News 11 September 2014
All the news for Thursday 11 September 2014
Need to unlock potential in Asia: Tayyab
FROM S.THYAGARAJAN
Tayyab Ikram.
Asian hockey is on the threshold of a different trajectory. The fulcrum of this is the CEO, Tayyab Ikram. With vast experience and expertise as player, FIH Master coach, administrator and linguist the Pakistani born, Macau based Tayyab shares the challenges confronting the AHF.
Excerpts:
Q: What are your priorities as the first CEO.
A:As mentioned by the new President, Prince Abdullah the priority is to develop better understanding among our stakeholders and create a strong relationship with the National Federations. We have to increase our participation and strengthen the second tier and developing nations. Hockey is not the priority in many countries We need to unlock the potential and catch up with the digital era.
Q: Don’t you feel the urgency to inject a lot of vibrancy to catch up with other continental federations, especially EHF?
A: I agree and disagree. Yes, European hockey has some leading nations. Their performance results and rankings are better. The world ranking is an indicator. It is always a challenge for a Continental federations when the teams do not perform well. But the reasons behind are not easy to express – top nations are facing financial challenges and simply could not meet the high perforamance requirement. In the recent World Cup top nations of Europe also faced the similar challenges. In Asia we are facing more challenges than mere financial problems.
Q: Apart from in India and Pakistan hockey continues to be a minor sport. Even here it is debatable whether hockey is number one or not? What is your observation?
A: Many more could be included in this list where hockey has some importance even if not the major sport. But we are better off in comparison to other continents.
Q: According to your estimate hockey is gaining ground in areas like Cambodia, Vietnam and North Korea. Can the interest be sustained?
A: We have a better spread but, honestly, very thin layer of participation. Hockey is played in weaker nations in a limited way. We cannot ignore hockey’s existence there. I have not seen any country struggling to survive. There are no dormant member in Asia.
Q: There is a feeling that Asia not winning any big-ticket events is giving way to other disciplines. What is your assessment?
A. It is a fact that we are not doing good. The rankings indicate this. I am not sure if other disciplines are benefiting. It is about us not the others.
We need a more professional approach in setting up the high performance targets with essential components such as strong domestic competitions, well regulated training centres, linking high performance needs and requirements. There is a pressing need for organising coaching and coach education using the best of technology and modern tools. If I can count all the desirables then we can revolutionize the whole system.
It is not easy to remain on top. You need a lot of financial investments. Recently we observed many top nations falling away simply because of financial challenges. We have different case studies also like nations with enough financial resources but lacking proper directions. We do have nations with huge potential but withut resources.
Q: On a global level too, hockey is losing its charm. The FIH is on full drive to retain its place in the Olympics. Is it a pessimistic thought?
A: To some extent, yes. There is a bit of struggle. I don’t know how to describe this. Hockey for spectators and Hockey for results. A comparison is a challenge. Globally we are unable to benchmark our position in the group of prime sports, We are fighting for our space on television.
I don’t think having more coverage on television is a big problem. What is important is how hockey is presented on TV. If you talk from the sub-continental perspective we have lost the glamour because of poor results and not producing icons. The FIH is doing a lot to benchmark our position with its dual objectives to have a better impression worldwide and to meet the criteria IOC has set for the future Olympic Program. However our focus is not to satisfy the IOC criteria. We have to grow positively, satisfy stakeholders, most importantly audiences, athletes, sponsors and national federations.
Q: As the new CEO who is associated with the AHF for more than decade what is plan of action to enlarge the base in Asia?
A: We need to provide competition opportunities to second tier countries, consider develoing synergy with other stakeholders like the NOCs and Olympic Solidarity to gain more resources.
Q: Being an FIH Master Coach with experience of conducting coaching clinics across the Continent (s) where do you find genuine interest?
A: Coaching is more professional in western Europe, part of Oceania (Australia and New Zealand), where the value is game development. Taking to coaching as a profession is value added element. I conducted the World Cup High Performance Coaching Course where I observed there is a lot of potential coming up. There was a huge interest; we had 139 applications for 15 positions! an indication of the growing interest. However, participation in coaching course and taking it as a profession are two different things. Coaching and Coach Development stay as the priority for the FIH and our new FIH Academy will become assest in future.
Q: The change in the format-four quarter-a-match-has its pros and cons. What in your estimate are the advantages, and, shortcomings, if any?
A: I would say that since we are entering into this new system later this month some teams did not have enough time to pratice, specially teams which are playing World League Round 1 during the first week of September.I agree about the pros and cons but let Asia experience this before I comment.
Though FIH objectives are clear the only remark I can make is that we are expecting more fast pace play and teams may keep their key players for more time on the pitch. Lets just see in the Asian Games how these four quarters will played by different teams.
Q: Do you think countries accustomed to the 70-minute format for over a century will be able to adapt the change without a problem? Is it for high TV ratings?
A. Yes, the FIH had its deliberations to attract the audience and to improve our impression on TV. I am sure that players will adapt to the change easily. So far whatever the new rules and regulations our athletes have adapted them successfully.
The Hindu
Hockey now a game of four quarters
By Greg Pearson
Hockey is no longer a game of two halves; rather it's now a game of four quarters.
New rules introduced this month mean games at the top level will now play out over four 15-minute periods, and the players are already noticing the change.
"Initially I thought it made the game a lot longer, but it actually goes quite quickly now; it feels like 15 minutes isn't long at all," says Canterbury defender Pippa Hayward.
Stoppages for goals and penalty corners will also create extra breaks and provide opportunities for coaches to increase their influence on the game.
Black Sticks coach Mark Hager experienced quarters during his playing days for Australia. After missing out on the Australian men's coaching job, Hager's looking ahead with his team.
"I still really believe we can win a medal in Rio. We've got an exciting group, a lot of new talent coming through and we'll be giving them an opportunity in the next six months, so it's an exciting time still," he says.
That's of more importance with Krystal Forgesson announcing her retirement, plus Kayla Whitelock and Emily Naylor taking indefinite breaks from the game.
"We have to broaden our base. It highlights when you lose players with 200-something caps, if you haven't got replacements coming in the wings you take about five steps back, and we don't want to do that," says Hager.
The Black Sticks will move on with a home series against the United States next month.
3 News
HI’s plea
Hockey India on Wednesday appealed to the Union Sports Ministry to reconsider the decision regarding non-clearance of some of the support staff to go with the team to Incheon.
In a letter addressed to the Sports Authority of India (SAI), the Hockey India Executive Director Cdr. R. K. Srivastava has said, “It is very essential that support staff, which has been deleted from the recommended list be allowed to participate in Asian Games.”
The Ministry had struck off the names of Jude Felix (coach), Matthew David Eyles (Scientific Advisor), Gaurav Mehra (physiotherapist) and Amutha Prakash (video analyst) when clearing the contingent on Tuesday. HI, meanwhile, has pointed out that the tentative support staff list had been submitted in October, 2013. “At no point during the last 11 months has any correspondence been received from SAI or Sports Ministry that HI should be sending less support staff,” said HI in a letter to the Ministry.
The Hindu
Yuvraj Walmiki strike takes railmen past police
Adit Ganguly
Yuvraj Walmiki at the MHAL on Wednesday
India striker scores lone goal of match 12 hours after returning from national camp for Asiad
He returned to Mumbai from the Asian Games national camp in New Delhi at 4am, 12 hours later, Yuvraj Walmiki gave Central Railway a 1-0 victory scoring a last minute winner against Maharashtra State Police at the MHAL stadium, Churchgate, on Wednesday.
"I came back from the Asian Games camp since the squad is leaving for Incheon on this Friday or Sunday. I decided to play the league as the seven standby's were released. There's not been much time to rest but anything for Hockey," said the 23-year-old.
Despite giving his side the much needed three points, Walmiki was far from impressed with the performance.
"We weren't satisfied with the way we played but it's always good to end the match on a winning note. We missed a lot of opportunities but I think we'll improve with every passing game," said the striker.
Walmiki gave credit to his younger brother Devinder, who set him up for the goal. "The pass was the icing on the cake. All these years of playing together plays a role in moments like this. He knows exactly where I will make my run and he doesn't need to call to say I will receive his pass. The two of us just know it," said Yuvraj.
Talking about his World Cup experience this year in Hague, Walmiki said that it was a dream come true. "World Cups and Olympics are always special. It's a great learning experience as you get to play against the best and it's even better when some of these players come to India to play the Hockey India League," said Walmiki, who plays for the Delhi Waveriders in the HIL.
Walmiki said he will be at the edge of his seat watching his team face Asia's best in a few days time. He is full of optimism as far as India's chances are concerned.
"Being with the team for the past four years, Terry Walsh has done a fantastic job. He understands each and every player. He comes up to every player at the breakfast table and asks us how we are doing. He is always there for us. Everyone has seen the result in the CWG and I hope under Sardar Singh's leadership we can win gold. My message for the team would be turn the silver we won at Glasgow into gold at Incheon."
Walmiki attributes his mental strength that has given him the courage to face disappointment after facing expulsions from the national side.
"The first time was the hardest to cope with. You feel bad after playing for two years (2011-13) and then suddenly be dropped. I never took this as a negative. I realised that there may be some area where I was lacking. That is what I worked on while training and when I went to the next camp people would see a totally different Yuvraj," said the Mumbai lad.
Stopwatch: Central Railway 1 (Y Walmiki) bt Maharashtra State Police 0
DNA
Pak team to leave for Games on 12th
ISLAMABAD - Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) once again failed miserably to provide much-needed relief to the hockey team, as head coach Shahnaz Sheikh's request was not honored. Shahnaz had requested the PHF to ensure hockey team's departure by September 10, as the team is well short of much-needed international exposure, but PHF once again failed to fulfill the request just like they did earlier. Talking to The Nation, Rana Mujahid said: “The team will depart on September 12. We are facing acute shortage of funds and taking every possible step to help the team. We are fully aware of the facts, but things will improve in due course of time.” Meanwhile, the sources said the team had received accreditation cards, air tickets and would leave from Lahore on Thursday night to Bangkok
The Nation
Incheon Asian Games: Determination and self-belief are keys to success
By Muhammad Ali
LAHORE: The 17th Asian Games will be held in Incheon, South Korea from September 19 to October 4 and Pakistan are hoping for a medal in the hockey competition. Pakistan, who remained up in the clouds for more than three decades and are record four times world champions and winners of three Olympic gold medals, are aiming to retain the title won four years ago at the 16th Asian Games in Guangzhou, China. Fired-up Pakistan won the hockey gold medal after 20 years when they defeated Malaysia 2-0 in the final. It was Pakistan’s eighth Asiad hockey gold, ending a drought that stretched back to Beijing in 1990, and handed them their first major Asian crown. Pakistan won eight gold medals, two silvers and three bronzes in all 16 Asian Games. By winning the Guangzhou Asian Games hockey final, the greenshirts had also confirmed their berth for the London Games 2012.
Keeping in view the performance of the greenshirts in 2010 at the Guangzhou Asian Games, the Pakistan Hockey Federation’s (PHF) hopes are high and they are positive of their team putting up a good show at Incheon. The expertise of PHF president Akhtar Rasool and secretary general Rana Mujahid Ali is always there to suggest ways and means to guide Pakistan hockey towards a quantum leap. The PHF is taking the game to a more professional plane in terms of skills and competitiveness. The PHF is giving maximum facilities to the senior as well as junior players. Now it is up to the players and the team managements to deliver. In South Korea, the greenshirts would be needing a great effort to finish on the podium as they will be facing tough competition from India and South Korea. But PHF secretary Mujahid believes Pakistan will give their best in the Asian Games. “Pakistan hockey has been struggling but we firmly believe that it’s time for things to change,” maintained Mujahid.
Pakistan have been clubbed alongside India, China, Sri Lanka and Oman in the 10-nation men’s hockey competition. “Being the defending champions, we are one of the favourites for the Asian Games,” Mujahid said. “However, we cannot show signs of complacency against any team as they have been playing internationally and are in rhythm with the new 15-minute format.” Expressing his belief in the team and the training schedule, Mujahid is certain that they have the potential to bag the gold this year. “Our training has been very good and I am confident that we will achieve our target,” he said. “The confidence level of the players is high and we are aware of the Asian Games’ importance because only gold can take us to the Olympics 2016.” The 17th Asian Games hold great significance for the hockey nations of the continent as the winners of both the men and women’s section will directly qualify for the 2016 Olympics in Rio de Janeiro.
Mujahid said some critics may not be agreeing to our point of view because Pakistan team could not play international matches for the last many months. “These critics always want to see our team winning which is an uphill task. It is hard to maintain a winning run in every event.” The big question is would Pakistan be able to surprise, once again, everyone by storming to gold and glory in Incheon? They certainly have the potential. Winning or losing is indeed part of the game but what is surprising the way critics blast the PHF. Despite this rather gloomy analysis, we should hope that Pakistan would be competitive at the Incheon Asian Games.
Determination, self-belief and optimism are the keys to success. By optimism, it is meant that one should firmly believe that the best would happen. No one was expecting that Pakistan would win or even reach the semifinals of the Guangzhou Asian Games but they succeeded in clinching the gold medal against all odds. Pakistan should carry on that belief with them to South Korea. This will give the greenshirts the moral boost to carry on with their efforts. Only hard and incessant efforts will lead to success. Pakistan should positively believe that they are going to succeed. This sort of positive thinking urges us onward till the end is achieved. Instead, if we get discouraged and lose heart, the chances are that we will fail to succeed.
The Daily Times
Semi finalists confirmed for 2014 Ford NHL
Canterbury's Nick Budgeon in action, courtesy www.photosport.co.nz
The top four men’s and women’s sides to battle it out in the semi finals have been confirmed following the conclusion of Round 7 at the Ford National Hockey League today.
With pool play now complete at North Harbour Hockey Stadium, teams have a welcome rest day tomorrow before semi finals day on Saturday.
In the women’s semis, table toppers Auckland will go up against defending champions Midlands at 10am while the Canterbury Cats and Northland play off at 12pm for a spot in the final.
Meanwhile in the men’s semis, top seed Auckland will go head to head with Southern in a replay of last year’s final at 2pm, before the Canterbury Cavaliers do battle with Midlands at 4pm.
In men’s results today, Auckland opened the day with a tight 1-0 win over Midlands in a top of the table clash, with Jared Panchia scoring the winning goal late in the third quarter.
The Southern Dogs kept their momentum going ahead of the semis, beating Northland 2-0 with goals from captain Chris Ashton and Callum Bailey.
North Harbour were on form with a 4-0 demolition of Capital with goals coming from James Coughlan, Brennan Alexander-Parker, Cory Bennett and Elliot Bartholomew.
The Canterbury Cavaliers secured four points to move from fourth up to second on the table after defeating the Central Mavericks 5-0. Brothers Cam and Willie Hayde both scored doubles while Willie Davidson and Nick Budgeon also scored for the Cantabrians.
In women’s results, the Canterbury Cats were pushed right to the end by the Central Mysticks but came away 2-1 winners. Sophie Cocks gave the Cats the upper hand with a goal in the opening 10 seconds while Rachel McCann also scored. Central pulled one back through Deanna Ritchie but couldn’t find an equaliser.
Auckland killed off Capital’s finals hopes with a 4-2 result thanks to a double from Krystal Forgesson while Sam Harrison and Su Arn Kwek also found the back of the goal to relegate last year’s finalists to the bottom four.
Stacey MacDonald, Shiloh Gloyn and Renee Ashton ensured a 3-0 victory for Midlands over Northland in a game where the result had no effect on the semi final match ups.
In the final game of the day, North Harbour and Southern were level 1-1 at the end of regulation time before Harbour came through to win the shoot-out 2-1.
This Sunday’s two finals will be streamed live through the Hockey New Zealand website - click here for more details
CLICK HERE for the full draw, results, standings and goal scorers
FORD NHL RESULTS – THURSDAY 11 SEPTEMBER
MEN
Auckland 1: (Jared Panchia)
Midlands 0
Southern Dogs 2: (Chris Ashton, Callum Bailey)
Northland 0
North Harbour 4: (James Coughlan, Brennan Alexander-Parker, Cory Bennett, Elliot Bartholomew)
Capital 0
Canterbury Cavaliers 6: (Cam Hayde 2, Willie Hayde 2, Willie Davidson, Nick Budgeon)
Central Mavericks 0
WOMEN
Canterbury Cats 2: (Sophie Cocks, Rachel McCann)
Central Mysticks 1: (Deanna Ritchie)
Auckland 4: (Krystal Forgesson 2, Sam Harrison, Su Arn Kwek)
Capital 2: (Felicity Reidy, Madeleine Simmonds)
Midlands 3: (Stacey MacDonald, Shiloh Gloyn, Renee Ashton)
Northland 0
North Harbour 1: (Courtney Henderson)
Southern Storm 1: (Maddi McLean)
North Harbour won shoot-out 2-1
HNZ
Big guns set for bragging rights face-off
By David Leggat
Krystal Forgesson. Photo / Brett Phibbs
Either someone has a supreme gift for planning, or it is just plain good luck.
Auckland will face Midlands - No2 versus No1 - in the final round of round robin play at the national hockey tournament at North Harbour today.
Midlands have had their noses in front since the opening round on August 30; Auckland have steadily closed the gap so today there is a solitary point separating the two.
Both are sure of making the playoffs on Saturday and Sunday, but Auckland's co-captain Arun Panchia admitted there was a clear preference for where the defending champions would like to sit come Saturday.
"I think it's very important and psychologically there's quite a big advantage if you know you've beaten a team earlier in the week going into the semis and finals," the Black Stick attacker said yesterday.
"And you want to finish top of the ladder to have some bragging rights.
"It'll definitely be a good-quality match and we're looking to peak for the semis and finals," Panchia said.
Auckland eased past Capital 3-0 yesterday, with goals from Michael Richie, Ryan Archibald and Ben Radonovich, while Midlands had to scrape through courtesy of a penalty shootout against Southern after drawing 2-2.
Midlands might call it a missed opportunity.
They led 2-1 through Richard Petherick and Zac Woods until just before the final whistle when Jeremy Morris hauled Southern back into the contest with a spectacular goal.
Midlands won the shootout 2-1, but the effect was the loss of two points for the win in regulation time.
Central punted bottom side Northland 8-3.
Southern, Canterbury and North Harbour will be in a three-way battle for the other two semifinal spots in the Challenge Shield.
Auckland's women are one up on the men in the K Cup, after their 3-1 win over Central yesterday.
Former Black Stick Charlotte Harrison continued her good form this week with two goals - international Krystal Forgesson added the other - while promising young striker Michaela Curtis nabbed her fifth goal of the tournament for Central, to sit second top to Canterbury's Sian Fremaux.
Northland, who had led from the start of the NHL, slipped up, losing a penalty shootout to Canterbury 3-1, after the scores finished level, 1-1.
Maddison Rosser put Northland ahead; Libby Masefield equalised 10 minutes from the end.
Canterbury have the third semifinal spot locked up, while defending champions Midlands, Central and Capital - making a rails run with two wins in their last three games - are vying for the final place.
Capital cleaned up North Harbour 6-1, with two goals apiece for international midfielder Anita Punt and Georgie Morgan, one each to Kelsey Smith and Felicity Reidy.
Shareena Nana got Harbour's goal.
The New Zealand Herald
Forgesson and Russell announce retirement
Black Stick midfielder Krystal Forgesson and goalkeeper Bianca Russell have announced their retirement from the international game.
Coach Mark Hager said both players have helped New Zealand win critical games over many years and will be greatly missed by the team as preparation gets underway for the 2016 Rio Olympics.
Forgesson, aged 31, and Russell, aged 36 are both turning their focus to their full time jobs and are looking forward to exchanging a rigorous elite athlete training schedule for more time with family and friends.
Forgesson steps aside after 220 caps and 77 goals
Having debuted in 2005, Forgesson’s career has included the Melbourne, Delhi and Glasgow Commonwealth Games, Beijing and London Olympics and two World Cups in Holland and Argentina.
During this time, Forgesson accumulated 220 international test caps making her the fourth highest capped Black Stick and scored 77 goals making her the current all-time highest goal scorer alongside Katie Glynn.
“The Rio Olympics had always been in the back of my mind when making this decision – especially with it only being a year and a half away – but I just don’t think I can keep giving it 100%,” said Forgesson.
A Sales and Product Co-ordinator at Brittain Wynyard, she is looking forward to repaying some of the many hours spent at international tournaments rather than in the office.
“I started working full time at Brittain Wynyard following the London Olympics and things have been busy and hectic trying to do both to a high level. They have been very supportive and I’m really looking forward to knuckling down and not having to ask other people to do my work for me!”
On reflection, Forgesson says the one game that stands out is the Dutch game at the London Olympics where the Black Sticks drew 2-2 and then lost 1-3 in penalty shoot outs.
“That was the one game where during the game everything felt right, we were so confident and were playing really well in an incredible setting. The highs from sport are so much fun and the lows are so tough, but it’s amazing, you just can’t replicate that experience in everyday life.”
“When you first make the team – you are so happy to be there and representing your country but then the more you play, the more you realise the importance of those big games and how much you want to win – I think Mark taught us that and how to win. Those big game opportunities don’t come around every day, so when you do get it, you realise how rare it is.”
Hager said the contribution that Forgesson made to the success of the team and her presence will be greatly missed by the group.
“She is a great trainer, a leader on and off the field, a goal scorer, a hard-nosed player, a winner and most off all a friend to all. Krystal drove the culture within the team and provided a benchmark for the next group of players to aim for,” said Hager.
Forgesson said there’s no doubt it’s the people she has met and the travel, that she will miss the most.
“I have made so many great friends, the senior players as well as the young players who are so refreshing and add so much to the environment, they are a great group.
“But also my coaches – in particular Mark, Kevin [Towns] and Ian [Rutledge] – for giving me the opportunities to play, the Black Sticks staff - the physios that have kept me on the field, the managers that look after you on tour, the family and friends that travel to far-fetched places to watch me play. They have all been a huge help.
Playing for Auckland at the Ford National Hockey League in North Harbour this week, Forgesson will take a year off from club and representative hockey to reassess.
“I’m looking forward to having some time to myself – but having said that I have really enjoyed being part of the Auckland team this week. The team aspect is really fun and I am going to miss that.”
Although turf sessions might be off the cards for now, Forgesson has already committed to playing another season of Gaelic Football in Auckland this summer, touch rugby and is planning to run her first half marathon in Kerikeri later this year.
Russell retires as one of New Zealand’s best ever keepers
North Harbour’s Bianca Russell’s decision to retire didn’t come easily, but she believes now is the right time to step aside and let the next generation of goalkeepers come through.
“I wish I didn’t have to go, my heart still very much wants to play hockey but reality and my head say that it’s time to walk away,” said Russell.
“It’s something that I‘ve been thinking about for a few months and I’ve considered everything - what my goals are, what next and what else hockey can offer me. My body has had its fair share of wear and tear and although I can put in a good performance when required, I know I can’t be at my best 365 days a year anymore and therefore I can’t justify holding onto this position.”
Leaving with 75 caps to her name, coach Mark Hager believes it is her hardness and leadership both on and off the field that has set her apart.
“Bianca is a goalkeeper who has kept us in games and she is one of the reasons why we moved so quickly from being number 12 in the world to number three – her performance in London got us to the medal rounds. She is a fantastic leader – on and off the pitch and has been a big contributor to the team. She is a player who will sacrifice her goals to ensure the team performs well and has been a fantastic mentor to the younger keepers coming through,” said Hager.
Debuting in 2008, Russell played at the London Olympics, the 2010 and 2014 World Cups and other major FIH events including the Champions Trophy and Champions Challenge.
“I didn’t make the Commonwealth Games team this year and that had been a goal for me, so when I didn’t achieve that I reassessed. Playing for a national side is a huge personal investment and although I will miss the team so much I think it’s time to move on.”
“The girls are very much like your second family, I’m going to miss being part of that tight group and the culture that goes with it – putting in the hard work and doing that with your friends. I’m probably not going to miss the early morning trainings or being so sore all the time - carrying around one or two hockey ball bruises constantly!
Hager has asked Russell to provide some coaching to future Black Sticks goalkeepers at a camp being held later this year.
“There are some great younger keepers coming through and we need to make sure that they have room to grow – so I’m looking forward to passing on what I can and being a mentor to them,” said Russell.
Having worked at Secom Guardall as a Business Development Manager Russell said the flexi-time they have offered and the support they have given to her has allowed her to keep playing for so long.
“They have been very good in keeping my job open, and now that I can be there full time I’m looking forward to paying back some of that loyalty.
Although she will spend more time cycling and kayaking she won’t be leaving the turf completely.
“I will be picking up a field hockey stick and playing in the North Harbour Summer competition this year - that is the great thing about hockey, anyone of all shapes and sizes can pick up a hockey stick and give it a go. And then next season I will see how I feel and make a decision on whether I play Ford NHL and club.”
Hockey New Zealand Media release
Forgesson and Russell announce retirement
New Zealand's Krystal Forgesson has retired. Photo / Greg Bowker.
Black Stick midfielder Krystal Forgesson and goalkeeper Bianca Russell have announced their retirement from the international game.
Both players have helped New Zealand win critical games over many years and coach Mark Hager said the pair would be greatly missed as the team begins preparation for the 2016 Rio Olympics.
Forgesson, 31, and Russell, 36, are both turning their focus to fulltime jobs, looking forward to exchanging a rigorous training schedule for more time with family and friends.
Having debuted in 2005, Forgesson's career has included the Melbourne, Delhi and Glasgow Commonwealth Games, Beijing and London Olympics and World Cups in Holland and Argentina.
She accumulated 220 international test caps, making her the fourth-highest capped Black Stick, and scored 77 goals to sit alongside Katie Glynn as the current leading goal scorer for this country.
"The Rio Olympics had always been in the back of my mind when making this decision - especially with it only being a year and a half away - but I just don't think I can keep giving it 100 per cent," said Forgesson.
Russell's decision to retire also didn't come easily, but she believed it was the right time to step aside and let the next generation of goalkeepers come through.
"I wish I didn't have to go - my heart still very much wants to play hockey but reality and my head say that it's time to walk away," she said. "I didn't make the Commonwealth Games team this year and that had been a goal for me, so when I didn't achieve that I reassessed."
Debuting in 2008, Russell played at the London Olympics, the 2010 and 2014 World Cups and other major events including the Champions Trophy and Champions Challenge.
The New Zealand Herald
Black Sticks Forgesson and Russell retire
BIG DECISION: Black Sticks midfielder Krystal Forgesson has retired from international hockey with 220 caps and 77 goals. LAWRENCE SMITH/Fairfax NZ
New Zealand women's hockey veterans Krystal Forgesson and Bianca Russell have called time on their international careers.
Forgesson - the fourth most capped Black Stick women's player of all-time with 220 test caps - and experienced goalkeeper Russell are retiring to concentrate on their full-time jobs.
Having debuted in 2005, Forgesson's career included the Melbourne, Delhi and Glasgow Commonwealth Games, Beijing and London Olympics and two World Cups in Holland and Argentina.
The 32-year-old midfielder scored 77 goals - making her New Zealand's highest all-time women's goal scorer alongside Katie Glynn.
North Harbour's Russell, 36, debuted in 2008. She played at the London Olympics, the 2010 and 2014 World Cups and other major FIH events including the Champions Trophy and Champions Challenge.
Russell, who appeared in 75 games for the Black Sticks, missed out on selection for this year's Commonwealth Games.
Auckland's Forgesson said with the Rio Olympics looming, it was an extremely difficult call to make.
"The Rio Olympics had always been in the back of my mind when making this decision - especially with it only being a year and a half away - but I just don't think I can keep giving it 100 per cent."
Forgesson, a sales and product co-ordinator at Brittain Wynyard, was looking forward to repaying some of the hours spent at international tournaments.
Russell believed now was the right time to be stepping away from international hockey with some promising goalkeepers coming through the system.
"I wish I didn't have to go, my heart still very much wants to play hockey, but reality and my head say that it's time to walk away."
Russell, who is employed as a business development manager at Secom Guardall, was also excited to get back into the workforce fulltime.
Black Sticks women's coach Mark Hager saluted the immense contributions made by Forgesson and Russell.
"Krystal drove the culture within the team and provided a benchmark for the next group of players to aim for," he said.
"Bianca is a goalkeeper who has kept us in games and she is one of the reasons why we moved so quickly from being number 12 in the world to number three. Her performance in London got us to the medal rounds."
Stuff
Corner Groc the motivators for Atlètic's Sallés
Marc Sallés is hoping to give the “Corner Groc” plenty to cheer about as one of the leading lights for the nominal home team, Atlètic Terrassa, in Barcelona for Round 1 of this year’s Euro Hockey League.
With Real Club de Polo de Barcelona and Club Egara going straight to the KO16, the torch is passed to Terrassa to entertain the local Spanish fans at the Pau Negre stadium.
And the 2012 Olympian told EHLHockey.tv the yellow fans will be in loud voice when Atlètic take the field for game against Scotland’s SV Arminen and Scotland’s Kelburne.
“We have a lot of people who come every Sunday and enjoy the way we play,” he said. “Moreover we have "Corner Groc" – which means yellow corner in Catalan – they always stay at the side where we attack in the second half.
“We are very proud to have them singing, shouting, screaming, and giving us the extra power we need; they even have an individual song for each player. It's difficult to describe when you score a goal and all the team run to the corner to celebrate together!”
Terrassa are one of the tournaments thoroughbreds, playing in all bar one of the EHL editions, a similar record to Kelburne. Despite that frequency, the two clubs have never met and Sallés knows they have a pedigree that will make them a tough battle though he does admit that this a preferential draw to others they could have received.
“It's obvious that we didn't want to be at the same pool with Kampong or East Grinstead. But in the EHL, there are no easy teams. Each country plays a different style of hockey than what we are use to. And in this round you cannot make any mistake.
“Both Kelburne and Arminen are capable of winning against any team. If they impose their own style, we could have serious problems.
“Kelburne are going be a tough team to beat because they are strong players with a good physical condition. SV Arminen are well known as a good indoor team and are impressive in small situations, playing really fast passes.”
He adds, though, that European hockey is a serious priority this year, playing with the team-mates you grow up with and is looking forward to the competition immensely.
“Playing in the EHL is the best competition you can play with the club. Last year one of our goals was to be back in Europe and we improved a lot last year. We recognized more of our strengths and knew how to use them.
“Atletic Terrassa has been a well-known team in Europe in the past. For this reason, we are working hard to get back on top.
“I am really confident with the squad; the young players are improving a lot and are more aware that they are the key to be a better and more complete team.”
Euro Hockey League media release
NOW: Pensions Men's Hockey League previews, Sept 13-14 2014
CHAMPIONS Beeston face rivals Canterbury as the NOW: Pensions Men’s Hockey League Premier Division gets off to a thrilling start on Saturday.
Fifth last season, Canterbury are aiming to step up into the play-off zone this term, and have signed a trio of foreign stars to help them make that jump with French international defender Stephane Panigoni, French goalkeeper Edgar Reynaud and Spanish defender Juan Martinez Penalver all making the move.
Beeston have also signed some internationals with Scotland goalkeeper Jamie Cachia and England Under-21 James Gall moving from Sheffield Hallam and Surbiton respectively, but they have lost England and GB goalkeeper George Pinner to Holcombe.
“Pre-season started early this year because people were keen to keep the momentum after the success last year,” said Beeston skipper Adam Dixon.
“We’ve kept ticking over and it has gone well. It’s all about Canterbury at home in the first game, though. As long as we have everyone fit which was a problem last year, we’ll be there or thereabouts come playoffs.”
Elsewhere, Surbiton play host to Reading in a repeat of their dramatic clash at Finals weekend last season.
Surbiton edged to victory in a shoot-out after the sides were level at 1-1 after 70 minutes, and Reading will be aiming to start with a win after what, by their standards, was a disappointing season in 2013-14.
Having lost three of their England and GB stars in Nick Catlin, James Bailey and Darren Cheesman, Reading’s new players include Canadian Under-21 international Kevin Pereira.
In other Premier Division match ups last season’s runners-up East Grinstead – who topped the table after the regular season 18 matches – head to Cannock on Saturday evening.
And NOW: Pensions Conference North champions Brooklands Manchester University face NOW: Pensions Conference East winners Southgate in a clash of the newcomers to the top flight.
Finally, Hampstead and Westminster take on Wimbledon at Paddington Rec.
NOW: Pensions Conference West champions Cardiff & Met – who missed out on promotion in the play-offs last term – host newcomers Whitchurch in their opening match, while in the NOW: Pensions Conference North runners-up Bowdon play host to Wakefield.
After missing out on a place in the promotion play-offs by the narrowest of margins, Holcombe – who have signed several top names in their quest for the Premier Division - host Old Loughtonians in the NOW: Pensions Conference East.
NOW: Pensions Men’s Hockey League
Saturday, September 13 2014
NOW: Pensions Men's Premier Division
Hampstead and Westminster v Wimbledon 15:00
Beeston v Canterbury 16:00
Surbiton v Reading 16:30
Brooklands MU v Southgate 13:30
Cannock v East Grinstead 18:00
NOW: Pensions Men's Conference West
Cheltenham v Team Bath Buccaneers 12:30
Cardiff & Met v Whitchurch 13:00
Fareham v Barford Tigers 13:30
Guildford v University of Birmingham 14:00
University of Exeter v Indian Gymkhana 14:00
NOW: Pensions Men's Conference North
Bowdon v Wakefield 11:45
Olton & West Warwicks v Deeside Ramblers 13:30
Doncaster v Loughborough Students 14:00
University of Durham v Belper 14:00
Sheffield Hallam v Leek 18:30
NOW: Pensions Men's Conference East
Teddington v Bromley and Beckenham 13:45
Brighton and Hove v Chichester Priory Park 16:00
Oxted v Richmond 17:00
Holcombe v Old Loughtonians 18:00
Sunday 14 September
NOW: Pensions Men’s Conference East
West Herts v Cambridge City 14:00
England Hockey Board Media release
Investec Women's Hockey League previews, Sept 13 2014
THE Investec Women’s Hockey League springs back into action on Saturday, and there are some mouth-watering clashes in prospect.
Surbiton lifted the Investec Women’s Championship trophy last term. On their way to victory they beat hosts Reading 4-1 in the semi final, and they face them again on the opening day of the season at Sugden Road.
“We’re taking it as it comes and trying to win every game,” said Surbiton captain Sarah Haycroft.
“We have more pressure as champions but we have a good squad who can cope with that. Reading are always tough and play a similar style to us. Canterbury we sometimes struggle with and it’s always good and competitive against them.”
The team that Surbiton beat in the final back in April, Canterbury head to Beeston, while Clifton entertain Premier Division newcomers Buckingham in a tough start for the Investec Conference West champions who lost just twice in the league last season.
The other new side in the top flight, Holcombe won the Investec Conference East last term by a massive 14 points and they start their Premier Division campaign with a home match against Bowdon Hightown.
And Leicester – who missed out on a place at the finals weekend by the narrowest of margins – will be aiming to hit the ground running with victory at the University of Birmingham.
In the Investec Conference East, last season’s runners-up East Grinstead head to Sevenoaks who finished fourth last term, while newcomers Bedford and Maidenhead entertain Horsham and Harleston Magpies respectively.
After losing out in the promotion play-offs last term, Investec Conference North champions Brooklands Poynton begin their 2014-15 campaign with a match against Ben Rhydding.
And in the Investec Conference West, runners-up Slough have a tough start against Trojans who battled to fourth last season.
Investec Women’s Hockey League (Saturday, September 13 2014)
Investec Premier Division
Clifton v Buckingham 13:00
Beeston v Canterbury 14:00
Holcombe v Bowdon Hightown 14:00
Surbiton v Reading 14:00
University of Birmingham v Leicester 14:30
Investec Conference West
Bristol Firebrands v Olton & West Warwicks 12:00
Isca University v Cheltenham 12:00
Oxford Hawks v Gloucester City 12:00
Trojans v Slough 12:00
Stourport v Swansea City 13:45
Investec Conference North
Brooklands Poynton v Ben Rhydding 11:45
University of Durham v Whitley Bay and Tynemouth 12:00
Liverpool Sefton v Loughborough Students 12:30
Wakefield v Cannock 13:00
Sutton Coldfield v Kendal 14:00
Investec Conference East
Sevenoaks v East Grinstead 12:00
Bedford v Horsham 13:00
Maidenhead v Harleston Magpies 13:00
Chelmsford v St. Albans 14:00
Wimbledon v Ipswich 14:00
England Hockey Board Media release
Hockey debate: top-flight players discuss Holcombe, the north-south divide and hopes for 2014/15 season
Telegraph Sport canvassed the opinion of three captains and a returning player from the continent as the Investec Women's and NOW: Pensions Men's seasons loom
By Rod Gilmour
United colours: Cannock, Canterbury, Beeston and Leicester joiend forces to discuss the new season
Marc Edwards (Cannock, captain), Adam Dixon (Beeston, captain), Lauren Turner (Leicester) and Grace Balsdon (Canterbury, captain) spoke to The Telegraph's Rod Gilmour ahead of the new season this weekend. Instead of a round table session, they had to make do on the half-way line as the quartet discussed Holcombe, the challenges surrounding northern clubs and their thoughts ahead of the domestic season.
RG: So, a new hockey season and another one without more northern representatives. Is the north-south divide in the league a growing problem?
ME: What we don’t want to happen is an M25 league. At Cannock, we are trying to build the club back and get people back playing with good quality coaches. You have to grow your own and hope they stay.
AD: At Beeston we kind of pre-empted the centralised programme. We needed to look at home grown talent which we would be heavily reliant on, helped by having good links with the universities.
Captain Adam Dixon will defend the league title with Beeston
If you don’t start to think outside the box and get things in place you could start to see the north-south divide in the league. With England, there is a lot of talent from the likes of Manchester and Cannock, so it is keeping those clubs alive.
RG: Is it reliant on a northern club winning the league?
LT: The travel times are extended of course and perhaps it is difficult to attract the players who are on the national programme [at Bisham Abbey]. It is one of the challenges that clubs in the north face. If you look at Bowdon Hightown though, they have been in the league since Beijing.
ME: Beeston have been successful and Cannock prior to that and that allows people to think that they can still play for the national team by staying in the north. It is healthy for the national league and better to have a league representing the whole country rather than London. If you go through the junior age groups, the midlands and the north are probably better represented than the south. The talent’s there, it’s keeping hold of it.
LT: Some people call anyone outside of London as the North. Coming from the Midlands I would beg to differ!
RG: Lauren, you are the latest player to come back to England from a stint in Holland.
LT: Within the squad I don’t think it is seen as a negative or positive thing. It is the 'here and now'. We’re here to train together as a squad and I’m lucky to be a part of it.
Leicester and England's Lauren Turner
RG: Have you noticed the change in regards to players leaving?
LT: Since I went away to Holland [playing for Bloemendaal] and came back to Leicester, we went from a team with seven to nine GB players in it to just a handful. I think it is now about the foundations of bringing through good youngsters. Then it becomes less problematic.
GB: Bowdon also have some good players coming through such as goalkeeper Amy Tennant. Don’t rule them out, they seem to have a young, talented system at their disposal.
RG: So we’re talking here on football's Transfer Deadline Day and, in hockey, all the talk has been of Holcombe.
AD: The issue has been bubbling away for a while since Andy West moved down to Cannock a few years ago. Now they are in a dangerous position and it will be interesting to see how it all goes with them not being in the Premier Division. Last year there were some huge games in the East Conference and they will have teams chasing them down. While hockey is still in this amateur-professional limbo there will still be some conflicts, but why not?
ME: With our transfers, we didn’t do particularly well last season and lost some players. It is going back to being hard to beat and making sure Cannock are competitive, and for the health of the league that our international players get something week in, week out. If Holcombe do get promoted then great, it will be another team to beat.
RG: Grace, Holcombe women’s promotion means there is surely only one game Canterbury is looking forward to?
GB: I’m not sure! We want to get Surbiton back for beating us in the play-offs, so there will be a few rivalry games going on. It will be good quality hockey and hopefully a big crowd.
LT: I know there has been positive and negative press around it, but as a player it is a great thing that there is money being invested in the game. The game is going to more of a professional set-up: we are contracted to be here through GB but if we also can also get the same support through the clubs then it is a fantastic opportunity.
GB: If the sport aspires to be as big as football then to take that step to become more of a professional outlet from it, then there’s nothing wrong with that; especially if there are quality players in the side.
Canterbury captain Grace Balsdon (left)
RG: Moving to the men, is there still an incentive to win the NOW: Pensions Cup?
ME: We would respect the Cup and put in the best players. It is disappointing that some teams don’t enter as it is a useful exercise. Beeston won it several times before then winning the league. Surbiton also won it and are now doing well. It is a good platform and with only 18 Premier Division games you want to get as many competitive games as possible.
AD: The Cup is a great competition. The value of winning may have dropped but our management team grew up with it and that has helped our league success.
ME: For family clubs like Beeston and Cannock to win a title is huge.
RG: Finally, are there any players to watch this season?
AD: Joe Sharpe. He’s had lots of experience at junior level. He’s trying to compete in a very competitive midfield area but I think this year will be his year. He had a good under-21 campaign and he was electric in pre-season so I'm looking forward to playing alongside him.
GB: Well, we have a couple. Firstly, Anna Baker, who shows so much commitment playing up front. She will dive on the floor and put herself out there trying to win ball. Then we have Lizzie Neal, a versatile former under-16 player who can play in midfield or at half back. She has a fantastic fight and grit you see in few people.
ME: Arjan Drayton Chana. He is a bit of an enigma. He is very talented and one of the best ball players I have seen. He was in and around the GB set-up a couple of years ago and unfortunately had a few injuries. For ability he is right up there in terms of eliminating and ball carrying. He has all the quality and hopefully he can push on this season.
RG: Sounds like the future's bright. Thanks all and have a great season.
The Telegraph
National Futures groups named
60 young athletes with the potential to reach international standard selected
Hockey Australia has announced its 2014/2015 Futures groups, each containing 30 talented young athletes that have been identified as potential international athletes of the future.
The National Futures Program is designed to ensure that Hockey Australia’s world renowned international standing and success is sustainable into the future. It is a rolling program that focuses on athlete development rather than competition.
The 60 young athletes were assessed during the Australian Championships earlier in the year.
Michael Crooks, Hockey Australia’s National Talent Pathway Manager, says, “The National Futures groups identify an emerging cohort of athletes with the potential to progress to the National Junior Squad within two years, with a significant focus on the 2016 Junior World Cup campaigns.
"Athletes will be predominantly serviced and developed through a combination of targeted Hockey Australia development activities, such as our ‘super camps’, in partnership with the National Training Centre network and state and territory support.”
In the long term it is expected that the Futures group will benefit the performance of the national teams through the creation of a larger and better-prepared pool of talent from across the country.
Crooks adds, "On an individual level, the outcome of the Futures group program is for athletes to achieve advanced junior elite level skills and tactics, with the ability to perform these skills under pressure and in game situations.”
The first activity for the Futures groups comes in December with a ‘super camp’ on the Gold Coast, the host city of the 2018 Commonwealth Games.
The squads are listed below by state/territory, then alphabetically by athlete surname.
Men’s Futures group, 2014/2015
Tim Brand (NSW)
Isaac Farmillo (NSW)
Bradley Hughes (NSW)
Max Hughes (NSW)
Sam Liles (NSW)
Kurt Lovett (NSW)
Ryan Proctor (NSW)
Nathaniel Stewart (NSW)
Scott Boyde (QLD)
Oliver Crane (QLD)
Tim Howard (QLD)
Joel Rintala (QLD)
Mackenzie Warne (QLD)
Dalton Casey (SA)
Benji Austin (TAS)
Joshua Beltz (TAS)
Jayden Pearson (TAS)
Jonathan Bretherton (VIC)
Joshua Bretherton (VIC)
Max Hendry (VIC)
Stephen Gale (VIC)
Ben Hoopell (VIC)
Andrew Scanlon (VIC)
Joshua Simmonds (VIC)
James Benetti (WA)
Simon Benetti (WA)
Matthew Bird (WA)
Frazer Gerard (WA)
Alec Rasmussen (WA)
Hayden Walker (WA)
Women’s Futures group, 2014/2015
Tina Taseska (ACT)
Dana Constable (NSW)
Andrea Gillard (NSW)
Greta Hayes (NSW)
Kate Hanna (NSW)
Kaitlin Kobbs (NSW)
Mikaela Patterson (NSW)
Grace Stewart (NSW)
Jessica Watterson (NSW)
Erin Lidbetter (NT)
Hannah Astbury (QLD)
Ainslee Deeth (QLD)
Emily Hetherington (QLD)
Georgia Hillas (QLD)
Ambrosia Malone (QLD)
Renee Taylor (QLD)
Mikaela Truskinger (QLD)
Brittany Wilkinson (QLD)
Courtney Rudd (SA)
Michaela Spano (SA)
Leah Welstead (SA)
Maddy Hinton (TAS)
Madeline Murphy (TAS)
Megan Anderson (VIC)
Madi Ratcliffe (VIC)
Sienna Archer (WA)
Aimee Clark (WA)
Aleisha Power (WA)
Shanéa Tonkin (WA)
Georgia Wilson (WA)
Hockey Australia media release