Ahead of the 15th edition of the FIH Hockey Women’s World Cup taking place in Spain and the Netherlands (1-17 July), we’re conducting a series of exclusive interviews with the participating teams. Today: Jia Qi Li (CHN).
Jia Qi, China will play their 9th consecutive FIH Hockey Women's World Cup this year. Looking at the history, China got the bronze medal in 2002. What are your expectations as a team this time?
First of all, the seniors have achieved very good results in the past. This is the goal that we need to study and work hard for. The expectation this year is to go all out in every game, learn from every game, show the best of us and eventually win the best results.
At the Tokyo Olympics you won two matches and lost only by the smallest margin against Argentina. Does this give you some confidence?
Compared with the Tokyo Olympics, the team’s personnel, including techniques and tactics, have changed. I believe that we will definitely be better than the Olympics Games.
You are reaching the end of the FIH Hockey Pro League season. What key learnings do you take from this experience?
It’s been a long time since we participated in international tournaments. We are very happy to be back. Everyone is very excited and we have learnt a lot from our opponents. Everyone’s enthusiasm is very high now and we are looking forward to the World Cup.
Your new head coach Alyson Annan has won the last World Cup and the last Olympics with the Netherlands. What advice is she giving you to improve your game?
We are honored to work with such an excellent coach. After a period of work, we also got to know each other better. At present we are also making progress step-by-step. Alyson always encourages us to play with more confidence. She believes that we can do a good job.
You’re in a pool with England, India and New Zealand. How do you look at each of these teams?
Each opponent is very good and has their own characteristics. What we need to do is to focus on our own style and processes, and play better.
Do you think that a good result at this year's World Cup would help to grow hockey in your country?
Of course, we wish through our hard work that we can make hockey more popular in China.
Finally, which message would you like to give to your fans?
Thanks for your support! We will do our best. Team China fighting!
#HWC2022
