Interview

30-01 Solly Casoojee coach Singapore

Interview Date : 2012-01-30

Interview By: Philip Goh Haw Hann

Description :

The Republic's men's hockey team have been handed a surprise opportunity to qualify for the 2012 Olympics. Hockey's world governing body the FIH confirmed Singapore's participation in the qualifying tournament in New Delhi next month (Feb 18 to 26) after the United States pulled out.

The event is one of three qualifying tournaments offering Olympic berths for the winners. Dublin and Kakamigahara in Japan will host the other qualifiers in March and April, respectively.

Hosts India, the world no 10, are favourites to win the six-team Delhi qualifiers, with Canada (14th) expected to challenge strongly. Apart from the two top teams, Singapore, ranked No 41, will also play France (18th), Poland (19th) and Italy (28th) in round-robin competition followed by classification matches.

While relishing the opportunity for his boys to compete at such a high level, Singapore coach Solly Casoojee is under no illusions.

"I'm really excited for the boys though I'd say our chances of winning the whole thing is slim to none," said Casoojee.

"India and Canada are a cut above, and my expectation is for the team to be competitive against Poland, France and Italy. This is valuable exposure for the team against genuine world class opponents."

The team will commence three weeks of intensive training starting tomorrow, with a final squad of 18 to fly out to the Indian capital on Feb 16. They will open their campaign against India on Feb 18.

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