WSH can promote hockey in a professional way, says Livermore

By Paritosh Pramanik

WITH more than 300 international matches under his belt including two Olympics (2000, 2004), two World Cups (2002, 2006) and more than 10 Champions Trophy tournaments, Australian Brent Livermore, the world acclaimed midfielder, has been there and done that for the Kookaburras. The 37-year-old lanky Gold Coast, Queensland based player feels the World Series Hockey, a joint venture of Indian Hockey Federation (IHF) and Nimbus, would benefit not only India but also the world hockey.

In an exclusive interview to The Hitavada from Queensland, Livermore said WSH is a prime pathway for aspiring current and future players. It will increase competition with the depth of players from around India. The midfielder said that FIH should support WSH as it is about exposure and it provides FIH and hockey the real opportunity to showcase the best talent in the world.

Excerpts:

How interesting would be the World Series Hockey?

Brent Livermore (BL): WSH is a great initiative not only for hockey in India but also for the world. This will be a prime opportunity to make the game professional for all. With around 150 players from across India it will also help the fringe players to get selected for the national team. Ability and potential is a part of the Indian team. They just need to be more precise with consistency and continuity.

Will Indian juniors gain from this competition?

BL: Indian players and Indian hockey are sure to benefit as it is a prime pathway for aspiring current and future players. It will increase competition with the depth of players from around India. Players, teams and coaches will have a chance to mix styles of play which is going to add to the knowledge and depth of Indian players. I also believe there will be some untapped junior talent which will come of age and become part of the Indian team.

Should FIH support WSH?

BL: For sure. It is about exposure of the best talent in the world and it provides FIH and hockey the real opportunity to showcase the best talent in the world. It has to be about developing the game and therefore it is about the players. Players want to play in the best competitions, against the best players – embrace it and enjoy. I feel for too long the game has been kept amateur and this is one chance to promote the game in a professional manner.

Do you think Hockey India’s stance to threaten those associated with WSH would force players to pull out?

BL: Unfortunately yes. As a player you always want to play at the Olympic Games for your country. You always strive to succeed in the best competition.

The Olympics has this. I think it is sad and crazy that everyone does not pull together to embrace all opportunities to showcase the game and its players in all ways.
There is no need to stop players doing what they love doing, and that is playing hockey at the highest level.

As there is no conflicting competitions during this time, all players should play as they will gain once in a lifetime exposure.

I’m not to sure what Hockey India is doing, but if they have the stance mentioned above….well yes…for sure they are keeping the game amateur and not supporting its players to ensure they are best prepared to represent their country.
How much will it benefit foreign players?

BL: It will have a positive global impact. With players from Australia, Argentina, Germany, Netherlands, Pakistan etc. already confirming their participation it shows that WSH will be a premium event with the best talent from around the world wanting to play and be part of this exciting venture.

Bhopal has generated a lot of interest from franchises. Would you like to represent the Bhopal outfit?

BL: Personally, I am a profession competitive athlete who embraces any challenge to compete. It does not matter which team or franchise I play for. I will always give my best in trying to get the desired result.

If hockey is strong and popular in Bhopal I would enjoy the opportunity to represent the franchise with hopefully strong support from the locals.