Indian hockey moving in right direction: Verschoor

A dazzling sun over Panjab University hockey ground was not the sole reason for young players to hover around the arena on Wednesday. The joy for these local trainees doubled as Maria Verschoor— the triple Olympian from Netherlands— joined them to play an exhibition match for the Soorma Hockey Club.

The club team was here for a training session ahead of the Hockey India Women’s League, and Maria—being one of the most decorated players—caught every possible eye looking at the university’s hockey arena.

The 30-year-old, who has two Olympic gold medals and one silver medal to her kitty, was playing like a youngster and left everyone stunned with her skills.

The striker is among one of the main players for the Soorma Club and comes with a rich experience of not only playing for the country, but for many famous hockey clubs. “The HIL will be a nice platform to perform, especially for the Indian players. They will watch live action and will be having a tournament to showcase their talent in front of the entire world,” said Maria.

A different approach

While the club culture for women hockey players in India is miniscule, Maria started her career from the club and went on to play at the highest level for the Dutch team. She played for HC Hoekschewaard, HC Rotterdam and Amsterdam Hockey & Bandy Club. And, this is where she thinks that Indian women’s hockey lacks. “The culture here is quite different. India is a big country and it’s hard to put all of them together at one place. Back in the Netherlands, we have many clubs...we have a really good club culture. And, I think, it’s how we can spot talent easily. It also allows us to follow a centralised system, as we are a small country. However, India has got so much talent and it’s moving in the right direction,” she added.

On receiving an unexpected response from young players, Maria expressed amusement as she didn’t expect to receive a bouquet from the youngsters. “I never thought of having such a warm welcome, especially from the young players. I was not aware; they know my background and were eager to know about the insights of the sport. It’s amazing to see the youngsters being so fanatical about hockey. I played with them, and it was an amazing experience,” said Maria.

Won’t coach post retirement

Though the Dutch player is not having any plans of taking retirement, she is not surely planning any future in coaching. “I have not planned so far, but I will surely not go to coach. I am into psychology, and may pursue as a psychologist with a hockey team in future. The coaching in hockey has changed a lot, and it’s now not only limited to physical training. Mental fitness is equally important for modern players,” she said. On the upcoming event, she added; “There’s no pressure to perform. I love to enjoy my game. The same suggestion is for all my teammates and Indian young players...if you enjoy the sport, you will surely automatically give your best.”