Subahan keeps it grounded

MALAYSIAN Hockey Confederation (MHC) president Datuk Seri Subahan Kamal is not setting any lofty targets for the national team at the ongoing Asia Cup in Bangladesh.

Subahan said the Asia Cup will serve as a platform to prepare Stephan Van Huizen’s charges for the Indonesia Asian Games and the World Cup in India, which will both be held next year.

“There is no pressure for the Asia Cup as we are in the process of preparing for the Asia Games next year. MHC have not set any target for the Asia Cup, however, the coach (Stephen) is targeting the final,” said Subahan, when met at the MHC hockey clinic held in conjunction with National Sports Day yesterday.

“Our squad this time also feature many young players.

Although we managed a big win in our opening match, there are still things we need to improve on and the players are aware of that. We cannot afford to get carried away.”

A total of 65 children took part in the MHC clinic which was conducted by experienced players and coaches including current national women’s coach K. Dharmaraj.

Subahan said the programme was part of the national body’s corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiative.

“This clinic is in line with the sporting vision of the government and it has received a positive response from parents from across the country, including Perlis.” Mohd Fitrie Muhamad