With FIH World Hockey League semis just days away, new Indian Women Hockey chief coach Mathias Athrens is geared for his first major assignment with the Indian girls. Athrens who took over the top job last month will have a big task cut out to make India enter Rio Olympics directly.

‘Its our first priority, a top six finish in FIH World League Hockey semis will confirm our participation in the Olympics next year.” The newly elected Indian chief coach muttered.

‘I am very confident of this team and our biggest challenge will be Belgium and it will be our first clash with them during the League. But I think we have a good chance against them.’ he said.

Athrens has interacted with players in camps, practice session that has held under his watchful eyes, as the German born looked determined about his new role as he prepares to face his first challenge with the Indian women’s team.
Talking about the Indian girls, the Canadian is quite impressed with their approach and dedication for the game.
‘The team is quite young but we also have some experienced players. The tournament comes at the right time for the girls as they are keen to deliver. What impresses me about this team is their keenness to learn and apply,’ Ahrens added.

The chief coach talking about language problem, Athrens feels its about the on-field combination which brings results rather then language but the Indian girls are making valiant effort to interact in English.

‘The players are very skillfull and are willing to learn new things, off-course language is a barrier but the young Indian girls are making efforts to talk more in English which will increase their personality in future.’ The Canadian said.

India is schedule to participate in FIH World League Hockey semifinals to be held at Antwerp, Belgium from June 20 to July 5.