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News for 26 November 2014

All the news for Wednesday 26 November 2014


Ireland Draw 1st Test With France (Men)

Ireland's men, the Green Machine have drawn the first of two test matches taking place in Lille France today (Tuesday) and tomorrow. Coach Fulton selected Neal Glassey which gave the young talent his first ever Senior Cap this evening.

The matches are serving as part of the teams preparation for Olympic Qualification as they continue on the Road To Rio, the next stage of which is the World League 2 tournament taking place in California February & March 2015.

Ireland will play again tomorrow at 11am French time

Irish Hockey Association media release



Hager laments Black Sticks errors against Argentina

By David Leggat


Captain Anita Punt scored the Black Sticks' only goal in the opening game, from a penalty corner. Photo / Getty Images

New Zealand have suffered back-to-back losses to Argentina as they prepare for the Champions Trophy starting in Mendoza, Argentina, this weekend.

The women's Black Sticks, ranked No4 in the world, were beaten 2-1, then 3-0 yesterday by the team ranked one spot above them.

Coach Mark Hager was left to lament New Zealand's mistakes.

"We are creating goal-scoring opportunities, particularly tonight," Hager said. "We're just not good at taking them."

Captain Anita Punt scored the Black Sticks' only goal in the opening game, from a penalty corner.

In yesterday's game, New Zealand managed 25 circle penetrations to Argentina's 15, and squandered three open nets. Two one-on-ones with the Argentine goalkeeper went begging.

By contrast, Argentina's three goals came from just six shots.

"We have to tighten up a bit because the good teams will punish you," Hager said.

He is hopeful attacker Sophie Cocks will play a part in the friendly against Germany tomorrow night (NZT) to prove her fitness after suffering a blow on a leg against the United States recently. She played a small part in both games against Argentina.

Key defender Liz Thompson also picked up a bang on a leg in yesterday's game.

The Black Sticks' opening cup game is against world No10 Japan on Sunday morning (NZT).

The New Zealand Herald



Making the most of downtime

Whether it is cards, cricket or a trip around town, hockey players have their own ways of chilling out between games. We find out how some of the stars will be spending their Champions Trophy downtime.


(Photo: FIH)

A hockey player’s life during a tournament is fixated on the match days. Pre-match preparations, performance on the pitch and post-match recovery pretty much fill the day of competition, but what do the players do when there is no hockey on the agenda?

While much of their time will be spent on match analysis, or preparing for the next game – either on the pitch or studying videos of the opposition – the players and coaching staff still need relaxation time and, importantly, time away from hockey.

During the Hockey World Cup in the Hague different teams spent their time away from the action in a number of ways. The coach of Team USA sent his squad shopping with the words, “I don’t want to see you all day”; the Korean team took a tour of Amsterdam and the Australian men’s team famously made sand sculptures on the beach.

As the teams arrive in Bhubaneswar and Mendoza for the men’s and women’s Champions Trophy, we caught up with a few players to find out how they relax and spend their downtime between matches.

Carla Rebecchi is a old-timer when it comes to major championships. The Argentine midfielder has played in seven Champions Trophy competitions, winning four gold medals during that time. “I spend a lot of time resting,” she says, “But I will also spend a lot of time hanging out with other team members, maybe going for a drink (non-alcoholic), watching movies or just chatting.”

For Anita Punt and her Black Sticks teammates, a trip to Argentina is also a chance to experience a new place and a different culture. While the New Zealand speed queen will make sure she gets her rest, she says that the team will definitely spend some time exploring Mendoza, visiting the sights and eating out in some of the restaurants.

“It depends where we are, and what the tournament is, but we like to get out and have a look at the place. We also enjoy eating out as that is another way to get to experience the country we are in.”

When the Black Sticks are not out and about, Punt adds that they will watch the current most popular television series box set or get competitive over a pack of cards.

When it comes to being competitive, no-one does it with more intensity than the Kookaburras. Jeremy Hayward is a relative newcomer to the squad, hitting the senior international stage in goal-scoring style at the Hockey World Cup in the Hague. He describes how he and his teammates relax.

“We try to get our minds off hockey as far as possible. For me, not thinking about hockey is the way to relax. There are always plenty of things to do, I might go for a swim or have a nap, but more likely I will beat some of the boys at FIFA (video game) or get caught up in a game of ‘hallway cricket’.”

#BestoftheBest #CT2014

FIH site



Women Champions Trophy, Mendoza-Arg, Nov 29-Dec7, 2014   

How the different teams have fared in the past

Year AUS NED GER ARG CHN NZL ENG JPN
1987 2 1 - - - 6 5# -
1989 2 5 3 - - - 4# -
1991 1 3 2 - 5 - - -
1993 1 2 3 - - - 6# -
1995 1 - 4 6 - - - -
1997 1 3 2 - - - 5# -
1999 1 2 3 4 - 5 - -
2000 3 1 2 4 - 6 - -
2001 3 2 - 1 4 5 - -
2002 4 3 - 2 1 5 6 -
2003 1 3 - 4 2 - 5 -
2004 4 1 2 3 5 6 - -
2005 2 1 5 4 3 - - -
2006 5 3 1 4 2 6 - -
2007 4 1 3 2 - - - 5
2008 5 3 2 1 4 - - 6
2009 2 3 4 1 5 - 6 -
2010 - 2 4 1 6 5 3 -
2011 6 1 8 2 7 3 5 -
2012 - 3 4 1 8 6 2# 5
#Great Britain, stats by B.G.Joshi (Sehore-Bhopal, India)

 
Fieldhockey.com exclusive



Alex expects

ALEX Danson wishes she could be part of the next generation of English talent coming through the ranks as she is sure they are destined for great things.

In the absence of former captain Kate Richardson-Walsh, striker Danson, 29, is the leading lady in coach Danny Kerry’s plans for the Champions Trophy in Argentina, which starts on Saturday. Danson said: “We’ve worked hard and that has brought us together. I wish I was a few years younger because I see the depth of talent in this group and I know they’ll have great results in the future.”

England play Australia, Germany and Argentina with New Zealand, Japan, Holland and China in the other pool.

Daily Express



Trials tomorrow to finalise squad for Champions Trophy

Anwar Zuberi

KARACHI: One-day trials to finalise an 18-member Pakistan hockey team for the Champions Trophy will be held at the Hockey Club of Pakistan Stadium on Thursday at 3.00pm, chairman of the Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) selection committee, Islahuddin Siddiqui, said on Tuesday.

The trials are aimed at watching the fitness of 20 players particularly, Rashid Mahmood and Rizwan senior, who were engaged in playing professional league in Holland and have joined the camp which is currently underway at the HCP Stadium.

Both Rashid and Rizwan senior who did not appear in the two-day preceding trials held on Nov 12 and 13, were named among 20-members by the selectors while shortlisting the probables.

The Champions Trophy will be held in the Indian city of Bhubaneswar from Dec 6 to 14. Pakistan team, according to Islah, leaves for India via Wagah border on Dec 2.

It is pertinent to mention that the selectors have made it clear that they will again hold one-day trials to watch the level of fitness of players before dropping two from the list.

The 20 probables who will make their appearance in the trials are Imran Butt, Amjad Ali (goal keepers), Mohammad Imran, Mohammad Irfan, Kashif Shah (backs), Ammad Butt, Mohammad Tousiq, Rashid Mahmood, Rizwan junior, Zohaib Ashraf, Tassawar Abbas (halves) and Waqas Sharif, Shafqat Rasool, Umer Bhutta, Mohammad Dilber, Rizwan senior, Ali Shan, Arsalan Qadir, Yaqoob Azfar, Rizwan Ali (forwards).

Dawn



Champions Trophy to heat up during last-8 stage: Sameer

KARACHI: The real contest in next month’s Champions Trophy begins from the quarter-finals, forward-line coach and ex-Olympian Sameer Hussain said on Monday.

“There is no doubt that this is the toughest event of world hockey. It all matters winning in the quarter-final because that will decide who are the best title contenders,” he said in an interview after the team’s gruelling training session at the Hockey Club of Pakistan Stadium.

While noting Pakistan will be facing a tough task against Belgium, England and Australia in their league round games, Sameer however acknowledged that the quarter-finals stage will be the key.

Top eight teams will be taking part in the high-profile event. “Besides good play the team needs a bit of good luck to make it to the semi-finals,” said the Olympian who was part of Pakistan team in the 2000 Sydney Games.

He said the team is fully aware of the significance of the event.

“Our team is a blend of youth and experience and a couple of good results can boost their morale,” said Sameer.

He added that the Pakistan forward line played really well in the Incheon Asian Games and they are putting a lot of hard work ahead of the Champions Trophy.

“Our forwards have managed to reduce their missing ratio and improved short corner conversion and I feel we have a bright chance of making the semis,” he said.

“The panel of coaches under the supervision of chief coach Shahnaz Sheikh are working hard to remove the shortcomings of the team and the results are showing now.”

Dawn



Hope to do well as stop-gap coach: Oltmans

Suhrid Barua

It’s not the first time that Hockey India High Performance Manager Roelant Oltmans has been entrusted with the responsibility of serving as the national hockey coach for the upcoming Champions Trophy. Only late last year, Australian Michael Nobbs had stepped down on health grounds, with Oltmans taking charge of the Indian team at the Asia Cup, which attached so much significance given the fact that the 2014 World Cup berth was up for grabs. The Dutchman did his job to near-perfection in Ipoh as India qualified for the World Cup after finishing runners-up in that tourney. Now as uncertainty surrounds the return of Terry Walsh (likely to be handed a fresh contract), Hockey India has handed the coaching reins to Oltmans for the Champions Trophy given the fact that there is far too little time left to scour for a viable alternative.

“I know I’m stepping in as a stop-gap coach for the second time. The boys did well in the Asia Cup and I hope we can come up with a decent effort in the Champions Trophy” Oltmans says in an exclusive interview.

The celebrated Dutch coach stops short of saying whether the Indian team will miss Terry Walsh in the Champions Trophy, but insists the team made rapid strides under him. “It’s a fact that the Indian team have really progressed since the World Cup. The performances in the Commonwealth Games, Asian Games and the four Test series in Australia are a testimony to that. No one can deny that, but the team must look forward and perform well in the Champions Trophy.”

There is talk that Walsh has written to the Sports Minister expressing his willingness to return as national coach. So what’s Oltmans’ take on that? “I’m not the right person to answer that, but I will like to be optimistic. Of course, he won’t be here for the Champions Trophy, but hopefully we will get a clearer picture in the coming weeks.”

The former Netherlands believes no team’s success or failure can be attributed to only one individual. “It’s not the coach who can take the credit or criticism for a team’s win or defeat. The players, team manager, physio, as well as other support staff all play a role in the team’s performance.”

Oltmans developed a rapport with Walsh which he cherishes. “There is no doubt that we got along quite well and had mutual respect for each other. That way, I will miss him but at the moment I have a job to do – that is to help the boys perform well in the Champions Trophy.”

On the expectations from the Champions Trophy, Oltmans reckons the Champions Trophy will demand India to be at their best if they are to go the distance. “All top teams will be here, so it won’t be easy but having said that we have home ground advantage and will look to make the most of it.

Stick2Hockey.com



Champions Trophy being held in Odisha is best birthday gift says Dilip



For years, former India skipper Dilip Tirkey has stood like a wall in the field, guarding furious attacks of the opposition teams. As he celebrates his birthday today (November 25), the Member of Parliament from Rajya Sabha feels that his state Odisha, hosting the much-awaited Champions trophy scheduled from early next month is the best ever birthday gift he could have asked for.

“This is the first time that the Kalinga stadium in Bhubaneswar will be hosting an international tournament. To be able to witness all the major hockey playing nations in the world contest in my hometown is the best birthday gift I could have asked for,” says Dilip, who is currently in Delhi to attend the Parliament session.

“Odisha has a pool of talented hockey players, many of whom have represented the country at international level. It is a proud moment not just for me as a former player but for the entire state.”

Dilip, who had made his debut way back in 1995, had been vouching for a stadium to be constructed in Bhubaneswar for long, but was successful only recently after the government gave clearance and the turf in Bhubaneswar was constructed just before the 2014 edition of the Hockey India League.

Modest as he has always been, Dilip, however, brushes off taking any credit for the same.

“I should not be credited for anything. It’s the people and the Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik’s initiative. Though the turf came after a long wait, I am happy that it finally is ready.”

However, there is a slight disappointment, as the player regrets for not being able to play an international match in front of his home crowd in the 15 years of his career. “I had always dreamt of playing in front of my home crowd. Sadly, it never happened. Yes, there is disappointment and it will remain for the rest of my life,” he says.

For the India hockey team playing in the Champions Trophy, Dilip has pinned high hopes.

“After the Asian Games gold medal and the recent series win against Australia, the expectations are high. I hope that India makes it at least to the semi-finals,” he concludes.

Stick2Hockey.com



Hockey India League 2015 to begin in Bhubaneswar, Delhi to host final

NEW DELHI: The newly-built Kalinga Stadium of Bhubaneswar will stage the opening match, while capital's Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium will host the semifinals and final of the third edition of Hero Hockey India League to be held across the country from January 22 to February 22.

In the opening match of the 2015 edition of HHIL, hosts Kalinga Lancers will play debutant Ranchi Rays, owned by Indian cricket team captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni.

Dabang Mumbai, another new franchise in the league, will play their tournament opener against Jaypee Punjab Warriors on January 23 followed the clash of Uttar Pradesh Wizards and defending champions Delhi Waveriders on the same day in Lucknow.

Unlike the last two editions when Ranchi hosted the semifinals and final, the two last four games and the summit clash will be held here on February 21 and 22.

Commenting on the schedule of HHIL 2015, national team and Delhi Waveriders skipper Sardar Singh said: "We are the defending champions and will be looking at retaining the title. I am sure no team will leave any stone unturned and will aim for the semifinal spots. We are aware of the challenge which is immense but we are ready for it."

India goalkeeper PR Sreejesh, who will represent Uttar Pradesh Wizard in the league added: "I am happy that I will be playing for Uttar Pradesh Wizards this season onwards. Hero HIL has given us a platform where we get to interact with different players and help us to grow our game. I will aim to give my best and also excited to join the team."

The Times of India



Walsh eager to return but says HI needs to 'show desire'

NEW DELHI: Barely days after quitting from his position as chief coach of the national men's hockey team, Terry Walsh has expressed his willingness to return to India provided Hockey India shows some "desire" to work out a "viable solution".

Walsh admitted that he has indeed written a letter to the sports minister Sarbananda Sonowal on Monday, expressing his desire to resume his India job but said the ball entirely is now in the national federation's court.

"A letter from my side was sent to the minister yesterday indicating my desire to return to India to finalise negotiations and work through to Rio, 2016," Walsh said.

"Now it is in the hands of Hockey India to show the same desire for a viable solution."

Walsh has resigned as the chief coach soon after returning from Incheon, where he guided the Indian team to its first Asiad gold in 16 years.

The Australian's notice period ended last Wednesday and he decided not to withdraw his resignation after his contractual talks with SAI and HI fell apart.

Walsh's contractual talks fell apart after HI president Narinder Batra had alleged that the 60-year-old Australian had indulged in "financial fraud" during his stint with USA Hockey.

Walsh however termed these allegations "baseless". The differences with HI seems to be the biggest hurdle that stands in the way of Walsh's return and Batra has made it clear that the Australian need to come clean on these allegations to coach India again.

However, Walsh had words of appreciation for the the sports minister, his employers Sports Authority of India (SAI) and the players.

"The minister for sport and SAI have shown a keen desire to create a good working solution," he said.

"The players are supportive and India has a very bright International future if it stays on a solid pathway," Walsh said.

Under Walsh, who joined a year back, India made steady progress and achieved good results in the international tournaments.

Besides the Asian Games gold, which earned them a direct berth in 2016 Rio Olympics, India had also won a silver medal at this year's Commonwealth Games in Glasgow and also registered a historic away Test series win over Australia.

The Times of India



Hockey India look beyond Terry Walsh, to look for new coach after Champions Trophy

Rutvick Mehta

Terry Walsh's return as head coach of the Indian hockey team seems highly unlikely now.

A day after the Australian wrote a letter to sports minister Sarbananda Sonowal expressing his willingness to return to India immediately after he resigned and flew back to Australia on November 19, Hockey India (HI) CEO Elena Norman said they will discuss the appointment of a new chief coach after the upcoming Champions Trophy.

"Walsh submitted his resignation as he did not wish to continue under the terms of his existing agreement, (and) his resignation was accepted by SAI (Sports Authority of India) with effect from November 19," Norman told dna on Thursday via e-mail.

"As the team is preparing under the guidance of high-performance director Roelant Oltmans and three other coaches, we wish to keep the team focussed on the task at hand being the Champions Trophy. As to discussions on the appointment of a new chief coach with the national men's programme, this will only be considered after the Champions Trophy is completed," she added.

This rules out Walsh's return at least till next month's Champions Trophy in Bhubaneshwar. Even after that, it seems HI president Narinder Batra, who has alleged Walsh of financing irregularities during his time with Hockey USA, is in no mood to have the two-time Olympian back in the set-up.

"We have received a mail from Hockey USA and as per that mail, the issue of financial irregularity by Walsh in USA is not settled even as of today. Hence, his contention that his issue with (Hockey) USA was settled in 2012 is false and incorrect," Batra said.

"Walsh has been given sufficient time to clarify on the financial irregularity issue and he, instead, tried to beat around the bush. HI now does not require services of Walsh and will look for a new chief coach with approval of SAI," Batra added.

DNA



Hockey India does not need Terry Walsh: Narinder Batra

NEW DELHI: Hockey India (HI) president Narinder Batra on Tuesday clearly stated that they do not require the services of former men's team chief coach Terry Walsh and will start their search for a replacement "with approval of SAI".

This move from Batra comes just as Walsh expressed his willingness to continue as India chief coach despite recently resigning from his post due to bureaucratic red-tapism.

In a letter addressed to the Sports Authority of India (SAI) Director General Jiji Thomson, Batra wrote: "We have received a mail from Hockey USA as confidential and as per that mail the issue of financial irregularity by Mr. Walsh in USA is not settled even as of today, hence his contention that his issue with USA was settled in 2012 is false and incorrect."

A week ago, Batra had alleged that the Australian coach was involved in financial impropriety during his tenure with USA Field Hockey.

"Further Mr. Terry Walsh thru press and media has been threatening to file legal cases. Mr. Walsh has been given sufficient time to clarify on the financial irregularity issue and he instead tried to beat around the bush. HI now does not require services of Mr. Terry Walsh and will look for a new chief coach with approval of SAI," added Batra.

The Indian hockey strongman continued his attack on Walsh, writing that Walsh was trying to project as a "martyr" and HI as a "villain".

"Regarding his showing commitment for players, I had in presence of HI CEO and Mr. Oltmans offered full salary for one month after Nov 19 to Terry Walsh to stay on with the Indian team till Champions Trophy (but this was prior to the issue of USA Hockey coming to our notice) and he refused to stay back till SAI agreed on his 120 days paid holiday in Australia and at that time he showed no concern for the Indian team, now he wants to project himself as martyr before the media and HI a villain," wrote Batra.

"We would very kindly request your goodself to forward our mail to Hon'ble Minister as HI views on Mr. Terry Walsh's re-employment for hockey in India."

Walsh on Monday had written to Sports Minister Sarbananda Sonowal where he clarified his position about the entire affair. The 60-year-old Australian thanked SAI for being cooperative and expressed his desire to continue coaching India.

"I will keep faith with SAI and undertake to accede to their request to continue to coach the national team in the medium-term subject to the resolution of several issues with HI. Hopefully truth and common sense will prevail in the interests of the game," wrote Walsh.

"One issue that has clouded discussions has been the introduction of a reprehensible allegation relating to my tenure with the USA Field Hockey Federation. The allegation is baseless and has already been refuted by US hockey officials. It is still being peddled.

Walsh, an Olympic silver medallist, had also written that he is considering legal recourse.

"I have instituted legal proceedings in the United States to seek restitution and protect my reputation. I am considering similar actions in India. This is very unfortunate and distracts from the task of placing Indian hockey on an upward path to modern practices and procedures," wrote Walsh.

"Regardless of the nature of my future involvement in India I remain committed to my players. I believe that feeling is reciprocated. They are a fine bunch of men. Hockey is part of the soul of India and they are conscious of their responsibility in this regard."

He added: "I remain willing to return to India immediately to resume positive discussions with SAI and at the same time publicly refute the detestable misinformation being introduced into the public arena.

"My earnest wish is that HI joins with us to enable the national team to begin its preparations for the 2016 Olympics free of controversy and irrelevant other issues."

The Times of India



Walsh is willing to come back, Hockey India says no

New Delhi - India’s former hockey coach Terry Walsh, whose contract ended last week, has again expressed his willingness to return and take back the reins as the national coach. The Sports Authority of India (SAI) has said that it is willing to re-appoint the Australian as coach, in case Hockey India (HI) approves.

Hockey India, however, doesn’t approve, and thus it has become very unlikely that Walsh will again coach the Indian team in the near future.

In a letter to Sports Minister Sarbananda Sonowal, Walsh said that he remains “committed to my players”. He also said that he is considering his legal options to clear his name, after allegations of financial impropriety were made against him by HI president Narinder Batra.

“...I remain willing to return to India immediately to resume positive discussions with SAI and at the same time publicly refute the detestable misinformation being introduced into the public arena,” Walsh wrote to Sonowal. “My earnest wish is that Hockey India joins with us to enable the national team to begin its preparations for the 2016 Olympic Games free of controversy and irrelevant other issues.”

Walsh wrote that he would also “publicly refute the detestable misinformation being introduced into the public arena”.

A few days ago, Batra had alleged that during his stint with USA Field Hockey, Walsh was involved in a financial wrongdoing and that he had pocketed a sum of $176,000.

“The allegation is baseless and has already been refuted by US Hockey officials,” Walsh wrote to the Sports Minister. “It is still being peddled. I have instituted legal proceedings in the United States to seek restitution and protect my reputation. I am considering similar actions in India.”

However, Batra reiterated the allegation today, saying that the “issue of financial irregularity by Mr Walsh in USA is not settled”. “We have received a mail from Hockey USA as confidential and as per that mail the issue of financial irregularity by Mr Walsh in USA is not settled even as of today,” Batra wrote in a letter to SAI today.

Batra also said that he had asked Walsh to stay with the Indian team till the Champions Trophy. “He refused to stay back till SAI agreed on his 120 days paid holiday in Australia and at that time he showed no concern for the Indian team,” Batra said.

“Hockey India now does not require services of Mr Terry Walsh and will look for a new chief coach with approval of SAI,” Batra added.

Under Walsh, the Indian team has had some notable successes, including the gold medal at the Asian Games and the silver medal at the Commonwealth Games.

The Tribune



War of words continues

The drama being played out by Hockey India and former Indian men’s coach Terry Walsh refuses to end. A day after the Australian indicated his desire to return to India “immediately to resume positive discussions with SAI,” Hockey India has sent a letter to the Sports Authority of India making it clear that the federation did not require the services of Terry Walsh any more.

Further, HI president Narinder Batra has claimed that Walsh was wrongly trying to play martyr for the cause of Indian hockey.

Walsh had written to the SAI and the Sports Ministry saying he was keen to continue working with the Indian team and refute allegations of financial impropriety vis-a-vis his tenure with US Hockey. He had also signalled taking legal recourse for the same, both in USA and India.

Claims challenged

Batra, however, has objected to Walsh’s claims. “Sir, we have received a mail from Hockey USA as confidential and as per that the issue of financial irregularity by Terry Walsh in USA is not settled even as of today, hence his contention that his issue with USA was settled in 2012 is false and incorrect,” Batra has written in his letter to SAI director general Jiji Thomson.

“Regarding his showing commitment for players I had, in presence of HI CEO and Mr Oltmans, offered full salary for one month after 19 November, 2014 to Terry Walsh to stay on with the Indian team till Champions Trophy (prior to the issue of USA Hockey coming to our notice) and he refused till SAI agreed, besides other things, on his 120 days paid holiday in Australia. At that time, he showed no concern for the Indian men’s team but now he wants to project himself as martyr before the media,” Batra has written.

Regarding the legal issues, Batra has dared Walsh to go ahead while questioning his motive.

“Walsh has been given sufficient time to clarify on the financial irregularity issue in USA, instead he tried to beat around the bush. Hockey India now does not require services of Mr Terry Walsh…,” he has said.

The Hindu



End of Walsh: Original letters of Terry Walsh

s2h Team

Indian national coach Terry Walsh, now doors shut by procurer Hockey India despite provider Sports Authority of India willing, wrote a letter expressing his interest to return to India to train national men's team, against which HI president Narinder Batra replied which in effect seek to effectively shut the doors of Walsh's return unless something dramatic happens. We in www.stick2hockey.com present both letters the personalities wrote to the Minister of Sports, Govt of India, in verbatim leaving the readers to make their own inference.

TERRY WALSH'S EMAIL LETTER DATED NOV 24, 2014
TO
Sports Minister,
Government of India.
Mr Sarbananda Sonowal.

Dear Minister,

May I thank you again for your generosity in affording me time earlier this month to discuss some of the difficulties currently facing the Indian national hockey team.

In view of the publicity being generated at present I thought I should clarify my position and in doing so ensure that your department is fully apprised of events as they have unfolded since our meeting.

May I repeat that SAI has continued to be most cooperative, positive and forward-looking in the discussions with me and my staff. They have already begun to implement some procedural reforms which is most pleasing.

I will keep faith with SAI and undertake to accede to their request to continue to coach the national team in the medium-term subject to the resolution of several issues with Hockey India. Hopefully truth and common sense will prevail in the interests of the game.

One issue that has clouded discussions has been the introduction of a reprehensible allegation relating to my tenure with the USA Field Hockey Federation. The allegation is baseless and has already been refuted by US Hockey officials. It is still being peddled. I have instituted legal proceedings in the United States to seek restitution and protect my reputation. I am considering similar actions in India. This is very unfortunate and distracts from the task of placing Indian hockey on an upward path to modern practices and procedures.

Regardless of the nature of my future involvement in India I remain committed to my players. I believe that feeling is reciprocated. They are a fine bunch of men. Hockey is part of the soul of India and they are conscious of their responsibility in this regard.

Finally I remain willing to return to India immediately to resume positive discussions with SAI and at the same time publicly refute the detestable misinformation being introduced into the public arena. My earnest wish is that Hockey India joins with us to enable the national team to begin its preparations for the 2016 Olympic Games free of controversy and irrelevant other issues.

I sincerely thank you for your kindness and interest. Terry then also requested Jiji Thampson, Director General of Sports Authority of India to provide 'copy of the USAFH document tabled in the meeting on the 17th November at the SAI offices be forwarded to me as it contains key information critical to accusations being made against me. This will allow fair and reasonable response from my side to clear my name.

NARINDER BATRA'S EMAIL LETTER DATED NOV 25, 2014

Sir,

We have received a mail from Hockey USA as confidential and as per that mail the issue of financial irregularity by Mr Walsh in USA is not settled even as of today, hence his contention that his issue with USA was settled in 2012 is false and incorrect.

Further Mr Terry Walsh thru press and media has been threatening to file legal cases, we fail to understand what is stopping him. Mr Walsh has been given sufficient time to clarify on the financial irregularity issue in USA and instead he tried to beat around the bush. Hockey India now does not require services of Mr Terry Walsh and will look for a new chief coach with prior approval of SAI.

Regarding his showing commitment for players, I had in presence of HI CEO and Mr Oltmans offered full salary for one month after 19 November, 2014 to Terry Walsh to stay on with the Indian team till Champions Trophy ( but this was prior to the issue of USA Hockey coming to our notice ) and he refused to stay back till SAI agreed besides other things on his 120 days paid holiday in Australia and at that time he showed no concern for the Indian Men team, now he wants to project himself as martyr before the media and Hockey India a villain.

Stick2Hockey.com



Russian indoor champion Moscow Dynamo to play Canada

Canadian roster named for exhibition series on Nov 28-30



The Canadian Men's Indoor National Team will play host to six-time Russian Indoor Hockey Champion Moscow Dynamo in a friendly series from November 28-30th in Mississauga and Toronto, Ontario.

The first-division Russian team currently comprises of many of the players who are a part of the Russian National Indoor Team and between 2006 and 2014 has won the Russian Club Indoor Hockey Championship six times. Last year, Moscow Dynamo placed third in the Euro Indoor Hockey finals.

Twenty-one Canadian athletes have been named to Canada's tournament roster from which two teams will be created. Canada will play three matches versus Moscow Dynamo, while a secondary Canadian squad will play two more.

Schedule:

DATE, TIME, EVENT, LOCATION

Nov 28th 2014, 7 - 9pm, CDN Squad vs Moscow Dynamo, Hershey Sport Zone
Nov 29th 2014, 9:30 - 11am, Canada vs Moscow Dynamo, U of T
Nov 29th 2014, 3:30 – 5:00pm, Canada vs Moscow Dynamo, U of T
Nov 30th 2014, 9:30 - 11am, CDN Squad vs Moscow Dynamo, U of T (TBC)
Nov 30th 2014, 3:30 – 5:00pm, Canada vs Moscow Dynamo, U of T

Canadian Roster:

Name, Hometown

Ken Pereira, Unionville, Ontario
Amritjot Toor, Mississsauga, Ontario
Arshjot Toor, Mississsauga, Ontario
Braedon Muldoon, Ottawa, Ontario
Devohn Noronha-Teixeira, Mississauga, Ontario *
Floyd Mascarenhas, Mississsauga, Ontario
Gurtej Dhaliwal, Ottawa, Ontario
Jeevan Jammu, Brampton, Ontario
Jeewanjot Singh Bath, Brampton, Ontario
Jonathan Roberts, Stoney Creek, Ontario
Jugraj Kalkat, Mississsauga, Ontario
Lyle Fernandes, Mississauga, Ontario
Lyndon Lemos, Etobicoke, Ontario
Micah Teixeira, Mississauga, Ontario
Pardeep Koonar, Ottawa, Ontario
Scott Sandinson, Toronto, Ontario
Sean Barretto, Markham, Ontario
Shane Rajaraman, Halifax, Nova Scotia
Shankar Premakanthan, Scarborough, Ontario
Tranpreet Singh, Mississsauga, Ontario
William (Liam) Manning, Ottawa, Ontario

Field Hockey Canada media release



Strathmore go on the rampage

By BRIAN YONGA


Strathmore Scorpions’ Carol Njoki in a past league match at City Park. Strathmore crushed Genetrix of Malawi 12-0 to book a place in the semi-finals of the Africa Cup of Club Championship in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe. MARTIN MUKANGU | NATION MEDIA GROUP

Strathmore Scorpions Tuesday sealed their place in the semi-finals of the Africa Cup of Club Hockey Championship in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe, after thrashing Malawi’s Genetrix 12-0 at the Khumalo Stadium.

The Kenyan girls were in fine form, taking a commanding 6-0 half-time lead before adding six more after the break to record their biggest win in the tournament so far. Yvonne Karanja continued her brilliant form in the tournament scoring three goals while Gilly Okumu, Lucy Mbugua  and skipper Rachel Owuor all hit braces as the university side ran riot.

Strathmore, who were losing finalists in the last editon in Kampala, join Ghana Revenue Authority on top of Pool B with six points with the two teams set to clash on Friday to determine who will win the Pool.

Pauline Amutebi set the ball rolling for last year’s silver medalists when she beat Genetrix keeper Asante Matipa with a ferocious shot in the seventh minute. Two minutes later Lucy Mbugua made it 2-0 after finishing off a Gilly Okumu cross.

PACE OF KENYAN TEAM

Genetrix who lost 16-0 to Ghana Revenue Authority in their first game were unable to deal with the pace of the Kenyan team and their defence appeared shaky every time Strathmore attacked.

Karanja scored her first of the game in the 18th minute holding off two Genetrix players before placing the ball past Matipa before skipper Owuor got her name on the score sheet five minutes later.

The Genetrix defence held firm until the half hour mark when it again was penetrated as Strathmore scored two goals though Laura Gichau and Owuor’s second in the game.

“We have achieved our first target which was to reach the semi finals, we now prepare for the next stage where tougher opponents await,” Strathmore coach Meshack Senge told Hockey Association of Zimbabwe website.

Strathmore beat Egyptian side Sharkia 5-0 in their first game and now join fellow Kenyan side and defending champions Telkom Orange in the last four. Orange cruised in to the last four after beating Bulawayo Athletics Club 3-0 on Monday to move to six points in Pool A.

Daily Nation



Orange rout Twende: Strathmore Scorpions sting Gentrix of Malawi 12-0 to advance to semis

By Elizabeth Mburugu


Betsy Ommalla and Nicola Watson of BAC

Six-time Africa women's Cup of Club Champions Orange Telkom yesterday extended their winning ways with a 9-0 hammering of Twende of Tanzania to qualify for the semi-finals.

The African queens have kept a perfect record and are yet to concede a goal.

The Kenyan girls showed their hunger and intent as true champions in all the matches they have played, forcing their opponents to play in their half for the better part of their three encounters.

Head coach Jos Openda was full of praise for his defence unit, which has been superb, saying they are getting better with every match.

"My defenders have been fantastic, they have played their roles very well and our goalkeeper remains untested after three matches," he said.

Openda added that there was improvement in his forward line though it still requires minimal polishing as the competition is becoming tougher as they head into the knock-out stages.

Kenya international Lilian Aura opened the score four minutes into play, converting a penalty corner that was nicely pushed through by Barbara Simiyu and stopped by Terry Juma. Two minutes later veteran Jacqueline Mwangi was set by veteran Hellen Chemtai at the edge of the circle and she superbly sent it past Twende's goalkeeper Sofia Saguti.

Chemtai continued with her impressive form, adding a third for the champions in the 10th minute.

The Tanzanian ladies composed themselves as they tried in vain to contain the Kenyans from running amok. Their intention was to limit the damage though, as they held tight their defence.

However, Aura converted a second penalty corner in the 26th minute and a minute later, Margaret Rotich scored from a short corner.

Captain Betsy Ommalla scored in the 32nd minute to give Orange a 6-0 advantage by the break.

Chemtai added her second for the match in the 55th minute as Simiyu made it eight four minutes before Mwangi sealed the victory in the 61st minute.

Strathmore University Scorpions, Kenya's second team in the competition, gave debutants Gentrix of Malawi a hockey lesson with a 12-0 beating.

Yvonne Wanjiku, who grabbed last tournaments top scorers award, is on course to retain the title and she made her intentions known with a hat-trick in the 18th, 43rd and 44th minutes. Former Captain Lucy Mbugua also got three in the ninth, 63rd and 68th minutes.

Prolific striker Gilly Okumu and Captain Rachel Owuor scored a brace each while Pauline Amutebi and Laura Guchau were on point to score one goal apiece to add to the huge victory. Wanjiku told Feverpitch that the team comes first but she would also like to win this tournaments top scorers award.

Wanjiku, who scored two goals in the previous event against Ghana Revenue Authority, said they will play their hearts out because winning against the formidable Ghanaian side was not going to be easy.

In the men's title hunt, Trustees of Ghana disarmed Police Machines of Nigeria 4-0 to maintain their unbeaten run. Francis Tettey and Anum Abdur Rahman scored field goals in the 16th and 30th minutes respectively. Salya Nsalbini and Ernest Opuku also scored through converted penalty corners.

The Standard Online



Chemtai: Discipline, hard work and dedication key to my success

By ELIZABETH MBURUGU in BULAWAYO


Orange player Hellen Chemutai when they played Women League with Strathmore at Citypark. ON 01/11/14 PHOTO: JENIPHER WACHIE

Like good old wine, veteran sprinter and former hockey international Hellen Chemtai is becoming better by the day.

Her brilliant performance at the ongoing Africa Cup of Club Championships currently on in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe, has seen the defending champions win all their matches. She has scored five goals in three matches and remains on course to win this tournament's top scorer's award.

Chemtai, who has been out of competitive hockey for three years, made a comeback this year and has been very impressive for Orange both nationally and international. She attributes her success to discipline, hard work and dedication in training.

"I have learnt that discipline is key to success, not just in sports, but in other aspects of life. The discipline I have gained in sports has made me what I am today," she said.

The former Pangani Girls High School student said juggling between hockey and sprints helped her improve in both disciplines.

"Hockey is more of a sprints game, you need speed to make a good forward, without speed in hockey one cannot succeed."

She added that her passion for hockey has also played a big role in her success and the decision to get back on pitch after a three-year absence.

"I have a passion for hockey and sports in general. I decided to come back because I felt something was amiss, something I could only find if I went back to active sports," she added.

Chemtai says she got a lot of support when she took up hockey while in form three at Pangani School in 1988 and it helped her as she grew in the sport making to the national team a year later.

Chemtai has represented the country in many international events in the 100m, 200m, 400m, long jump and triple jump in addition to hockey.

She boasts of personal best times of 11.05 seconds in 100m, 23.08 seconds in 200m, 53.03 seconds in 400m, 6m long jump and 12.32m in triple jump.

She was also the national 100m and 200m champion for six consecutive years.

Meanwhile, Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) of Ghana were on a winning streak as they beat Sharkia of Egypt 4-1 in their women's pool B match. The Ghanaian girls, who have had a good run and remain unbeaten, have scored 20 goals and conceded one.

On Monday, Shams of Egypt gained their first points from a 2-1 victory against Twende of Tanzania.

The Standard Online



Ghanaian teams making waves in Zimbabwe

Results trickling in from the Hockey Club Championship in Zimbabwe look exciting for all the four participating Ghanaian teams.

GRA, both Male and Female, Trustees, and the Police team have chalked some successful results in the preliminary stages of the Club Championship in Zimbabwe.

Over the weekend, GRA ladies annihilated Genetrix of Malawi by 16 goals to nil whiles Trustees shared the spoils with Hippo, 3 goals apiece.

The preliminary phase of the club championship has been amazing for the four Ghanaian clubs as GRA Ladies, after their emphatic win against Genetrix over the weekend made the headlines on Monday morning once again by winning 4-1 against tough customers Sharkia of Egypt in the other game.

Police men and Trustees are expected to go into action later on Monday to wrap up the preliminary stages of the Hockey Club Championship in Zimbabwe.

GhanaWeb



Kelburne celebrate ten years of success



Kelburne toasted their ten in-a-row celebrations in style with an 11th successive win in the current season to further affirm their status as Scotland’s leading club.

The club had a special celebratory dinner last Saturday evening in honour of the players that helped them win the Scottish national league for the past ten years.

And they look on course to make it 11 following their 6-1 win over Dundee Wanderers earlier on the day.

That result lifts them eight points clear of the chasing pack with Grange their nearest challengers with seven rounds of games to go in the outdoor season. They conclude their pre-Christmas outdoor schedule next weekend against Gordonians before moving indoors until mid-February.

Euro Hockey League media release



Clubhouse: The England Hockey League Inside Track


Buckingham celebrate Chloe Hobson's goal. Credit Chris Hobson

Buckingham have endured a tough start to life in the top flight but picked up a splendid 4-1 win over high flying Holcombe. In the NOW: Pensions Men's Premier Division, Reading are back in form after that defeat to Brooklands MU. Find out what Zak Jones and Tom Carson had to say about the season so far.

Zak Jones, Buckingham Coach:

On the win over Holcombe:
"I’m really delighted with the performance. We’ve played pretty well up to now and quite a few times this season we could have got more out of games. The team have shown great resilience and never been negative. We knew it’d be a bit of a process this season and it’s probably taken a bit longer than we’d hoped but it’s pleasing to get such a big performance away from home without our captain. The other girls really stepped up and we got our rewards."

On the step up from the Conference to the Premier Division:
"We always knew we could compete at this level, we’ve always done well against the top sides in pre-season and cup games so we know what to expect from these teams. You don’t get as many chances at this level and if you don’t take them you get punished. The sides who've been here a while know how to win these games so it’s been a steep learning curve for the girls but we’re not getting beaten heavily by anyone and maybe with a bit more edge we can start to pick up more points."

On his side's aims for the season:
"We thought if things went well we could be in the group in mid-table fighting it out, possibly even aiming for playoffs. On the other hand we knew if it didn’t go to plan we could end up exactly where we are. If we’d had a bit of luck and been a bit more clinical we could have been having a very different season. Sport is like that, though and we are very realistic, so we know how hard we have to work, but the result at the weekend should give us a lot of confidence."

On the upcoming challenges:
"We need to pick up points from the sides around us, but to be honest the only side who really outplayed us were Surbiton. We’ve been very close in plenty of games so there’s no reason why we can’t pick up the points we need. We just need to make the most of the small margins. We’ve started a lot of games well but not scored and that’s allowed the opposition back in, whereas this week we scored first and that gave us a lot of confidence to keep going."



Tom Carson, Reading:

On the win at the weekend:
"We’ve had a tough few weeks with the Brooklands result and then going a goal up against Cannock before the game was abandoned so it’s good to get back to winning and get points on the board. Against a side like Beeston, the reigning champions it’s always nice to get one over them even though it’s a really tough game."

On the 5-4 defeat to Brooklands MU:
"I think you have to move on from games like Brooklands. We understand where our mistakes came from but we took the positives from it. We scored four goals in 15 minutes playing as we wanted to play. Don’t forget their goalkeeper played very well towards the end and we were unlucky not to get something. I’ve never seen a game like that so it was a shock from our perspective but you have to move on."

On Reading's young guns:
"We’ve got some really talented young players who haven’t played at this level before. Some games they aren’t as effective as they can be due to experience. Their ability is up there with anyone playing in the division but it’s just about getting them match time so they can influence games. They showed it this weekend with two of them getting important goals for us which proves they are adapting to this level.

Since Simon Mantell’s been out I've been the senior player up front. I’ve really enjoyed it, taking on a bit more responsibility. These players have got bags of ability and they know how to play hockey. They score goals and create chance and it’s exciting to watch and play a part in."

On Reading's season aims:
"If you look at the results we’ve beaten Beeston and Wimbledon but dropped points in games we shouldn’t have. The league is quite open this year. Although East Grinstead look strong, teams are dropping points which means if we perform well in the second half we have a great chance of getting into the top four."

On the weekend's clash with Surbiton:
"The points from the game against Surbiton are important but they’re not the be all and end all. They have a strong side and good coach but if we play well and get the points it lays down a nice marker. We have a long way to go and there is plenty that can happen between now and the end of the season."

England Hockey Board Media release



UniKL finally get first win in Malaysia Hockey League

By S. Ramaguru

KUALA LUMPUR: Universiti Kuala Lumpur (UniKL) finally got it right at the eighth time of asking.

UniKL defeated Tenaga Nasional 2-0 for their first win in the Premier Division of the Malaysia Hockey League (MHL) at the National Hockey Stadium in Bukit Jalil on Tuesday.

The win took them to fifth place in the six-team standings. They now have five points from a win and two draws.

UniKL coach A. Arulselvaraj was happy to see his men playing with more confidence, saying “we are improving with each game”.

“This is good as we can look ahead to the knockout stage with greater confidence. There have been improvements in the team and we have finally nailed our first win. I’m sure the players will settle down after this,” he said.

Mohd Sufi Ismat scored the opening goal in the 11th minute before National Junior Meor Azuan Hassan added the second in the 38th minute to subdue the Tenaga side.

It wasn’t all good news for UniKL as C. Baljit Singh and Mohd Haziq Samsul will be suspended for one match after picking up a yellow card each against Tenaga. The duo have collected eight demerit points each and will serve the mandatory one-match ban when UniKL meet Maybank on Friday.

The preliminary round will end on Sunday and the knockout stage will begin the following weekend.

The Star of Malaysia



A tale of two players in KLHC-Terengganu match

By S. Ramaguru


National hockey player Mohd Razie Rahim (left) in action during the Incheon Asian Games last month. - Filepic

KUALA LUMPUR: When Premier Division title contenders Kuala Lumpur Hockey Club (KLHC) and Terengganu clash on Friday, two players will find themselves at the centre of attention.

Penalty corner specialists Mohamed Razie Rahim of KLHC and Faizal Saari of Terengganu are joint top scorers with 10 goals each and are very likely to have a big say on the final outcome of this crucial Malaysia Hockey League (MHL) tie.

Razie, who is the KLHC skipper, was the top scorer in 2010 with 27 goals. Faizal then took over the feat in 2011 and 2012.

Last year, Sapura’s Kashif Ali of Pakistan top scored with 15 goals.

But Razie is not interested in the top scorer’s award.

“All I want is to lead KLHC to the title again. My job as a penalty corner flicker is to score goals. So, I’m happy doing just that. I know there will be comparisons with Faizal when it comes to the drag flick. But I can’t help it,” he said.

Razie has scored in seven of the team’s eight matches thus farm. He only failed to score in the return match against Tenaga Nasional.

Faizal has featured in only six matches and sounded the board in four of them. He was suspended for two matches last week.

Razie feels that Faizal has the edge over him because “he can score field goals as well as from penalty corner setpieces. I only score from penalty corners”.

The KLHC skipper was obviously being modest.

In their match against Maybank last Friday, Razie surprised everyone when he dribbled from the 25-yard line to score a field goal.

“That was just a one-off thing!” he laughed.

“It does not matter who scores as long as we win the match. The players have settled down well and we are looking forward to the match on Friday.

“We will go all out to win the tie.”

KLHC have won the league title eight times and hold a three-point lead over Terengganu. So, they can afford to lose the match on Friday.

If that happens, then the title will be decided on the last day – on Sunday. On that day, KLHC will play UniKL while Terengganu will meet Sapura.

Goal difference could very well come into the equation as well.

But Razie, like his coach K. Dharmaraj, does not want to wait until Sunday to seal the deal.

“I think it’s more important to wrap up the title early. We will not underestimate Terengganu ... they have some very strong players,” said Razie.

The Star of Malaysia



Across the Miles: Get to Know the Cages that Commute to Festival

With the 2014 National Hockey Festival only a few days away, the art of goal production, courtesy of GOAL Sporting Goods, Inc. is in full swing. This year’s Festival will take place on 31 of the Empire Polo Club’s prestine pitches, meaning that a total of 62 goal cages will dot the scenic landscape.

While the goals will stand ready and waiting as thousands of athletes and fans venture into the venue on Thursday, it takes a small village and weeks of dedication to ensure a flawless presentation. A few weeks ago, the goals, then individual pieces of metal and netting, began their journey by being loaded into trucks in Connecticut with a final destination of Palm Springs, Calif. Upon arrival, a team of employees and volunteers unloaded the trucks and assembled the parts into maybe the most critical part of our game, a perfect, brand new goal cage. The total assembly process to complete 62 cages takes about two or three days. Once the final whistle blows at Festival on Sunday and the cages have done their due diligence, the squad of goal aficionados will take the cages apart, pack them back into trucks and send them on their way home to Connecticut.

After their debut at Festival, the goal cages will be available for purchase at a discounted price of $1,149 for USA Field Hockey members!

GOAL Sporting Goods, Inc. has supported USA Field Hockey for more than 25 years by supplying goals to National Hockey Festivals and Futures tournaments. Roughly 600 pairs of goals and nets have been bought over the years, helping to benefit those programs and events. Goal Sporting Goods, Inc. continues to contribute and support the growth of USA Field Hockey.

GOAL Sporting Goods, Inc. has shipped goals across the entire country, including to Maine, Florida, California and Alaska. All corners of the U.S. have happily used these goals. GOAL is a U.S. owned company staffed by U.S. employees who proudly create top of the line cages here on American soil. The goals used for the 2014 National Hockey Festival are brand new and used only for this edition of the largest field hockey tournament in the world.

For more information on GOAL Sporting Goods, Inc. and details on how to get your hands on a cage after Festival, e-mail This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or call (800) 334-4625.

USFHA



Q&A with USWNT Head Coach Craig Parnham on the National Coaches Forum

The 2014 USA Field Hockey National Coaches Forum is rapidly approaching and will be held over the weekend of December 13-14 at Spooky Nook Sports in Lancaster, Pa. U.S. Women’s National Team Coaches will be on hand to share their experiences and expertise with our coaching community, both in the classroom and on the pitch.

There are still spots available for the 2014 National Coaches Forum. Register here to learn from U.S. Women’s National Team Head Coach Craig Parnham and the rest of the experienced U.S. Women’s National Team coaching staff!

Parnham will discuss such things as the transferability of skill from training to match play, how the culture of the team has changed over the last 12 months and how that was accomplished. He will explore the squad’s technical and tactical focuses, environmental developments and other things to consider both on and off the pitch. U.S. Women’s National Team Assistant Coach and U21 Head Coach Janneke Schopman will present on talent development and its implementation in the Junior High Performance Programs. Dave Hamilton, USA Field Hockey Director of Performance Science, will present in two parts. The first of which will cover the U.S. Women’s National Team’s physical journey thus far. He will then present on physical development for field hockey. Nate Franks, USA Field Hockey Performance Analyst, will present on performance analysis in relation to statistics from the World Cup and ways in which video has assisted players in their own growth.

Parnham took time out of his busy schedule to take a look back at the squad’s performance in New Zealand and to look ahead to what’s to come at the National Coaches Forum.

USA Field Hockey: Coming off of the World Cup, how was your trip to New Zealand and what were the key things you learned from the trip moving forward?

CP: The tour to New Zealand was very good for us. It was the first set of games since the World Cup in June and so was nice to get an opportunity to play again. The players had a couple of weeks off following the World Cup, but since then have been training hard.

USA Field Hockey: What was the mood of the team?

CP: The team was pleased to return to competitive games. New Zealand is a great place to play and a great opponent to play against. We always have good crowds there and are made to feel very welcome.

USA Field Hockey: How would you define your coaching philosophy? How has the team reacted to this approach? 

CP: Philosophically, I like to develop players to be creative and problem solvers. It’s important that they take a role in the direction of the team and that they drive the standards and behaviors of the group both on and off the pitch. Some people take to this easier than others do. Naturally, there are those who follow and those who lead. My view is that greater ownership leads to greater investment by the players and staff. This does take time to develop and we are currently a work in progress.  It’s nice to see how people develop as we progress on our journey.

USA Field Hockey: What should coaches expect at this year’s National Coaches Forum?

CP: At this year’s National Coaches Forum, we will take a look back over the past 12 months and review some of the areas we have been working on both on and off the pitch. I am delighted to have a number of the staff presenting on a variety of topics. This will be Janneke’s first Coaches Forum and she will be presenting how to develop skills and talent. Dave Hamilton, Director of Sport Performance will also be present and highlight some of the training principles and concepts currently being used with the squad and finally and Nate Franks will be sharing his insights into Performance Analysis.

USA Field Hockey: Can you explain your open-practice policy?

CP: I am committed to maintaining an open door policy in relation to practice and training. I have learnt a great deal from observing different coaches and sports. In my current role, I see it as a great opportunity to share and discuss ideas with peers. I am indebted to the coaches who have helped me over the years and hope that I can, in a small way, help others too.

USA Field Hockey: What is your most memorable moment as a former player? 

CP: My first International cap was a memorable moment, against New Zealand in New Zealand.

USA Field Hockey has reserved a limited number of hotel rooms at the Heritage Hotel in Lancaster, Pa. for this event. The Heritage Hotel is only a 15-minute drive to Spooky Nook Sports. Click here for more hotel information.

USFHA media release



Registration under the stars

Wodonga Hockey Club prepare themselves for the 2015 season



Over the past 12 months, Wodonga Hockey Club in Victoria have been busy preparing for the 2015 season in an attempt to make their game more attractive and to grow membership numbers.

Thinking outside of the box, Wodonga has committed to making changes across the club including: registration, sponsorship, social media, social functions and media exposure.

Focusing on reviewing their registration events in an attempt to generate larger membership numbers, Wodonga is looking to significantly drop registration fees by 70% for new junior players signing up.

Struggling to get members to previous registration days, and then spending considerable amounts of time chasing potential members, Wodonga’s Executive Committee is planning ahead, coming up with a new and inviting idea for their 2015 registration event.

Registration under the stars will be a first for Wodonga Hockey Club, moving their traditional registration day from a Sunday afternoon to a Friday evening, making it a family friendly social event.

Pulling out the big screen and the barbeque at an outdoor local cinema while showing a family friendly movie has sparked interest in their community.

Wodonga clubs president Kyle Brereton commented on the planned event as well as the amount of work put into it.

“We see this event as a means to develop club unity early in the season, to deepen our commitment to our club’s family members, to encourage more existing members to come along and sign up on the one day, and to appeal to young families who would like to know more about hockey and our club in a relaxed social atmosphere, who will hopefully sign up and give it ago.”

“This type of event was not difficult to arrange, especially when you have a Council who are supportive of not only your endeavours from a club level, but also their enthusiasm for community groups to utilise Council community facilities.”

“We would certainly encourage all hockey clubs to be thinking out of the box and looking for new and novel ideas to create interest in this great game we play. It’s important we then share these ideas so that as a wider hockey community we can continue to grow and attract new participants, particularly young children.”

You can find more information about this event via the Wodonga Hockey Club website and Facebook pages.

Hockey Australia media release



Astroturf for Barbados

Any associations or clubs willing to donate recently used astroturf surfaces to us here in Barbados. We are desperate for anything. Please contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

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