Times of India: Jude Menezes: The Indian link in NZ hockey’s medal quest

By Alok Sinha

RIO DE JANEIRO: Waiting for Narsingh Yadav inside the Games Village on Tuesday afternoon, one came across a section of world athletes. Most of these men and women were through with their dates with destiny and were simply relaxing or meeting journalists and friends they have made in this melting pot.

The biggest queue there was at the McDonald’s, as the players who had deprived themselves of all junk food in their preparations for Rio, were now looking for that comfort kick.

Amidst this stream of amazing, beautiful people you spotted a familiar face in Kiwi colours speaking to a journalist friend from India. You went up and got introduced to Jude Menezes, the former India goalkeeper who migrated to New Zealand in 2002. Jude is now an assistant coach with the New Zealand women’s team which has made the semi-finals.

He is settled in Auckland, and his elder son Brett is an upcoming cricketer. “He plays left-handed and also bowls left-arm spin,” said Jude with pride. “He plays hockey too, loves it more but cricket is where his future is,” said the father. Hockey in New Zealand, like in Belgium, is a sport played by the elite. “You have to spend a lot on the coaching of your kids,” he informed.

So what does he think of the current Indian team? “It is better than before, looking very good. It is a young side, very talented and they have a great coach in Oltmans. This is the first time in years that they are playing to a structure. I feel some good days are ahead,” Jude said.

On the way out, you spotted several cameramen taking pictures of three young girls with shocking white hair. You went up and found out that they were triplets from Estonia – 20year-old Liina, Lily and Laila Luik.

“They started training for marathon five years back. Two of them completed the race here which is creditable. It is very hot here. We are from a cold Nordic country. But they have made history… the first time triplets have competed together in an event in Olympics,” said Harry Lemberg, the coach of the sisters.