Gregg Clark appointed as Indian men’s hockey team ‘analytical coach’

Gregg Clark appointed as Indian men’s hockey team ‘analytical coach’
Gregg Clark in a media interaction.

Having a strong intent to clinch a medal in Tokyo Olympics 21’, Indian Men’s Hockey Team is leaving no stone unturned to prepare itself well. On Tuesday, Hockey India announced that Gregg Clark, South African Olympian has been appointed as the new analytical coach of the Indian Men’s Hockey. He will render his service till the conclusion of Tokyo Olympic Games scheduled July 23 to August 8 this year.

Clark, who is scheduled to join the national coaching camp in early January, served Canadian Men’s Hockey Team as assistant coach between 2017-2020. Besides, he had also coached the Indian junior men’s team in 2013-2014.

Clark’s experience speaks for itself. In his 11-year long career as a hockey player for the South African National Team, he has featured in 250 international caps, appeared in two World Cups, and also played two Olympic Games.

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Current Chief Coach Graham Reid heaped praises for Clarke who is to coach Indian Team soon. Reid said “I am looking forward to welcoming Gregg Clark as a new member of our coaching staff. He brings with him a swath of experience including 250 caps for South Africa, 4 Olympic Games (2 as a player and 2 as a Coach), 4 World Cups (2 as player and 2 as Coach), 3 CWG (2 as player and 1 as coach) and countless FIH tournaments.”

“Having been head coach of South Africa for six years and more recently assistant coach with Canada, his contemporary knowledge of our Olympic competitions is first class,” he added.

Gregg Clark is excited to join Indian Men’s Hockey Team

Even Clark looks enthusiastic to share his acumen with the Indian Men’s Hockey Team. Clark said, “I am really excited to join the Indian men’s hockey team. Having worked with Hockey India earlier, I understand the setup and their professionalism. Most of the players I coached in the junior team back in 2013 are now in the senior group and have come of age as players. It has been very exciting to watch this team grow over the past couple of years. They have a lot of potential to do very well in 2021 and for a number of years in the future.”

“Graham has been doing very well with the team. He comes with a wealth of knowledge in the sport and we have chatted quite a lot in the buildup to my appointment. We share the same philosophies in coaching and I look forward to working with Graham and the rest of the support staff,” he added.

Also read: Indian Men’s Hockey tour to South Africa cancelled due to new Covid strains and rising cases