Brasa comes up with ‘Project India’

NEW DELHI: It’s simple and pragmatic. The question is whether the sports authorities in the country will be impressed by national hockey coach Spaniard Jose Brasa’s plans for reviving Indian hockey.

Brasa’s “Project India” comprises several suggestions, including setting up of a national academy for coaches. His suggestions include a call to Hockey India, Sports Authority of India and the national team to work together in the best interest of the game. “All working together as a team, no political interference, no economic interference,” Brasa told reporters on Thursday through a power point presentation.

His proposals spoke about motivation of players as well as things that should be avoided in a bid to ensure that the players are not demoralised. He also called for having a graded system in place as well as having proper food for elite athletes. “Good modern accommodation, insurance, sponsorship and good training facilities help in creating a good atmosphere for the team which is very important if the team has to do better,” he said.

Brasa said his intention behind presenting the “Project India” was not to malign anybody or criticise anyone. “It’s only for the good of the game.”

He said the head coach of the team should be given the full control of the team with power to select the full staff, pick the captain besides selection of the team. “The concept of a team picked by selectors is an old one and it’s there only in India and Pakistan. Most of the hockey nations have shunned the practice about half a century ago,” he quipped. “The selectors role should be to spot new talent all around the country.”

Brasa also spelled out his proposals regarding national-level competitions.

“Eight teams from April 9 to April 11 at the National Stadium will throw up a good opportunity to see domestic players in actions. Than I have a proposal to have another championship involving all the states in May in Bangalore. Then there can be a hockey league on the lines of Premier Hockey League (PHL) between December to February. There can also be selection championship for under 18 and under 14 teams.”