THE Malaysian women only managed a bronze medal when they beat Uzbekistan 6-1 in the third-fourth placing match of the Asian Indoor tournament in Bangkok yes terday.
In the final yesterday, Kazakhstan beat Thailand A 4-1 and they will now play in the World Indoor Tournament in Poland next year.
Malaysia were the defending champions going into the tournament and they beat Thailand B 4-0 in the first match but there were no points awarded as the hosts had fielded a B side after Iran pulled out at the 11th hour.
Malaysia then beat Indonesia 9-1, and Uzbekistan 2-1, but lost to Kazakhstan 3-1. The telling point was when they drew 2-2 with Thailand A and missed out of playing in the final by a two-goal different to the hosts.
“We had fielded ex-internationals and a few budding junior players because the national team is in training for the Commonwealth and Asian Games and we did not want to interrupt their programme,” said Malaysian Women’s Hockey Federation secretary S. Shamala.
In the commonwealth Games, the Malaysian women are in Group B with England, New Zealand, Canada and Wales.
In Group A are Australia, South Africa, India, Trinidad & Tobago and Scotland.
Saturday, July 31, 2010
Friday, July 30, 2010
Lim officially in charge from Sept 1
By Jugjet Singh
jugjet@nst.com.my
FORMER international Lim Chiow Chuan will officially take over the reigns of 1Mas from Sept 1, as the Malaysian Hockey Federation (MHF) embark on a journey to develop quality youth.
1Mas, with a budget of RM2 million from the Prime Minister’s department, is a programme where 14 states will concentrate on 60 players each for four major assignments.
The long-term project will cater for different age groups to prepare players for the 2013 and 2017 Junior World Cups, the 2016 Rio de Janeiro Olympics and the 2014 Asian Games in South Korea.
“The development committee presented their paper to the council which endorsed Lim as the Director of Development. He will be overall in charge of 1Mas and even though his appointment only starts on Sept 1, he will start two weeks earlier,” said MHF secretary Hashim Yusoff.
Lim is currently undergoing an International Hockey Federation (FIH) course which is being held in conjunction with the Champions Trophy which will start today in Monchengladbach, Germany.
“The development programme started in the middle of last month with nine states already in the process of selecting their pool of players to train.
“The other states are still in the midst of hiring coaches and I believe by early August, the project will be in full swing.”
The idea is to train the players for two hours, three times a week at their own states, and then have a tournament to cater for this group.
Before this, Lim was coaching the Singapore national team and his charges qualified for the Asian Games when they finished second in the seven-team qualifiers in Dhaka.
However, the Singapore National Olympic Council decided not to send the hockey players to the Guangzhou Asian Games from Nov 12 to 27.
This prompted Lim to send in his resignation letter, and after he submitted it, the Singapore Olympic Council reversed their decision to send the hockey team to Guangzhou, but Lim stuck to his decision.
His last assignment with Singapore was the Asean Schools Championships where he said: “This long-term project will provide the country with a bigger pool of players to select from.”
The Prime Minister is also expected to launch the 1Mas Hoki programme in the middle of September.
jugjet@nst.com.my
FORMER international Lim Chiow Chuan will officially take over the reigns of 1Mas from Sept 1, as the Malaysian Hockey Federation (MHF) embark on a journey to develop quality youth.
1Mas, with a budget of RM2 million from the Prime Minister’s department, is a programme where 14 states will concentrate on 60 players each for four major assignments.
The long-term project will cater for different age groups to prepare players for the 2013 and 2017 Junior World Cups, the 2016 Rio de Janeiro Olympics and the 2014 Asian Games in South Korea.
“The development committee presented their paper to the council which endorsed Lim as the Director of Development. He will be overall in charge of 1Mas and even though his appointment only starts on Sept 1, he will start two weeks earlier,” said MHF secretary Hashim Yusoff.
Lim is currently undergoing an International Hockey Federation (FIH) course which is being held in conjunction with the Champions Trophy which will start today in Monchengladbach, Germany.
“The development programme started in the middle of last month with nine states already in the process of selecting their pool of players to train.
“The other states are still in the midst of hiring coaches and I believe by early August, the project will be in full swing.”
The idea is to train the players for two hours, three times a week at their own states, and then have a tournament to cater for this group.
Before this, Lim was coaching the Singapore national team and his charges qualified for the Asian Games when they finished second in the seven-team qualifiers in Dhaka.
However, the Singapore National Olympic Council decided not to send the hockey players to the Guangzhou Asian Games from Nov 12 to 27.
This prompted Lim to send in his resignation letter, and after he submitted it, the Singapore Olympic Council reversed their decision to send the hockey team to Guangzhou, but Lim stuck to his decision.
His last assignment with Singapore was the Asean Schools Championships where he said: “This long-term project will provide the country with a bigger pool of players to select from.”
The Prime Minister is also expected to launch the 1Mas Hoki programme in the middle of September.
Thursday, July 29, 2010
UniKL start early for MHL
UNIKL were a late entry last season and had trouble settling down, but this season, preparations have already started to field a strong side in the Malaysia Hockey League (MHL) which is slated to start in the first week of De cember.
In their MHL debut early this year UniKL, with an average age of 21, finished at the bottom of the six-team pool in the Premier Division. But in the quarter-finals, they held May bank 3-3 in the first leg, but lost 2-0 in the return leg.
And in the Junior Hockey League (JHL), they were runners- up in the League and Overall champions.
Coach I. Vickneswaran said the club is currently con ducting an open trial, and he is looking at some quality players to make an impact in the MHL.
“Last season, we only had a month’s preparation and struggled to click in the early matches. That is why we are conducting trials at the Kuala Lumpur HA stadium this week, and the response has been great.
“Some of our former young players have been snatched by other clubs, so we are also looking to inject the MHL team with some quality senior players and at this stage, the outlook is promising,” said Vickneswaran.
The team was started by their chancellor Tengku Abdullah Sultan Ahmad Shah, who is also the Malaysian Hockey Federation president.
“The final trials for short-listed players will be held on Saturday, but even then we will not be too sure of some signings, as they have to get release form their work and former clubs which they had signed contracts with,” said Vickneswaran.
Last season UniKL spent a total of RM500,000 in the MHL and JHL: “We have a healthy budget this season too, and with it, we hope to sign some quality players to help boost the performance of our young and rising players.”
The club started with a bang in their JHL debut when they dethroned former Overall champions Bukit Jalil Sports School (BJSS) and denied Bandar Penawar Sports School (BPSS) Thunderbolt the double.
In the MHL, they will have to contend with heavyweight clubs like Kuala Lumpur Hockey Club , Sapura, Tenaga Nasional and Maybank.
In their MHL debut early this year UniKL, with an average age of 21, finished at the bottom of the six-team pool in the Premier Division. But in the quarter-finals, they held May bank 3-3 in the first leg, but lost 2-0 in the return leg.
And in the Junior Hockey League (JHL), they were runners- up in the League and Overall champions.
Coach I. Vickneswaran said the club is currently con ducting an open trial, and he is looking at some quality players to make an impact in the MHL.
“Last season, we only had a month’s preparation and struggled to click in the early matches. That is why we are conducting trials at the Kuala Lumpur HA stadium this week, and the response has been great.
“Some of our former young players have been snatched by other clubs, so we are also looking to inject the MHL team with some quality senior players and at this stage, the outlook is promising,” said Vickneswaran.
The team was started by their chancellor Tengku Abdullah Sultan Ahmad Shah, who is also the Malaysian Hockey Federation president.
“The final trials for short-listed players will be held on Saturday, but even then we will not be too sure of some signings, as they have to get release form their work and former clubs which they had signed contracts with,” said Vickneswaran.
Last season UniKL spent a total of RM500,000 in the MHL and JHL: “We have a healthy budget this season too, and with it, we hope to sign some quality players to help boost the performance of our young and rising players.”
The club started with a bang in their JHL debut when they dethroned former Overall champions Bukit Jalil Sports School (BJSS) and denied Bandar Penawar Sports School (BPSS) Thunderbolt the double.
In the MHL, they will have to contend with heavyweight clubs like Kuala Lumpur Hockey Club , Sapura, Tenaga Nasional and Maybank.
Constitution amendment gets council nod
THE Malaysian Hockey Federation (MHF) council yesterday endorsed a proposal to amend their constitution which will turn the posts of their secretary and treasurer from elected to appointed.
The amendments will now be tabled for approval at the MHF EGM in September, and if it gets the 2/3 majority, there will not be elections for both the posts when MHF hold their Annual Genaral Meeting at the end of the year.
"The council members agreed that the amendment to appoint our sectary and treasurer be tabled at an EGM after Hari Raya. The overall response was good, and the motion has pased its first test," said MHF president Tengku Abdullah Sultan Ahmad Shah.
A similar proposal has been bandied around for at least three times in the history of MHF, but it never went through the motions.
"My personnal view is that it is a good measure to tighten up loose ends in our administration. And even though we have a general manager and an appointed sectary, it will not be redudancy because the workload has increased tremendusly.
"Right now, we have five paid staff to handle matters, but with many tournaments and junior developments to run, we are still short or manpower," said Tengku Abdullah.
On the national team, Tengku Abdullah felt they should strive to achieve their KPI which is gold at the Asian Games.
"Their KPI is to win gold at the Asian Games and qualify for the Olympics. And if they fail at the Asian level, then the preparation must be turned towards qualifying from the qualifier," said Tengku Abdullah.
Then there were allegations that players did not get their full allowance payments because of mismanagement, but it was quashed when Tengku Abdullah said he has been briefed on the matter, and found no elements of faul play.
And the council then agreed to give the Project 2013 players an extra allowance of RM1,000 each for winning the Sea Cup title in Bangkok last year.
The amendments will now be tabled for approval at the MHF EGM in September, and if it gets the 2/3 majority, there will not be elections for both the posts when MHF hold their Annual Genaral Meeting at the end of the year.
"The council members agreed that the amendment to appoint our sectary and treasurer be tabled at an EGM after Hari Raya. The overall response was good, and the motion has pased its first test," said MHF president Tengku Abdullah Sultan Ahmad Shah.
A similar proposal has been bandied around for at least three times in the history of MHF, but it never went through the motions.
"My personnal view is that it is a good measure to tighten up loose ends in our administration. And even though we have a general manager and an appointed sectary, it will not be redudancy because the workload has increased tremendusly.
"Right now, we have five paid staff to handle matters, but with many tournaments and junior developments to run, we are still short or manpower," said Tengku Abdullah.
On the national team, Tengku Abdullah felt they should strive to achieve their KPI which is gold at the Asian Games.
"Their KPI is to win gold at the Asian Games and qualify for the Olympics. And if they fail at the Asian level, then the preparation must be turned towards qualifying from the qualifier," said Tengku Abdullah.
Then there were allegations that players did not get their full allowance payments because of mismanagement, but it was quashed when Tengku Abdullah said he has been briefed on the matter, and found no elements of faul play.
And the council then agreed to give the Project 2013 players an extra allowance of RM1,000 each for winning the Sea Cup title in Bangkok last year.
Hockey president keen on soccer comeback
MALAYSIAN Hockey Federation (MHF) president Tengku Abdulah Sultan Ahmad Shah will go ahead with plans to wrest a deputy president's seat in the FA of Malaysia elections this Saturday.
Tengku Ahmad, speaking before attending the MHF council meeting yesterday, said: "I have been requested to make a comeback. When I quit in 2007 it was because of the national team's poor performance in the Asia Cup.
"However, I leave it to the delegates to decide if football requires my services."
About his chances: "I leave it in the hands of god to determine the outcome."
Tengku Abdullah also said that he was a temporary measure in hockey, as the request came from previous president Sultan Azlan Shah, but he has started to enjoy himself.
"I started as a temporary replacement, and it was supposed to be a short stint in hockey. But now I am begining to love the sport, and I am enjoying myself."
Datuk Sri Shahhidan Kassin threw in the towel, but Tengku Abdullah wil have to battle with incumbent Datuk Sri Redzuan Sheikh Ahmad, Datuk Che Mat Jusoh, Tan Sri Anwar Musa and Datuk Mokhtar Ahmed for the two seats.
Tengku Ahmad, speaking before attending the MHF council meeting yesterday, said: "I have been requested to make a comeback. When I quit in 2007 it was because of the national team's poor performance in the Asia Cup.
"However, I leave it to the delegates to decide if football requires my services."
About his chances: "I leave it in the hands of god to determine the outcome."
Tengku Abdullah also said that he was a temporary measure in hockey, as the request came from previous president Sultan Azlan Shah, but he has started to enjoy himself.
"I started as a temporary replacement, and it was supposed to be a short stint in hockey. But now I am begining to love the sport, and I am enjoying myself."
Datuk Sri Shahhidan Kassin threw in the towel, but Tengku Abdullah wil have to battle with incumbent Datuk Sri Redzuan Sheikh Ahmad, Datuk Che Mat Jusoh, Tan Sri Anwar Musa and Datuk Mokhtar Ahmed for the two seats.
Big boost for Razak Cup
RAZAK CUP received a big boost when 100Plus signed a three-year deal worth RM1.5 million with the Malaysian Hockey Federation at a leading hotel in Kuala Lumpur yesterday.
100Plus will sponsor RM500,000 per year with RM300,000 in cash and RM200,000 in kind starting from next year.
MHF president Tengku Abdullan Sultan Ahmad Shah and James Teo, the managing director of F&N beverages marketing Sdn Bhd, witnessed the signing ceremony.
With money in the pocket, Razak Cup is also set to undergo a huge transformation from next year.
The new format will see teams playing at zonal qualifying rounds before competing for the title in a final round.
Teams will be divided into five zones of four each. The five zones are North, Central, South, East and West. The qualifying rounds will be held on a home-and-away basis.
The West Zone will be mad eup of Penang, Kedah, Perlis and Armed Forces.
Perak, Kuala Lumpur, Selangor and National Under-16 will feature in Central zone.
The teams in Southern Zone are Negri Sembilan, Malacca, Johor and Singapore while Pahang, Terengganu, Kelantan and Police are in East zone.
Sabah, Sawarak, Labuan and Brunei will feature in Northern zone.
And at the end of the qualifying rounds, the top two teams from each group will feature in the Division One while the teams that finished third and fourth from each group will compete in Division Two.
100Plus will sponsor RM500,000 per year with RM300,000 in cash and RM200,000 in kind starting from next year.
MHF president Tengku Abdullan Sultan Ahmad Shah and James Teo, the managing director of F&N beverages marketing Sdn Bhd, witnessed the signing ceremony.
With money in the pocket, Razak Cup is also set to undergo a huge transformation from next year.
The new format will see teams playing at zonal qualifying rounds before competing for the title in a final round.
Teams will be divided into five zones of four each. The five zones are North, Central, South, East and West. The qualifying rounds will be held on a home-and-away basis.
The West Zone will be mad eup of Penang, Kedah, Perlis and Armed Forces.
Perak, Kuala Lumpur, Selangor and National Under-16 will feature in Central zone.
The teams in Southern Zone are Negri Sembilan, Malacca, Johor and Singapore while Pahang, Terengganu, Kelantan and Police are in East zone.
Sabah, Sawarak, Labuan and Brunei will feature in Northern zone.
And at the end of the qualifying rounds, the top two teams from each group will feature in the Division One while the teams that finished third and fourth from each group will compete in Division Two.
COMMENT
by Jugjet Singh
THE Malaysian Hockey Federation (MHF) council mem bers will sail into uncharted territory without a compass and map when they deliberate on changes to their constitution at a leading hotel in Kuala Lumpur today.
Council members know that MHF president Tengku Ab dullah Sultan Ahmad Shah is keen to amend their con stitution and turn the post of secretary from elected to appointed, but as of yesterday, they have yet to receive a draft of the said amendment.
This has deprived them a chance to study and propose any changes, if necessary, before the matter is brought up at today’s council meeting.
A check with several council members yesterday revealed that they have not been given a draft on the said amendment to study, and so, they will be sailing blindly, and the proposal could end up as a wreck.
The proposal is simple, but it might need a strong hand to see it from a draft, to accepted by a 2/3 majority in an Extraordinary General Meeting.
Only then can the MHF implement it by the end of the year, when they hold their elections.
Tengku Abdullah is expected to have his hands full an swering questions from his council members, if they find their voice in his presence. As it stands right now, five states that were called by this scribe have nothing nice to say about the proposal.
The general feeling is that a salaried secretary will feel that he is only answerable to the president, and states might lose their voice on many matters.
Several council members also felt that if the secretary is appointed, there would no longer be a need to have a general manager.
Right now, the elected secretary is Hashim Yusoff, while former international Maninderjit Singh is the general man ager.
And even at present, there is a thin line of demarcation which separates their duties, and many feel having two salaried staff is one too many.
MHF council members have debated the pros and cons of this exercise energetically, when engaged in a conversation, and hopefully, they find their voice at the meeting today.
There have been many precedents where all those with a strong corridor opinion keep quiet when presented with a chance to speak, and it could be the same today.
There is also another matter, involving misappropriation of money, which has been making its rounds among the council members.
If there is proof, bring it up today, but if its only empty talk, quash it with a statement from the Council. If not, this alleged story will continue making its rounds, and eventually ruin the reputation of innocent officials.
by Jugjet Singh
THE Malaysian Hockey Federation (MHF) council mem bers will sail into uncharted territory without a compass and map when they deliberate on changes to their constitution at a leading hotel in Kuala Lumpur today.
Council members know that MHF president Tengku Ab dullah Sultan Ahmad Shah is keen to amend their con stitution and turn the post of secretary from elected to appointed, but as of yesterday, they have yet to receive a draft of the said amendment.
This has deprived them a chance to study and propose any changes, if necessary, before the matter is brought up at today’s council meeting.
A check with several council members yesterday revealed that they have not been given a draft on the said amendment to study, and so, they will be sailing blindly, and the proposal could end up as a wreck.
The proposal is simple, but it might need a strong hand to see it from a draft, to accepted by a 2/3 majority in an Extraordinary General Meeting.
Only then can the MHF implement it by the end of the year, when they hold their elections.
Tengku Abdullah is expected to have his hands full an swering questions from his council members, if they find their voice in his presence. As it stands right now, five states that were called by this scribe have nothing nice to say about the proposal.
The general feeling is that a salaried secretary will feel that he is only answerable to the president, and states might lose their voice on many matters.
Several council members also felt that if the secretary is appointed, there would no longer be a need to have a general manager.
Right now, the elected secretary is Hashim Yusoff, while former international Maninderjit Singh is the general man ager.
And even at present, there is a thin line of demarcation which separates their duties, and many feel having two salaried staff is one too many.
MHF council members have debated the pros and cons of this exercise energetically, when engaged in a conversation, and hopefully, they find their voice at the meeting today.
There have been many precedents where all those with a strong corridor opinion keep quiet when presented with a chance to speak, and it could be the same today.
There is also another matter, involving misappropriation of money, which has been making its rounds among the council members.
If there is proof, bring it up today, but if its only empty talk, quash it with a statement from the Council. If not, this alleged story will continue making its rounds, and eventually ruin the reputation of innocent officials.
Monday, July 26, 2010
Women win but no points
THE Malaysian women started their quest to reclaim the Asian Indoor crown in Bangkok, Thailand, with a 4-0 win against Thailand B yesterday.
However, the win does not carry any weight for defending champions Malaysia, as Thailand B were included as a sparring team when Iran pulled out at the 11th hour.
Malaysia meet Indonesia today, and a win is almost assured after Kazakhstan hammered Indonesia 18-0 yesterday.
A gold medal in Bangkok comes with a ticket to play in the World Indoor Tournament in Poland next year.
RESULTS: Malaysia 4 Thailand B 0, Kazakhstan 18 Indonesia 0, Uzbekistan x Thailand A x.
TODAY: Malaysia v Indonesia; Kazakhstan v Thailand A; Thailand B v Uzbekistan.
TOMORROW: Thailand B v Kazakhstan; Thailand A v Indonesia; Malaysia v Uzbekistan.
However, the win does not carry any weight for defending champions Malaysia, as Thailand B were included as a sparring team when Iran pulled out at the 11th hour.
Malaysia meet Indonesia today, and a win is almost assured after Kazakhstan hammered Indonesia 18-0 yesterday.
A gold medal in Bangkok comes with a ticket to play in the World Indoor Tournament in Poland next year.
RESULTS: Malaysia 4 Thailand B 0, Kazakhstan 18 Indonesia 0, Uzbekistan x Thailand A x.
TODAY: Malaysia v Indonesia; Kazakhstan v Thailand A; Thailand B v Uzbekistan.
TOMORROW: Thailand B v Kazakhstan; Thailand A v Indonesia; Malaysia v Uzbekistan.
Sunday, July 25, 2010
Project 2013 European Tour a huge success
PROJECT 2013 returned form their European Tour on Thursday with not only success on the pitch, but also a major breakthrough in mind-set of players, and respect from their opponents.And offers are now pouring in from European clubs to sign in our young players for their leagues.
The Under-19 outfit played 13 matches in their Tour of Switzerland, Poland, Spain and Netherlands. The count was eight wins, two draws and three defeats.
And all their defeats were against the Under-21 sides of Spain, Belgium and Poland who were in the midst of prepar ing for the European Under-21 championships.
All three teams also had many players from the 2010 Junior World Cup hosted by Malaysia and Singapore.
But the Project boys still managed to hold the Spain and Poland sides in return matches after the initial defeat.
On mind-set, coach K. Dharmaraj feels the whirl-wind Tour has made his players more matured and confident, while their opponents are now more mindful of Malaysia.
“We had little respect when we started the Tour as Malaysia are no longer feared by European sides. But after our young side started winning matches with ease against established club sides, the outlook started to change,” said Dharmaraj.
At least 10 players have received offers to play in Europe: “Clubs from Switzerland, Spain, Germany and Netherlands want to sign up our players for their leagues but we could not make a commitment.
“I will write a report on the matter, and the MHF (Malaysian Hockey Federation) and NSC (National Sports Council) will have their final say on how many players can be released to play in Europe.
“I believe those who went on the Tour gained much because most of them were a timid lot, but after 13 matches and travelling and experiencing different cultures, they are now much more confident on and off the pitch,” said Dhar maraj.
Some of the players who shone exceptionally well are Firhan Ashaari, Mohamed Sabri and Izat Hakimi.
“The three showed tremendous potential, and among the ’newcomers’ who showed maturity were Joel Samuel, Syamim Yusof and Fitri Saari.
“Overall, it was an excellent Tour and now, I believe junior sides in Europe will no longer take Malaysia lightly, and the fact that they want the services of out players is testimony to that,” said Dharmaraj.
THE TOUR SQUAD: Shahrul Azaddin, Hafizuddin Othman, Mohamed Sabri, Mohamed Noor Faeez, Joel Samuel van Huizen, Faiz Helmi, Zulhairi Hashim, Harmeet Singh, Fathi Kamel, T. Ganeisha, Amir Farid, Syamim Yusof, Fariq Saadon, Eldon Lemery, Izad Hakimi, N. Ugentheren, Norhiz zat Sumantri, R. Ramesh, Rashid Baharom, Fitri Saari, Firhan Ashaari.
Saturday, July 24, 2010
Women aim to defend title
THE Malaysian women’s team will head for Bangkok, Thailand, today to defend their Asian Indoor Hockey title.Last year, Malaysia beat Uzbekistan in the final in Ipoh, and the ladies are primed to repeat the feat again.
And if they win, the title comes with a ticket to Poland next year to play in the World Indoor tournament.
“We have selected a few young players and ex-inter nationals for this assignment as the national players are in training for the Commonwealth and Asian Games.
“But still, we should be able to defend out title going by the girls’ current form,” said Malaysian Women’s Hockey As sociation secretary S. Shamala.
Iran withdrew at the eleventh hour and have been replaced with Thailand B. The other teams in the tournament are Thailand A, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan and Indonesia.
“The matches against Thailand B will not count for points, as they have been included just to make up the numbers,” said Shamala.
On the national team, Shamala said two stalwarts will not be able to play in the Commonwealth and Asian Games as they are carrying injuries.
A. Chitra Devi will undergo a knee operation, while Siti Sara’s injury will also take time to heal.
“The team will miss both the players but we have no choice but to rest them.” The national team will go on a tour of China at the end of August to play eight friendlies in preparation for the Com monwealth Games.
In New Delhi, the women are in Group B with England, New Zealand, Canada, and Wales. In Group A are defending champions Australia, South Africa, India, Trinidad & Tobago and Scotland.
Friday, July 23, 2010
India to host men's 2011 Champions Trophy
The Executive Board of the International Hockey Federation (FIH) has allocated the FIH Champions Trophies for 2011. The Men’s FIH Champions Trophy will be played in India, while the women’s FIH Champions Trophy has been awarded to Netherlands.
After the success of the Hero Honda FIH World Cup in March this year, the FIH has decided to return to India in 2011. The men’s FIH Champions Trophy is scheduled for December 2011 and it will be the third time in hockey history that India will host FIH flagship event after Chennai in 2005 and Madras in 1996.
Think carefully before amending constitution
PENANG HA vice-president Ranjit Singh cautioned Malaysian Hockey Federation (MHF) council members to tread carefully when they deliberate to change the post of their secretary from elected to a paid staff.
The MHF council will meet next Tuesday and among the agenda is a motion to amend their constitution to enable the president to select his secretary, instead of the states by ballot.
“Penang are still 50-50 on this issue, as we feel that council members need to debate intelligently before calling for an EOGM (Extra Ordinary General Meeting).
“And from what I gather, right now, many states oppose the idea because it is open to abuse and could lead to many problems in the long run if we have a paid sectary instead of an elected official,” said Ranjit.
He feels that the system has been tried in the FA of Malaysia, and it was not a success.
“Right now we have a hard-working president in Tengku Abdullah (Sultan Ahmad Shah). He has injected many fresh ideas into the sport, and also made MHF financially sound.
“However, when there is a change in leadership in future, the new president might not be of the same caliber and then the problems will start as he will hold the reigns on the secretary.
“And once the constitution is amended, it is not easy to get back to the old ways.
“State delegates need to voice out their feelings on this matter in the council meeting and not just keep quiet and then vote against the idea in the EOGM, as this will be seen as a waste of time and effort,” said Ranjit.
According to Ranjit, the Sports Commissioner’s office was keen to promote a paid secretary and treasurer in associations, but the plan backfired when an association almost went bankrupt when both the paid staff got together and started siphoning funds on the quiet.
“And now, the Commissioner’s office does not make it mandatory to have paid secretary and treasurer after this bitter episode. I believe a healthy debate at the council meeting will solve many matters and that is what the delegates should do.”
The MHF council are also expected to suggest a few other amendments to to tighten some areas in their constitution, which has been abused by certain quarters to their benefit.
The MHF council will meet next Tuesday and among the agenda is a motion to amend their constitution to enable the president to select his secretary, instead of the states by ballot.
“Penang are still 50-50 on this issue, as we feel that council members need to debate intelligently before calling for an EOGM (Extra Ordinary General Meeting).
“And from what I gather, right now, many states oppose the idea because it is open to abuse and could lead to many problems in the long run if we have a paid sectary instead of an elected official,” said Ranjit.
He feels that the system has been tried in the FA of Malaysia, and it was not a success.
“Right now we have a hard-working president in Tengku Abdullah (Sultan Ahmad Shah). He has injected many fresh ideas into the sport, and also made MHF financially sound.
“However, when there is a change in leadership in future, the new president might not be of the same caliber and then the problems will start as he will hold the reigns on the secretary.
“And once the constitution is amended, it is not easy to get back to the old ways.
“State delegates need to voice out their feelings on this matter in the council meeting and not just keep quiet and then vote against the idea in the EOGM, as this will be seen as a waste of time and effort,” said Ranjit.
According to Ranjit, the Sports Commissioner’s office was keen to promote a paid secretary and treasurer in associations, but the plan backfired when an association almost went bankrupt when both the paid staff got together and started siphoning funds on the quiet.
“And now, the Commissioner’s office does not make it mandatory to have paid secretary and treasurer after this bitter episode. I believe a healthy debate at the council meeting will solve many matters and that is what the delegates should do.”
The MHF council are also expected to suggest a few other amendments to to tighten some areas in their constitution, which has been abused by certain quarters to their benefit.
Thursday, July 22, 2010
National Press Club 5km Run
THE National Press Club (NPC) will be organising a 1Malaysia NPC Media Run on Aug 1 (Sunday).
The flag-off is at 8am from the vicinity of the NPC clubhouse at 84, Jalan Tangsi, Kuala Lumpur. The event is aimed at fostering camaraderie and promoting a healthy lifestyle among members of the media and public.
The 5km run is open to all members of NPC, media and also open to public.
The run will be divided into two main events - comprising four open and four media categories.
The Open category will be divided into Men’s Open, Women’s Open, Men and Women’s Veteran (age 40 and above) while the Media category will comprise men's women's Open and men's and women's veteran (age 40 and above).
Entrance fee is RM10 per person. Participants will each receive a T-shirt and a souvenir medal. They will also be able to take part in the lucky draw.
Forms can be collected from the NPC clubhouse at 84, Jalan Tangsi, KL or call Aftar Singh at 016-245 3839, Muharyani Othman at 012-285 9647 or Norul Huzanna at 017-3110187
The closing date for entries is July 30, 2010.
The flag-off is at 8am from the vicinity of the NPC clubhouse at 84, Jalan Tangsi, Kuala Lumpur. The event is aimed at fostering camaraderie and promoting a healthy lifestyle among members of the media and public.
The 5km run is open to all members of NPC, media and also open to public.
The run will be divided into two main events - comprising four open and four media categories.
The Open category will be divided into Men’s Open, Women’s Open, Men and Women’s Veteran (age 40 and above) while the Media category will comprise men's women's Open and men's and women's veteran (age 40 and above).
Entrance fee is RM10 per person. Participants will each receive a T-shirt and a souvenir medal. They will also be able to take part in the lucky draw.
Forms can be collected from the NPC clubhouse at 84, Jalan Tangsi, KL or call Aftar Singh at 016-245 3839, Muharyani Othman at 012-285 9647 or Norul Huzanna at 017-3110187
The closing date for entries is July 30, 2010.
Malaysia win one, lose one Down Under
THE Malaysian senior side lost one and won their second match in Perth, Australia.
The seniors are in Australia to play a few friendlies in preparation for the New Delhi Commonwealth Games.
Malaysia lost to Australian club champions West Aus tralian Thunder Stick 4-1 in the first match with Amin Rahim scoring the solitary goal.
However, in the second match against the same team, Malaysia won 3-1 with the goals coming from Izwan Firdaus, Nabil Fiqri and Razie Rahim.
After the Australian Tour, the team will head for Europe to play a few friendlies and also a Four-Nation from Aug 24-29 involving France, Ireland, Poland and Scotland.
The seniors are in Australia to play a few friendlies in preparation for the New Delhi Commonwealth Games.
Malaysia lost to Australian club champions West Aus tralian Thunder Stick 4-1 in the first match with Amin Rahim scoring the solitary goal.
However, in the second match against the same team, Malaysia won 3-1 with the goals coming from Izwan Firdaus, Nabil Fiqri and Razie Rahim.
After the Australian Tour, the team will head for Europe to play a few friendlies and also a Four-Nation from Aug 24-29 involving France, Ireland, Poland and Scotland.
Amendment to pay, not elect MHF secretary
THE Malaysian Hockey Federation (MHF) council meeting on July 27 is expected to endorse an amendment to their constitution which may turn the post of sectary general into a paid post, instead of an elected official.
The move is being headed by MHF president Tengku Abdullah Sultan Ahmad Shah to make administration of the association more accountable.
“The issue will be discussed in the council meeting next week, and after the council approves it, an Extra Ordinary General Meeting will be called.
“And if there is a two-thirds mandate at the EOGM, the amendment will be submitted to the Sports Commissioner’s office to be endorsed,” said a council member who declined to be named.
The MHF is also expected to tighten other areas in their constitution, which has been abused by certain quarters to their benefit.
“The special projects committee (under vice-president M. Gobinathan) will also tighten the functions and powers of the various committees and sub-committees to make daily ad ministration much simpler,” said the council member.
And with the MHF elections slated for the end of this year, the new amendments will be immediately utilised and if the plan becomes a reality, there will not be an election for the post of the secretary this year.
At present the MHF secretary is Hashim Yusoff, who was elected in the last elections.
The move is being headed by MHF president Tengku Abdullah Sultan Ahmad Shah to make administration of the association more accountable.
“The issue will be discussed in the council meeting next week, and after the council approves it, an Extra Ordinary General Meeting will be called.
“And if there is a two-thirds mandate at the EOGM, the amendment will be submitted to the Sports Commissioner’s office to be endorsed,” said a council member who declined to be named.
The MHF is also expected to tighten other areas in their constitution, which has been abused by certain quarters to their benefit.
“The special projects committee (under vice-president M. Gobinathan) will also tighten the functions and powers of the various committees and sub-committees to make daily ad ministration much simpler,” said the council member.
And with the MHF elections slated for the end of this year, the new amendments will be immediately utilised and if the plan becomes a reality, there will not be an election for the post of the secretary this year.
At present the MHF secretary is Hashim Yusoff, who was elected in the last elections.
Monday, July 19, 2010
Blueprint ready seven years ago..
By Jugjet Singh
jugjet@nst.com.my
COMMENT
MALAYSIAN sports is filled with blueprints, but sadly, most of them are lying in somebody’s cupboard gathering dust.
One blueprint, which had turned gray after seven years in a folder, was yesterday brought out, dusted and read again.
This happened after Education Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin said the ‘One-student, One-sport’ vision will be implemented next year. He said 90 percent of the schools are ready to implement the policy, and the current infrastructure in schools such as fields, sports facilities and equipment will be improved.
All the above can be got given time but even the best cook cannot come up with a tasty dish if he does not have salt.
And in this case, the vital missing cog are coaches, and coaches cannot be trained overnight.
Going back to 2003, Malaysian Hockey Federation vice-president Datuk Dr S.S. Cheema was tasked with drawing up a working paper on how to develop a strong coaching base in schools.
Cheema came out with a sound plan, and the then MHF president Sultan Azlan Shah set up a meeting with former Director General of Education Tan Sri Abdul Rafie Mahat to present Cheema’s plan.
The gist of the plan was to identify and select the right candidate to attend coaching courses and then be sent to schools to develop hockey.
Cheema’s plan was also to turn hockey players, who are also sports science graduates, into graduate teachers by enrolling them into teachers’ training colleges and posting them back to their respective states.
MHF was also willing to conduct coaching courses at the teachers’ training colleges and universities after which refresher courses will be conducted for these coaches during tournaments.
The DG and his officials listened attentively, and after a few weeks, replied that is was not a feasible idea as the teachers training programme has its own module to develop coaches, and they can’t just take former players and turn them into coaches, even though they have sports science degrees.
The reply also blamed MHF for the lack of hockey coaches because the parent body does not recognise coaches who go through the teachers training modules.
That was the end of it, and the blueprint remained on print, and never took off. It was a pity because if the plan was implemented, seven years later, today, Malaysia would have had a big pool of former players who not only would have earned a living as teachers, but also help realise the ‘One-student, One-sport’ concept.
Cheema also had included in the blueprint a section where students who excelled in sports would be able to gain entry into universities even if their marks are lower than the studious types. He detailed out a sound formula to implement it.
That too, never took off. But now, it is being bandied around.
The blueprint went back into Cheema’s folder after I read it, and if any party is interested for an in-depth read, they know where to find it.
jugjet@nst.com.my
COMMENT
MALAYSIAN sports is filled with blueprints, but sadly, most of them are lying in somebody’s cupboard gathering dust.
One blueprint, which had turned gray after seven years in a folder, was yesterday brought out, dusted and read again.
This happened after Education Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin said the ‘One-student, One-sport’ vision will be implemented next year. He said 90 percent of the schools are ready to implement the policy, and the current infrastructure in schools such as fields, sports facilities and equipment will be improved.
All the above can be got given time but even the best cook cannot come up with a tasty dish if he does not have salt.
And in this case, the vital missing cog are coaches, and coaches cannot be trained overnight.
Going back to 2003, Malaysian Hockey Federation vice-president Datuk Dr S.S. Cheema was tasked with drawing up a working paper on how to develop a strong coaching base in schools.
Cheema came out with a sound plan, and the then MHF president Sultan Azlan Shah set up a meeting with former Director General of Education Tan Sri Abdul Rafie Mahat to present Cheema’s plan.
The gist of the plan was to identify and select the right candidate to attend coaching courses and then be sent to schools to develop hockey.
Cheema’s plan was also to turn hockey players, who are also sports science graduates, into graduate teachers by enrolling them into teachers’ training colleges and posting them back to their respective states.
MHF was also willing to conduct coaching courses at the teachers’ training colleges and universities after which refresher courses will be conducted for these coaches during tournaments.
The DG and his officials listened attentively, and after a few weeks, replied that is was not a feasible idea as the teachers training programme has its own module to develop coaches, and they can’t just take former players and turn them into coaches, even though they have sports science degrees.
The reply also blamed MHF for the lack of hockey coaches because the parent body does not recognise coaches who go through the teachers training modules.
That was the end of it, and the blueprint remained on print, and never took off. It was a pity because if the plan was implemented, seven years later, today, Malaysia would have had a big pool of former players who not only would have earned a living as teachers, but also help realise the ‘One-student, One-sport’ concept.
Cheema also had included in the blueprint a section where students who excelled in sports would be able to gain entry into universities even if their marks are lower than the studious types. He detailed out a sound formula to implement it.
That too, never took off. But now, it is being bandied around.
The blueprint went back into Cheema’s folder after I read it, and if any party is interested for an in-depth read, they know where to find it.
Project beat Athena HC 5-2
PROJECT 2013 continued their super run in Europe when they beat Division Two senior side Athena HC 5-2 in Amsterdam on Sunday.
The Project boys played their 11th match in the playing- cum-training Tour of Europe, and even though they took 13 hours from Poland to Amsterdam by train as there were plenty of technical problems along the way, they still man aged a good win.
However, the start was not as rosy as Athena HC stunned Project by scoring in the third minute through a field goal.
But in the 10th minute, Joel Samuel van Huizen equalised through a field goal, while Mohamed Rashid scored another field goal in the 33rd minute for the lead which held until half-time.
After the breather, Project increased the lead through Amir Farid in the 40th min and Syamim Yusof in 42nd off field attempts. Athena reduced the deficit in 47th but Syamim Yusof scored his second and Project’s fifth in the 67th to seal the match.
“The players’ handled the situation very well even after a long journey with little rest. Their effort in the match was excellent, indicating that they have learnt much in the Europe Tour,” said team manager Mirnawan Nawawi.
The Project boys played their 11th match in the playing- cum-training Tour of Europe, and even though they took 13 hours from Poland to Amsterdam by train as there were plenty of technical problems along the way, they still man aged a good win.
However, the start was not as rosy as Athena HC stunned Project by scoring in the third minute through a field goal.
But in the 10th minute, Joel Samuel van Huizen equalised through a field goal, while Mohamed Rashid scored another field goal in the 33rd minute for the lead which held until half-time.
After the breather, Project increased the lead through Amir Farid in the 40th min and Syamim Yusof in 42nd off field attempts. Athena reduced the deficit in 47th but Syamim Yusof scored his second and Project’s fifth in the 67th to seal the match.
“The players’ handled the situation very well even after a long journey with little rest. Their effort in the match was excellent, indicating that they have learnt much in the Europe Tour,” said team manager Mirnawan Nawawi.
Sunday, July 18, 2010
Eight goals for Asean gold!
MALAYSIA whipped the daylights out of Singapore to claim the Asean Schools hockey gold at the Tun Razak Stadium yesterday.
The rout started with a third minute goal from skipper Kavin Kartik and when the final whistle blew, Singapore were hit for eight goals.
The win was never in doubt, as Malaysia were in fiery form the entire tournament, and scored a total of 33 goals in five matches.
The other Malaysian goals came from Anuar Wahab (12th), Shahril Sa'abah (18th, 27th), Dangerous Lee (22nd, 33rd), Dzahiruddin Illyas (63rd) and Mohamed Taufik (70th).
The Malaysian goalkeeper was never tested, and in the second half, Malaysia were literally camping in the Singapore semi-circle.
"I expected Singapore to put up a fight, but they were never in the match. Maybe it is because we hit them with early goals and they never recovered after the six in the first half," said Malaysian coach S. Prakash.
And this was not even the best Malaysian side, as the cream of under-18 players are now currently in a Tour of Europe in preparation for the 2013 Junior World Cup.
Even then, Malaysia won the Asean Schools gold without conceeding a single goal, mainly because their opponents were all not well prepared.
Meanwhile, the Project 2013 team beat Poland Under-21 4-1 in their third friendly.
The Project boys had drawn the first match 4-4 but lost the second 3-2.
They bounced back with style to claim the series and are now in Amsterdam for more friendlies.
The Malaysian goals against Poland were scored by Firhan Ashaari (42nd, 50th), Syamim Yusof (44th) and Amir Farid (63rd).
"Overall, there was a better understanding in the second half where they nailed their chances well. Nevertheless, the three matches in Poland were considered a success as the Polish had with them 12 players that beat Malaysia in the 2009 Junior World Cup.
"Poland were in their prime condition as they are getting ready to play in the Under-21 European Championship on July 23 in Poland," said Malaysian team manager Mirnawan Nawawi.
The rout started with a third minute goal from skipper Kavin Kartik and when the final whistle blew, Singapore were hit for eight goals.
The win was never in doubt, as Malaysia were in fiery form the entire tournament, and scored a total of 33 goals in five matches.
The other Malaysian goals came from Anuar Wahab (12th), Shahril Sa'abah (18th, 27th), Dangerous Lee (22nd, 33rd), Dzahiruddin Illyas (63rd) and Mohamed Taufik (70th).
The Malaysian goalkeeper was never tested, and in the second half, Malaysia were literally camping in the Singapore semi-circle.
"I expected Singapore to put up a fight, but they were never in the match. Maybe it is because we hit them with early goals and they never recovered after the six in the first half," said Malaysian coach S. Prakash.
And this was not even the best Malaysian side, as the cream of under-18 players are now currently in a Tour of Europe in preparation for the 2013 Junior World Cup.
Even then, Malaysia won the Asean Schools gold without conceeding a single goal, mainly because their opponents were all not well prepared.
Meanwhile, the Project 2013 team beat Poland Under-21 4-1 in their third friendly.
The Project boys had drawn the first match 4-4 but lost the second 3-2.
They bounced back with style to claim the series and are now in Amsterdam for more friendlies.
The Malaysian goals against Poland were scored by Firhan Ashaari (42nd, 50th), Syamim Yusof (44th) and Amir Farid (63rd).
"Overall, there was a better understanding in the second half where they nailed their chances well. Nevertheless, the three matches in Poland were considered a success as the Polish had with them 12 players that beat Malaysia in the 2009 Junior World Cup.
"Poland were in their prime condition as they are getting ready to play in the Under-21 European Championship on July 23 in Poland," said Malaysian team manager Mirnawan Nawawi.
Saturday, July 17, 2010
Eight is enough against Brunei
MALAYSIA did not shift from gear one, but still managed to beat Brunei 8
-0 to keep a clean sheet in the Asean Schools Hockey tournament at the
Tun Razak Stadium yesterday.
In another match, Thailand beat Indonesia 5-1 to finish third in the
tournament, as there is no third-fourth play-off.
Today, Malaysia will play Singapore for the gold medal, and the hosts
are the overwhelming favourites with only the score yet to be determined.
"Going by my players form, they should deliver the gold medal but it
would not be as easy as in the pool match," said Malaysia coach S.
Prakash.
In the pool match, Malaysia beat Singapore 7-0 but the republic side
were jaded as they had played Thailand the same morning.
Yesterday was a rest day for Singapore, and since Malaysia were already
in the final before playing Brunei, Prakash's boys just went through the
motions, to avoid injuries and fatigue.
The Malaysian goals came from Kavin Kartik (second), Shahril Sa'abah
(13th), Anuar Wahab (15th, 16th), Dangerous Lee (31st, 68th), Hairulnizam Maizan (49th) and Mohamed Rasul (51st).
Malaysia have scored 25 and have yet to let in a single goal in this
tournament, and it does not look like Singapore are going to break the
duck today.
"We have achieved our personal target of reaching the final, but
Malaysia are the best side in this tournament and it would be difficult to
beat them," admitted Singapore coach Lim Chiow Chuan.
FINAL STANDINGS
P W D L F A Pts
MALAYSIA 4 4 0 0 25 0 12
SINGAPORE 4 3 0 1 16 10 9
THAILAND 4 2 0 2 19 10 6
INDONESIA 4 1 0 3 5 14 3
BRUNEI 4 0 0 4 0 31 0
RESULTS: Thailand 5 Indonesia 1, Brunei 0 Malaysia 8.
TODAY: Final -- Malaysia v Singapore (4pm, Tun Razak Stadium).
-0 to keep a clean sheet in the Asean Schools Hockey tournament at the
Tun Razak Stadium yesterday.
In another match, Thailand beat Indonesia 5-1 to finish third in the
tournament, as there is no third-fourth play-off.
Today, Malaysia will play Singapore for the gold medal, and the hosts
are the overwhelming favourites with only the score yet to be determined.
"Going by my players form, they should deliver the gold medal but it
would not be as easy as in the pool match," said Malaysia coach S.
Prakash.
In the pool match, Malaysia beat Singapore 7-0 but the republic side
were jaded as they had played Thailand the same morning.
Yesterday was a rest day for Singapore, and since Malaysia were already
in the final before playing Brunei, Prakash's boys just went through the
motions, to avoid injuries and fatigue.
The Malaysian goals came from Kavin Kartik (second), Shahril Sa'abah
(13th), Anuar Wahab (15th, 16th), Dangerous Lee (31st, 68th), Hairulnizam Maizan (49th) and Mohamed Rasul (51st).
Malaysia have scored 25 and have yet to let in a single goal in this
tournament, and it does not look like Singapore are going to break the
duck today.
"We have achieved our personal target of reaching the final, but
Malaysia are the best side in this tournament and it would be difficult to
beat them," admitted Singapore coach Lim Chiow Chuan.
FINAL STANDINGS
P W D L F A Pts
MALAYSIA 4 4 0 0 25 0 12
SINGAPORE 4 3 0 1 16 10 9
THAILAND 4 2 0 2 19 10 6
INDONESIA 4 1 0 3 5 14 3
BRUNEI 4 0 0 4 0 31 0
RESULTS: Thailand 5 Indonesia 1, Brunei 0 Malaysia 8.
TODAY: Final -- Malaysia v Singapore (4pm, Tun Razak Stadium).
Friday, July 16, 2010
Singapore-Malaysia final
STANDINGS
P W D L F A Pts
MALAYSIA 3 3 0 0 17 0 9
SINGAPORE 4 3 0 1 16 10 9
INDONESIA 3 1 0 2 4 9 3
THAILAND 3 1 0 2 14 9 3
BRUNEI 3 0 0 3 0 23 0
RESULTS: Thailand 12 Brunei 0, Indonesia 1 Singapore 4.
TODAY: Thailand v Indonesia (3pm), Brunei v Malaysia (5pm).
All matches at the Tun Razak Stadium.
SINGAPORE will battle Malaysia for the Asean Schools hockey gold medal
on Sunday at the Tun Razak Stadium, with the ods heavily favouring the
hosts.
Yesterday, Singapore completed their fixtures with a 4-1 win over
Indonesia. The republic's only blemis in this tournament was a 7-0
hammering in the hands of Malaysia.
Singapore got their goals from Mohamed Al Fien (second), Karleef Sasi
(29th, 44th) and Mohamed Rifqi (61st). Angga Widman (32nd) scored for
Indonesia.
In another match, Thailand hammered Brunei 12-0. Malaysia wrap-up
heir fixtures against Brunei today.
"Malaysia are too strong to upset in the final, but I believe the score will
not be as high as when we met in the pool," said Singapore coach Lim
Chiow Chuan.
Singapore were a spent force when they met Malaysia on Thursday
evening, as they had beaten Thailand 4-2 in the same morning.
However, with a rest day before meeting Malaysia in the final, Singapore
are not expected to throw in the towel easily.
Lim, who was Malaysia's Project Manager for the Doha 2006
programme, will be involved with his last tournament with Singapore.
After the Asean Schools, he will return to Malaysia are the Director of
Development for the nation-wide 1Mas Hockey project.
P W D L F A Pts
MALAYSIA 3 3 0 0 17 0 9
SINGAPORE 4 3 0 1 16 10 9
INDONESIA 3 1 0 2 4 9 3
THAILAND 3 1 0 2 14 9 3
BRUNEI 3 0 0 3 0 23 0
RESULTS: Thailand 12 Brunei 0, Indonesia 1 Singapore 4.
TODAY: Thailand v Indonesia (3pm), Brunei v Malaysia (5pm).
All matches at the Tun Razak Stadium.
SINGAPORE will battle Malaysia for the Asean Schools hockey gold medal
on Sunday at the Tun Razak Stadium, with the ods heavily favouring the
hosts.
Yesterday, Singapore completed their fixtures with a 4-1 win over
Indonesia. The republic's only blemis in this tournament was a 7-0
hammering in the hands of Malaysia.
Singapore got their goals from Mohamed Al Fien (second), Karleef Sasi
(29th, 44th) and Mohamed Rifqi (61st). Angga Widman (32nd) scored for
Indonesia.
In another match, Thailand hammered Brunei 12-0. Malaysia wrap-up
heir fixtures against Brunei today.
"Malaysia are too strong to upset in the final, but I believe the score will
not be as high as when we met in the pool," said Singapore coach Lim
Chiow Chuan.
Singapore were a spent force when they met Malaysia on Thursday
evening, as they had beaten Thailand 4-2 in the same morning.
However, with a rest day before meeting Malaysia in the final, Singapore
are not expected to throw in the towel easily.
Lim, who was Malaysia's Project Manager for the Doha 2006
programme, will be involved with his last tournament with Singapore.
After the Asean Schools, he will return to Malaysia are the Director of
Development for the nation-wide 1Mas Hockey project.
Thursday, July 15, 2010
Malaysia in Asean schools final
STANDINGS
P W D L F A Pts
MALAYSIA 3 3 0 0 17 0 9
SINGAPORE 3 2 0 1 12 9 6
INDONESIA 2 1 0 1 3 5 3
THAILAND 2 0 0 2 2 9 0
BRUNEI 2 0 0 2 0 11 0
RESULTS: Singapore 4 Thailand 2, Brunei 0 Indonesia 3, Malaysia 7 Singapore 0.
TODAY: Thailand v Brunei (3pm), Indonesia v Singapore (5pm). All matches at the Tun Razak Stadium.
MALAYSIA qualified for the final of the Second Asean Schools hockey tournament with one match in hand when they beat Singapore 7-0 at the Tun Razak Stadium yesterday.
And going by the form-book, both the teams are expected to square off again in the final on Sunday.
However, the comfortable win for Malaysia cannot be taken into account for a confirmed gold, because Singapore looked lethergic after having beaten Thailand 4-2 in a morning match, while Malaysia only played one match yesterday.
The tournament fixtures also saw Malaysia playing two matches on Wednesday against Indonesia and Thailand, where Malaysia won with identical 5-0 scores.
The Malaysian team, made up of Bukit Jalil and Bandar Penawar Sports School players, however, muffed a handful of chances which could have seen then thrash Singapore comprehensively.
Kevin Kartrik, the skipper from Tampin, Negri Sembilan, started the goal count in the sixth minute with a low penalty corner push.
The other goals were scored by Shahril Sa'abah (23rd, 50th, 62nd), Faridzul Afiq (28th) Arif Rahman (45th) and Dangerous Lee (66th).
"I believe Singapore were tired after playing Thailand in the morning and that is why we managed to score so many goals against them. However, we also played two matches in a day on Wednesday, but my players fitness took them through," said Malaysia coach S. Prakash.
Prakash believes if his charges meet Singapore again in the final, Malaysia should end up at the top of the podium.
"So far, from my observation, Malaysia is the best team in the tournament, and should deliver gold. But I need to bring the boys back to earth, so that they do not get carried away with today (yesterday's win)," said Prakash.
Malaysia play Brunei on Saturday while Singapore's last pool match is against Indonesia today.
P W D L F A Pts
MALAYSIA 3 3 0 0 17 0 9
SINGAPORE 3 2 0 1 12 9 6
INDONESIA 2 1 0 1 3 5 3
THAILAND 2 0 0 2 2 9 0
BRUNEI 2 0 0 2 0 11 0
RESULTS: Singapore 4 Thailand 2, Brunei 0 Indonesia 3, Malaysia 7 Singapore 0.
TODAY: Thailand v Brunei (3pm), Indonesia v Singapore (5pm). All matches at the Tun Razak Stadium.
MALAYSIA qualified for the final of the Second Asean Schools hockey tournament with one match in hand when they beat Singapore 7-0 at the Tun Razak Stadium yesterday.
And going by the form-book, both the teams are expected to square off again in the final on Sunday.
However, the comfortable win for Malaysia cannot be taken into account for a confirmed gold, because Singapore looked lethergic after having beaten Thailand 4-2 in a morning match, while Malaysia only played one match yesterday.
The tournament fixtures also saw Malaysia playing two matches on Wednesday against Indonesia and Thailand, where Malaysia won with identical 5-0 scores.
The Malaysian team, made up of Bukit Jalil and Bandar Penawar Sports School players, however, muffed a handful of chances which could have seen then thrash Singapore comprehensively.
Kevin Kartrik, the skipper from Tampin, Negri Sembilan, started the goal count in the sixth minute with a low penalty corner push.
The other goals were scored by Shahril Sa'abah (23rd, 50th, 62nd), Faridzul Afiq (28th) Arif Rahman (45th) and Dangerous Lee (66th).
"I believe Singapore were tired after playing Thailand in the morning and that is why we managed to score so many goals against them. However, we also played two matches in a day on Wednesday, but my players fitness took them through," said Malaysia coach S. Prakash.
Prakash believes if his charges meet Singapore again in the final, Malaysia should end up at the top of the podium.
"So far, from my observation, Malaysia is the best team in the tournament, and should deliver gold. But I need to bring the boys back to earth, so that they do not get carried away with today (yesterday's win)," said Prakash.
Malaysia play Brunei on Saturday while Singapore's last pool match is against Indonesia today.
Back-to-back win for Malaysia
Malaysia’s Dangerous Lee (left) is challenged by Thailand’s Sakprasert Seemarak in their match at the 2nd Asean Schools Games at the Tun Razak Stadium yesterday. — Picture by Osman AdnanMALAYSIA needed to get off on the right footing towards achieving their hefty 50 gold medal target in the 2nd Asean Schools Games in Kuala Lumpur yesterday, and the hockey team did just that with a 10-goal spree in their two opening matches.
The morning presented what was an unpredictable obstacle against Indonesia, which coach S. Prakash’s charges had no problems walking away with a thumping 5-0 victory at the Tun Razak Stadium.
While awaiting their second match in the evening, Malaysia watched a potentially dangerous Singapore hand minnows Brunei a 8-0 thrashing, something which Prakash is wary of.
A lethargic Malaysia, led by captain S. Kavin Kartik, then overcame a nervous start against a wily Thai side, who pinned them back in the opening five minutes.
The Thais were energetic, making up for what they lacked in technical ability with hard running, but were let down by poor basic skills of their forwards’ poor basic skills despite creating several decent opportunities.
Fears of the unexpected were calmed when Mohd Amirudin Zain udin opened the scoring in the with an 18th minute, after receiving a pass on the right flank from Shahril Sa’abah who had just replaced Dangerous Lee Matthew a minute earlier.
Dangerous, who was shortly back on the pitch, was the focal point of most Malaysian attacks but squan dered several chances, particularly what was an easy connection from an Amirudin cross in the 25th minute which he tapped right into Thai goal keeper Chaturonk Paengpie.
Shortly before half-time, Malaysia doubled the score after some good individual work from Faridzul Afiq Muhamad who laid yed on a pass for Mohd Taufik Abdul Hamid to slot into an empty goal.
The half-time pep-talk from Prakash seemed to centre around the indecisive frontline, who often took too much time on the ball, allowing the Thais to close them down.
And despite the second half being a rain-drenched affair, it provided a show of improvement with more incisive attacks resulting in three more goals, the first of which came via a 42nd minute penalty corner connection from Mohd Aslam Hanafiah.
The hard-working Dangerous was finally rewarded with his first goal of the tournament when he connected to a 48th minute pass from Mohd Taufik, and the scoring was completed amidst heavy rain in the 52nd minute when Shahril slotted home a penalty corner.
“We were a little disorganised in the game against Thailand because the boys were a little lethargic having already played in the morning,” said Prakash.
“What’s important to note is that all the Asean sides are very much improved. We can no longer look at them as easy opponents. We had to work hard and make some corrections before we overcame Thailand by that score.”
Malaysia play what could be the deciding match in the round robin opening round against Singapore at 5pm today.
New Straits Times
One draw, one defeat against Poles
PROJECT 2013 drew one and lost one match against Poland Under-21 in
their Tour of Europe to prepare for the 2013 Junior World Cup.
The first match ended 4-4 in the first friendly with the Malaysian goals
coming from Firhan Ashaari, Mohamed Sabri (two goals) and Hizzat
Hakimi.
Malaysia took the lead four times, but the Poles kept scoring the
equaliser.
In the second match, Malaysia lost 2-3 to Poland. Firhan Ashaari and
Syamim Yusof scored for Project 2013.
Second Test
By Mirnawan Nawawi
1st half:
Both teams started the game with cautious. In 6th min slick move between Amir Farid, Syamim Yusof and Firhan Ashaari the Project's scored the 1st goal through Firhan Ashaari. In 11th min the Polish drew level through FG. They have the opportunity to take the lead in 17th min through PC but the project's defence stood firm. In the 21st min the Project's earned the only PC in the game but Mohd Sabri failed to convert from the direct attempt. again the Polish earned their PC in 25th min again they failed to score. The score stood at 1 - 1 in the 1st half.
2nd half:
The Project's start with the attacking mode by creating goal scoring chances from Amir Farid, Firhan Ashaari and Syamim Yusof but fail to find the net.In the 42nd min started from a shot at goal, saved by Mohd Haffizudin but the Polish is fast to get the rebound to score their 2nd goal. The Polish earned their 3rd PC in the in 55th min but failed to convert. Syamim Yusof scored level in the 61st min with a well taken goal.In 67th min from a goal melee the Project's earned a penalty stroke but Firhan Ashaari flick saved by the post even the goalkeeper went to opposite direction. Syamim Yusof again beat a defender but the Polish keeper manage to saved his attempt. In dying second the Polish manage to broke through the Project's defense and earned a Penalty Stroke and coolly converted it.
We didn't achieved our personal target to win this match but overall based on the Polish experience and age factor with 12 players that played in the last Junior World Cup the players did well. Creating a few chances and again the scoring skill let them down. The final passes especially between the forwards in the D need to be improve. We only manage to earned 1 pc opposed to Poland 3.
Communication and understanding between the defence need to be better. The rotation of players too is one of the factor that resulted to loosing the matches. But one of the objective of this tour is to expose players and to be given equal playing time and that what the Coaches did.
After the games the Mayor of Sroda hosted us a dinner and according to him that we are the 2nd National Team that have played in Sroda beside the Indian National Team in 1944.
Trow we will be playing the 3rd Test with the Polish U 21 at 6pm at Poznan Hockey Stadium and we need to win to draw the test. We will leave to Amsterdam after the game.
their Tour of Europe to prepare for the 2013 Junior World Cup.
The first match ended 4-4 in the first friendly with the Malaysian goals
coming from Firhan Ashaari, Mohamed Sabri (two goals) and Hizzat
Hakimi.
Malaysia took the lead four times, but the Poles kept scoring the
equaliser.
In the second match, Malaysia lost 2-3 to Poland. Firhan Ashaari and
Syamim Yusof scored for Project 2013.
Second Test
By Mirnawan Nawawi
1st half:
Both teams started the game with cautious. In 6th min slick move between Amir Farid, Syamim Yusof and Firhan Ashaari the Project's scored the 1st goal through Firhan Ashaari. In 11th min the Polish drew level through FG. They have the opportunity to take the lead in 17th min through PC but the project's defence stood firm. In the 21st min the Project's earned the only PC in the game but Mohd Sabri failed to convert from the direct attempt. again the Polish earned their PC in 25th min again they failed to score. The score stood at 1 - 1 in the 1st half.
2nd half:
The Project's start with the attacking mode by creating goal scoring chances from Amir Farid, Firhan Ashaari and Syamim Yusof but fail to find the net.In the 42nd min started from a shot at goal, saved by Mohd Haffizudin but the Polish is fast to get the rebound to score their 2nd goal. The Polish earned their 3rd PC in the in 55th min but failed to convert. Syamim Yusof scored level in the 61st min with a well taken goal.In 67th min from a goal melee the Project's earned a penalty stroke but Firhan Ashaari flick saved by the post even the goalkeeper went to opposite direction. Syamim Yusof again beat a defender but the Polish keeper manage to saved his attempt. In dying second the Polish manage to broke through the Project's defense and earned a Penalty Stroke and coolly converted it.
We didn't achieved our personal target to win this match but overall based on the Polish experience and age factor with 12 players that played in the last Junior World Cup the players did well. Creating a few chances and again the scoring skill let them down. The final passes especially between the forwards in the D need to be improve. We only manage to earned 1 pc opposed to Poland 3.
Communication and understanding between the defence need to be better. The rotation of players too is one of the factor that resulted to loosing the matches. But one of the objective of this tour is to expose players and to be given equal playing time and that what the Coaches did.
After the games the Mayor of Sroda hosted us a dinner and according to him that we are the 2nd National Team that have played in Sroda beside the Indian National Team in 1944.
Trow we will be playing the 3rd Test with the Polish U 21 at 6pm at Poznan Hockey Stadium and we need to win to draw the test. We will leave to Amsterdam after the game.
Monday, July 12, 2010
1Mas could float, or sink like rest
By Jugjet Singh
jugjet@nst.com.my
COMMENT
THE ground work, workshops, and briefings are over and done with, and starting from tomorrow, hockey in the country will finally see systematical development to groom players for the next decade.
Armed with RM2 million from the Prime Minister’s department, the privately run 1Mas Hoki programme will see 14 states concentrating on 60 players each for four major assignments.
1Mas will cater for different age groups to prepare players fort the 2013 and 2017 Junior World Cups, the 2016 Rio de Janeiro Olympics and the 2014 Asian Games in South Korea.
This will be the first time that a systematic long-term plan has gotten off the blueprint stage, and will be run as a private entity, and salaried staff.
Their only link to the Malaysian Hockey Federation (MHF) is reports received through Development Committee Chairman Ken Pereira, and there is supposed to be no other meddling.
And Lim Chiow Chuan, a former Malaysian international, has quit his job as coach of the Singapore national team after helping the Republic to qualify for the China Asian Games, and will now be the Development Director of 1Mas.
There will also be a nine-member watch-dog committee to monitor its progress, and it is made up with the likes of National Sports Council director general Datuk Zolkeples Embong, National Sports Institute Director General Datuk Ramlan Aziz, former coach and team manager Datuk R. Yogeswaran and former international Datuk Poon Fook Loke.
The above paragraphs have been a mouthful and dry to a certain degree because that is what a blueprint is supposed to sound like.
In its actual implementation, the commitment from states and response from parents, and how much the kids enjoy it, will eventually decide if it turns into a success story or goes bust after 12 months.
Ambitious as it may sound, many on the ground are optimistic of its success because the plan caters to have a strong pool of players for targeted tournaments.
The idea is to train the players for two hours, three times a week at their own states, and then have a tournament to cater for this group.
To top it up, the MHF have also dangled up to RM15,000 for a state which runs an under-18 league successfully with 18 teams or above. The minimum is RM3,000 for a six-team league.
There are many ideas being thrown around, and money is also not a problem to develop players for the next seven years.
The Prime Minister is also expected to launch the 1Mas Hoki programme in the middle of September, and one can’t think of anything else Malaysian hockey would need to battle with the growing dominance from Europe and Oceania.
On a parting note to cheer up those who have a football World Cup hang-over, I reproduce an e-mail I received:
God, and the devil were each having a holiday in hyper-space. The topic of conversation turned to who has the best football team. Much to the God’s surprise the devil proposed a match to settle their dispute.
As God was leaving he said to the devil, “Don’t you realise that all the ‘good’ players go to heaven?”
The devil, smiling, responded: “Yeah, but we’ve got all the refs!”
jugjet@nst.com.my
COMMENT
THE ground work, workshops, and briefings are over and done with, and starting from tomorrow, hockey in the country will finally see systematical development to groom players for the next decade.
Armed with RM2 million from the Prime Minister’s department, the privately run 1Mas Hoki programme will see 14 states concentrating on 60 players each for four major assignments.
1Mas will cater for different age groups to prepare players fort the 2013 and 2017 Junior World Cups, the 2016 Rio de Janeiro Olympics and the 2014 Asian Games in South Korea.
This will be the first time that a systematic long-term plan has gotten off the blueprint stage, and will be run as a private entity, and salaried staff.
Their only link to the Malaysian Hockey Federation (MHF) is reports received through Development Committee Chairman Ken Pereira, and there is supposed to be no other meddling.
And Lim Chiow Chuan, a former Malaysian international, has quit his job as coach of the Singapore national team after helping the Republic to qualify for the China Asian Games, and will now be the Development Director of 1Mas.
There will also be a nine-member watch-dog committee to monitor its progress, and it is made up with the likes of National Sports Council director general Datuk Zolkeples Embong, National Sports Institute Director General Datuk Ramlan Aziz, former coach and team manager Datuk R. Yogeswaran and former international Datuk Poon Fook Loke.
The above paragraphs have been a mouthful and dry to a certain degree because that is what a blueprint is supposed to sound like.
In its actual implementation, the commitment from states and response from parents, and how much the kids enjoy it, will eventually decide if it turns into a success story or goes bust after 12 months.
Ambitious as it may sound, many on the ground are optimistic of its success because the plan caters to have a strong pool of players for targeted tournaments.
The idea is to train the players for two hours, three times a week at their own states, and then have a tournament to cater for this group.
To top it up, the MHF have also dangled up to RM15,000 for a state which runs an under-18 league successfully with 18 teams or above. The minimum is RM3,000 for a six-team league.
There are many ideas being thrown around, and money is also not a problem to develop players for the next seven years.
The Prime Minister is also expected to launch the 1Mas Hoki programme in the middle of September, and one can’t think of anything else Malaysian hockey would need to battle with the growing dominance from Europe and Oceania.
On a parting note to cheer up those who have a football World Cup hang-over, I reproduce an e-mail I received:
God, and the devil were each having a holiday in hyper-space. The topic of conversation turned to who has the best football team. Much to the God’s surprise the devil proposed a match to settle their dispute.
As God was leaving he said to the devil, “Don’t you realise that all the ‘good’ players go to heaven?”
The devil, smiling, responded: “Yeah, but we’ve got all the refs!”
Sunday, July 11, 2010
Malaysia collapse against China
Ramesh, Harmeert, Ugentheran, Joel Samuel Van Huizen. The Project 2013 boys are on a European Tour.
PROJECT 2013 DAY OFF at the Nou Camp:Ramesh, Zulhairi Hashim, Joel Samuel Van Huizen .MALAYSIA lost 2-1 to China in the final of the Four-Nation in Dalian, China yesterday.
The Chinese took a 2-0 lead after scoring off a penalty stroke and a field attempt, while Tajol Rosli narrowed the gap for Malaysia in the second half.
Malaysia had beaten Russia 3-2 and Pakistan 3-0 to reach the final.
“The penalty stroke came about after a China penalty corner attempt was saved with a hockey stick, but the umpire felt it hit a players leg.
“After that goal, Malaysia pushed forward and China countered with a field attempt to make it 2-0. Our players had bombed many sitters after narrowing the gap, and lost grip of the match,” said team manager George Koshy.
The national team are preparing for the Commonwealth Games in New Delhi where they are in Group A with Australia, Pakistan, India and Scotland.
In Group B are England, New Zealand, Canada, South Africa and Trinidad and Tobago.
In the 2006 Melbourne Commonwealth Games, Malaysia won the bronze medal.
Saturday, July 10, 2010
God's Football Team -v- Devil's Team
God, and the devil were each having a holiday in hyper-space. The topic of conversation turned to who could turn out the best football team. Much to the God's surprise the devil proposed a football match to settle their dispute.
As God was leaving he said to the devil, 'Don't you realise that all the 'good' players go to heaven?"
The devil, smiling, responded "Yeah, but we've got all the refs!"--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
What do you call a malaysian player in the first round of the World Cup?
The Referee.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
My computer's been infected by the Robert Green virus. Now I can't save anything.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Osama Bin laden has just appeared in a new T.V. message proving he is still alive. He said, 'The English football team were s*** again'. British intelligence have dismissed it, saying it could have been recorded at any time in the last 44 years.
Project high on Scot win, seniors see double in China
MALAYSIA will play China in the final of the Four-Nation in Dahlian, China today.
Yesterday, Malaysia and China played their final pool match but the match was called off in the second half after heavy rain made the pitch waterlogged. The score was 2-1 in favour of China and the tournament director insisted that Malaysia complete their match at 7am today, and then play China again in the final at 4pm the same day.
Meanwhile, the Project 2013 beat Scotland Under-21 3-2 in a friendly in Barcelona yesterday.
Project had earlier lost to Spain 3-2 and then drew their second match against Spain 2-2. The squad is on a training-cum tour of Europe to prepare for the 2013 Junior World Cup.
Project took the lead in the 20th minute when Firhan Ashaari, running from the left flank, beat three defenders before tucking in the ball from close range.
And just before the breather, Amir Farid’s solo run won Project their third Penalty corner, and skipper Mohamed Nor Faez scored to consolidate the lead.
The Scots were more aggressive in the second half, and reduced the deficit in the 39th minute through a field goal, and then drew level in the 53rd minute via a penalty corner set-piece.
Project woke up from their slumber and after muffing a few chances, they won a penalty stroke in the 60th minute and Firhan cooly converted.
“The personal team target for matches in Spain was to win at least one game considering the age and experience factor of opponents. And the boys not only won one, but also pulled off a draw against an experienced Spain side,” said team manager Mirnawan Nawawi.
The squad will leave for Poland today to play more friendlies.
Yesterday, Malaysia and China played their final pool match but the match was called off in the second half after heavy rain made the pitch waterlogged. The score was 2-1 in favour of China and the tournament director insisted that Malaysia complete their match at 7am today, and then play China again in the final at 4pm the same day.
Meanwhile, the Project 2013 beat Scotland Under-21 3-2 in a friendly in Barcelona yesterday.
Project had earlier lost to Spain 3-2 and then drew their second match against Spain 2-2. The squad is on a training-cum tour of Europe to prepare for the 2013 Junior World Cup.
Project took the lead in the 20th minute when Firhan Ashaari, running from the left flank, beat three defenders before tucking in the ball from close range.
And just before the breather, Amir Farid’s solo run won Project their third Penalty corner, and skipper Mohamed Nor Faez scored to consolidate the lead.
The Scots were more aggressive in the second half, and reduced the deficit in the 39th minute through a field goal, and then drew level in the 53rd minute via a penalty corner set-piece.
Project woke up from their slumber and after muffing a few chances, they won a penalty stroke in the 60th minute and Firhan cooly converted.
“The personal team target for matches in Spain was to win at least one game considering the age and experience factor of opponents. And the boys not only won one, but also pulled off a draw against an experienced Spain side,” said team manager Mirnawan Nawawi.
The squad will leave for Poland today to play more friendlies.
First SMK Kepong Baru Indoor
PIC: The SMK Kepong Baru Indoor pitch.THE First SMK Kepong Baru Indoor Hockey Tournament will be held on Saturday, July 31, 2010.
The tournament will start at 8.00am at the indoor pitch at SMK Kepong Baru.
GROUP A: 1 Lebah, 2 Beeliners, 3 Chota, 4 Stingers, 5 Honey Bees, 6 Bumble Bees.
GROUP B: 1 Tawon, 2 Kolavi, 3 Wasps, 4 Buzzers, 5 Hornets, 6 Killer Bees.
BASIC RULES:
1. There will be five to a team but only four to play at any one time. Substitution allowed only for injuries. No rolling substitution allowed.
2. No GK. Smaller goalposts will be arranged.
3. Players will be picked by draw. Four groups of players -before 87, 1987, after 87, and current schoolboys.
4. This will be a proper tournament. 10 mins per game for group matches. 15 mins per half for semifinals and final. No halftime.
Sixty players have entered the tournament. The ages range from 13 to 25.
Friday, July 9, 2010
Lim quits Singapore, back with Malaysia
The announcement came on July 2: The Singapore National Olympic Council (SNOC) had overturned their original decision, allowing the Republic's hockey men to play at the Guangzhou Asian Games from Nov 12 to 27.
But even before the news had filtered through and celebrations could begin, the Singapore team had already taken a hit: Lim Chiow Chuan, the coach who guided the men to second spot in the seven-team Asian Games qualifiers in Dhaka from May 7 to 16, had already submitted his resignation just days before the SNOC declaration.
Lim was distraught when, on May 31, SNOC denied hockey a spot at the Games despite the team having qualified on merit - the snub being the last straw for the Malaysian.
"Even before the qualifiers, I was contemplating leaving but was certain I would only leave after the Asian Games, if we qualified.
"But when the SNOC decided not to send us to the Asian Games, I knew I had to move on and I wasn't going to change my mind even after they changed theirs," he told MediaCorp yesterday.
Lim has already accepted an offer from Malaysia but declined to furnish details due to confidentiality issues. His new employers will announce his appointment next month.
The Singapore Hockey Federation (SHF) will appoint an interim coach to ensure the men's team continues to training in the run up to the Games, while sourcing for a full-time coach.
"The most satisfying thing in my four years here is seeing the players improve. We were pretty good at the Men's Junior World Cup last year, turning in very consistent performances," he said, adding that a silver-medal showing at last year's SEA Cup and the Asian Games qualifiers were some of his major achievements.
After hearing of Lim's impending departure, some players in the Games squad had contemplated quitting the sport but Lim is adamant they stick with the team.
"The boys must not stop playing, it would be very silly. The Asian Games are a big competition and they have to play for themselves and their country," said the 44-year-old Olympian.
The squad have not trained since their return from the Dhaka qualifiers and their 3-1 defeat to Sri Lanka was Lim's last game in charge. He will head to Kuala Lumpur for the Asean Schools competition on Monday with Singapore's under-18 side.
Said Lim: "My wish for Singapore hockey is that they get more funding and that hockey players carry on in the sport."
Lim joined the SHF on Sept 1, 2006, and he will relinquish his role on Aug 31 this year after serving out a two-month notice, four years to the day he was installed as head coach.
Today online
But even before the news had filtered through and celebrations could begin, the Singapore team had already taken a hit: Lim Chiow Chuan, the coach who guided the men to second spot in the seven-team Asian Games qualifiers in Dhaka from May 7 to 16, had already submitted his resignation just days before the SNOC declaration.
Lim was distraught when, on May 31, SNOC denied hockey a spot at the Games despite the team having qualified on merit - the snub being the last straw for the Malaysian.
"Even before the qualifiers, I was contemplating leaving but was certain I would only leave after the Asian Games, if we qualified.
"But when the SNOC decided not to send us to the Asian Games, I knew I had to move on and I wasn't going to change my mind even after they changed theirs," he told MediaCorp yesterday.
Lim has already accepted an offer from Malaysia but declined to furnish details due to confidentiality issues. His new employers will announce his appointment next month.
The Singapore Hockey Federation (SHF) will appoint an interim coach to ensure the men's team continues to training in the run up to the Games, while sourcing for a full-time coach.
"The most satisfying thing in my four years here is seeing the players improve. We were pretty good at the Men's Junior World Cup last year, turning in very consistent performances," he said, adding that a silver-medal showing at last year's SEA Cup and the Asian Games qualifiers were some of his major achievements.
After hearing of Lim's impending departure, some players in the Games squad had contemplated quitting the sport but Lim is adamant they stick with the team.
"The boys must not stop playing, it would be very silly. The Asian Games are a big competition and they have to play for themselves and their country," said the 44-year-old Olympian.
The squad have not trained since their return from the Dhaka qualifiers and their 3-1 defeat to Sri Lanka was Lim's last game in charge. He will head to Kuala Lumpur for the Asean Schools competition on Monday with Singapore's under-18 side.
Said Lim: "My wish for Singapore hockey is that they get more funding and that hockey players carry on in the sport."
Lim joined the SHF on Sept 1, 2006, and he will relinquish his role on Aug 31 this year after serving out a two-month notice, four years to the day he was installed as head coach.
Today online
No Pain for Spain, says Paul...
OBERHAUSEN, Germany, July 9, 2010 (AFP) - Let the fiesta begin. Spain will win the football World Cup for the first time in their history on Sunday, according to Paul, the “psychic” octopus with a perfect prediction record.The eight-legged oracle, who has become a World Cup sensation by correctly predicting all six Germany games, very quickly plumped for Spain on Friday carried live on national German television.
Earlier, the two-year-old mollusc medium also said that Germany, his country of residence, would defeat Uruguay in the third-place play-off game on Saturday.
In the now familiar routine, two boxes were lowered into his tank, each containing a mussel and the flags of the two opposing teams.
The tentacled tipster went straight to the Spanish box, wrenched open the lid and gobbled the tasty morsel.
But the art of football predicting has become a dangerous job for the English-born clairvoyant cephalopod with some bitter German fans threatening to turn him into sushi after he predicted a semi-final defeat for the Mannschaft.
Paul’s home, an aquarium in western Germany, has received death-threat emails saying “we want Paul for the pan,” said entertainment supervisor Daniel Fey.
“Since yesterday our colleagues have kept a very close eye on Paul,” Fey added.
No less an authority than Spanish Prime Minister Jose Luiz Rodriguez Zapatero has called for octopus bodyguards.
“I am concerned for the octopus ... I am thinking of sending him a protective team,” joked Zapatero on Radio Cadena Ser.
Spanish Industry Minister Miguel Sebastian has called for the creature to be given an “immediate” free transfer to Spain to “ensure his protection.” Stung by Paul’s “treachery” at picking Spain over Germany in the semi-final, some sections of the 350,000-strong crowd watching the game on giant screens in Berlin sang anti-octopus songs.
The honour of Paul’s mother was called into question, according to witnesses.
Friday’s prediction is expected to be the last for Paul, who in octopus terms is a pensioner, at the grand old age of two-and-a-half. Octopuses generally live three years at the latest.
Germany will beat Uruguay, says Paul..
BERLIN (AP) — Octopus oracle Paul is predicting Germany will win over Uruguay at the World Cup in the fight for third place.
Paul’s pick was carried live Friday on TV stations around Europe. The world-famous octopus could be seen choosing a mussel from a glass tank marked with a German flag, after sitting on the Uruguayan tank for a few minutes — indicating a German victory in Saturday’s fight for places three and four in the World Cup.
Since predicting Spain’s victory over Germany, the mollusk has become less popular at home, while Spaniards have offered their newfound mascot protection.
Paul correctly predicted Germany’s wins over Argentina, England, Australia and Ghana and the country’s loss to Serbia.
He picks the Spain-Netherlands final later in the day.
Project 2013 better in defeat
PROJECT 2013 lost to Spain Under-21 3-2 in their second friendly in Barcelona yesterday.
The squad, in Tour of Europe to prepare for the 2013 Junior World Cup, had held the Spaniards 2-2 on Thursday.
However, team manager Mirnawan Nawawi was more impressed with the second friendly, even in defeat.
“The boys have been steadily improving after every match in this Tour, and even though we lost 3-2 to Spain in the second friendly, they played much better than the 2-2 draw on Thursday,” said Mirnawan.
Spain fielded six Singapore-Malaysia Junior World Cup players, while the Malaysian team is made up of raw trainees.
Today, Project 2013 will meet Scotland Under-21: “And I believe if they keep their structure, like they did against Spain, we have a good chance of winning against the Scots.”
The team will play seven more matches before they return on July 22.
Meanwhile the senior squad, who are in China for a Four- Nation, will square off against China in their last pool match today.
They edged Russia 3-2 and beat Pakistan 3-0 earlier, and coach Stephen van Huizen said: “We hope to keep a clean slate and enter the final without dropping any points.”
The squad, in Tour of Europe to prepare for the 2013 Junior World Cup, had held the Spaniards 2-2 on Thursday.
However, team manager Mirnawan Nawawi was more impressed with the second friendly, even in defeat.
“The boys have been steadily improving after every match in this Tour, and even though we lost 3-2 to Spain in the second friendly, they played much better than the 2-2 draw on Thursday,” said Mirnawan.
Spain fielded six Singapore-Malaysia Junior World Cup players, while the Malaysian team is made up of raw trainees.
Today, Project 2013 will meet Scotland Under-21: “And I believe if they keep their structure, like they did against Spain, we have a good chance of winning against the Scots.”
The team will play seven more matches before they return on July 22.
Meanwhile the senior squad, who are in China for a Four- Nation, will square off against China in their last pool match today.
They edged Russia 3-2 and beat Pakistan 3-0 earlier, and coach Stephen van Huizen said: “We hope to keep a clean slate and enter the final without dropping any points.”
Thursday, July 8, 2010
Project 2013 draw Spain, seniors beat Pakistan
THE Malaysian hockey team beat Pakistan 3-0 in a Four- Nation in Dalian, China, yesterday to take a step closer to play in in the final.
The national team had on Wednesday beaten Russia 3-2 and will play China in their last pool match on Saturday.
Amin Rahim gave Malaysia the lead with a 19th minute penalty corner while the other goals came from Hafifi Hafiz (61st) and Azlan Misron (64th).
Coach Stephen van Huizen said the team is doing reasonably well, considering that he injected six new players after the Azlan Shah Cup.
“I have been fielding all the juniors to give them maximum exposure and they have done well so far. The first test will come when we play in the New Delhi Commonwealth Games but not too much should be read into it.
“Our target is to be be ready for the Asian Games in China, and that is why I am still experimenting with some young players,” said Van Huizen.
The three Junior World Cup players in Dalian are goal keeper Abdul Hakim Adnan, defender Herman Pawi and forward Azzami Adabi.
Meanwhile, in a playing-cum-training Tour Barcelona, the Project 2013 players held Spain Under-21 2-2.
Team manager Mirnawan Nawawi said: “The first half was an even contest with the Spain winning one penalty corner but failed to score.
“However, in the second half Malaysia took the lead off Mohamed Sabri in the 39th minute, but Spain drew level in the 50th minute.
“Firhan Ashaari scored with reverse stick attempt in the 64th minute to regain the lead but Spain managed to score the equaliser again but going by our clock, it was in the 75th minute,” said Mirnawan.
Spain fielded six Junior World Cup players, and according to Mirnawan, it was a morale boosting draw ahead of a re- match today.
The national team had on Wednesday beaten Russia 3-2 and will play China in their last pool match on Saturday.
Amin Rahim gave Malaysia the lead with a 19th minute penalty corner while the other goals came from Hafifi Hafiz (61st) and Azlan Misron (64th).
Coach Stephen van Huizen said the team is doing reasonably well, considering that he injected six new players after the Azlan Shah Cup.
“I have been fielding all the juniors to give them maximum exposure and they have done well so far. The first test will come when we play in the New Delhi Commonwealth Games but not too much should be read into it.
“Our target is to be be ready for the Asian Games in China, and that is why I am still experimenting with some young players,” said Van Huizen.
The three Junior World Cup players in Dalian are goal keeper Abdul Hakim Adnan, defender Herman Pawi and forward Azzami Adabi.
Meanwhile, in a playing-cum-training Tour Barcelona, the Project 2013 players held Spain Under-21 2-2.
Team manager Mirnawan Nawawi said: “The first half was an even contest with the Spain winning one penalty corner but failed to score.
“However, in the second half Malaysia took the lead off Mohamed Sabri in the 39th minute, but Spain drew level in the 50th minute.
“Firhan Ashaari scored with reverse stick attempt in the 64th minute to regain the lead but Spain managed to score the equaliser again but going by our clock, it was in the 75th minute,” said Mirnawan.
Spain fielded six Junior World Cup players, and according to Mirnawan, it was a morale boosting draw ahead of a re- match today.
Monday, July 5, 2010
A believer of the German mean machine
By Jugjet Singhjugjet@nst.com.my
COMMENT
FOR the majority of Malaysians, the World Cup was officially over after their favourite teams crashed out, and it was back to work, as tedious as it might sound, after almost a month of dreaming.
I have always failed to understand why most of my journalist friends support England, but respect their decision nevertheless, as many Malaysians also support Brazil, Ar gentina, France and Italy -- all because Malaysian soccer is still stuck in kindergarten league.
I didn’t need to go out for opinions as fellow journalist Arnaz M. Khairul said the Malaysian men can’t even qualify for the women’s World Cup, while soccer writer Ajitpal Singh said we can’t even beat the Japanese Under-18 team.
There is so much of passion among soccer supporters in the country, but none is projected towards their own team for obvious reasons.
At the watering holes, including teh-tarik joints, fans poured out their emotions when England was brushed aside by Germany, then Brazil was shown the exit by Netherlands and Argentina made to look like novices by Germany.
Many could still not come to terms that Italy and France were not among the semi-finalists.
I didn’t see anybody decking up with Uruguay attire, and even though they are in the last four, they will not find many supporters here when they square off against Netherlands on Wednesday.
Germany, who finished third at home in 2006, and are the best prepared team so far, do not seem to ignite passion among soccer lovers here.
They are seen as emotionless, and even though we love their car, but hate their tendency to work like their well- known car engine.
When Argentina played Germany, I was lucky to share a table at the mamak stall with a group of teenagers as I arrived minutes before kick-off and all the good spots were already taken.
All of them cheered for Argentina, and became angrier and angrier as Germany kept on scoring.
And at half-time, a girl in the group was heard lamenting: “I am going to keep on supporting Argentina no matter what happens because they have such a sweet blue jersey. I hate the Germans, they have such a sinister black jersey!
The remark would have been hilarious if not for the fact that she would have been supporting the golden-yellow jersey of the Malaysian team, and not some foreign country, had they been good enough to qualify.
I was very angry when Arnaz and Ajitpal made the remarks, but they were only speaking the truth. So, lets look forward to Rio de Janeiro 2014, where I will wear the German jersey, for I am now their true believer.
Project skid Suisse Selection
PROJECT 2013 players won their third consecutive match when they brushed aside Suisse Selection 4-0 in their European Tour yesterday.
In earlier matches, the Project boys had beaten Geneva Selection 3-2 and Lyon Football Club Hockey Team 8-0.
The players are now in Barcelona, where more friendlies and training has been arranged. They will return on July 22.
Yesterday, Joel Van Huizen, Mohamed Sabri, Mohamed Rashid and Amir Farid were on target via field goals.
R. Ramesh was selected as the best player of the series.
“The team has started showing signs of maturity and should be ready to fight for a spot in the Junior World Cup Qualifier,” said team manager Mirnawan Nawawi.
In earlier matches, the Project boys had beaten Geneva Selection 3-2 and Lyon Football Club Hockey Team 8-0.
The players are now in Barcelona, where more friendlies and training has been arranged. They will return on July 22.
Yesterday, Joel Van Huizen, Mohamed Sabri, Mohamed Rashid and Amir Farid were on target via field goals.
R. Ramesh was selected as the best player of the series.
“The team has started showing signs of maturity and should be ready to fight for a spot in the Junior World Cup Qualifier,” said team manager Mirnawan Nawawi.
Project boys on a Swiss high
THE Project 2013 hockey team started their Europe playing Tour on a high when they beat Geneva Selection 3-2 at the Richmont Hockey Stadium on Friday.
After that, they went on a rampage to beat Lyon Football Club Hockey Team 8-0 yesterday.
The team, preparing for the 2013 Junior World Cup, left on June 30 on their training-cum-playing Tour and will be back by July 22.
Against Geneva, the Project boys were 0-2 down when the half-time hooter blew, but bounced back with goals from Amir Farid (45th, 70th) and Firhan Ashaari (61st).
And against Lyon, the scorers were Mohamed Nor Faez (two goals), Mohamed Rashid (two), Mohamed Sabri, Mo hamed Nor Izzat, Amir Farid and Syamim Yusof.
Their third match in Geneva will be against a Suisse Selection, after which the team will go for a well deserved boat ride around the Chizmone lake, and will travel for more matches to Barcelona today.
“The overall performance against Geneva Selection was not convincing especially in the first half because the players looked rather lethargic and had trouble getting used to the European,” said team manager Mirnawan Nawawi.
“However in the second half the boys picked up their game and manage to score the three goals. We had at least six clear chances to score but lacked sharpness and goal scoring ability.
“And in the second match, I was impressed with the fighting spirit and character of the players which was the tonic towards winning with a big margin.”
After that, they went on a rampage to beat Lyon Football Club Hockey Team 8-0 yesterday.
The team, preparing for the 2013 Junior World Cup, left on June 30 on their training-cum-playing Tour and will be back by July 22.
Against Geneva, the Project boys were 0-2 down when the half-time hooter blew, but bounced back with goals from Amir Farid (45th, 70th) and Firhan Ashaari (61st).
And against Lyon, the scorers were Mohamed Nor Faez (two goals), Mohamed Rashid (two), Mohamed Sabri, Mo hamed Nor Izzat, Amir Farid and Syamim Yusof.
Their third match in Geneva will be against a Suisse Selection, after which the team will go for a well deserved boat ride around the Chizmone lake, and will travel for more matches to Barcelona today.
“The overall performance against Geneva Selection was not convincing especially in the first half because the players looked rather lethargic and had trouble getting used to the European,” said team manager Mirnawan Nawawi.
“However in the second half the boys picked up their game and manage to score the three goals. We had at least six clear chances to score but lacked sharpness and goal scoring ability.
“And in the second match, I was impressed with the fighting spirit and character of the players which was the tonic towards winning with a big margin.”
Saturday, July 3, 2010
Model vows to run naked if Paraguay wins
TOSS: Between her and Maradona!Paraguayan pin-up and lingerie model Larissa Riquelme has just reignited this year's football summer by matching Diego Maradona’s pledge to run naked through the streets if her nation wins the World Cup.
The ears of hot-blooded males everywhere pricked up straight away when Riquelme vowed to strip off out of national pride if the South American underdogs go all the way in South Africa.
Paraguayan model Larissa Riquelme Larissa's not happy about something - the guys in front look fine with it though
After watching Paraguay come through a last-16 penalty shootout against Japan on Tuesday afternoon, Riquelme - watching with a large crowd in Asuncion, who were presumably there for the football rather than her - was asked if she was prepared to match Maradona's bold claim.
Larissa Riquelme The two cameramen in the background definitely drew the short straws for this assignment
She readily agreed - with one caveat: 'Of course I will,' she said, 'but with my body painted in the colours of Paraguay.'
I'm sure no one will complain about that.
The 24-year-old has been pictured leading the celebrations back home as Roque Santa Cruz and his team-mates fought through a group that included reigning champions Italy to qualify for the knockout stages.
Paraguay win, model Larissa Riquelme runs. Everyone's happy Paraguay win, model Larissa Riquelme runs. Everyone's happy.
Her celebrations - complete with lucky mobile phone tucked into her more than ample cleavage - caught the eye of quite a few photographers, who were on hand to record her enthusiastic cheers.
"I'm sure no one complained about that either."
Fancy playing in Barbados?
A Youth Hockey Festival will be held in Barbados from December 12 to 18, 2010. Pablo Mendoza, son of coach Rudy Mendoza from Argentina, is organising the festival to promote hockey and develop the sport in that area.
The festival will feature 3 events:
1 Youth hockey competition (Boys/Girls, Under-18, Under-16, Under-14)
2 Developmental and High Performance Coaching Course (Directed by FIH Master Coach Rudy Mendoza)
3 Clinic for players (Directed by FIH Master Coach Rudy Mendoza)
For those who are interested, go to www.caribbeansportscamps.com of call
Pablo Mendoza
Caribbean Sports Camps / Barbados
Director
Contact Number: +12462587435
1 Youth hockey competition (Boys/Girls, Under-18, Under-16, Under-14)
2 Developmental and High Performance Coaching Course (Directed by FIH Master Coach Rudy Mendoza)
3 Clinic for players (Directed by FIH Master Coach Rudy Mendoza)
For those who are interested, go to www.caribbeansportscamps.com of call
Pablo Mendoza
Caribbean Sports Camps / Barbados
Director
Contact Number: +12462587435
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