Studio Hockey

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit my.studio.hockeyThinking about subscribing to Studio Hockey? Here’s a sneak peek into our latest episode with one of hockey’s brightest stars, Hardik Singh. Join co-hosts Ernst Baart and Jaspreet Singh as they bring both European and Asian lenses to the game and unlock inspiring insights from the heart of Indian hockey.In this episode preview:Hardik shares the story behind his rise from ball boy to double Olympic medalist.Discover what kept him going after missing out on the junior World Cup squad.Insight into growing up in a "mad" hockey family – and what it really means for a budding player.The turning point: How wise words from his uncle kept Hardik’s hockey dream alive.Honest reflections on setbacks, success, and the relentless pursuit of Olympic gold.But that’s just the beginning. The full episode dives even deeper:Inside stories from the unforgettable Olympic and World Cup campaigns.Dugout drama, mental conditioning secrets with Paddy Upton, and tales of building resilience.The evolution of hockey worldwide: What India and Asia need to reach the next level.Hardik’s take on domestic leagues, coaching, and the future of the sport in his homeland.Powerful moments of leadership, on-field lessons, and touching examples of social responsibility off the pitch.Don’t miss out on this inspiring conversation with one of international hockey’s most dynamic midfielders. Subscribe now to Studio Hockey to unlock the full episode and hear Hardik’s journey—raw, real, and deeply motivating—in his own words.Stay ahead of the game. Subscribe today and never miss an episode of Studio Hockey!

The 2025 Men’s Hockey Asia Cup in Rajgir, India, is now in the books, and what a momentous tournament it was. Not just for India, who marched undefeated to the title and claimed their ticket to the 2026 World Cup, but also for Asian hockey as a whole. In our Final Impressions episode, Jaspreet Singh took our listeners on a vivid journey—through the venue, the city’s historic atmosphere, sweltering conditions, team performances, and a revealing interview with Indian coach Craig Fulton. Studio.Hockey is reader-supported. To receive new posts and support our work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.A Historic City Hosts a Modern TournamentFirst impressions matter, and for me, the journey to Rajgir from the airport was eye-opening, setting the tone for a tournament nestled in a city where ancient history meets contemporary ambition. Upon entering the city’s outskirts, visitors are greeted by “mountains, a beautiful skyline, and all that.” Rajgir, etched in Buddhist history, sits just 70 kilometers from Bodhgaya, the site of Lord Buddha’s enlightenment. The venue itself—the sprawling Rajgir Sports Complex—spans 90 acres and houses top-tier facilities for 22 sports, including world-class hockey, cricket, football, and athletics pitches.Yet we have to ask the essential question: can Rajgir not only host great tournaments but also produce world-class athletes? It’s a multi-million rupee investment that hinges on more than architecture; it needs talent development and consistent nurturing of athletes. For now, the Asia Cup was a huge test—and by most measures, a triumph in staging.History, Heat, Humidity: the Three H’s of RajgirEvery tournament has its unique challenges, but for Jaspreet and all who attended, the Rajgir summer was unforgiving. “Heat and humidity were killing,” Jaspreet admits, not just for players, but for officials, spectators, and the media pack. He cleverly frames Rajgir’s experience as the “three H’s”: history, heat, and humidity.The toll on athletes was clear. Teams scrambled for coping strategies. The Korean squad shut off all the air conditioning in their hotel rooms to acclimatize. Bangladeshis guzzled coconut water, while Japanese warm-up before games was shortened to conserve player energy. With matches scheduled from morning (9am) through to the hottest part of the day (3pm), the first week was especially brutal.A Rough Start, a Triumphant Finish: India’s JourneyIndia came into the tournament under pressure. The Asia Cup isn’t just about continental bragging rights—World Cup qualification was on the line, and Jaspreet captures the collective sigh of relief when he says, “The monkey’s off the back”—no need for India to play stressful qualifiers next year.But the home team didn’t have it easy to start: “India played their first two matches which were 3pm starts, and it showed that they were struggling in the heat… barely able to beat China… and then Japan.” Here, Jaspreet singles out Harmanpreet Singh, the captain, as the hero of those challenging matches, netting five goals across the two openers—“goals that led to victory and helped India qualify for the Super Fours.“Without Harmanpreet’s hat-trick against China and his brace versus Japan, India may have struggled.”As scheduling came into favor—the Super Four matches moved to cooler 7:30pm slots—India found their rhythm. “Once they came into the Super Fours, it was a different team… They started to play like the dominating force they are in Asia.” Standout performers included Sukhjeet, praised for off-the-ball running, scoring skills and consistent performances, especially in the business end of the tournament.Yet, Jaspreet doesn’t shy away from pointing out weaknesses; India’s finishing, particularly in a 2-2 draw with Korea, was suspect. “The attacking intent was there, but the last touch [for goals] was missing.” Still, emphatic wins—like the 4-1 victory over Malaysia and hammering China 7-0—proved India’s eventual superiority. For Jaspreet, these late-tournament flourishes were a validation of India’s preparation, depth, and mental strength to peak when it matters.A New Landscape: The Asian Hockey RivalriesIt wouldn’t be Studio Hockey without a look at the broader regional trends. According to Jaspreet, this year’s Asia Cup saw the emergence of China as a truly promising side—young, energetic, and well-drilled under Dutch coach Michel van den Heuvel. Jaspreet quotes the assistant coach, Oltmans, expressing hopes for China to break into the LA 2028 Olympics and beyond. While they were thrashed 7-0 by India, Jaspreet believes “China can take a lot of positives from this tournament.”Korea, despite not defending their title, showed resilience—drawing India and riding their defensive discipline all the way to the final. Malaysia, however, endured heartbreak, losing a crucial 3-4 Super Fours clash with Korea after leading 3-1—a collapse reminiscent of their recent trend of letting big matches slip away, as Jaspreet reminds us of their Asian Games final loss to Japan after a similar lead.Japan, while once champions at the 2018 Asian Games, now appear “just about there”—competitive, but lacking the sharpness and consistency to make a real statement.The changing of the guard is evident: “China is coming up… under Michel van den Heuvel and their coaching staff they will do a lot better… Japan hasn’t made much of a noise since 2018… and Malaysia needs to work on seeing games out.” The rest of Asia, as Jaspreet maintains, still has work to do to challenge the continental kings.Tournament Logistics: Venue and Schedule DebatesNo modern tournament escapes scrutiny over scheduling and logistics, and this Asia Cup was no different. The absence of Pakistan—due to political tensions—and Oman (who withdrew due to financial constraints) left two vacant slots filled by Bangladesh and Kazakhstan. But perhaps the greatest challenge was the packed schedule: Seven matches in ten days for each finalist, a gauntlet deemed “very taxing” by experts and coaches alike.Dutchman Michel van den Heuvel’s comments, as relayed by Jaspreet, stirred debate: He opined that Asia’s hockey progress risks stagnation if “all the things keep coming back to India”That is, if India hosts the lion’s share of continental tournaments. Jaspreet counters with a broader perspective: the last Asian Champions Trophy edition was held in China and before that the Junior World Cup in Malaysia.However, when it comes to scheduling, Jaspreet concedes there’s work to be done. Van den Heuvel’s comparison to the Euro Hockey Championships—where teams enjoy more rest days between matches—casts light on the need for improved player welfare and more world-class tournament management, not just infrastructure.The Importance of Early Qualification: Interview with Craig FultonOne of the episode’s highlights comes in a dedicated segment with Indian head coach Craig Fulton, whose calm and pragmatic approach underpins the team’s steady progress. For Fulton, clinching the World Cup ticket at home was not just a relief, but a major strategic win: “It’s quite a busy run-in… Azlan Shah, trip to South Africa, Hockey India League, then Pro League—if you had to add another qualifier on top of that, it would be really difficult. So I’m glad we stayed away from that.”This is a major point Jaspreet also emphasizes: Securing qualification early allows the Indian team not only more time to prepare for the World Cup proper, but also the “leeway to try different things out… because they don’t have to go through qualifiers. They know they are there.”Fulton goes further, lauding the team’s ability to overcome adversity: “Seven games in ten days is no easy feat. We did really, really well. Even though the first two games were a little bit [shaky], as we acclimatized, we got stronger and stronger. Last night (7-0 vs China) and tonight (beating Korea 4-1 in the final) showed what we can do.”Jaspreet presses Fulton about squad plans for upcoming tournaments—will they go full strength? Fulton keeps cards close to his chest: “We’ll see what state we’re in and what we need to achieve next year with the group we have”. But there’s no hiding his satisfaction, both at ticking off the primary objective and at India’s ability to peak when it mattered.Looking Ahead: The State and Future of Asian HockeyAs Jaspreet wraps up his reflections, he returns to the central question: Where does Asian hockey stand now?India’s dominance remains, while China’s rise, the resilience of Korea, Malaysia’s need for psychological strengthening, and Japan’s stagnation all define this year’s storylines. With the World Cup spot settled, the challenge now is for the chasing pack to close the gap.For teams finishing behind India—Korea, Malaysia, China, Japan, and Bangladesh—a grueling path to World Cup qualification awaits via playoffs and qualifiers, a reminder of how high the stakes are in Asian hockey and how quickly fortunes can change.Why This Asia Cup MatteredJaspreet’s on-the-ground observations from Rajgir are a reminder of how much the “context” matters in sport—the venue’s ambition, the city’s rich history, the elements (both environmental and competitive), and the logistical realities all combine to shape results and future planning. The 2025 Asia Cup offered both challenges and inspiration in equal measure.Will Rajgir’s 90-acre sports complex become a production line of international athletes? Will the lessons in dealing with heat and humidity translate to better-prepared teams at future tournaments? Will China’s promise be realized, and can Malaysia find their killer instinct?One thing’s for sure: India’s undoubted success in Asia sets the stage for a fascinating World Cup campaign. Thanks for joining us for this recap of Studio Hockey’s Asia Cup coverage. For more in-depth analysis, behind-the-scenes stories, and expert interviews, stay tuned to Studio Hockey. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit my.studio.hockeyGet ready for an exciting new episode of Studio Hockey! Co-hosts Ernst Baart and Jaspreet Singh sit down with Australian Olympic player and legendary coach, Michael Nobbs, for an unfiltered conversation about international hockey, his extraordinary “hockey family,” and the powerful lessons learned on and off the pitch.In this preview, you’ll hear:Michael Nobbs reflect on his playing and coaching career, from representing Australia at the 1984 Olympics to leading India’s men’s team back onto the world stage.Stories about navigating the challenges and unique culture of Indian hockey, including insights on working during the transition from the Indian Hockey Federation to Hockey India.The essential role the Nobbs family has played in international hockey, with connections to Australian gold medalists and Olympians.Michael’s unbeatable spirit—both in hockey and in life—as he discusses his ongoing battle with cancer, never letting it stop him from loving the game.But there’s more to the episode you don’t want to miss!Michael’s inside perspective on the differences between coaching in India, Australia, and Japan.His candid thoughts on why foreign coaches struggle with Indian hockey, and the cultural insights that make or break success.Debates on club hockey, the future of Hockey Australia, and the next generation of world-class talents.Personal stories you won’t hear anywhere else: Locker room secrets, coaching dramas, and the evolution of the game from grassroots to Olympic podiums.Want the full, unfiltered conversation? Subscribe to Studio Hockey now wherever you get your podcasts to get instant access to this entire episode plus all our previous deep dives with leaders, legends, and characters of the game.Don’t miss out on the rest of Michael Nobbs’ incredible journey, exclusive anecdotes, and the revealing truth about international field hockey. Hit subscribe and join us for the complete episode!

Ernst Baart and Jaspreet Singh sit down with the insightful and outspoken Keely Dunn—a former international umpire, founder of FHUmpires.com, and renowned “umpire whisperer” from Canada.In This Podcast:Keely shares her unique journey into field hockey and umpiring—how a tough moment in her teens propelled her into the sport and later to international tournaments around the globe.Have you ever wondered why Keely boldly claims "umpiring is broken"? Find out what drives her mission to shake up hockey’s third team and why she believes drastic change is needed for umpiring to keep up with the modern game.Keely reveals what sets her platform apart from traditional hockey associations and why even countries with strong umpiring systems rely on her expertise.The candid discussion about the realities and future of umpiring: professionalism vs. volunteerism.Keely’s takes on rule changes, including the offside debate, penalty corners, and why she believes aerial rules are about to transform the sport.Insightful perspectives on growing field hockey in Canada, the U.S., and across Asia—including how expat communities and cultural exchange could be the key to building the sport worldwide.Direct and sometimes controversial opinions on gender equality, youth development, and what really needs to happen to bring umpires and fans together.Behind-the-scenes stories, colorful banter, and practical advice for players, fans, coaches, and aspiring umpires.Whether you’re an umpire, coach, player, or simply a passionate fan, you’ll find Keely’s unconventional approach both entertaining and enlightening.👉 Don’t miss out! Subscribe now to Studio Hockey to get access to the full episode, more expert conversations, and all things field hockey—delivered right to your favorite podcast platform.Happy Hockey–and see you for the full discussion! This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit my.studio.hockey/subscribe

Looking for fresh takes on the global game of hockey? This episode of Studio Hockey brings you an engaging conversation with Allison Keefe, the force behind “The Field Hockey Analyst.” Hosts Ernst Baart and Jaspreet Singh dive deep with Allison into the cultural nuances, challenges, and unique pathways of US field hockey, offering a perspective rarely heard in European or Asian circles.In This Podcast:Meet Allison Keefe: From East Coast beginnings to statistical storytelling and digital advocacy for US hockey.Discover why talking about the game is the critical first step to growing it, especially in underrepresented regions.How social media and digital analysis are shifting the field hockey landscape in America.A taste of the hot takes and honest comparisons between hockey cultures across the US, Europe, and Asia.The pay-to-play culture in the US versus professional models around the world.How data analysis and AI are shaping the future of hockey performance and injury prediction.Real insights into the US developmental system, college hockey scene, and the persistent struggle to keep players involved past graduation.How the US women’s and men’s teams are breaking barriers at international competitions—straight from someone with an insider’s view.Open discussions on club loyalty, college recruitment headaches, and the evolving media landscape of field hockey.—Studio Hockey: Field Hockey talk, from every angle, for everyone who loves the game.Subscribe and listen to the full episode! This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit my.studio.hockey/subscribe

Ready for a gripping look into Indian hockey’s rich, tragic history? In this one-of-a-kind podcast of Studio Hockey, hosts Jaspreet Singh and Ernst Baart are joined by acclaimed journalist and author Sundeep Misra, along with legendary Indian captain Vasudevan Baskaran. Together, they dive deep into the legacy and unsolved mystery surrounding Olympic gold medalist Pritihpal Singh’s murder—a tragedy that’s haunted hockey for decades.Why Subscribe?Studio Hockey delivers rare, in-depth conversations spanning field hockey’s history, culture, and future—seen from both Asian and European lenses. This episode is a must for hockey fans, mystery buffs, and anyone passionate about extraordinary sports stories.Don’t miss the full story. Subscribe now to Studio Hockey and be the first to hear the complete episode!Follow us wherever you get your podcasts and join us as we uncover hockey’s hidden stories—both the triumphs and the tragedies.Happy Hockey! This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit my.studio.hockey/subscribe

Studio Hockey – E70 Preview: Menezes & Chaudhry on the State of Asian and World HockeyWelcome to a brand-new episode of Studio Hockey! Co-hosts Ernst Baart and Jaspreet Singh present an unmissable preview of this enlightening conversation on the pulse of hockey both in Asia and globally.Special Guests:Jude Menezes (Director of Hockey, Auckland / Former India goalkeeper & Japan women’s coach)Ijaz Chaudhry (Respected Pakistani journalist and former media manager of Pakistan Hockey Federation)What’s Inside the Podcast:The current challenges and opportunities facing Pakistan and New Zealand hockey, including the financial dilemmas affecting Pro League participation.Insights into domestic hockey structures in both countries and the grassroots efforts keeping the sport alive.Thoughtful commentary on how international administration and politics impact the sport’s future across Asia and Oceania.Exclusive anecdotes about leadership, talent development, and iconic hockey academies that fuel national hope.For the full deep-dive discussion—including detailed takes on the European Championships, Asian Cup, the rise of Chinese hockey, and practical solutions for reviving hockey in traditional powerhouses—make sure you subscribe now.Why Subscribe?Get every episode of Studio Hockey delivered straight to your feed.Access extended interviews, in-depth analysis, and practical tips from the world’s leading hockey minds.Stay ahead with both global and local hockey perspectives.Don’t miss out on this must-hear episode—subscribe today and catch the complete conversation with Jude Menezes and Ijaz Chaudhry, only on Studio Hockey!Stay with us for future episodes on the latest in field hockey, from grassroots to global stage. Happy hockey! This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit my.studio.hockey/subscribe

Show Notes: Studio Hockey – E69 Zach WallaceGet ready for a special episode of Studio Hockey! In this exciting podcast, we’re joined by Zach Wallace—England and Great Britain’s dynamic attacking midfielder—fresh off competing in both the Tokyo and Paris Olympics and an impactful season in both the Hoofdklasse and the Hockey India League.What’s in this podcast?- Why the Hockey India League was a “privilege” for Zach, and how it surpassed all his expectations- Insights into what makes Indian hockey so unique—and what European players pick up from their time there- Zach’s honest take on the challenges and rewards of playing in a single-location league, plus what he hopes for future editions- The allure of the Dutch league and why Zach’s stayed in Holland far longer than planned- Life lessons from moving abroad- What it’s really like to play for club giant Bloemendaal and work under coach Michel van den Heuvel- Inside stories from the most intense Olympic matchups—including that unforgettable Paris Olympic thriller against India- Candid thoughts on England’s preparations for the upcoming European Championships—and an exclusive prediction for the semifinals- The ongoing “England vs. GB” team debate: does it actually affect players?- How Zach balances a pro hockey career with work—and thoughts on life after elite sportDon’t miss the full conversation—it’s packed with honest stories, expert insight, and behind-the-scenes hockey talk you won’t find anywhere else.Subscribe now to Studio Hockey so you never miss an episode! Let’s keep the global hockey family connected. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit my.studio.hockey/subscribe

Today’s special guest is none other than Arthur De Sloover, famed Belgian 🇧🇪 central defender, known for anchoring the Belgian national team—Red Lions—to historic victories, including Olympic gold, a World Cup, European titles, and high honors like FIH awards. On the domestic level, Arthur currently plays club hockey for Oranje Rood in the Dutch Hoofdklasse and recently featured in the reinvigorated Hockey India League for the Hyderabad Toofans.With hockey woven deeply into his family’s roots and rich career experiences bridging Belgium, the Netherlands, and India, Arthur brings a nuanced perspective on modern hockey’s evolution. This conversation delves into his journey, Belgium’s rise, balancing hockey with life off the field, and the state of the global game.Thanks for reading! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support my work.Family, Upbringing and Hockey DNAErnst kicks off by highlighting Arthur’s hockey lineage and asks about his early beginnings and family connection to the sport.Arthur warmly recalls, “Honestly, I started playing hockey since I was born. My whole family plays hockey… My grandfather played hockey, my mother and her brother played hockey as well. I just followed my parents to the hockey field from the beginning.” Notably, he shares how even his niece now wears Belgian colors on the national women’s team—a testament to the family’s enduring love for the sport. For Arthur, this generational connection laid the foundation for his achievements.A Glittering Career—and What Comes NextJaspreet turns to Arthur’s stacked trophy cabinet, acknowledging his Olympic and World Cup successes, and wonders: what’s left on the checklist?Arthur’s answer is refreshingly candid. While proud of his past, he admits, “If you look now at the last four or five years, I haven't won anything internationally or nationally… I’m starting to be a bit impatient now to go back for the gold medals.” He draws motivation from Belgium’s youthful next generation, eager to relive and surpass the “nice things we did in the past.” The hunger for new titles is undiminished.Defense, Role Models, and the Modern GameErnst, always keen on stats, celebrates Arthur’s on-field impact—the Red Lions’ win rate with him playing stands at a commanding two-thirds. Rather than ask Arthur to boast, Ernst asks which defenders Arthur admires today.Arthur singles out his longtime defensive partner, Arthur Van Doren: “He has shown and is still showing that he's the best one for already a long time… I've learned a lot from him.” Beyond Van Doren, he’s diplomatic: “It's such a broad spectrum… there’s not one player that has everything; every player has his own qualities.” He recognizes the evolution of defense as more crucial than ever, reflecting on recent low-scoring finals and sharing, “You see that the defensive part of hockey has become more and more important.”Belgium’s Rise—Keys to Sustained SuccessJaspreet moves into the heart of Belgium’s golden era, tracing roots back to 2016 and asking Arthur what he attributes this sustained success to.Arthur looks at the long arc of history, especially from the Beijing Olympics (2008) onward, crediting years of behind-the-scenes development: “It has been a big work from a lot of people behind the scenes… not one aspect.” He identifies coach Shane McLeod as a catalyst, describing his arrival before Rio 2016 as “one of the last puzzle pieces,” helping Belgium transform from “a really good team to being the best in the world.” Access to strong infrastructure and coaching from youth up characterized Belgium’s ascent—and now, with new faces coming in, “the structure… is so good that I hope we can still play at the top level for a number of years to come.”Balancing Hockey, Academics, and Real LifeErnst rightly notes that hockey doesn’t offer football-sized riches, making life beyond the pitch an inevitable balancing act for players. He asks Arthur about juggling sport and life off the field.Arthur is pragmatic and grounded: “It was important for me to have something besides [hockey]… I have done business economics studies in Antwerp.” He now works part-time for a private bank during lighter hockey periods—a way to “stay fresh when I play hockey.” Arthur emphasizes the importance of having more than one identity: “I really need that balance to also be busy next to hockey.” Some of his teammates focus solely on sport during their playing years, but for Arthur, a dual path keeps things sustainable.Hockey India League: A New ExperiencePicking up on Arthur’s recent stint with Hyderabad Toofans, Jaspreet probes what he took away from the return of the Hockey India League, particularly the level of India’s talent.Arthur was impressed and respectful, calling the one-month adventure “very eye opening.” He admits: “I was quite surprised with the level of the Indian players... I was quite impressed with the level and understanding of the game.” The drive he witnessed was inspiring: “For the Indian players, it’s such an important part of their life… it can literally change their life.” He came away with deep respect for Indian hockey’s passion and commitment.India’s Pro League Struggles: Perspective from the OppositionTurning to international competition, Jaspreet asks Arthur why India underperformed in a recent Pro League European tour, losing seven of eight matches—even one to Belgium.Arthur resists simple conclusions: “I don't think they played badly. India is always going to be a tough opponent for every country… Their games were all close calls.” He highlights key absences, like captain Harmanpreet’s temporary injury, as significant factors, along with logistical challenges. Arthur again sees the big picture: the Indian squad is in partial rebuilding after Paris 2024, with the Pro League as a development stage before the next World Cup. “I know the coach, Craig Fulton… he’s also looking at the bigger picture and not only at the results of today.”The Sreejesh Effect: Transition in India’s GoalkeepingJaspreet next brings up Sreejesh’s retirement and its impact, referencing the legendary Indian goalie’s role in safeguarding numerous victories.Arthur clearly rates Sreejesh highly: “Not only Sreejesh was a great goalie and a good shot stopper, but he probably also gave a lot of confidence to the team and to the defense in front of him with his experience.” He acknowledges that filling Sreejesh’s spot will take time, and urges patience: “You have to give those goalies games and experience… so they can gain the experience they need for the big tournaments.”Looking to the European Championships—Belgium’s SquadErnst moves the conversation to the EuroHockey Championships, for which Arthur and the Belgian squad are currently preparing. He asks how Arthur rates the new, younger team announced for the tournament.Arthur is enthusiastically optimistic: “We have, if I'm not mistaken, five players that play their first big tournament... I have to say I'm very excited about the tournament coming up.” He’s realistic about expectations—“we’re not the favorite to win the tournament”—but energized by the rapid progress shown by the youth, “We could potentially be a big surprise this tournament. So I'm really looking forward to see the young guys performing well.”Acknowledging the surprise selection of Loic Van Doren as first-choice goalie, Ernst asks if Arthur was surprised by the non-selection of Vincent Vanasch and what this means for the team.Arthur calls it “not a surprise for the team,” noting Van Doren’s world-class credentials: “It’s a luxury problem... Loic would be first goalie in a lot of other countries in the world.” He stresses team support for both goalkeepers, and promises the squad has faith in Van Doren for the Euros: “We all support him, we're all behind him and we know that he will also have an important role in our team for these Euros.”Ernst references newcomer Lucas Balthazar, a young player from a smaller club, noting his rapid rise to the senior squad.Arthur is very complimentary: “He has made huge steps... If you’re selected at this young age, it shows that you have something special.” What stands out for Arthur is Lucas’s maturity and mentality: “At the age he has and the way he plays, he has a very mature way of playing already.” Selection is no mere experiment—Lucas “really showed during a lot of months that he deserved his spot.”Where Should Big Tournaments Go? A Question from Joep de MolJoep de Mol, Arthur’s club teammate at Oranje Rood in the Dutch Hoofdklasse, poses a thoughtful question via video: Should hockey’s big tournaments rotate more across new venues, rather than recurring in the same cities and countries?Arthur agrees wholeheartedly: “If you always organize the tournaments at the same place, you don't reach enough people.” He points to positive recent examples, like the Olympic qualifiers in Oman, and suggests North America as another untapped market. “If we want to give the sport more leverage in the world, we should let it happen at more places than only the same stadiums in India or in Holland.”Should the Men’s and Women’s World Cups Be Held Together?Jaspreet wonders if hosting men’s and women’s World Cups simultaneously increases or undermines attention for each event.Arthur is honest about the complexity: “I think statistically there's always been more interest in men's sports than women's sports. So maybe people of women's sports will like it to be held at the same moment.” Arthur sums up: “For international hockey, I would say it's better taking place at the same time because you can… make it a bigger event. You can probably do a lot of marketing around it.”Asian Hockey Threats: Who’s Dangerous for India?Ahead of the Asian continental qualifier, Jaspreet asks Arthur which Asian teams are most likely to challenge India for the World Cup qualifying spot.Arthur names two: “Pakistan is always going to be a tough opponent, especially for India,” citing the rivalry and stylistic famil

We hosted for The Hockey Site a panel talk on 2025-05-23 —one you’ll want to catch if you care about the evolving landscape of high-performance coaching. In this session, we gathered global coaching talent to explore a topic which, still today, is a sensitive one: the underrepresentation of female coaches at the elite levels of our sport.Meet the Panel & Today’s Big TopicAt the heart of this episode is Joy Jouret, a Belgian coach of impressive breadth—former national player, coach of youth and senior teams (both men’s and women’s sides at the highest level), and now a scholar finishing a master’s degree in psychology with a thesis that zeroes in on gender representation in coaching. With Joy leading the way, our roundtable also featured Katrina Powell (head coach, Australian women’s national team), Janneke Schopman (ex-USA, India, and now Germany women’s national coach), and Veronica Scott (director of hockey at Colorado Academy, seasoned player and coach on three continents). I, Ernst Baart, did my best to stir the discussion and (mostly) stay out of their way.This Substack is reader-supported. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.Top Talking Points from the Workshop* The Current (Stagnant) Landscape Joy gave us a data-driven reality check: despite decades of progress in female participation, coaching numbers are stuck—globally, female coaches are just 20% across all sports, and only 10-15% at high performance. This isn’t trending upwards. And we’re not just talking field hockey.* Structural, Systemic, and Perception Barriers The panel dug into the “eco-system” of obstacles—individual, interpersonal, organisational, and societal. Want a diagram? Joy’s research has one—it looks a bit like lasagne, and it’s not always appetising.* Stereotyping and Self-Belief We all laughed and shook our heads at familiar stories—players who’d only ever been coached by men, sometimes preferring it simply because it’s what they’re used to. Katrina nailed it: “If you can’t see it, you can’t be it.” The psychological overlay—imposter syndrome, tokenism, stereotype threat—was unpacked in detail, and yes, that stuff is alive and well.* The Glass Ceiling, Rubber Walls, and Missed Opportunities Janneke recounted her own dance with the “rubber wall”—loaded with qualifications and experience, only to bounce off invisible barriers. Top jobs going unadvertised or un-interviewed? We don’t mince words.* Cultural Differences: US vs. Europe/Australia/India Veronica and Janneke reflected on the upside-down world of US college hockey, where female coaches are (in some cases) favoured, but rarely seen in men’s programs. In India or Europe, the problem is compounded by economic and cultural factors, not just gender.* Mentorship (the Real Pipeline) Call it what you like—giving back, helping the next wave, or just staying connected. Every panelist highlighted the power of informal and formal mentorship (and admitted they’re doing their bit, whether it’s baked into their job or just an open WhatsApp line).* Work-Life Realities Flexible scheduling, childcare, and transparent pay—these are not “nice to haves.” Katrina and Veronica pointed out that clubs, schools, and associations need to start with the coach’s reality, not just their own spreadsheet.* What National Bodies and FIH Should (Actually) Do There were calls (cheers, even) for more transparency in recruitment, real equality in salaries, and proper accountability for federations—especially those using government funding. Joy challenged the need for gender equity “labels” and for financial incentives tied to inclusion and diversity.* Moving Players into Coaching Whether it’s about instilling self-belief or showing clear pathways (and internships), getting high-level players—women in particular—to make the jump into coaching is still a nut to be cracked.* The Final Nudge: “Just Do It” From every angle, the message was clear: take the leap. As Joy summed it up: “You’re not a guest in hockey—you belong here.” Katrina added, “Jump in with both feet and have a go. And don’t be afraid to network.”Quote to GoJoy on bringing your whole self to the game:“We all have superpowers as human beings. Believe in yourself enough and your competencies—bring something really special and unique. It’s not linked to your gender. It’s linked to who you are.”In Summary – What We LearnedThis wasn’t a seminar about blaming the system or giving empty pep talks. Instead, our guests mapped out the real world we’re coaching in—from conscious and unconscious bias to genuine opportunities and the importance of allyship. We were reminded that diverse teams (on the field and in coaching boxes) make for stronger hockey—and that, while there are deep obstacles, there’s also cause for optimism and plenty of practical ideas to act on.Ready to Take Action?If this recap hit the mark, or if you want the full, unfiltered conversation—panelists, anecdotes, research, and all—make sure to check out the full panel talk on demand. Bring your coffee (or something stronger), this is a conversation every field hockey coach should be part of.Let’s keep the conversation going. See you on the field—and maybe at the next panel! Since you’re a paid subscriber… enjoy the full panel talk :) This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit my.studio.hockey/subscribe

If you’re an experienced field hockey coach, ask yourself: Are your training sessions overly focused on shooting, while neglecting what the statistics and top coaches suggest is a better bet for scoring—winning penalty corners? Drawing on Simon Blanford’s data-driven analysis, plus the competitive philosophies of Mike McCann and Alyson Annan, this article advocates a strategic rethink. We’ll examine the data, the psychology, and the practice habits behind our in-circle obsession and walk through actionable changes every coach can make. Thanks for reading! This post is public so feel free to share it.Read more about this in our original article at The Hockey Site where you’ll also find the original masterclasses that were the source for this.Yes, this an AI generated podcast. Check out the full article mentioned above and the masterclasses that were the source for all of this for a better understanding. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit my.studio.hockey/subscribe

Enjoy this short podcast with a summary of the article released on The Hockey Site recently.A good intro before you join in for the live masterclass on how to train the dragflick by John Goldberg 🇧🇪 next month. Yes this is a podcast generated by AI. Visit the masterclass for the human version of teaching the drag flick. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit my.studio.hockey/subscribe

Enjoy these insights on what the 2025 EHL finals HIL could bring for the world of hockey. This is an AI generated podcast based on several news media and the EHL website.Thanks for reading Studio Hockey! This post is public so feel free to share it. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit my.studio.hockey/subscribe

Enjoy these insights on what the new HIL could mean for India and the world of hockey. This is an AI generated podcast based on several news media, the Wikipedia post on the HIL and different sources of information available up to October 23.More info on the HIL is available here from https://studio.hockey Thanks for reading Studio Hockey! This post is public so feel free to share it. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit my.studio.hockey/subscribe

Enjoy this first views on what the new HIL could mean for India and the world of hockey. This is an AI generated podcast based on several news articles in information available up to October 6.More info on the HIL is available here from https://studio.hockey Thanks for reading Studio Hockey! This post is public so feel free to share it. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit my.studio.hockey/subscribe

The EHL KO16 in Surbiton delivered an exciting spectacle of European club hockey, showcasing exhilarating goals, nail-biting finishes, and impressive displays of skill. Enjoy this short audio review, generated by AI from the different match reports.More about this tournament here … This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit my.studio.hockey/subscribe

In this episode it’s all about the lessons learned from the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. Generated by AI and based upon two AMA sessions where we had coaches from all over the world ask their own questions of two coaches who were active in Paris. Katrina Powell, head coach for the women from Australia or Hockeyroos, as well as Shane McLeod from the coaching staff of the Belgian men’s team or Red Lions.Resulting in a short podcast summary of these two very interesting masterclasses hosted by The Hockey Site, a platform where coaches #sharetheknowledge The full masterclasses are available as video on demand here and here A third similar session is also worth mentioning here though not included in this audio summary. The one with Jude Menezes from Japan:All three masterclasses are also available in the XPS app. We recommend XPS for ambitious coaches, teams, clubs and academies. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit my.studio.hockey/subscribe

The European championships is a guarantee for some top class hockey. Following the Olympics and the World Cup this is probably the toughest competition in the world of hockey. At stake first of al the title of European champion, but also a ticket into the Paris Olympic Games. Between August 18 and 27 both men and women will compete in Mönchengladbach, Germany. Get your tickets and follow the event here: eurohockey2023.com.Panel Talk Euro 2023On August 24 The Hockey Site will host a panel talk about the men’s tournament and discuss the games so far and the medal games coming up. Our panel will be:- Rein van Eijk, U21 Germany 🇩🇪- Jesse Mahieu, U21 Netherlands 🇳🇱- Jeroen Baart, U21 Belgium 🇧🇪- Barry Middleton, U21 England & GB 🇬🇧--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/studiohockey/message This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit my.studio.hockey/subscribe

Interview with Marcos Hofmann about his candidacy for the position of EHF president. The interview with the other candidate Peter Elders can be found on here as well.Also check out the opinion piece from both interviews in our columns at https://studiohockey.com/columns/the-choice-between-a-diplomat-or-entrepreneur-for-ehf/ --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/studiohockey/message This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit my.studio.hockey/subscribe

Interview with Peter Elders about his candidacy for the position of EHF president. The interview with the other candidate Marcos Hofmann can be found on here as well.Also check out the opinion piece from both interviews in our columns at https://studiohockey.com/columns/the-choice-between-a-diplomat-or-entrepreneur-for-ehf/--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/studiohockey/message This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit my.studio.hockey/subscribe