The next generation of Black Sticks Men have been invited to a selection camp in Counties Manukau this weekend as part of the Owen G Glenn Future Black Sticks programme.
Thirty athletes, selected from the U-21 National Tournament in May this year, were invited to attend a four day camp (21-24 September). Following this weekend, 18 players will be selected to compete in the Sultan of Johor Cup in Malaysia from 11-18 November.
“This training and selection camp is primarily directed towards our selection of the team for the 2nd Sultan of Johor Cup, and following further selection opportunities next year, we aim to select our team for the 2013 Junior World Cup,” says U-21 men’s coach Grant Edwards.
During the camp, the players will be fitness tested, have training sessions and play two trial squad games.
It is the second year that New Zealand has competed in the Sultan of Johor Cup. This year the young Kiwis will take on Germany, Australia, Pakistan, India and Malaysia.
“The U-21 development group is a very important pathway to producing Black Sticks and exposing them to international competition and training. This tournament will be an excellent opportunity for athletes to test themselves internationally, physically and culturally,” says Edwards.
The Junior World Cup is scheduled for December next year in India - date still to be confirmed by the International Hockey Federation (FIH). There will be a separate selection process for the Junior World Cup teams.
The Owen G Glenn Future Black Sticks programme is a critical part of Hockey New Zealand’s high performance programme. It is focused on providing individual player development in all technical and tactical aspects of the game, to ensure the next generation of hockey players are prepared for top level international competition. The programme is delivered through the regional talent programmes under the direction of the national coaches and service providers.
Click here to see those players in the squad.
Source: Hockey New Zealand Media release
