Hasher to support hockey in the UAE

Sheikh Hasher Maktoum, Director, Dubai Information Department has assured support to the UAE Hockey Committee's effort to spread the game among the juniors.

Sheikh Hasher met the UAE Hockey Committee officials, and presented hockey sticks to two young nationals who will be travelling to Karachi to attend a coaching camp being organised by the Pakistan Hockey Federation.

Mohammed Ahmed Al Sayegh and his brother, who are the sons of UAE hockey skipper Ahmed Al Sayegh, received the hockey sticks.

"I am delighted to understand that hockey is being spread among many schools especially in Ajman, Al Ain and in some of the Dubai schools," remarked Sheikh Hasher.

"Companies like EPPCO and Emirates Airlines could be approached for sponsorship of the junior teams trip to Pakistan. I am happy that many nationals are taking up this game in the schools," added Sheikh Hasher.

Sheikh Hasher also asked the UAE HC officials to become an association by completing the formalities of the Authority of Youth and Sports to be recognised as a sports association.

Coach Gerad, briefing Sheikh Hasher on the talent here, said that if UAE has to produce outstanding players they would have to play on turf surfaces.

"Twice the plans to build a hockey stadium had come up for consideration but fizzled out at the last moment. I will take up the matter again," assured Sheikh Hasher to Major Saeed Al Suwaidi the General Secretary of the UAE HC.

Sheikh Hasher was informed about the efforts of hockey coach Usama of Al Ain, Gerad, and about the setting up of hockey teams in schools like Al Maktoum School, Dubai and Ideal School in the age group between 9 to 19.