Oltmans begins hunt for new coach

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Having led India to a runners-up finish at the Asia Cup, and thus ensuring a spot in next year’s Hockey World Cup, Dutchman Roelant Oltmans is now focused on bringing in a new coach for the team.
Oltmans, high performance director of Indian hockey, stepped in after the exclusion of Australian Michael Nobbs, preparing the young team in six weeks for the all-important event. “It was a temporary arrangement as we all know,” said Oltmans. “It is clear that my job is of a high performance director and the coaching part is over. We are looking at candidates and should have a new coach soon.
“It is too early to divulge names, but the process of hiring someone will begin soon.”
It is learnt that former India coach Jose Brasa is among those who have applied for the top job.
The 60-year-old Spaniard, who trained India successfully from June 2009 to November 2010, said, “Yes, I have sent my application. I had a wonderful experience of coaching such talented players.
“I believe the Indian players like me as a coach and they want me as a coach, but I am not sure that the SAI and Hockey India officials want the same since I had criticised their harsh treatment towards me and the players,” said Brasa.

Who after Oltmans?
Asked if he had thought of continuing to perform the dual duty of a coach-cum-high performance director, Oltmans joked, “Do you want me to live for another 10 years?”, before adding, “I understand that some players want it.
“They indicated that much to me in Ipoh, Malaysia. But we have to look at long term solutions and have to decide keeping in mind the best interest of Indian hockey.
“Nothing is impossible, but I see very less chances of it.”
Oltmans, who arrived here with the team on Monday night, said he was satisfied with the team’s performance.
“We have to remember that our main focus was to win the Asia Cup and reach the World Cup directly.
“Now, ideally New Zealand or Australia should win the Oceania Cup (Samoa and Papua New Guinea are the other teams in the competition) and we are confident of going through.
“The players did very well and it is really, really encouraging for the future of Indian hockey. Of course there is room for improvement, but overall I am pleased.”
The squad will assemble for the next training camp after a 10-day break.