Time for basics: Harendra
Bangalore: It’s back to the basics for the Indian men’s hockey team from October 14 when 48 players assemble at the Sports Authority of India (SAI) South Centre for the first of a series of camps ahead of the 2010 World Cup and Commonwealth Games.
Coach-in-charge Harendra Singh, who will arrive early (October 10) to inspect the facilities as well as attend the wedding of international Arjun Halappa, said the players would be subjected to physiological and bio-mechanical tests at the SAI sports medicine centre for nearly a week before the team think-tank embarks upon its next step.
“We are starting from scratch again,” Harendra, whose last assignment was with chief coach Vasudevan Baskaran during the 2006 Asian Games, told TOI.
“We will have detailed medical reports about each player soon after the tests. This will help us gauge the capability of each player so that we can focus on individual training for best results. I also want the players to realise the importance of fitness. It helps in upping their commitment to the cause.”
With an ultra-busy 2010 — with the World Cup, Commonwealth Games and Asian Games scheduled during the year — prime on his mind, Harendra says he has to guide the players to peak in three competitions, a task not easily achieved. “A player can peak twice but three times is not that easy. It takes a lot to channel the players’ energies, use them to their optimum level so that they don’t suffer from physical and mental fatigue,” he said.
The camp, scheduled for a month, will see the coach also discussing penalty corners and other tactical and technical aspects with the players. “I will also tell them that no particular system of play will be thrust on them. They will choose the formation they are most comfortable with.”
For starters, Harendra will have Ramandeep Singh and Romeo James as his assistants. Physio Srikanth Iyengar has also been roped in while the other support staff will be finalised by February or March next year.
With regard to foreign coaches, Harendra said he would welcome any one who could contribute to the team’s cause.
“Specialists in penalty corners and goalkeeping are always welcome,” he said.
“If the ad-hoc committee finds a good head coach, I don’t mind working under him. Right now, the objective is to revive the game’s fortunes.”