After suffering the ignominy of not qualifying for the Beijing Olympics in 2008, the Indian hockey team has made a comeback on the international circuit by making it to London Olympics. With hopes revived, all eyes are on the team’s chief coach, Michael Nobbs, to lead the team to victory at the prestigious event. Members of the sports fraternity Speak Up.
I am sure the Indian hockey team will win us the gold
The coach has truly done a tremendous job. I am sure that the Indian hockey team will not only do well, but also get the gold for our country. The coach has very well understood the Indian
culture and mentality.
He has built on the strong points of the players. While drag-flicker Sandeep Singh is in fantastic form and looks determined, Sardara Singh and VR Raghunath are showing their best play. The coach has showed the team that if one can master the drag flick, given an opportunity one can surely turn it into a goal. I would have been happier if the Indian Women’s team had qualified for the Olympics.
—Arnavaz Damania, former president, Indian Women’s Hockey Federation
Going by team’s form, I am sure it will finish on podium
With Michael Nobbs as the coach, things have changed for good. The team is playing as a well-knit squad — something that was missing earlier. As far as the London Olympics is concerned, we will definitely do much better this time. Going by the way the boys are playing, I am sure they will finish on the podium.
What makes it a different team is the fact that everyone is playing their part. Be it the defence, mid-fielders or the strike force — all are coming together to make their presence felt. This is a good sign for the team as a whole. After a poor show in the past, this is a clear indication that our boys are back in the game to be among the top teams in the world.
—Ikram Khan, secretary, Maharashtra Hockey Association
Players are focused, and are putting in more efforts
We are definitely back on the track. It is not only because of Indian hockey coach, Michael Nobbs, but also because the administration has done a lot to prevent the downfall of the national game by clearing the confusion between players. The players are now more focused. They are really putting in efforts on the field. Their game shows that they are up to the mark, and are satisfied with what they are doing. The team’s physical trainer, David John, has also done a good job and deserves appreciation for raising the fitness level of our hockey players. The coach and the physical trainer have increased the confidence levels of our players. With the team prepared physically and mentally, it all depends on the public support now.
—Rekha Bhide, Olympic hockey player
The team has been getting better with every match
With the Indian hockey team qualifying for London Olympics, the game has been restored to its old glory. I am confident that we will bring home the Olympic gold medal this time. Since long, the team was struggling to put up a decent show, but now they seem to be playing good hockey. At present, the boys are in good shape, but they have to be really quick to face other tough teams. They have to practise regularly. There is no doubt that the coach and the physical trainer are putting in their best. The team has been getting better with every match they have played in the last few days. With a high morale and good work, the team will surely win the Olympics.
—Sreedharan Tamba, national hockey umpire
Team is doing well, as the coach is given a free hand
The contribution of India’s hockey coach, Michael Nobbs, is really commendable. The team seems to be working together and winning after a long time. The administration must continue to give the coach a free hand. The players are back in excellent form only because the coach is free to take decisions.
The team’s performance has improved a lot and their passings are just perfect. In my opinion, if nobody interferes with the way the coach is working, he can do wonders for the team. The coach has established a good rapport with the players, and seems to know each player’s capability. The team should do a good job at London Olympics.
—Marian D’Souza, hockey coach
The boys are doing good, and seem more confident
I was really delighted to watch the qualifying match, wherein the Indian team defeated France to enter London Olympics. Sandeep Singh, who scored five goals including a hat-trick, was the star of the game.
It is really good to see the Indian hockey team in such a good form despite the dispute between the two hockey federations in India.
The game must be given preference over cricket. The boys are really playing good and seem to have more confidence and fighting spirit. Looking at the team’s performance in the last few matches, I feel we have the best hockey team. Obviously, the new coach has made a tremendous efforts and delivered results. The coach, along with the team’s physical trainer, is doing a great job with the team.
—Jerry Das, hockey enthusiast
Comments