Ahead of the 9th edition of the FIH Hockey Women’s Junior World Cup taking place in South Africa (1-12 April), we’re conducting a series of exclusive interviews with the participating teams. Today: Millie Giglio (ENG).
Millie, you will soon be playing a Women’s Junior World Cup. How does this sound?
Really, really exciting! Obviously we had all the anticipation back in December and it’s really good news that it’s been rearranged now and that we actually get to go and play. So, yes, good news!
What are your expectations as a team?
Most importantly we’re out there. We’re very much a process-driven team. We’re out there to do our best in each and every game and if we come up with a medal that’s great news but more, we’re just there to enjoy playing really good, high-level international hockey.
England has played all 8 editions of the FIH Hockey Women’s Junior World Cup, however did not yet manage to clinch a medal. Is that an extra motivation for you?
Yes, 100%! I’m a very competitive person and I think we’ve got a great side, a lot of young players coming through showing a lot of potential so there’s always a medal on the table for us.
What are you expecting from the tournament which will be the first hockey World Cup organised on African soil?
First of all, it’s really good to be part of that little bit of history, since it will be the first time that it will be hosted on the African continent. South Africa itself is a really cool country. I’m really quite happy to be visiting it. We’re anticipating a bit of heat which, I’m sure you know, English are not best adapted to. But we’ll prepare adequately. We’ve heard it’s very dry as well so hopefully the conditions won’t be too much of a shock for us.
Overall, how will you prepare for the tournament?
We were training up to the December date and we’ve been training now ever since. I think for us it will just be getting to know the team really well and make sure that we’re bonded and there’s a lot of cohesion and we’re ready to face the challenges together. And develop as hockey players while we’re out there.
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