Sticking to Indian style is the new coach’s priority
Michael Jack Nobbs, the newly-appointed hockey coach of the India men’s team has his plans chalked out in the run-up to the 2012 London Olympics. “The European style doesn’t fit the team. Hence, I would like to lay emphasis on the Indian style, which is similar to the Australian style of play,“ said the Aussie after his name was officially announced by Sports Authority of India (SAI) director general, Desh Deepak Varma, on Wednesday.
The hockey Olympian said he was ready for the challenge ahead. “I will take one step at a time, analyse the situation and move forward.“ TASK ON HAND Nobbs will oversee the national camp from July 3-8 at Bangalore and then take a fourweek break. “It will give me an idea on the ingredients for building a good team. It will also help me analyse the strength of the players,“ he said.
Nobbs will receive a monthly remuneration of Australian $10,000 (R4.77 lakh) per month and his contract is till the 2016 Olympics. However, the terms would be revised after the 2012 Games. There is also a cash incentive of 10% if India qualify for the Games. He would be given another 10% rise if India perform well in London.
David John, an exercise physiologist, will join Nobbs and will draw a salary of Australian $5000 (R2.38 lakh).