailability of a home venue or players or a local lockdown. If they are unable to fulfil further fixtures these fixtures will have to be forfeited in line with the relevant regulation. This is in addition to any postponements due to a venue being unfit for play due to the weather.

Hockey Ireland rules issued to clubs

— A team refusing to fulfil a fixture played under Hockey Ireland Return to Play protocols citing Covid-19 concerns shall be considered to have forfeit the fixture. The match will be recorded as a 5-0 loss for the defaulting team and the match awarded to the opposing team. The defaulting team will also forfeit home advantage in their next scheduled home fixture between the clubs.

— Where both teams refuse to fulfil a fixture a 5-0 loss will be recorded against both teams. Both teams will also forfeit home advantage for a future match. A club cannot gain an advantage from forfeiting a match.

— Where a team is subject to local restrictions due to the impact of Covid-19 that means it is unable to fulfil a fixture, it may request a postponement of the fixture. A team subject to local restrictions can apply to forfeit a match. If a forfeit is sanctioned a 3-0 loss will be recorded for the fixture and no further penalty imposed.

— Where both clubs are subject to local restrictions due to the impact of Covid-19 restrictions they may request a postponement or apply to forfeit the fixture at no penalty other than the fixture being recorded as a 0-0 draw.”

Meanwhile, coaches involved in top England regional hockey in the north have privately expressed concerns that players may be hesitant to admit to their own symptoms or those of their household, knowing it could cost their team. It comes after several coaches in the south would welcome suspension of the league.

One north west coach told THP: “Teams are already in a position where some players don’t want to travel to 3/4 hour away days because they don’t want the risk of 14 days off work (as an example), which obviously weakens squads and threatens quality of competition.

“Add this rule change in and it’s just ridiculous, punishing teams for having Covid will 100 per cent make people reluctant to come forward. This is just so so irresponsible and England Hockey appear happy to cause that.”

In a statement, England Hockey told THP: “All local lockdowns that are in place set out the status of the continuation of sport and so far all continue to allow team sport to continue. We are following the medical evidence that has been approved at this level.

“The England Hockey Return to Play procedures clearly set out the expectations on clubs, and ask players to sign a Participation Agreement confirming they understand the guidance and agree to the circumstances. Covid rules have also been written and leagues have been encouraged to follow these, allowing clubs reasonable flexibility around postponing or reorganising games.”

EH said that “almost all” matches took place on the opening weekend with around two to three per cent not fulfilled, which the governing body said was “fairly normal”.

On an outcome of the Irish matches which weren’t played, Hockey Ireland said consequences have yet to be decided by officials. Clubs will be asked to make submissions as to why they didn’t show.

On Wednesday, Munster Hockey issued guidance if regions are placed into Level 3 restrictions – which includes recommended travel only for essential reasons. Any match that involves a team from an area that are in Level 3 restrictions will be postponed, the association said.

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Irish Hockey Trophy Opening Round Postponed

Following a Board meeting last night the decision has been made to postpone the first round of the Irish Hockey Trophy which was due to be played on Saturday 10th October.

These games will now take place on Saturday, 14th November.

Irish Hockey Association media release



Corinthian begin title defence – Leinster Women’s Division One and EYHL2 previews


Corinthian won Leinster Division One last term via a points-per-game method. Pic: Adrian Boehm

Leinster women’s Division One enjoys its first full programme of fixtures on Saturday after Avoca and Clontarf landed some preliminary blows last weekend.

Avoca got the best of Naas 3-1 with Katie Ryan, Lorena Halpin Doyle and Zoe Watterson on the mark while Tarf beat Rathgar 2-1, Robyn Merrey and Hannah Goss outdoing Holly Beverland’s strike.

As it stands, the provincial competition acts as the qualifiers for the 2021/22 EYHL2 with – barring a change in how things are divvied up – up to three places up for grabs though this is dependent on whether Leinster sides are relegated from EYHL1.

Last year, the three sides in EYHL2, Corinthian, Monkstown and Trinity, retained their places based on points equalisation with the reds named the winners. It means busy campaigns for all of them once again with 18 league games in addition to 10 EYHL2 fixtures, making plenty of work for the respective fixture secretaries.

On that front, those taking part in the Irish Hockey Trophy have seen the first round postponed from October 10 to November 14.  

To look ahead to what’s on the agenda, have a look at our women’s Leinster Division One and EY Hockey League Division 2 teams for the season ahead.

Leinster Division 1 fixtures

Saturday, October 3: Genesis v Rathgar, St Raphaela’s, 12pm; Glenanne v Corinthian, St. Andrews, 3.45pm; Monkstown v Clontarf, Rathdown, 2.45pm; Naas v Trinity, Caragh Road, 2pm; North Kildare v Avoca, The Maws, 11am

Women’s Leinster Division One

Avoca

Last season (at lockdown): fifth

Coach: Noelle Farrell (1st season), player-assistant coach: Anna Richardson, GK coach: Brian Cleary

Players in: Katie Ryan (Pembroke) Sarah Fogarty (Year out) Orla Damery (Year out)

Players out: n/a

Season overview: Avoca got their season up and running on day one with an impressive 3-1 win over Naas at Newpark with Katie Ryan scoring in her first game since moving to the club. Lorena Halpin Doyle for the second and a first time Zoe Watterson strike, chipping into the top corner, put them out of sight.

Watterson is one of three Leinster Under-18 panelists along with Erika Gallagher and Lauren Moore and they will be key figures for Noelle Farrell’s side. She takes over the coaching from Ronan Hickey who has switched to Rathgar’s men, having worked with the squad last year and there is additional continuity with Anna Richardson in a player-coach role.  

Irish Hockey Trophy draw: Mossley (h)

Clontarf

Last season (at lockdown): Eighth

Coach: John Pearson (1st season)

Players in: Eli Timms, Alice Meagher (NUIG), Ciara Brenner (TRR)

Players out: Neasa McGettigan (injured), Becky McMullen (Muckross), Eadaoin Moore

Season overview: John Pearson has joined up as coach from Three Rock Rovers and has navigated through a tricky preseason. With the pitch in Mount Temple being relaid, preseason has consisted of fitness sessions as well as pitch sessions in several different clubs.  

Ahead of the season opener, Peason said: “Given the current climate, I’ve been very impressed with the attitude and work rate shown by the players. I am looking forward to the start of the season and seeing what it brings.”

Irish Hockey Trophy: Rathgar (a)


Clontarf in action against Naas last season. Pic: Deryck Vincent

Corinthian

Last season (at lockdown): Winners, Irish Senior Cup semi-final

Coach: Peter Caruth (1st season, assistant last season); Assistant Coach: Davy O’Brien; Manager: Nikki Miller (2nd year as manager).

Players in: Jess Meeke (Loreto); Georgie Fottrell (Junior section)

Players out: Nicola Torrans (Loreto); Sarah Coleman; Cili Holdermann (Germany), Sophie Maleady (studying in Spain until Christmas)

Season overview: “Last season, we won every Leinster Division 1 game but one and won seven out of seven EYHL2 games and were the only team to have qualified for the Playoffs Weekend when the season was locked down. Planning on taking up where we left off,” says manager Nikki Miller.

Peter Caruth takes over the coaching reigns for the start of the new season and has the majority of last season’s squad still in situ while Jess Meeke is a welcome returnee to the club after a number of years away at Loreto and Glenanne and Leinster Under-18 Georgie Fottrell links up with the senior section.

Irish Hockey Trophy draw: Cork C of I (h)

Genesis

Last season (at lockdown): seventh

Coach: Nasir Munir Chaudhry (2nd Season), Manager: Nicole Cassidy (1st Season)

Players in: Ciara O’ Sullivan (Tipperary), Emma Pichot (UCD), Fiona Grant (DULHC)

Players out: Clodagh Fulston (Travel), Leah Brennan (Travel)

Season overview: Genesis are working with a young team this year, with an influx of players moving up from the colts section. Stalwarts Aoife Henry, Sorcha Cunningham, and Annie Kavanagh return, with Evonne O’Farrell returning from a break.

Irish Hockey Trophy draw: Galway (h)

Glenanne

Last season (at lockdown): fourth, Irish Senior Cup first round, Jacqui Potter Cup quarter-final

Coaches: Kevin O’Malley (2nd Season), Sam O’Connor (1st Season)

Players in: Rachel Barnett (Muckross), Fiona Walsh (Old Alex), Grace Lanigan (Three Rock Rovers), Hannah Morrin (Weston)

Players out: Ashling Boyle (Our Ladies)

Season overview: With ambitions to close the gap to the top three this term, the first few weeks of their season sees big games come thick and fast as they face Corinthian, Banbridge in the Irish Senior Cup, Trinity and then Monkstown in their first four games.

The addition of some new players has added some freshness to the squad who are now chomping at the bit to get stuck into the season and get points on the board.

Irish Senior Cup draw: Banbridge (h), October 10

Monkstown

Last season (at lockdown): Second in Leinster and EYHL2 group; Irish Senior Cup second round

Coach: Simon Lowry (3rd Season) Assistant Coach: Sarah Scott (2nd Season) Manager: Nikkey Cullen (4th Season)  

Players in: Sara Twomey (Loreto), Suzie Kelly (UCD), Natasha Twomey (UCD), Olivia Brady (Loreto), Síofra Murdoch (Harvard, USA)

Players out: Sadhbh Breslin (UCD)

Season overview: “It has been great to welcome some new (and returning) faces for the coming season,” said coach Simon Lowry. “The team has been training well and working really hard so that we are in a position to hit the ground running come the 26th of September.  

“After such a long break and the disappointment of not being able to finish out last season there is a real excitement about returning to competitive action. A massive thank you is owed to everyone in the club who has volunteered and made the return to hockey possible”  
 
Sarah Greene takes over the captaincy this year with Chloe Watkins taking on the vice captain role.

Irish Senior Cup draw: UCC (a), October 10


Sarah Greene captains Monkstown this season. Pic: Deryck Vincent

Naas – no details at time of publication
 
North Kildare

Last season (at lockdown): Eighth, Irish Hockey Trophy final; Jacqui Potter Cup semi-final

Coach: Mark Lambe (3rd season) Assistant/gk coach: Paul Bastable (2nd season)

Players in: Maeve Ott (Pembroke), Sally Farrell (Railway Union), Evana Cassidy (Naas), Amy O’Leary (junior section), Aoife Quinn (study break), Robyn Harris (YMCA), Katie McNelis (returning after college break)

Players out: Kate Edghill, Grace Adams, Shelly Spillane, Sophie Edghill, Niamh Delaney

Season overview: “Pre-season was very disrupted this year due to the Kildare lockdown for almost a month meaning we trained in an ‘outside Kildare’ group and an ‘inside Kildare’ group until the beginning of September. Since then we’ve had some friendlies against Avoca, Our Lady’s, Glenanne and Naas which have given the group a chance to settle together – lots of change this year with players coming and going.”

Mark Lambe’s side showed up well against a strong Lisnagarvey in last weekend’s Irish Hockey Trophy final but must not turn things around quickly with a number of changes for their date with Avoca.

Irish Hockey Trophy draw:  

Rathgar

Last season (at lockdown): Tenth

Coach: Andy Jones (1st season)

Players in: Sarah Fox (returns), Ana Tobias, Lucy Alonso

Players out: Kaj O’Farrell

Season overview: Rathgar are hoping to build on some good performances from last year and convert into points on the board and they take confidence from a strong preseason performance against Clontarf. Andy Jones takes on the coaching role this season

Irish Hockey Trophy draw: Clonakilty (away)

Trinity

Last season (at lockdown): Third, Irish Senior Cup second round

Coach: Niamh Small (1st season); High Performance Director: David Fitzgerald (2nd season)

Players in: Alex Orr (Railway); Ella May (Skerries); Hannah Kelly (Old Alex); Julie Ringrose (UCD); Kate Sullivan (Railway); Laura Noble (Pembroke); Lucy O’Sullivan (Pembroke); Shauna Power (Corinthian).

Players out: Ailish Long (Railway); Louise McCollum (Muckross); Sally Campbell (Pembroke).

Season overview: Head Coach Niamh Small: “It has been a preseason like no other where we had to deal with restrictions, a positive Covid test and cancelled friendlies but there is a very resilient group here. Really excited for the season with a very talented group.”

The usual summer turnover sees experienced Division One players Ailish Long, Louise McCollum and Sally Campbell move on but they have gained a number of strong recruits with lots of potential. Loreto Kilkenny graduate Hannah Kelly, Alex Orr, Laura Noble and Julie Ringrose are among eight new arrivals with the dual targets of competing in Leinster and EYHL2.

Irish Senior Cup draw: not entered
 

Trinity celebrate a goal against Corinthian last season. Pic: Adrian Boehm

EYHL Division 2 overviews

Ards

Last season (at lockdown): Second in Ulster;  

Coach:Tamara McLeod (2nd as coach); Player Coach: Caroline Adams (2nd season as player coach); assistant coach: Gareth Grundie; Manager: Margaret McCormack (4th season)

Players in: n/a

Players out: Jodie Moore, Harriet Platt (both playing at university)

Season overview: Goalkeeper Naomi McKnight says: “We are hoping to build on a strong season last year where our main focus was promotion back to EYHL 1 which was stopped in its tracks by Coronavirus.  

“We played in our EYHL 2 season opening against a strong Corinthian side who had already gained a play-off position last year before season ended. We came out 3-0 winners which the squad were extremely happy with, as we felt they might be our strongest opposition based on last year and this result is a really good early step on our journey back to EYHL 1. We look forward to returning this weekend to our domestic league where we face Ulster Elks which is always a really competitive game.”

Irish Senior Cup draw:

Cork C of I

Last Season: 2nd In Munster

Coach: Phil Oakley (first season); Manager: Sarah Jones (second season)

Players In: Niamh O’Leary (Harlequins), Alex O’Grady (Harlequins), Emma Barber (Harlequins), Becky Maye (Harlequins), Pamela Wolfe (UCD).

Players Out: Kate Burke, Orla Crowley, Claire Hickey (retiring), Laurna McHugh, (UCC), Abi O’Mahony (UCC).

Young Players to watch out for:  Hannah Kate Finn – Exciting talent from Kinsale. Started her career with Kinsale HC and attends Bandon Grammar. Irish U18 last year. Versatile player – plays in midfield and up front.

Gill O’Leary – Strong defender and midfield player from Regina Mundi. Broke into the squad last year and has continued to improve into this season.

Key Players: Emma Barber – Significant experience having played EYHL1 with both UCC and Cork Harlequins in recent years. Her distribution on the ball coupled with her defensive skills will add hugely to the team. Also a threat from penalty corners.  Hollie Moffett – Former Irish international with a wealth of experience. Her passing range and skills on the ball will provide the team with a strong anchor in midfield.

Season Aspirations:  Improved performances in both EYHL2 and Munster league. We have entered Irish Senior Cup to assess where the team is in relation to EYHL1 teams.

Coach Comments: “We are really looking forward to the season and delighted to have fresh faces in the squad, which will create competition for places. We have a good mix of youth and experience within the group and we will hopefully improve on our performances from last year at both provincial and national level.”


Genesis in action. Pic: Deryck Vincent

Galway

Last season (at lockdown): Second in Connacht

Coach: Ollie O’Connor (6th season), assistant: Alex McQuid (1st season), manager: Eimear McDonnell (1st season), assistant coaches: Sarah Comer, Maura Dunne, Derville Dillon, Nicola van der Walt, CVO: John Folan (CVO)

Players in: Alyssa Manley (USA), Kate Collins Smyth (Catholic Institute), Becky Anderson (Greenfields and NUIG)

Players out: Sinead Carey (NUIG), Anna Costello (Galway FC), Kate Henry (academic absence), Michaela van der Walt (Raphoe HC)

Season overview: “Our preseason preparation has been hindered by the COVID-19 restrictions currently in place and the long-standing lack of facilities in the province.  

“Our new players have been a great addition to the club, and we are looking forward to our first season in the EYHL2. The club are eager to participate in the Irish Trophy and Challenge cups, and we hope to bring home some silverware! The club’s main focus this season is winning the Connacht league, and being the best we can be!”

Maybe the most eye-catching signing of the summer by any club, USA 2016 Olympian Alyssa Manley is a massive addition while Kate Collins Smyth was an important player for UCD a few years ago.

Irish Hockey Trophy draw: Genesis/NUIG, November 14

Lurgan – no details at time of publication

NUIG

Last season: first in Connacht

Coach: Cathal Duggan (1st season)

Players in: n/a

Players out: Kate Langan

Season overview: Cathal Duggan will hope to bring some of his Crescent Comprehensive magic to NUIG having previously coached the Limerick school to Kate Russell All-Ireland glory.  

He brings a different style to their play and a positive outlook with the club assessment saying: “He is really looking forward to the season(s) ahead. We beat Catholic Institute 2nds in preseason games and recently played our first EY2 game of the season, losing 3-1 in a very competitive game – we are looking forward to playing them at home in 2021.”

Irish Hockey Trophy draw: Genesis (a)

Queen’s University – no details at time of publication

UCC

Position Last Season: 1st in Munster

Coach: Graham Catchpole (2nd year); Manager: Colette Coomey (3rd year); Hockey Development Officer: Paidi Hartnett

Players In: Laurna McHugh, Abi O’Mahony (Cork C of I), Nikki Barry, Sarah Murphy, Enya O’Donoghue, Jane Murphy (Cork Harlequins)

Players Out: Saoirse O’Leary (Old Alex), Judy Mills (Ashton HC), Aebfhinn Bourke (Catholic Institute), Lauran Ryan, Muireann Scanlon (Catholic Institute), Hannah Humphreys (Catholic Institute), Aoibhinn Martin (abroad)

Season overview: There has been a large influx of new talent to the panel this season.  Nikki Barry joins as a Quercus scholar this year and will add her impressive skillset to the group.  Sarah Murphy has impressed greatly since joining and her versatility, distribution and calmness in possession will be a big feature this season.  Her sister Jane and Abi O’Mahony have shown their attacking prowess in preseason while the addition of Laurna McHugh between the posts is a huge boost to the panel.

Emma Cripps, Jenny Clein and Aoife Collins continue in the spine of the team this season and are hugely important to the team from a defensive and attacking standpoint.  Emma reads the game well and is incredibly hard to beat in a one on one.  Jenny’s trickery and directness in attack makes her a threat wherever she picks up the ball on the pitch. Aoife is a proven goalscorer and has shown it in preseason already with a handful of goals.   

Graham Catchpole said: “There has been a large turnover of players this season with 6 players coming in and 7 players exiting.  It will take some time for these players to settle into a new team and a very different college experience.  The players have been looking sharp in preseason with S&C coach Patrick Ryan putting them through their paces along with some good competitive friendly matches to get us up to speed.  We are looking forward to the start of what looks like being a very competitive Munster Senior League and are hoping to again make an impact in EY2.”

Irish Senior Cup draw: Monkstown (a)

The Hook



Nathan Ryba goes above and beyond in Manawatu

Nathan Ryba named 2019 Volunteer of the Year



We all know volunteers are the heart of our community. They selflessly give up hours of their own time, often going out of their way, to make sport happen. In 2019, Manawatu’s Nathan Ryba did just that to earn himself Hockey New Zealand’s 2019 Volunteer of the Year.

An all-rounder, wearing many hats

Nathan Ryba has had a long affiliation with the Manawatu Hockey Association. One may call him an all-rounder. Not only does he play the game of hockey, but Nathan is involved with the Marist Club in multiple capacities, including an umpire, coach, treasurer and developer. To quote the nomination that we received, ‘you will see Nathan at 95% of all Marist Games to support Club regardless of the day of the week it is.’ You’ll also be able to find him on the turf umpiring and mentoring those up and coming umpires at Manawatu Hockey.

Removing barriers

Nathan is known to, time and time again, give up between 15-20 hours a week of his own time where he regularly visits and has become a key communicator between both his club and Manawatu Hockey Association. This naturally has created a great relationship and co-operation between the club and Association.

In 2019, Nathan set up a fund to help support young players with their representative costs. He wanted to make sure that financial barriers were not a limiting factor for those players being able to take part in a tournament.

Laying foundations for long-term success

Nathan also has been a leading example for laying the foundations to ensure long-term success and development for his club. He was instrumental in helping his club field a premier women’s team and his active encouragement of others to get involved in club life led to an increase in people participating.

Not only is Nathan a driving force in the winter season, but he actively promotes and finds ways to grow hockey within the school and club environment during the offseason too.

But most notable of all is the way Nathan has acted as a personal mentor. He helps out club members on and off the pitch and is known to give a helping hand in a family or counselling way, when most needed, at any time of the day or night.

Juggling many roles on and off the turf

It’s remarkable that he finds time to help his club with a home life which will always keep him on his toes, “Between my partner, Jenna, and I, we have five children ranging from 8 to 22 with 1 grandchild. I also work as the Hub Manager for our Kiwibank in Palmerston North and Whanganui.” For all the parents out there, he’s obviously one busy man.

For the love of hockey

Nathan hasn’t always stayed involved with hockey though. He has shown great resiliency to continue in the sport after some bad experiences earlier in his playing days “Like most people, I started hockey when I was in primary school and I loved it! However, at an U15 trial, I had a bad experience with the coach and that led me away from hockey for quite some time. Fortunately, about 7-8 years ago, I had a very good friend who convinced me to come and play summer hockey for their team. While playing that summer I met some great people who asked me to play for a new team they were putting together, the Marist Premier Reserve team, which I have been playing ever since”.

So, why is he Nathan still heavily involved? He loves the competition, friends and fitness aspect of the game, but most of all he loves “seeing the development of the younger generation. We have a lot of school-age and school leavers that play for the club in teams I play in, manage and coach so I get to see a lot of their goals being achieved on and off the pitch. I love seeing their development as both hockey players and people. At Palmerston North Marist Hockey we strive to play hockey hard but fair and strive to grow good character amongst our younger players to assist them in their everyday life as well.”

Nathan Ryba’s support within his club is second to none. He goes beyond what is expected and put the needs of the people in his community above his own. Congratulations, Nathan! We’re proud to announce you as the winner of the 2019 Volunteer of the Year Award.

Hockey New Zealand Media release



Okumu shifts focus to qualifiers as Covid halts Germany dream

By Agnes Makhandia


Maureen Okumu of Telkom Orange celebrates a goal during a past match. File | Nation Media Group

Kenyan international midfielder Maureen Okumu has set her sights on next year's North East region qualifiers after failing to link up with her German side Hockey & Tennis Club (HTC) Shwarz-Weiss Bonn.

The event is set for January 18-24 at the Sikh Union Hockey Stadium in Nairobi.

Okumu, who was attached to the German side, but plays for Blazers (formerly Telkom Orange) was scheduled to leave the country early this month for the second leg of Division Four tier but failed to travel due to coronavirus pandemic.

"It is sad that I won't be able to complete what I started. When I joined the team last year, alongside Flavia Mutiva and Lilian Aura, the team was in position seven and I'm glad that at the completion of the first leg, it was placed second and that was quite a milestone," said the 24-year-old.

"But I hope next year,  they will reconsider my services because I really want to better my play. For now I'm directing my energy to the forthcoming national team assignment."

Okumu, a Sinyolo Girls Secondary School alumnus, remained positive that the national team will excel in the qualifiers that will see the top two teams book tickets to Africa Cup of Nations after flopping in the Olympic qualifiers last year.

The women's team will compete against Egypt, Burundi, Libya, Seychelles, Sudan, Tanzania and Uganda.

"We have the chance to make up for our dismissal performance during the Olympic qualifiers last year in South Africa. But our team has to have a cocktail of experienced and promising players," noted the pacy midfielder who joined the national team in 2016.

The women's team finished fourth in the five-nation event.

Ahead of the African clubs Championship scheduled for November 30 to December 5 in Blantyre, Malawi, Okumu is hopeful a sponsor will come to their rescue so that they can return to the event after they missed last year's competition in Egypt due to financial constraints.

"It has not been easy for us after our sponsorship with Telkom came to an end mid last season. We have struggled to make ends meet. Our hope is to make a come back to the event and reclaim the title," Okumu said.

Daily Nation



Early Hockey in India, tournaments galore

By DILJIT SINGH BAHRA



INDIA, for many, is a hockey nation. However, it is difficult to say exactly when field hockey was first introduced there but it could conclusively be said that it was going very strong in 1900 and even a couple of decades earlier. Hockey on horsebacks, now known as Polo, was played in Kolkata (formerly Calcutta) in the 1860s and Calcutta Hockey Club was in existence in 1864.

My personal feeling is that the game was started by the Irish Brotherhood who built many Missionary schools across India which were, in the main, attended by the elites and Anglo-Indians. Hockey became very popular in these schools and many continued playing the game after leaving school for their work teams which were mainly the railways – normally starting as apprentices at railway workshops.

Most of the pioneering clubs in railway centres in India were composed of Anglo-Indians who were to make a profound impact on the game globally, especially in distant Australia, a powerhouse of the modern game. The game was, however, spread and popularised by the Army who were better organised throughout the country and the Empire.


British Officers playing hockey while wearing topees against a Sikh regiment comprising native Punjabis near Kyber Pass in 1904. Photo: Michael Turnbull

The Anglo-Indians played the short pass game which markedly differed from the long hit game the British Army played at the time. Hockey in Britain in the early 1900s was a long hit game and was played during winter months on wet grounds. However, more favourable weather conditions in India saw the game played throughout the year.

By 1900, several important tournaments were being played in India. The Beighton Cup tournament of Kolkata which started in 1895 and the Aga Khan tournament of Mumbai (formerly Bombay) which started a year later in 1896 were considered to be the top tournaments in the country. The Aga Khan, in time to come, would be referred to as the “Blue Riband” of Indian hockey.

Down south, in Chennai (formerly Madras), hockey was played at Madras Cricket Club, the first known club there in 1896. The All India Hockey Championship started in Allahabad in 1899.


The Silver salver and Silver Tankard presented to Captain Sherer by Calcutta Hockey Club in 1864.  Courtesy:  National Army Museum.


Punjab Pioneers Regiment in NWF (now in Pak), 1902. Bruce Turnbull is standing 2nd from left

The first 10 winners of the Beighton Cup:

1.1895: Calcutta Naval Volunteers AC (now Calcutta Rangers Club)
2. 1896: Calcutta Naval Volunteers AC (now Calcutta Rangers Club)
3. 1897: S P G Mission,Ranchi
4. 1898: S P G Mission, Ranchi
5. 1899: Calcutta Rangers Club
6. 1900: St James School
7. 1901: 1st Royal Irish Rifles
8. 1902: SPG Mission Ranchi
9. 1903: SPG Mission Ranchi
10. 1904: Hornets AC

It is interesting to note that of the first 10 winners of the Beighton Cup, the first Army team to clinch the trophy was the 1st Royal Rifles in 1901.


4th Battalion, 1st Punjab Regiment hockey team, 1923. New recruit Dhyan Chand sitting left

The first 10 winners of the Aga Khan Cup:

1.1896: Bombay Gymkhana
2. 1897: Poona Volunteers
3. 1898: Poona Volunteers
4. 1899: Royal Scots
5. 1901: Cathedral School Old Boys
6. 1902: Shropshire Light Infantry
7. 1903: Cathedral School Old Boys
8. 1904: Middlesex Regiment
9. 1905: Cathedral School Old Boys
10. 1906: Grant Medical College

Of the first 10 winners of the Aga Khan Cup, however, the first Army team to emerge triumphant was the Royal Scots in 1899.

The All India Hockey Tournament which was founded in 1899, The Punjab Native Army Tournament which started in 1900 and the Eastern Command Hockey Tournament were the only known events run by the Army in India in this early period.

The 38th Dogras won the Punjab Native Army Tournament in 1900 with the 15th Sikhs finishing runners-up. The following year the 15th Loodhiana Sikhs held the cup aloft after beating the 15th Sikhs in the final. The 23rd Sikh Pioneers won the tournament around 1904 with the 26th Punjab Infantry taking the runners-up spot.

The Black Watch (Royal Highlanders), a Scottish Infantry Regiment, took top honours at the All India Hockey Tournament in Allahabad in 1900. In 1909 the 1st Brahamans reigned supreme at the Eastern Command Hockey Tournament. The young Sepoy Dhyan Chand, who joined the Army in August 1922, is seen in the classic photo above.


Black Watch team, winners of the All India Hockey Tournament, Allahabad, 1900

The big development in the 1920s was the staging of National Championship, the first edition of which was held in Kolkata. Though primarily instituted to select the team for the 1928 Olympics, the event slowly emerged as an entity itself. However, the historic development was not without criticism.

In particular, such a multi-faceted personality as Charles E Newman, who later umpired Olympic matches, was clearly spot on when he observed that that “National Hockey Championship was a rather pretentious title and, in fact, a misnomer. The rules make it quite clear that this earliest of championships, however unwarranted the title, was as much a social as a hockey gathering, with dinner parties, receptions, dances, regimental tents and bands.” He further added that ‘modern umpires and officials may be amused to know that those early rules provided for two umpires, two linesmen, two goal judges (on request), substitution of players in certain cases by permission of the opposing captains and finally, that in any case of dispute about the  rules, the secretary’s decision was final’.

NOTE: To establish how hockey first started in India would need a lot more research. The first Missionary schools in Kolkata and St George’s College in Mussoorie, a hill station in the state of Uttarakhand, which opened in 1853, would be key to this finding.

Stick2Hockey.com



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