Brussels: A grand reception ceremony was organized by the Pakistan Embassy in honor of the Pakistan Hockey Team in Belgium, which was attended by the Pakistani community, personalities from different walks of life, diplomatic officials and national team players.
At the ceremony, Pakistani Ambassador Rahim Hayat Qureshi warmly welcomed the players and officials of the national hockey team and fully encouraged the young players, calling them the bright future of Pakistan.
On this occasion, Manzoor-ul-Hassan, Chief Coach of Pakistan Hockey Team, while thanking the Pakistan Embassy and the Ambassador of Pakistan, said that the love, sincerity and professional manner in which the Pakistani diplomatic staff has hosted the team since its arrival in Belgium is commendable.
He said, “From the moment we arrived at the airport till today, the Pakistan Embassy has provided us with full guidance and care. We are deeply grateful to Ambassador Rahim Hayat Qureshi and the entire embassy team for the respect, love and encouragement that the players were given.”
Addressing the ceremony, Manzoor-ul-Hassan also shed light on the current situation of the national team and the challenges faced by the young players. He said that Pakistan’s young hockey players are full of talent, however, due to being away from major international competitions for the past several years, the effects of lack of confidence and mental stress are noticeable in them.
He said, “It is a fact that Pakistan has not been able to play the Hockey World Cup or participate in the Olympics for the past eight years. In such a situation, when young players play fewer matches against strong world-class teams, it is natural for their self-confidence to be affected.”
The chief coach clarified that the current European tour is an important learning process for the national team where the players are gaining experience by playing continuous matches against the best teams in the world.
“These matches are not just competitions for us but a complete learning process. Our top priority is to restore the confidence of the players, increase their mental toughness and prepare them to perform better under pressure.”
Manzoor-ul-Hassan said that the coaching staff is paying special attention to the players’ mental training, self-confidence and stress management so that they can prove themselves at the international level.
He added, “More than teaching hockey, we need to bring back the confidence of these children at this time. When a player starts believing in himself, his abilities automatically come to the fore.”
The chief coach expressed hope that after playing eight matches against big teams in Europe, the national team will be able to overcome its weaknesses and give better results in the future.
He said, “I have full confidence in our young players. This is the team that will become the identity of Pakistan hockey in the coming years and will once again raise the green crescent flag on the world stage. If these youngsters are provided with continuous opportunities, trust and mentorship, then a bright future for Pakistan hockey is not far off.”
