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News for 27 May 2017

All the news for Saturday 27 May 2017


England's women defeated in Spain series


England women in Spain

England’s women narrowly lost out 2-1 to Spain in their three-match series held in Madrid as they stepped up preparations ahead of this summer’s Investec Internationals.

The team won the opening game 2-1 before losing 5-2 in the second and 3-2 in the final and ultimately deciding match.

However there were many positives for the squad on the tour none more so than the return of Susannah Townsend.  The Olympic Gold medallist made her competitive comeback after nearly nine months out with a knee injury and featured in the first two games of the tour.

Nicola White and Alex Danson also returned to action and were both back in the goals while forward Sophie Bray was the top scorer for England netting three times in the three games.

With seven of the 20 players travelling to Spain under the age of 25 there was valuable experience gained for newer members of the squad with goalkeeper Miriam Pritchard also making her senior debut for Danny Kerry’s side.

Attentions now turn to the games against the Netherlands and Argentina in the Investec Internationals being held at Lee Valley Hockey and Tennis Centre in London this summer. Tickets have sold out for the contest with the Netherlands but you still have the chance to secure your seat for the clash with Argentina on 10 June.

England Hockey Board Media release



England downed again

By Mike Haymonds

SOPHIE BRAY and Nicola White were England’s scorers as they suffered a second defeat 3-2 to Spain in the final of a three-match series in Madrid.

After falling behind to a 16th minute penalty corner strike by Clara Ycart England recovered to take a 2-1 half-time lead through Bray – her second of the series – and a corner goal by White.

But two goals in three minutes by Rocio Ybarra and Julia Pons ten minutes from time gave Spain a 2-1 series victory after a 2-1 defeat and 5-2 win in the earlier games.

England’s next appearance will be at the Investec International series in the Olympic Park next month when the top three world ranked nations compete. On Saturday June 10 they face Argentina (3rd) and a day later meet world number one The Netherlands in a repeat of the Rio Olympic Final won by GB.

Fieldhockey.com



USWNT Secures Second Victory Over Ireland During Three-Game Event



LANCASTER, Pa. – While the Citi U.S. Women’s National Team vs. Ireland Series is providing Team USA with vital international stick to ball touches against a strong opponent, it serves another opportunity. It is here, within the three-game event that USWNT Head Coach Janneke Schopman will watch the USA athletes one more time in game mode before constructing her FIH Hockey World League Semifinals roster. Schopman is playing fresh talent and seasoned players  in various pitch locations to find the 18 who will be representing USA in Johannesburg, South Africa from July 8 - 23, 2017. Under the stadium lights of Spooky Nook Sports in Lancaster, Pa. the red, white and blue was able to prevail in its second match against Ireland with a score of 2-0.

"I'm basically looking for players that show me on the field that they get it, want to learn and improve every game," said Schopman. "Especially for the younger players here right now that a big question to ask because they are only here for a week or two. Hope quickly do they adapt and do they listen to the veterans? Can they execute what we talk about in the brief. There are very good things that are visible already. We're young and I think people forget that. Yes, we came off of a great Olympics but we lost a ton of experience. Our entire backfield is primarily gone."

In the opening minutes Team USA displayed strong attacking intent developing long, leading runs into their offensive end. In the 5th minute of play, the USWNT earned its first penalty corner opportunity. Kat Sharkey's (Moosic, Pa.) sharp strike created a goalmouth scramble without a result. A physical game unfolded where umpires were quick to call stick fouls. Team USA earned three yellow cards and a green card while  Ireland earned one green and a yellow card. The second quarter showed scoring promise for the USA. In the 20th minute Taylor West (Pocomoke, Md.) drove the ball into the circle where she was met by an aggressive Ireland defender. Ireland's Shirley McCay tripped and fell into West. McCay earned a five-minute yellow card while West forced the foul to earn USA its second corner. Ireland's goalkeeper Grace O'Flanagan deflected Hoffman's crisp hit letting the ball fly over the crossbar.

Despite being a player down for an extend period of time, Ireland was able to keep key possession to find passing pockets until they regained full field strength. The scoreboard remained scoreless heading into halftime. In the 34th Jill Witmer (Lancaster, Pa.) located an Ireland foot within the top left of the attack circle for a penalty corner. Hoffman cranked a shot that flew past the post. A quick succession of passes from New Jersey standouts Amanda Magadan (Randolph, N.J.) to Michelle VIttese (Cherry Hill, N.J.) ran the left side of the pitch that channeled play forward through Ireland’s midfield.

Taking play to the opposite end of the field, from the baseline of their attack circle, Ireland fought to earn its first penalty corner. A broken stick stop ruined their chance to fire a shot. USA's Alyssa Parker (Woodbine, Md.) earned a yellow card for physical play.

Transitioning back into their offensive end, a deceptive touch at the top landed on Vittese's stick for a low direct blow that was buried deep into the corner of the goal cage from a penalty corner. After hitting the backboard, USA’s Vittese collected her first yellow card due to illegal body positioning.

Ireland's Zoe Wilson sent a hard hit to the goal off the team's second penalty corner without a result. USA generated fast counterattack to feed the ball to Shealy who crossed the ball over the goal line in the 56th minute to change the score. USA 2, Ireland 0. Vittese earned a second yellow card and was pulled from the game for 10 minutes. Although they were down a player in the final minutes of play, Team USA kept the final score USA 2, Ireland 0.

"I think we played way better than the first game," said Schopman. "It may not have been as exciting for the crowd because defensively we were a bit better in position so we didn't give that many opportunities to Ireland. Yes, they had possession but they weren't able to get into the circle that often, even when we were numbers down. On attack we can get a little bit better on the ball, but that's what were trying for."

The USWNT is back on the pitch against Ireland Saturday, May 27 at 6:30 p.m. EST at Spooky Nook Sports in Lancaster, Pa.

USFHA media release



Ireland v USA second test

Ireland played their second test against the World Ranked No. 6 USA in Lancaster this evening USA were the more dominant team In first quarter with Irish Keeper Grace O Flanagan the busier of the two keepers making a top class save to leave the game scoreless. US had one PC but the defence cleared.

The second quarter was evenly contested with Ireland doing well when down to 10 after McCay was given 5m yellow. From the resulting PC award keeper O Flanagan made a quality save and the score at half time remained USA 0-0 Ireland

The 3rd quarter was dominated by Ireland with many circle penetrations but USA defence held strong, Ireland forced their first PC but it came to nothing, O Flanagan again produced a top class save from the resulting US counter attack.

The final quarter saw US score twice once from PC in the 47m with Vittese strike evading Irish keeper O Flanagan and the second goal from a quick counter, following an Irish PC, finished by Shealy. Ireland will be disappointed to concede two in final quarter as they dominated territory but US took their chances and ultimately victory in the second test.

After the game Irish Coach Graham Shaw said "Like the first game the performance was very good. THe difference is in the circle and we need to get better at turning circle entries into goal scoring opportunities, penalty corners and goals. We will look at the video and try improve in these areas. We are looking forward to going again tomorrow"

The two sides will meet in the final test at same time tomorrow evening before Irish team fly home on Sunday.

USA 2 ( Vittese, Shealy) Ireland 0

Ireland: G OFlanagan, Tice, McCay, Meeke, Wilson, Pinder, DAly, Mullan, A O Flanagan, Curran, Duke

Bench: McFerran, Wilson, Matthews, Watkins, Beatty, Evans, Carroll

Squad
1.       Ayeisha McFerran (University of Louisville)
2.       Grace OFlanagan (Railway Union)
3.       Hannah Matthews (Loreto)
4.       Alison Meeke (Loreto)
5.       Shirley McCay (Elks)
6.       Yvonne O’Byrne (Cork Harlequins)
7.       Elena Tice (UCD)
8.       Zoe Wilson (Harvesthuder)
9.       Nicola Daly (Muckross)
10.   Roisin Upton (Cork Harlequins)
11.   Gillian Pinder (UCD)
12.   Chloe Watkins (Hermes/Monkstown)
13.   Katie Mullan (UCD)
14.   Emma Russell (UCD)
15.   Anna O’Flanagan (Hermes/Monkstown)
16.   Naomi Carroll (Cork Harlequins)
17.   Nicola Evans (Hermes/Monkstown)
18.   Chloe Brown (Ards)
19.   Emily Beatty (KHC Dragons)
20.   Ellen Curran (Hermes/Monkstown)
21.   Deirdre Duke (UCD)
22.   Sinead Loughran (Hermes/Monkstown)

Irish Hockey Association media release



Ireland v England (Men)



Ireland travelled to the UK this morning to play two practice matches (Uncapped) against England at Bisham on Saturday 27th May at 2pm and Sunday 28th May at 1pm

The 20 man squad named by Coach Craig Fulton for the games listed below

Jonny Bell, Lisnagarvey
Lee Cole Monkstown
Drew Carlisle Banbridge
Sam O Connor Glennane
John Jackson Bath Buccaneers
Stuart Loughrey H&W
Christopher Cargo H&W
Darragh Walsh TRR
Shane O Donoghue Glenanne
Neil Glassey Lisnagarvey
Callum Robson Annadale
Stephen Cole Monkstown
Eugene Magee Banbridge
Johnny McKee Banbridge
Matthew Nelson Lisnagarvey
Owen Magee Banbridge
Jeremy Duncan UCD
Julian Dale Cork C of I
Jame Carr TRR
Mark Ingram Pembroke Wanderers

Following the series Fulton will name an extended to play a three test series v Pakistan at Lisnagarvey Hockey Club

    Thursday June 1st 19.30
    Saturday June 3rd 14.00
    Sunday June 4th 14.00

Irish Hockey Association media release



Gemma McCaw’s 4-goal romp leads Cal Cup Day 1

By Jawwad Qamar


Gemma McCaw makes her mark on CalCup2017. Photo: Ned Dawson

It only took the first minute for Black Sticks dynamo Gemma McCaw to remind everyone of her talents as women’s defending champions Jolie Pitts totally humiliated their opponent Oh Yeah! 9-0 in the opening match of the 46th Cal Cup. McCaw had a 4-goal morning while teammate Charlotte Harrison added 2 goals and Daphne Voormolen netted 3.

However, all this firepower was missing later in the day as the heavy favorites Jolie Pitts were held to a goalless draw by Gimnasia y Esgrima B from Argentina.

Women Super Division

Jolie Pitts 9 - 0 Oh Yeah!
Gemma McCaw 1, 20, 23, 41(FG)
Charlotte Harrison 10, 26(FG)
Daphne Voormolen 17(FG), 46(PC), 50(FG)

Rush'd 0 - 2 Gimnasia y Esgrima B
Micaela Dibenedetto 46(PC)
Wanda Dupuy 47(FG)

Gimnasia y Esgrima A 7 - 0 Monarcas
Valentina Paul 2(FG)
Geraldine Pisani 10(PC), 38(FG), 46(PC)
Belen Marijuan 15, 30, 31(FG)

Olympic Club 1 - 0 NorthWest
Steph Byrne 34(FG)

Rush'd 6 - 1 Oh Yeah!
Crystal Horiuchi 5, 28(FG)
Mackenzie Peterson 9(FG)
Kathryn Schneider 25(FG)
Megan Rodgers 29, 31(FG)
Lauren Greer 7(FG)

Jolie Pitts 0 - 0 Gimnasia y Esgrima B

Men Super Division

LA Tigers 3 - 1 Gimnasia y Esgrima
Paul Singh 4, 20(FG)
Pauly Kindi 8(FG)
Eugenio Balboa 45(FG)

Team HFS 2 - 1 Kings
Will Holt 22(PC)
Mike Barminski 31(FG)
Ranjit Singh 7(FG)

Bulldogs 5 - 0 BAFHA Elite
Ajai Dhadwal 12, 14(PC)
Troy Sutherland 28(FG), 40(PC)
Alberto Montilla 32(FG)

JDH Montauk Sharks 2 - 0 SBDS Sports Academy
Will Lawler 6(FG)
Manny Martinez 30(FG)

All 130 teams in 14 divisions will be in action on Day 2, Saturday, as Cal Cup 2017 tournament goes into full swing. For results, schedules and directions to the venues, please visit www.calcup.com.

Meanwhile Australian legend Jamie Dwyer held a free clinic for kids at the tournament much to their enjoyment.


Jamie Dwyer shows how it is done. Photo: Ned Dawson


Yes he is in there somewhere! Photo: Ned Dawson

Fieldhockey.com Exclusive



Hero MotoCorp has once again invested in a major hockey event

Hero MotoCorp to be the Title Sponsor of Men’s Hockey World League Semi-Final, London 2017



The International Hockey Federation (FIH) and England Hockey are delighted to confirm Hero MotoCorp Ltd., the world’s largest two-wheeler manufacturer, as the title sponsor of the 2017 Men’s Hockey World League Semi-Final in London.

Taking place at Lee Valley Hockey and Tennis Centre in Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park in London, England between 15-25 June, the Hockey World Cup 2018 qualifier will now be called the ‘Men’s Hero Hockey World League Semi-Final, London 2017’.

Hero MotoCorp Ltd. has remained the world's largest manufacturer of two-wheelers for 16 consecutive years now, with global operations spanning across 35 countries. The New Delhi, India headquartered company has an illustrious history of associations and partnerships with international sports.

Apart from its long-term association with the FIH, Hero MotoCorp has a long-standing association with European and Asian Tour (Golf) and was a global partner of the International Cricket Council (ICC). Tiger Woods is Hero’s Global Corporate Partner and Diego Simeone Global Brand Ambassador.

Speaking of this partnership, Mr. Pawan Munjal, Chairman, MD and CEO, Hero MotoCorp said: “Hockey continues to be one of the most popular sports across the world and we at Hero MotoCorp are glad to extend our association with FIH and hockey through this important event. Our Title Sponsorship of this event is in keeping with Hero’s increasing global presence, which now extends to 35 countries across the world. I wish all the participating nations the best of luck and look forward to an exciting competition.”

On this latest sponsorship announcement, FIH CEO Jason McCracken said: “We are pleased to secure Hero MotoCorp as title sponsor. Their investment will provide them with exposure to millions of hockey fans across the world who will be following, both online and on TV, their nation’s bid to qualify for the 2018 Hockey World Cup.”

He continued: “This is yet another important partnership facilitated by FIH as we continue to drive the marketing and commercial value of hockey. Hero MotoCorp’s continued commitment to our sport provides further evidence of FIH securing commercial partners who share our vision for developing the sport, outlined as a key initiative in our 10-year Hockey Revolution strategy.”

FIH President Dr Narinder Dhruv Batra added: “We are delighted that Hero MotoCorp has once again invested in our sport, continuing our long-term, positive relationship which has made a significant contribution to the development of the sport globally. We are grateful for their ongoing support and sponsorship which has now extended over many years.”

The Men’s Hero Hockey World League, London 2017 gets underway in only a few weeks’ time, with excitement already beginning to grow. To keep up to date with all the latest news, including ticket information, visit the official event website on FIH.ch and follow FIH via Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.

Find out more about Hero MotoCorp by visiting their official website or by following them on Facebook or Twitter.

#HWL2017

About Hero MotoCorp Limited

For the past 16 consecutive years, the New Delhi (India)-headquartered Hero MotoCorp has remained the world’s largest two-wheeler manufacturer in terms of unit volumes sold by a single company in a calendar year. Since its inception, Hero has sold over 70 million motorcycles and scooters in cumulative sales. Hero MotoCorp currently sells its products in 35 countries around the world. Hero MotoCorp has been associated with various disciplines of sports including football, golf, cricket and field hockey for over two decades now. 14-time major winner Tiger Woods is Hero's Global Corporate Partner and Atletico Madrid Coach Diego Simeone is Hero’s Global Brand Ambassador.

FIH site



Its going to be Hero time for the London razzmataz

s2h team



Indian motor cycle behemoth, Hero MotoCorp, will be the title sponsor of the much awaited Hockey World League Semifinal to come off in London in three week's time.

The Indian biggie company sponsored the Champions Trophy held last year before the Rio Olympics, in London.

The International Hockey Federation (FIH) and England Hockey have confirmed that Hero MotoCorp Ltd., the world’s largest two-wheeler manufacturer, will be the title sponsor of the 2017 Men’s Hockey World League Semi-Final in London.

Taking place at Lee Valley Hockey and Tennis Centre in Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park in London, England between 15-25 June, the Hockey World Cup 2018 qualifier will now be called the ‘Men’s Hero Hockey World League Semi-Final, London 2017’.

Hero MotoCorp Ltd. has remained the world's largest manufacturer of two-wheelers for 16 consecutive years now, with global operations spanning across 35 countries. The New Delhi, India headquartered company has an illustrious history of associations and partnerships with international sports.

Apart from its long-term association with the FIH, Hero MotoCorp has a long-standing association with European and Asian Tour (Golf) and was a global partner of the International Cricket Council (ICC). Tiger Woods is Hero’s Global Corporate Partner and Diego Simeone Global Brand Ambassador.

Speaking of this partnership, Mr. Pawan Munjal, Chairman, MD and CEO, Hero MotoCorp said: “Hockey continues to be one of the most popular sports across the world and we at Hero MotoCorp are glad to extend our association with FIH and hockey through this important event. Our title sponsorship of this event is in keeping with Hero’s increasing global presence, which now extends to 35 countries across the world. I wish all the participating nations the best of luck and look forward to an exciting competition.”

On this latest sponsorship announcement, FIH CEO Jason McCracken said: “We are pleased to secure Hero MotoCorp as title sponsor. Their investment will provide them with exposure to millions of hockey fans across the world who will be following, both online and on TV, their nation’s bid to qualify for the 2018 Hockey World Cup.”

He continued: “This is yet another important partnership facilitated by FIH as we continue to drive the marketing and commercial value of hockey. Hero MotoCorp’s continued commitment to our sport provides further evidence of FIH securing commercial partners who share our vision for developing the sport, outlined as a key initiative in our 10-year Hockey Revolution strategy.”

FIH President Dr Narinder Dhruv Batra added: “We are delighted that Hero MotoCorp has once again invested in our sport, continuing our long-term, positive relationship which has made a significant contribution to the development of the sport globally. We are grateful for their ongoing support and sponsorship which has now extended over many years.”

Stick2Hockey.com



The Ultimate Rivalry? India v Pakistan heads to London


India in action

Rivalry is defined as a competition for the same objective or for superiority in the same field.

When it comes to India versus Pakistan few rivalries spark such emotion, passion and competition in the world of sport.

This summer the latest instalment of this fantastic sporting rivalry heads to London at Lee Valley Hockey and Tennis Centre as they clash in Pool B at the World Hockey League Semi-Finals.

An electric atmosphere is guaranteed when these sides meet, not only will the players be giving their all on the pitch, but both sets of fans will be bidding to be the loudest in getting behind their team in London this summer!

It’ll mark the 168th meeting between the sides with Pakistan looking for their 83rd victory while India will be hoping to record their 55th win over Pakistan.

There are currently seven FIH World Ranking places between the sides with India sitting in sixth while Pakistan after missing out on qualification for Rio 2016 now sit in thirteenth.

Saturday 18 June at Lee Valley Hockey and Tennis Centre is already being touted as a standout day with hosts England in action against Argentina after the clash between India and Pakistan on a day full of historical competition.

The sides last met in the Asia Champions Trophy Final in October 2016. A thrilling encounter in Malaysia was narrowly won 3-2 by India after Pakistan battled back from 2-0 down to level before Thimmaiah’s late winner.

India’s head coach Roelant Oltmans has made clear the team’s ambitions heading into the tournament in London stating that a top two finish, victory over Pakistan could prove crucial to achieving this.

Pakistan toured Australia and New Zealand in March with mixed results. Against New Zealand they won the four match series 2-1 but lost all four games against the Kookaburras.

But with all derby matches the form book can be thrown out the window when fierce rivals clash and it will be all to play for when the sides come together on the 18 June.

Pakistan

15th June - Netherlands (6pm)
16th June - Canada (6pm)
18th June - INDIA (2pm)
19th June - Scotland (12pm)

India

15th June - Scotland (2pm)
17th June - Canada (2pm)
18th June - PAKISTAN (2pm)
20th June - Netherlands (2pm)

England

15th June - China (8pm)
17th June - Malaysia (4pm
18th June - ARGENTINA (4pm)
20th June - Korea (8pm)

England Hockey Board Media release



Playing mind games with Team USA and the Hockeyroos



When the USA women’s team were 2-0 down to Australia in the bronze medal match at the 2016 Hockey Champions Trophy, their dreams of a first medal at a top tier international championship since they won bronze in the 1994 Hockey World Cup looked to be at an end.

Somehow the team picked themselves up and clawed back to 2-2, before winning the match on penalty shootout. It was, says Head Coach, Janneke Schopman, one of the most telling signs that this was a squad with deep reserves of mental strength.

The Dutchwoman, who took over as Head Coach to the USA in January 2017, believes that mental strength is the deciding factor among the leading teams.

“The difference in skill level among the top players is so minimal,” she says, “that it comes down to the mental strength of your players. Yes, attention to detail is important but, for me, the ability to stay strong mentally is a match winner.”

Australia's Head Coach Paul Gaudoin is also a firm believer in the power of mental toughness to precipitate success, along with the ability to bounce back from defeat. It is something that he and his coaches are working hard to instil into the Hockeyroo's culture. "I think it’s practice and experience – you want to put yourself in positions where you do fail occasionally so you can build to get better as you go along. The challenge is to make it authentic and real, and to be able to push the girls to understand that this is training for pressure situations."

With the Hockey World League Semi-Finals on the horizon, mental strength is something all the participating teams will need. USA will be competing in Johannesburg in July, with the dual prize of a place in the Hockey World League Finals and qualification to the 2018 World Cup at stake. On this occasion, Australia will not get the chance to even things up after the Champions Trophy defeat – the Hockeyroos are competing in Brussels at the end of June, with their eyes on the same two targets.

Although both USA and Australia have a team psychologist who is available if the players need to speak to them, Schopman and Gaudoin do much of the mental preparation of the players themselves. For Schopman, knowing each player’s personality and learning which buttons to press to get the best results is vital in her role as a coach.

For Gaudoin the process is as much an art as a science: "I think that’s the art of coaching. You’re a manager of people and you need to have a genuine interest in the athlete and the person behind the athlete and that’s important. You have to build a strong relationship with each person within the group.

"It involves group discussions being led by either staff or players and it’s as general as that. It can range from what we do out on the pitch to how we’re living our lives as well, and how we can support each other."

Michelle Vitesse is a veteran of Team USA, with two Olympic Games to her name. She says that mental preparation remains a very underestimated area within hockey and it is something that she is working hard to develop within her own game.

“Mental preparation allows me the ability to best equip me to control my emotions and perform under pressure,” says the forward. “I think it elevates my game because it trains me to not let my emotions or thoughts take me away from the present moment. Anything in the future or from the past takes away your presence of mind. Being mentally tough allows you to stay grounded and in control.”

Vitesse has adopted the practice of mindfulness in her daily life as well as on the hockey pitch. She believes it helps her to “view things through a different lens” and has helped her develop qualities of patience, choice of response and attitude. It is something that she hopes all her teammates will embrace, although she concedes that some players take a more ‘mindful’ approach than others.

“I think ideally, mindfulness will help each athlete's understanding of each other's behaviours. However, at this point in our journey, it's still a work in progress. I think the more each athlete recruits mindfulness in their everyday routine, it will benefit our culture.”  

Mental strength is a tool in the player’s kit that really benefits from experiences and time. Vitesse says that her own approach within the stressful atmosphere of elite sport has become far more resilient as she has matured as a player.

“I had to push myself on a regular basis to realise that I could keep pushing my own limits. I have learnt resilience and mental fortitude as I keep pushing my own comfort zone. When I first started out, I did not fully understand the commitment needed to be successful in a high performance environment. I was my own worst enemy. I think believing I was capable of anything was the first step.”

Vitesse and Team USA will be competing in the Hockey World League Semi-Finals in Johannesburg, South Africa. The event takes place 8-23 July. Australia will be competing in Brussels in the other women's Semi-Final, which takes place from 21 June to 2 July.

#HWL2017

FIH site



Coach Stephen working overtime to put out strong team in London

by Aftar Singh

KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysian hockey chief coach Stephen van Huizen has got his work cut out for him as he tries to get the men’s team ready for the World Hockey League Semi-Finals in London from June 15-25.

With the team weak in all departments – penalty corner set pieces, defence and attack – Stephen has been working overtime trying to get his men firing on all cylinders.

These weaknesses were apparent during the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup in Ipoh last month. Malaysia played six matches and finished fifth with two wins, a draw and three defeats. Malaysia netted six goals and conceded nine.

Stephen admitted that he would need more penalty corner set-piece variations as “we will be facing a strong challenge to qualify for next year’s World Cup”.

“We have four penalty corner drag flickers and they are working hard to improve on their accuracy and power,” Stephen said of Mohd Razie Abdul Rahim, Faizal Saari, Shahril Saabah and Mohd Najmi Farizal Jazlan.

“We must be well-prepared for the tournament as our goal is to qualify for World Cup (in Bhuba­neswar, India, next year).

He also stressed on the need to be more clinical in their finishing and more focused in their defending.

The 23-man training squad will play two friendlies against the national development squad next week before the final 18 is named.

Stephen said their training would be divided into two sessions due to the fasting month. They will train in the gym in the morning and on the pitch at night after breaking fast.

The national team will leave for London on June 7 and play three friendlies – against the England development team, Wales and Canada.

Ten teams will feature in London and Malaysia will open their Group A campaign against world No. 1 Argentina on June 16.

Malaysia’s other group matches are against England (June 17), South Korea (June 19) and China (June 20).

The quarter-finals will be on June 22, semi-finals on June 24 and final on June 25.

Group B comprises India, Canada, Holland, Pakistan and Scotland.

The Star of Malaysia



Pakistan hockey team leaves for UK

Sohail Imran


Pakistan hockey team will play in the world league, which will be held from June 15 to June 25. Photo: Geo News screen grab

LAHORE: The Pakistan hockey team has left for the United Kingdom to take part in the World League, which will be held from June 15 to June 25.

Pakistan is part of Pool B in the FIH Hockey World League which also includes India, Scotland, Canada, and Netherlands. On the other hand, Korea, Malaysia, Argentina, England, and China are part of Pool A.

The top six teams of the tournament will qualify for the Hockey World Cup.

Pakistan’s will play against Netherlands on June 15, Canada on June 16, India on June 18, and Scotland on June 19.

However, if Pakistan fails to qualify for the world cup it will have to win Asian Hockey Champions Trophy, which will be held in India.

The hockey team will play a three-match series with Ireland before the world league.

Pakistan Hockey Federation Secretary Shahbaz Ahmed had told APP that the federation wanted to give maximum international exposure to players prior to the league.

“Pakistan will play matches against Ireland on June 1, 2 and 4 in Belfast,” he had informed.

Team will be led by ace striker Abdul Haseeb Khan, while Umar Bhutta has been selected as vice-captain.

Other players include goalkeepers, Amjad Ali and Mazhar Abbas, defenders/halfbacks Nawaz Ashfaq, Aleem Bilal, Abubakr Mahmood, Mohammad Rizwan Jr, Atif Mushtaq, Tasawwar Abbas and Ammad Shakeel Butt.

Team’s forwards include Mohammad Irfan Jr, Arslan Qadir, Ali Shan, Mohammad Dilber, Ejaz Ahmed, Abdul Haseem Khan, Azfar Yaqoob and Umair Sarfraz.

Geo TV



Manpreet ready to lead from front

Manuja Veerappa

BENGALURU: If the Indian hockey team was to have a designated prankster, newly-appointed skipper Manpreet Singh will fit the bill to a T.

The 24-year-old, who will lead the Indian team at the three-nation tournament in Germany and the World Hockey League Semifinal in London next month, is the livewire of the Indian camp, always looking to make people laugh. On the field, he is key man in the midfield.

The Jalandhar-born has been named the senior team captain for a premier event for the first time. Captaincy comes with the pressure of working alongside players as well as setting standards for the juniors in the team and the midfielder says he's ready for the challenge.

Speaking about the balancing act of a captain, Manpreet, who has led the national junior team in the past, explained: "There is a lot of difference in the leadership roles in the junior and senior teams. At the junior level, we were all about the same age but in the senior team, we have players from varied age groups and experience. For example in the current team, Sardar (Singh), (SV) Sunil and Rupinder Pal (Singh) are iconic players. It feels a little different as a captain to lead a team with such illustrious players. That said, they have all been friendly and help me handle pressure. For me, the team goals don't change because at the end of the day, hockey is a team sport and each one has his responsibility."

Manpreet is grateful for the support he has received from his seniors and wants to be a reliable friend for the juniors now. "I spend a lot of time with the juniors. If any of them are not playing well, it is important to motivate them. Not very long ago I was in their place and I went through the pressure of a newcomer. My seniors helped me then and I'm trying to do the same now. I'm always there for the youngsters when they want to talk to a friend."

Talking about his leadership qualities, Manpreet pointed out: "I have picked up the best aspects of captaincy from captains I have played with. I've learnt a lot from Sreejesh and Sardar Singh in the Indian team. I have also learnt while playing under internationals like England's Barry Middleton in the Hockey India League."

On lessons learnt from Indian skippers, Manpreet explained: "From Sardar, I have learnt to motivate youngsters. When I started off, if I had a bad day on the field, he always told me not to look back. That is something I tell the youngsters now. Likewise, Sree is a very jovial person who keeps the atmosphere very light but does not allow it to distract us from our goals. That's something I'm trying to inculcate myself."

The Times of India



Want to do well against world's best teams: Akash Chikte

NEW DELHI: Young India goalkeeper Akash Chikte is confident of doing well against world's best sides having dished out some creditable performances since his international debut last year at the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup.

Chikte, who had travelled to Kuantan for the Asian Champions Trophy last year as a reserve goalkeeper, had to step up for an injured PR Sreejesh. He played a crucial role in India's 2-1 win over the hosts Malaysia.

India subsequently won the final 3-2 against defending champions Pakistan and Chikte stood up to the pressure of facing the arch-rivals.

"It is this exposure over the past year that has helped me a lot. I look forward to good show against the world's best teams," said Chikte.

At this year's Sultan Azlan Shah Cup also Chikte faced a similar situation after Sreejesh was ruled out of the tournament due to an injury, which he sustained while playing against Australia. The team returned from Malaysia with a bronze medal.

Chikte feels he is a far better goalkeeper today than a year back.

"After my first tournament for India I knew there was a lot I needed to work on starting from improving my confidence level. I had never been in any junior India camp before. I got to play the senior level directly and I knew I was lacking in basics," said Chikte after a gruelling net session at the on- going national camp in Sports Authority of India, Bengaluru.

The 24-year-old from Pune is all set to take part in the forthcoming 3 Nations Tournament in Dusseldorf, Germany and Hero Hockey World League Semi-Final (Men) in London, where India are grouped with Canada, Scotland, Netherlands and Pakistan.

While all the pool stage matches will to be high voltage encounters, there will be tremendous pressure when India take on Pakistan in their third pool match on June 18.

"We will look at this as any other match, vying for the three points to advance in the tournament. I have played twice against Pakistan (2016 Sultan Azlan Shah Cup and Asian Champions Trophy) and we ended up winning both the matches, so I have a lot of confidence from these matches. I believe it will be a learning experience for me," he said.

A constant name in the goalkeepers list for India camp, Chikte used the chance to learn from Bharat Chetri and India's ace goalkeeper PR Sreejesh.

"I have learnt a lot under them. I used to watch Sreejesh when the national team used to train at Balewadi Stadium, Pune. His reflexes were excellent. I was inspired by him and he has helped me a lot since my first camp.

"Working under Sreejesh and Bharat has been a big advantage for me. My focus at every session now is on stopping penalty corners," Chikte said.

The Times of India



Chikte: learning on the job

Akash Chikte feels he is a far better goalkeeper today than a year back.


Akash Chikte 

A knee injury to P.R. Sreejesh during the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup earlier this month put Akash Chikte firmly in the spotlight. The 24-year-old goalkeeper from Pune did not disappoint as India returned from Malaysia with a bronze medal.

Chikte had been in similar circumstances before, filling in for the experienced Sreejesh at the Asian Champions Trophy last year, when India overcame Pakistan in the final.

While Sreejesh continues to recover from injury, Chikte and Vikas Dahiya will take turns in goal as India heads into two competitions over the next four weeks: the Three Nations invitational tournament in Dusseldorf and the Hockey World League semifinal tournament in London.

“It is the exposure over the past year that has helped me a lot,” said Chikte, at the SAI here on Friday. “After my first tournament for India (the 2016 Sutlan Azlan Shah Cup), I knew there was a lot I needed to work on, starting from improving my confidence levels. I’d never been in any junior India camp before. I got to play the senior level directly and I knew I was lacking in basics.”

India may have already qualified for December’s Hockey World League Final, but the team will still take the semifinal tournament seriously.

India begins its campaign in Pool-B against Scotland (June 15) before meeting Canada (June 17), Pakistan (June 18) and the Netherlands (June 20).

There has been much talk, understandably, of the Pakistan fixture.

“We will look at this as any other match,” said Chikte. “I have played twice against Pakistan (2016 Sultan Azlan Shah Cup and Asian Champions Trophy) and we ended up winning both the matches so I have a lot of confidence.”

Chikte credited Sreejesh and goalkeeping coach Bharat Chetri for his steady improvement. “I have learnt a lot under them. I used to watch Sreejesh when the national team used to train at Balewadi in Pune. His reflexes were excellent. I was inspired by him and he has helped me a lot since my first camp,” Chikte said.

“Working under Sreejesh and Bharat Chetri has been a big advantage for me. My focus at every session now is on stopping penalty corners.”

The Hindu



Felix to replace Harendra as junior hockey coach

Manuja Veerappa

BENGALURU: As a fresh batch of junior India probables went through the paces at the SAI, South Centre here on Friday morning, a familiar face missing among the coaching staff was that of Harendra Singh. The chief coach, who led the 2016 Junior World Cup team to title triumph, is set to be replaced by former India skipper Jude Felix.

Felix's entry may well bring the curtains down on Harendra's successful stint with the junior team. Harendra, whose assignment with Hockey India ended after the World Cup in December last year, had put a core group together and trained them to a historic win.

It is reliably learnt that Hockey India did not approach Harendra after the team's dream run in the quadrennial tournament. The move to replace him may not come as a shock to Harendra, but it raises a lot of questions about the use-and-discard approach of Hockey India.

It is reliably learnt that Hockey India will formally appoint Felix as chief coach next week. He is expected to officially take charge of the camp which is being monitored by Hockey India's high performance director David John.

The Times of India



Police take on Gladiators: Struggling reigning hockey champions target their second win of the season

Butali Warriors eyeing second spot league battle.

By Elizabeth Mburugu


Chase Sailors George Mutira with the ball as Kenya Police Felix Okoth blocks when they played Men Premier at City Park yesterday, 17/07/2016. Chase Sailors scored 3-2. PHOTO: JENIPHER WACHIE

Struggling reigning hockey champions Strathmore University Gladiators, former holders Butali Warriors and Kenya Police will all be in action this weekend as the battle for this season's men's Premier League title intensifies.

Gladiators whose performance has not shown intend or determination to defend their crown will play today in hunt of a second victory of the season.

Tomorrow, Gladiators will face Kenya Police in a mouth watering clash as the law enforcers seek to avenge last season's loss to the students. Police lost to Gladiators in last year's semi-finals denying them a ticket to this year's Africa Cup of Club Championships. The semis loss to the students forced Police to fight for third place against Greensharks.

Despite being champions, Gladiators have failed to show their might and prove that winning last season's gong was not a fluke. They are currently eighth on the log with seven points from an equal number of outings.

Police on the other hand are enjoying top form and remain unbeaten with 27 points from nine matches. Police, who last won the league title in 2013 have also scored 30 goals and conceded just five so far.

Police captain Brian Saina hopes they overpower the students and maintain the good run.

"We are eyeing a good finish this season and this can only be done with one victory at a time. Strathmore are a very good side that we can't underrate but we are hoping for maximum points after the final whistle," Saina said.

Butali Warriors will have second spot on the log standings in mind when they take on Nakuru HC in Nakuru. Warriors who are seeking to reclaim the title they lost to Strathmore in a penalty shootout last year are currently third with 18 points, two a drift of second placed Greensharks and a win against Nakuru will move them to second with 21.

Technical University of Kenya (TUK) will be hoping to register their first victory against Parkroad Badgers. Winless TUK are stuck at the bottom and seem to be headed back to the lower division having lost seven and drawn one out of eight outings.

Elsewhere, United States International University of Africa take on Wazalendo tomorrow.

In the women's title chase, Mombasa Sports Club ladies will take on University of Nairobi today before playing Multimedia University. 

Daily Nation



NFM supports Junior Development Hockey squad


NFM CEO, Kelvin Mahabir (right), presents the contribution to TTHB President, Douglas Camacho in support of the Junior Development Hockey Squad.

National Flour Mills Limited (NFM) is a proud sponsor of the Trinidad and Tobago Hockey Board’s Junior Development Squad as this team prepares to participate in an invitational Under 23 Provincial National Hockey Championships in Vancouver, Canada in July 2017.

Kelvin Mahabir, Chief Executive Officer, National Flour Mills Limited presented a TT$10,000.00 contribution to the TTHB President, Douglas Camacho, to assist the junior hockey squad in meeting its travel expenses for the tournament. NFM’s patronage comes at an opportune time as the squad intends to use this invitation from the Canadian Men’s National Hockey Programme to increase their competitive skills in preparation for the 2018 Pan American Youth Championships.

Trinidad & Tobago Express



Reliving Indian hockey’s glory days: On this day in 1928, India won its first Olympic gold

The country’s eighth and last gold in hockey came in the 1980 Moscow Olympics.


1936 Olympic team / www.bharatiyahockey.org

India first sent a team to the Olympics in 1920 but it was only eight years later that a hockey team took part. The year was 1928 and the venue Amsterdam. Indian hockey’s fairy-tale run started from that year with the team winning the gold in the final, which was played on May 26.

In Dhyan Chand, India had the greatest player of his generation, described as ‘hockey wizard’ and ‘magician’. He was the leading scorer for India at the 1928 Olympics with 14 goals, including a hat-trick in the final against the Netherlands. He was instrumental in India winning the gold at 1932 Los Angeles and 1936 Berlin as well. It is said that at the height of his career, officials even dismantled his hockey stick to check if it had a magnet inside.

Post the Second World War, the Olympics resumed with London hosting it in 1948. It also marked independent India’s first Olympics. India beat the hosts Great Britain in the final to win their fourth successive gold. India won six gold medals on the trot in the hockey competition till 1956 with the first reverse coming in the 1960 Rome Olympics where they lost to Pakistan in the final. India avenged their defeat to arch-rivals Pakistan and won their seventh gold in 1964 Tokyo Olympics. The country’s eighth and last gold came in the 1980 Moscow Olympics.

Since then, India have never even come close to winning a medal with the best finish being fifth in 1984 Los Angeles Olympics. Astro-turf or artificial grass was introduced in the late seventies and this shift from natural grass to astro-turf has been blamed for the rapid decline of Indian hockey. From that point onwards, the modern game became much more exacting with stamina and physical fitness playing key roles and this was where the Indians were found severely wanting.

However, Indian hockey is seeing a resurgence of late with a string of creditable results. In the last Olympics held at Rio in 2016, the team entered the knockout stages after 36 years and finished eighth. India’s junior team won the World Cup in 2016 after a gap of 15 years. At the Hockey World League Final in 2015, the Indian team won the bronze beating the more fancied Netherlands in a thrilling shootout. This came after a gap of 33 years, as India last won a medal (bronze) at the international level at the 1982 Champions Trophy. All these results augur well and under the guidance of the present coach Roelant Oltmans, a medal at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics is a real possiblity. 

The News Minute



Former IHF Chief KPS Gill is no more

K. Arumugam



One of the greatest sons of India, Kanwar Pal Singh Gill, popularly known as KPS Gill, is no more. The celebrated Super Cop, who won the top civilian award Padamshree, breathed his last today in his residence in New Delhi.

KPS Gill, an Assam Cadre Indian Police Service officer, is known for his direct approach to counter terrorism, was the chief of Institute of Conflict Management when he died.

The Super Cop shot into fame when he crushed the Punjab Terrorism that threatened India of another partition in the 80s.

KPS Gill was persuaded to contest the Indian Hockey Federation top post by the former players in the early 90s.

He was then the Director General of Punjab Police, and won the first IHF President election in Bhopal, after managing to set aside local Member of Parliament in his home town.

He was again re-elected in the Hyderabad AGM in 1998 before the World Cup.

He won next two elections too in 2002 (Kolkata) and 2005 (Guwahati).

During his long spell, India won the Asian Games in 1998, Asia Cup in 2003, Afro-Asian Games, etc. His greatest contribution to Indian hockey is his interest in Junior and Sub-junior international teams. He actually created many opportunities for the youngsters like never before.

Forthright in his views, he was often criticized for some of the decisions he made during his long spell at top chair, but those pale compared to his commanding presence that lent some prestige to the game.

Stick2Hockey.com



KPS Gill, Indian hockey’s long serving administrator, dies at 82

KPS Gill, who died on Friday, served as Indian Hockey Federation’s (IHF) president for 14 years. He was known to stand by the players in times of need.


Kanwar Pal Singh Gill took over the reins of Indian Hockey Federation (IHF) – the then national body for the sport – in 1994 and held the post till 2008.

KPS Gill, who was at the helm of Indian Hockey Federation (IHF) for 14 years, breathed his last at the age of 82 on Friday. The retired police officer’s tenure not only saw Indian hockey rise to new highs but also had several controversial moments.

Gill, who was known for his handling of militancy in Punjab, took over the reins of Indian Hockey Federation (IHF) – the then national body for the sport – in 1994 and held the post till 2008, when the body was suspended indefinitely.

During Gill’s tenure Indian hockey team won the gold medal at the 1998 Asian Games and for the first time clinched the Asia Cup in 2003. He was also a driving factor behind Premier Hockey League – India’s first franchise-based hockey tournament. The tournament ran from 2005 to 2008.

“He might have been very strict during selection but off the field he was very helpful. Many players were given financial support. It was great support to players who economically weak during those days,” Maharaja MK Kaushik, coach of men’s team that won gold in 1998 Bangkok Asian Games, to Hindustan Times.

“Even when I was not associated with the national team, he encouraged me to contribute to hockey.”

However, in 2008, India failed to qualify for the Olympics. It was the first time since 1928 that the Indian hockey team did not play in the Olympics. It led to a major hue and cry.

After the result, IHF’s infighting took a major toll on the governing body and its chief. Several top officials resigned while IHF’s secretary general Jyothi Kumaran was accused of allegedly taking bribe.

All these controversies and on-field results led to Gill’s exit from sports administration.

Hindustan Times



‘Gill changed the way hockey was administered’

During his tenure, India won its first junior World Cup in 2001 (Hobart), claimed the gold medal in the 1998 Asian Games in Bangkok after 32 years, organised two Champions Trophy (1996 & 2005) and an Asia Cup (2007).

A. Joseph Antony


K.P.S. Gill passed away at a hospital in New Delhi on Friday. He was 82.   -  PTI

K.P. S. Gill, former president of Indian Hockey Federation passed away in New Delhi on Friday. Gill held the top post for a record four terms, starting in 1994. He was also the vice-president of Asian Hockey Federation from 2004-08.

Having got elected in Bhopal for his first term, Gill continued to win in three successive elections in Hyderabad (’98), Guwahati (’02) and Calcutta (’05).

“K.P.S. Gill was a man of exceptional courage,” recalled Olympian Aloysius Edwards. “There were death threats openly issued to him before the 1994 hockey World Cup in Sydney. He watched all the matches he could when he was there, even dropping by in the dressing room during the breaks. As Punjab’s Director General of Police, he left abruptly when some Punjab Police commandos were ambushed by Naxalites in Andhra Pradesh,” reminisced Edwards.

Gill brought about huge changes in the way hockey was administered. “Players had travelled mostly in unreserved railway coaches or stayed in dirty digs at various stadia. After his arrival, we travelled by air and stayed in hotels,” said Edwards, India’s former captain to the 1996 Azlan Shah tournament in Malaysia.

After Edwards tended goal in the Four Nations tournament in Australia, which also featured Canada and Korea there was a 10-day camp in Chennai before the 1996 Olympic Games in Atlanta. Three prospective goal-keepers were in the running, viz, Edwards, Ashish Ballal and seasoned hand A.B. Subbiah.

After a couple of rounds of trials, Edwards and Subbiah were enlisted for the quadrennial games, while Gill advised Ballal to get ready for the Champions Trophy after complete recovery from a shoulder injury he had suffered.

Post-playing days, Gill appointed Edwards as the national goal-keeper coach. Contrary to popular belief that the feisty cop had his way all the time, Edwards insisted on inclusion of current custodian P.R. Sreejesh in an under 21 team while the Indian Hockey Federation (IHF) President favoured a Manipuri player. The supercop gave in on that occasion which saw the Keralite’s career bloom and even assume captaincy of the senior team.

“A keen listener, Gill hardly talked. When he spoke he was not only clear but firm,” concluded Edwards.

K. Jothikumaran, who held the post of secretary during Gill’s four-year term as president, said: ‘[He] was a towering personality. Under his leadership, India organised quite a few International tournaments. Premier Hockey League was started during his time where the players benefited monetarily. During his period, a lot of players from Tamil Nadu represented India.”

During his tenure, India won its first junior World Cup in 2001 (Hobart), claimed the gold medal in the 1998 Asian Games in Bangkok after 32 years, organised two Champions Trophy (1996 & 2005) and an Asia Cup (2007). However, in 2008, the Indian Olympic Association suspended the IHF indefinitely.

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