Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) Secretary Asif Bajwa has said that the federation will consider Chief Coach Michel van den Heuvel's request for a supporting staff of experts. - APP (File Photo)
KARACHI Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) Secretary Asif Bajwa has said that the federation will consider Chief Coach Michel van den Heuvel's request for a supporting staff of experts.

Speaking to Dawn on Saturday, Bajwa said the coach has already spoken to them regarding the matter and that they have no problems with the request.

“He is planning to call physical trainers, weight training and mental training experts apart from a goalkeeping coach, who will be visiting here from time to time to assist him in training the players,” said the Olympian fullback.

He was referring to Michel mentioning the need for a supporting staff of experts for the team during the press conference in Karachi here a day earlier.

The Dutch coach, while citing the example of World champions Australia, had said on the occasion “There they have entire institutions working for the promotion of the game. There are as many as 50 people working for the development of a single team so if we think we can achieve miracles with one coach, we are not smart.

“Whatever input I may bring with me will not just be for the national team but the juniors, Whites and the academy players, too.”

Asked if the coach wasn't happy with the goalkeeping coach Olympian Ahmad Alam, provided to him already, Bajwa explained “There is a difference between a goalkeeping coach and a trainer. Our former goalkeepers fit the latter category.”

He also added that the coaches and other training staff coming here would also be training the local experts.

Asked if the extra staff would cause the federation extra money as they are already paying Michel Rs1.1 million a month, the secretary said “We will manage it somehow for it is for the betterment of hockey. Besides, we have already promised Michel maximum facilities in his quest for the build-up of the game here.”

Opinion

Editorial

Mineral wealth
Updated 10 Apr, 2025

Mineral wealth

The Baloch unrest is partly the result of the belief that the province’s resources are being used for the rest of the country rather than for Balochistan’s economic development.
Senate shortfalls
10 Apr, 2025

Senate shortfalls

THE latest Citizens’ Report by Pildat on the performance of the Senate of Pakistan is a sobering account of...
Crypto coup
10 Apr, 2025

Crypto coup

IT is quite the coup. One of the most recognisable names in the global cryptocurrency market has been roped in by ...
Following through
Updated 09 Apr, 2025

Following through

Reconciliation, development, and deradicalisation initiatives cannot remain dormant words in a policy document.
Robe rebellion
09 Apr, 2025

Robe rebellion

THE unrest within the Islamabad High Court shows no sign of abating, and it is perhaps just as well that the ...
Fearing birth
09 Apr, 2025

Fearing birth

AMID dramatic aid cuts, the WHO has sounded the alarm about the dangers to Pakistan’s mothers and newborns, asking...