Hockey New Zealand has secured highly rated Australian, Mark Hager, as the new Head Coach of the Black Sticks Women's team. Hager comes with a wealth of experience and knowledge, firstly as one of Australia's greatest ever players and most recently as assistant coach of the bronze medal winning Australian Men's team in Beijing.
In what has been a challenging 48 hours for women's hockey in New Zealand, the announcement of Mark as the new national coach has given the sport a timely boost of confidence. The Black Sticks women will continue to run a programme in 2009, which includes the Oceania Cup in August and the Champions Challenge in November. A win over Australia at the Oceania Cup would secure the Black Sticks a spot in the 2010 World Cup.
Mark's very illustrious career as a player involved 230 tests for the Kookaburra's scoring an amazing 179 goals. He won World Cup gold in 1986 (London) and bronze in 1994 (Sydney). He also won bronze at the 1996 Atlanta Olympics and four Champions Trophy gold medals between 1985 and 1995. In his prime he was regarded as the world's best centre striker.
Hockey New Zealand CEO Ramesh Patel said of the appointment of Mark ÔÇ£ Hockey New Zealand's confirmation that the Black Sticks Women will still have a meaningful campaign has helped secure Mark Hager's appointment. Mark has a wealth of hockey coaching and playing experience and Hockey New Zealand are delighted to have someone of his caliber on boardÔÇØ.
Mark will start in the role in mid January 2009.
Source: Hockey New Zealand
