Sports Bulletin

Sports Bulletin ReportRAWALPINDI: The 37th National Junior Hockey Championship will be played from September 21 to October 10, 2024 at Lt. Gen (Retd) Ishfaq Nadeem Hockey Stadium, Ayub Park Rawalpindi.Regarding the top national junior hockey fixture, Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) has written a letter to all its affiliated unites including all provinces and advised them to prepare their teams for the national junior hockey event.  

Lausanne (Switzerland): Hockey at Paris 2024 came to a conclusion on 9 August, with a historic double gold for Netherlands, as the men's and women’s teams of a nation won the hockey gold in the same edition of an Olympics for the very first time! Germany men and China women added a silver medal to their trophy cabinets, while India men and Argentina women made it back-to-back medal finishes, claiming the bronze medals in Paris.The competition for medals was wide open, and there were plenty of surprises and upsets as the jostling for medal finishes shook up the world rankings. Join us as we take a look at the updated rankings, following the conclusion of the Olympic Games Paris 2024.In the men’s world rankings, Olympic champions Netherlands (3168) stand at the top of the rankings. Netherlands came into the games in the top spot, but dropped to third in the pool stage following a draw against Great Britain and a loss to Germany, but four consecutive wins to finish with the title, sees them climb back into the first place.Germany (3035) once again showed their big tournament prowess, as they came into the event ranked fifth in the world, but registered big wins over the likes of Netherlands, Great Britain, Argentina and India to climb into second place in the world rankings, on the way to the silver medal.England* (2973), Belgium (2959) and India (2849) complete the top-5 places. Belgium in particular will be disappointed with their quarter final exit, coming in as defending champions. The Red Lions had a near perfect pool stage with 4 wins and a draw that had catapulted them to the top of the world rankings, but a loss to Spain in the quarterfinal saw them drop down to fourth. Germany’s ascent also sees England drop down one spot from their pre-Olympics ranking of second place, to third, while India have climbed one spot up bridging the gap to the top-4, following a second consecutive bronze medal finish at the Olympics.Australia (2714), Argentina (2643) and Spain (2470) find themselves in the sixth, seventh and eighth positions respectively. Australia began the Olympics ranked fourth in the world, and climbed into the top-3 after the first win over Argentina, but a disappointing campaign where they endured losses to Belgium, India and got knocked out by Netherlands in the quarterfinals, sees them drop down to sixth, less than 100 points clear of Argentina in seventh. Spain fell just short of the bronze medal and while their ranking remains unchanged, the gap to seventh place is less than half of what it was before Paris 2024.Ireland (2078), France (2016), South Africa (1982) and New Zealand (1958) take up the ninth to twelfth spots in the world rankings with all four teams competing at the Olympics, but failing to make the quarterfinals. Ireland’s victory over New Zealand in their final pool stage game, lifted them two spots into ninth place at the expense of France who ended their pool stage of the games with just one point following a draw against Spain. South Africa moved up one place thanks to their draw against Great Britain and win over France, while New Zealand’s failure to collect any points at the Olympics sees them drop two spots down from tenth.In the women’s world rankings, Netherlands (3641) remain infallible, adding a fourth Olympic gold medal from the last five editions of the Games! While China gave them a big scare in the gold medal match, Netherlands prevailed in the end, completing a perfect campaign with 8 wins in 8 matches.Argentina (3059) continue to remain in a distant second place, following their bronze medal performance at Paris 2024. Belgium (2852) climbed one place to third in the world after narrowly missing out on their first ever Olympic medal, with back-to-back shoot-out losses to China in the semi-final, and Argentina in the bronze medal match, but it was still an impressive campaign from the Red Panthers in just their second ever Olympic appearance!Germany (2739) exited in the quarterfinals at Paris 2024, a result which saw them drop down one spot, into fourth. Australia (2720) continue to remain in fifth place and similar to Germany, would be disappointed in their quarterfinal exit, following a stellar pool phase where they finished top of their pool with 4 wins and a draw.China’s (2567) incredible run in Paris 2024, which saw them come within a whisker of claiming the gold medal, has resulted in a two-place climb in the world rankings table as they now sit in the sixth spot, ahead of England* (2419) and Spain (2322) in seventh and eighth respectively.India (2087) and New Zealand (2024), who missed out on Olympic qualification, round out the top-10 world rankings.Among the teams that competed at the Olympics outside of top-10, are Japan (2010) in eleventh place, narrowly trailing New Zealand. United States (1898) were extremely competitive throughout the pool stage of the Olympics and registered points through a draw against Spain and a win over South Africa, and find themselves in thirteenth place in the world rankings.South Africa (1403) and France (1371) both ended Paris 2024 without scoring any points and are placed twentieth and twenty second in the world respectively. Both teams have plenty of positives to take away from the Olympics though, with this being the first appearance for France at an Olympics, while South Africa, given their very young squad, were competitive, not losing by more than one goal in any of their matches except one, which came in the form of a 4-2 loss to Argentina, where South Africa were leading 2-1 until the final ten minutes. (PR)

Club appoints Nawaz Rana as a captain of team for World Cup AucklandAbdul Jabbar FaisalISLAMABAD: Pakistan born, International Player, Nawaz Rana has been nominated as captain of Alliance International Hockey team men45+ to represent in upcoming Masters Hockey World Cup, which will be held from November 7 to 16, 2024 at National Hockey Centre Auckland, New Zealand.According to available information from abroad, besides hosts New Zealand, Argentina, Australia, Bangladesh, Canada, England, Germany, Malaysia, Holland, Oman, South Africa, Sri Lanka, United States of America (USA), England, and Wales will be participating in the 10-day international hockey showpiece.International hockey player Nawaz Rana said: “I have been selected successively thrice for the international hockey world Cup fixture, as a player with Alliance International Hockey Team. Previously I earned the silver medal in the Master Hockey World Cup 2022 in South Africa. This time, we built a strong team and the best players are part of our squad. We are expecting, our players will produce sparking and notable performance in the Masters Hockey World Cup 2024 and will lift the title.”Names of selected players (45+): Kosoof David William, Wilson Nigel John, Roberts Mark Ian, Aminder Pal Singh, Chetan Rangilads, Gurpreet Singh Khndola, David Gailey, Daniel John Hollyman, Dalpit Singh Gill, Navtej Singh, Kamal Deep Singh Brewal, Raman Deep Singh Bara, Amar Preet Singh, Manjinder Pal Singh, Jagdish Singh, Pamandeep Singh Rai, Shanavas Naduvath ValappilTeam Officials: Sohail Akram Janjua (Manager), Shahbaz Ahmed Junior (Coach), Nawaz Rana (Assistant Coach) DR. Amer Farooq (Physio).

Sports Bulletin ReportParis (France): The women’s hockey final at the Olympic Games Paris 2024 will be contested between reigning champions the Netherlands and China, with the Asian giants reaching their first Olympic final since Beijing 2008.The Netherlands women – the reigning Olympic, World, European and FIH Hockey Pro League champions – proved simply too strong for semi-final opponents Argentina, claiming a 3-0 triumph over their fierce rivals to reach the Olympic final for the sixth successive Games. Netherlands beat Argentina (3-0): In front of an enthusiastic sell-out crowd, the Netherlands were in irresistible form against Las Leonas, dominating their illustrious opponents with goals from Luna Fokke, Laura Nunnink and Yibbi Jansen.The result means that the possibility of the Netherlands winning both hockey gold medals remains very much on, with the men playing their final, against Germany, tomorrow (8 August). For Tokyo 2020 silver medallists Argentina, the result means that they will play for bronze on Friday (9 August). China overcame Belgium (1-1 and 3-1 on shoot-out): In a match filled with huge drama, China opened the scoring through Zou Meirong’s penalty corner, successfully defending their lead until the final two minutes when Emma Puvrez slapped home a fabulous leveller, sending the huge numbers of Belgian fans into raptures. Capitalising on the momentum, the Red Panthers lead early in the shoot-out when goalkeeper Aisling D’Hooghe denied Chen Yang before Vanessa Blockmans produced an outrageous lob that clipped the crossbar on the way to establishing a 2-1 advantage. However, China showed incredible character to score their next three attempts, with goalkeeper Ye Jiao denying Ambre Ballenghien, Justine Rasir and Delphine-Daphne Marien to break Belgian hearts.

Sports Bulletin ReportParis (France): Reigning Olympic men’s gold medallists Belgium recorded an astonishing victory over Tokyo 2020 silver medallists Australia, with Tom Boon netting a sensational hat-trick as the Red Lions triumphed 6-2 to move top of Pool B in an absorbing Olympic Games Paris 2024 hockey encounter.On a day that featured only men’s matches, India and Argentina were also winners in Pool B, while Pool A leaders the Netherlands were pegged back by Great Britain as the race for the quarter-finals heated up on a scorching hot day at the Yves-du-Manoir Hockey Stadium. Men’s Pool A: The Netherlands (7pts) finished Day 4 sitting at the top of the standings thanks to a 2-2 draw against Great Britain (5pts), who rescued a valuable point thanks to a brilliant late double from Lee Morton. “I don't score many” said GB’s Morton on his brace. “It’s my first Olympic goal, and I get to score two.” Third placed Great Britain sit one point behind second placed Germany (6pts), who bounced back from Sunday’s loss to Spain in brilliant style. Gonzalo Peillat (2), Christopher Rühr, Justus Weigand and Mats Grambusch all netted in a 5-2 win over South Africa (1pt), who are fifth in the table. “South Africa showed (by drawing against Great Britain on Sunday) that they can compete on the highest level”, said Germany scorer Rühr. “So we had to play our A-game today, and we played really well and scored five goals, which is not even undeserved.”Spain (4pts) ended the day occupying fourth place in Pool A having twice trailed host nation France (6th - 1pt) – who led early thanks to two wonderful goals from Timothee Clement – before a Pepe Cunill’s 51st minute penalty corner earned a 3-3 draw for the Red Sticks. “We obviously wanted to win this match because we would have had six points and would be in a very good position”, said Spain’s Cunill. Although we drew the match, we know that we gained a really important point that gives us more chances to qualify.” Men’s Pool B: Belgium (1st - 9pts) produced easily their best performance of the Olympic Games Paris 2024, crushing Australia (3rd – 6pts) 6-2 thanks to a hat-trick from Tom Boon and additional goals from Alexander Hendrickx, Florent van Aubel and Antoine Kina. The Red Lions thrilled the thousands of watching Belgian fans by securing their place in the competition quarter-finals, although Belgian midfielder Victor Wegnez was cautious in his post-match assessment. “I think we got lucky a few times, and while it is a great result it is only a pool match so we don’t want to get too excited”, said Wegnez, a gold medallist from Tokyo 2020. “It was just amazing to play in front of those fans. It was a pretty much a home crowd, which is the beauty of Belgium being so close to Paris.” Earlier in the day, eight times Olympic champions India (2nd - 7pts) – who are yet to face Australia and Belgium – claimed their second win of the competition, seeing off Ireland (6th - 0pts). Harmanpreet Singh scoring both goals in a 2-0 win over the Green Machine, a result which also confirmed their safe passage through to the quarter-finals. “It was a good result for us”, said India striker Sukhjeet Singh. “We played well in a structured way to stop the Ireland team, so we are very happy.”Rio 2016 gold medallists Argentina (4th – 4 pts) battled to their first victory in Paris, with New Zealand (5th – 0pts) being downed by goals from Tomas Domene and Lucas Martinez.

ISLAMABAD (faisal): Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) has invited 40 players from different departments for a national training camp, which will get underway here at Naseer Bunda Hockey Stadium, Pakistan Sports Complex from July 31. The final selected team will participate in the Asian Champions Trophy Hockey Tournament.Pakistan Hockey Federation asked players to report to Camp Commandant Olympian Sheikh Usman at 2 pm on July 31 at the Naseer Banda Hockey Stadium, Pakistan Sports Complex Islamabad. Asian Men’s Champions Trophy Hockey Tournament will be held in Hollenbeur, China from September 8 to September 17, 2024.Names of invited players: Abdullah Ishtiaq Khan (Mari Petroleum), Muneebur Rahman (ZTBL), Ali Raza (Punjab), Mohammad Abdullah (Mari Petroleum), Ehtisham Aslam (ZTBL), Mohammad Sufyan Khan (Mari Petroleum), Imad Shakeel Butt (National Bank), Abubakar Mahmood (National Bank), Arshad Liaquat (Mari Petroleum), Rana Abdul Waheed Ashraf (WAPDA), Moin Shakeel (WAPDA), Mohammad Salman Razak (WAPDA), Murtaza Yaqub (WAPDA), Abdul Hanan Shahid (WAPDA), Ijaz Ahmed (WAPDA), Abdul Rehman (Air Force), Osama Bashir (Air Force), Zakaria Hayat (Navy), Ghazanfar Ali (Customs), Hammaduddin Anjum (WAPDA), Roman (WAPDA), Abdul Rehman (WAPDA), Aqeel Ahmed (WAPDA), Abdul Manan (Customs), Arbaz Ahmed (Mari Petroleum), Afraz (Mari Petroleum), Basharat Ali (Navy), Mohammad Nadeem Khan (KPK), Junaid Manzoor (National Bank). Ahmed Nadeem (Punjab), Mohsin Khan (Air Force), Rao Arsalan (Pak Army), Waseem (Pak Army), Rizwan Ali (Air Force), Samin (Punjab), Aleem Usman (WAPDA), Faisal Qadir (National Bank), Shahzeb Khawar (Punjab), Hammad Ali (Navy), Abdul Rehman (Punjab Rangers). 

Paris (France): With the Yves-du-Manoir Stadium bathed in sunshine, the women’s team of Belgium, Germany, Australia and Spain all secured victories in their first matches at the Olympic Games Paris 2024. In the men’s competition, Germany suffered defeat at the hands of Spain, Belgium and the Netherlands emerged triumphant, and South Africa and Great Britain played out a pulsating draw.Women’s Pool A: Belgium started their Olympic campaign with a hard fought 2-1 victory over China thanks to a superb, roofed finish from Charlotte Engelbert with five minutes remaining. “There were good things and bad things”, said Belgium’s Emma Puvrez on the occasion of her 200th international appearance. “China is a very good team to play against, they're very technical as well as physical so it was a difficult start for us.”Germany also began their quest for gold positively as goals from Charlotte Stapenhorst and Nike Lorenz secured a 2-0 win over Japan. "We created loads of chances but they defended really well”, said Stapenhorst. “I think we're just glad that we got this tournament started."Germany and Belgium moved level on points with Day 1 winners the Netherlands, with the Oranje’s superior goal difference keeping them top of the standings. Women’s Pool B: Australia and Spain kept pace with Day 1 winners Argentina by snatching narrow wins against South Africa and Great Britain respectively. The Hockeyroos fought back from a goal down to beat the African continental champions, with Stephanie Kershaw and Tatum Stewart on target to give the three-time Olympic gold medallists a 2-1 win. "It was very tough”, said Australia’s Kaitlyn Nobbs. “They came out with a lot of energy and we tried to match it. But I think we built really well into the game and eventually got the results."Rio 2016 gold and Tokyo 2020 bronze medallists Great Britain suffered defeat in their competition opener, with Barcelona 1992 gold medallists Spain earning a 2-1 triumph courtesy of early goals from Laura Barrios and Lola Reira."[Great Britain] compete very well in these kinds of tournaments”, said Spain’s Reira. “This match was important because it was the first one, but also because we faced them. They have a lot of experience and it gives them strength."Men’s Pool A: Spain recorded the most eye-catching result of the day with a superb 2-0 victory over Germany, with goals from Jose Maria Basterra and Pepe Cunill kickstarting the Red Sticks’ Olympic challenge. The result left Spain sitting fourth in the table, level on points with Germany who are third due to their superior goal difference.The Netherlands sit proudly at the top of Pool B thanks to a comprehensive 4-0 win against France, with the home fans once again making an incredible noise throughout the contest. Tijmen Reyenga, Koen Bijen, Jonas de Geus and Duco Telgenkamp all netted for the Oranje, with Bijen describing scoring his first Olympic goal as “a really special and emotional moment, with my family watching in the stands”.The contest was also noteworthy for being the first Olympic hockey match to feature mixed gender on-field umpiring teams, with Irene Presenqui (ARG) and Sean Rapaport (RSA) calling the contest. More details about this story can be found here. Great Britain ended the day second in Pool A after a late penalty corner deflection from Rupert Shipperley snatched a 2-2 draw against South Africa. Despite being disappointed on missing out on all three points, South Africa’s Dayaan Cassiem felt proud of his team’s performance. “Our energy was much better today, I think we really came out firing”, said Cassiem. “I’m really proud of the boys. Men’s Pool B: In the day’s only Pool B match, reigning Olympic champions Belgium overcame a monumental challenge from New Zealand’s Black Sticks to emerge 2-1 winners thanks to goals from Alexander Hendrickx and Florent van Aubel. The result puts Belgium clear at the top of the pool, although they have played a game more than nearest rivals India and Australia, who are both in action on Monday (29 July).Notable figures in attendance on Day 2 included Spanish royals Leonor, Princess of Asturias and Infanta Sofia as well as Bollywood actor Amol Palekar, Spanish National Olympic Committee President Alejandro Blanco Bravo and Chris Jenkins, the President of the Commonwealth Games. (PR)

Sports Bulletin ReportParis (France): Reigning men’s world champions Germany stole the headlines on the opening day of the hockey competition at the Olympic Games Paris 2024 thanks to an impressive victory over host nation France at the Yves-du-Manoir Hockey Stadium. There were also wins for the men’s teams of Great Britain, the Netherlands, Belgium, Australia and India, while the women of Argentina and the Netherlands also prevailed on a rainy but hugely entertaining day. Men’s Pool A: Germany, Great Britain and the Netherlands opened their respective Olympic campaigns with victories, getting early points on the board in the race to reach the quarter finals. Great Britain claimed a 4-0 victory against Spain, although the match was far closer than the scoreline would suggest. The Red Sticks impressed in the early stages but GB were exceptional in front of goal with Nick Park, Gareth Furlong (2) and Rupert Shipperley all on target. Park’s stunning chipped finish opened the Olympic scoring in style, with the man himself describing it as “the best goal I’ve ever scored”.The Netherlands versus South Africa game was a thrilling encounter, with the Oranje snatching a 5-3 win thanks to strikes from Jip Janssen (2), Jonas de Geus, Tjep Hoedemakers and Duco Telgenkamp. “We were happy with the first half, we played very well and were strong defensively but the second half was a bit messy”, said double goal-scorer Janssen. “South Africa have some very good players (who are) world class, so you can never underestimate them.”Germany stormed to an 8-2 victory over host nation France, with the packed stands creating an astonishing atmosphere. Germany were ruthless in front of goal, with Justus Weigand and Niklas Wellen both scoring doubles alongside contributions from Thies Prinz and a goal each for captain Mats Grambusch and his younger brother Tom. "It's an awesome start, it's definitely how we wanted to start the tournament”, said Germany’s Christopher Rühr. "Absolutely amazing atmosphere. To play France in France as a start is something you dream of, and I think we managed to play really well."Men’s Pool B: While Belgium, Australia and India were all recorded wins, the Pool B matches were fiercely contested. Reigning Olympic champions Belgium were given a stern test by Ireland before emerging 2-0 winners thanks to strikes from Tom Boon and Alexander Hendrickx. Speaking after the match, Hendrickx said: "It was a good performance. It’s not our best performance, but it’s logical that we want to grow during the tournament, to do each game better and better. It’s a good base to start on.”Blake Govers scored a stunning penalty corner drag-flick as Tokyo 2020 silver medallists Australia battled to a hard earned 1-0 victory over Rio 2016 gold medallists Argentina. Govers was full of praise for Los Leones, stating: “We know the Argentinians are a really good outfit, they defend really well. We got a couple more chances, but we’re pretty happy. It’s the Olympics, so a win is a good result.”The India versus New Zealand clash was another tight affair, with Harmanpreet Singh’s late penalty stroke sealing a 3-2 win for the eight times Olympic champions. Talking about how he kept his nerve from the penalty spot, Harmanpreet said: "It's a mental thing. You need to stay focused and just go for it. I tried to manipulate the goalie with my eyes and it worked, but the win is all because of the team."Women’s Pool A: Yibbi Janssen scored four times as the Netherlands opening their Olympic title defence with a 6-2 triumph over host nation France. However, it was still a memorable moment for the Olympic debutants, with Yohanna L’Hopital and Paola Le Nindre sending the home fans into raptures with goals against the reigning Olympic, World, European and FIH Hockey Pro League champions. Although proud moments for the home favourites, it was the Oranje who made the perfect start as they bid to claim their fifth Olympic gold medal. Women’s Pool B: Tokyo 2020 silver medallists Argentina were 4-1 winners in their Pan American derby match against USA, with Rocio Sanchez - Argentina’s flagbearer in Friday’s dazzling opening ceremony – Agustina Gorzelany, Julieta Jankunas and Zoe Diaz netting for Las Leonas. Commenting on the support of the Argentina fans in the stadium, Maria Campoy – who made her 100th appearance for her country – said: "You can feel the chants and the support. Argentines are always everywhere, and they support us a lot."

Sports Bulletin ReportLausanne (Switzerland): In the annals of Olympic history, few stories are as inspiring as that of the Zimbabwe women’s hockey team, affectionately known as the "Golden Girls." Their triumph at the 1980 Moscow Olympic Games is a testament to the power of determination, unity, and passion for the sport. In an exclusive interview with Ann Grant, the captain of the team, we delve into the incredible journey of these pioneering women.The Road to Moscow: In late June 1980, an air of excitement enveloped the newly formed nation of Zimbabwe. The women’s hockey team had been invited to participate in the XXII Olympic Games, marking the first time women’s hockey was included as an Olympic discipline. For Zimbabwe, which had just gained independence in April of that year, this was more than just a sporting competition; it was a chance to put their fledgling nation on the world map.Ann Grant recalls the moment they received the invitation: “Our team was extremely excited to be invited to the XXII Olympic Games, especially as it was the first time women’s hockey was an Olympic discipline and our new nation of Zimbabwe was only formally confirmed in April 1980.”Initially, the team’s destination was South Africa for an annual interprovincial tournament. However, in a surprising turn of events, they were instead invited to the Moscow Olympics. With just a month to prepare, the team had to hastily organize passports, uniforms, and a multitude of administrative details, all while securing a month’s leave from their employers. The Zimbabwe National Olympic Committee worked tirelessly to ensure everything was in order, while the players juggled their full-time jobs with increased hockey practices and matches against men's teams to prepare for the games.Arrival in Moscow: Arriving in Moscow ten days before the start of the Olympics, the team faced the challenge of adapting to artificial turf, something none of the players had ever experienced. Daily practices at local stadiums were invaluable in getting accustomed to this new surface. Despite the logistical hurdles and the unfamiliar environment, the team’s spirit remained unbroken.Ann vividly remembers their initial days in Moscow: “We were taken to the super new Olympic Village with amenities open 24 hours and then rushed off to get new hockey shoes as not one of us had ever played on artificial turf, including our coach!”The Olympic Experience: Walking into Lenin Stadium for the opening ceremony was a moment of awe and pride for the Zimbabwe team. Dressed in their bright blue uniforms, they marched with their new national flag flying high. The atmosphere in the Olympic Village was electric, and the team had the chance to meet other Olympic champions like Daley Thompson and Sir Sebastian Coe.Ann describes the opening ceremony: “The aura from the beautiful stadium, the magnitude of the many spectators, and the sheer joy of being a part of this momentous occasion was a mind-blowing experience.”The Zimbabwe women’s hockey team was an enthusiastic and determined group, resolute in their mission to give their best on the field. Under the expert guidance of coach Anthea Stewart, they adapted their tactics to face unknown opponents and displayed remarkable tenacity and skill.The Golden Moment: The women’s hockey tournament was conducted on a round-robin basis, featuring teams from Russia, Czechoslovakia, Poland, India, Austria, and Zimbabwe. Zimbabwe remained unbeaten heading into their final match against Austria. The victory secured them the gold medal, making history as the first winners in Olympic women’s hockey and earning Zimbabwe its first-ever Olympic gold.Ann recalls the moment of victory: “It is difficult to express our feelings of sheer joy and excitement of our achievement! We stood on that red carpet to receive our gold medals from Mr. Reg Alexander, IOC member from Kenya, and Mr. Renee Frank, the President of the International Hockey Federation. The unforgettable moment our flag was raised with the beautiful Olympic hymn playing in the background.”Celebrations and Legacy: The reception back home in Zimbabwe was nothing short of spectacular. The team was welcomed with a guard of honor by school drum majorettes and a huge crowd of fans and their families. Several functions were organized to celebrate their achievement, ensuring that all Zimbabweans could share in this historic moment.The legacy of the Golden Girls continues to inspire future generations of hockey players in Zimbabwe. The annual Golden Girls Hockey Tournament, held every July, keeps the spirit of their victory alive. Many of the team members have gone on to coach at various levels, giving back to the sport that brought them together.A Fairytale to Remember: The team’s journey was meticulously documented in a handwritten diary, capturing every moment of their Olympic adventure.Ann recounts how it all came about: “Our coach, Anthea Stewart, made a team rule of writing the day's events and happenings in a handwritten diary to document, from beginning to end, the story of our own Olympic journey – this was written in the same order as your team number. What incredible memoirs “Dear Diary” has safely tucked inside, with many laughs as we read through the various stories but also tears, as we remember our dear vice-captain and wonderful leader Liz Chase who has sadly passed on.”These memoirs, filled with laughter and tears, are a cherished testament to their incredible story. Despite being scattered around the globe, the remaining members of the Golden Girls maintain close contact, bonded by their shared history and the lifelong friendships forged during their golden moment.Their story, as recounted by Ann Grant, is a powerful reminder of what can be achieved with determination, unity, and a love for the game. The Golden Girls’ victory at the 1980 Moscow Olympic Games remains one of the most inspirational chapters in the history of women’s hockey and Zimbabwean sport.

Sports Bulletin ReportLausanne (Switzerland): The International Hockey Federation (FIH) has updated the world hockey ranking and the Netherlands is number 1 while Great Britain spotted second place. Pakistan is still crawling in the 16th position in the men’s ranking.In the women’s world rankings, Netherlands (3534) continue to be the dominant force at the top of the rankings. A second consecutive Pro League title, their fourth in the five seasons of the event, came after yet another excellent season where they won 15 out of their 16 games! Such is Netherlands’ dominance, that their 571-point lead over second placed Argentina (2963) is nearly as big as the 583-points that cover Argentina in second all the way down to China in eighth place on the world ranking table. Germany (2834), who achieved their best ever finish in the FIH Hockey Pro League as runners-up, are ranked third in the world, and look among the strongest contenders for a podium place finish in Paris 2024. Belgium (2771) in fourth and Australia (2743) in fifth are two more teams that had impressive ends to their Pro League seasons as they make a strong case for medal contention at the Olympics. England (2443) in sixth, Spain (2409) in seventh and China (2380) in eighth are separated by less than 65 points. Each of the three teams have shown they are capable of playing excellent hockey and it would not be a surprise to see them punch above their weight at Paris 2024. In the men’s world rankings, Netherlands (3069) continue to remain in the top spot, which they have held for nearly a year now. While Netherlands fell short of retaining their FIH Pro League title, their season was still littered with impressive wins as they finished second in the table. England (2986) have closed the gap to Netherlands in the world rankings but stay second in the standings following a title fight in the Pro League, before eventually settling for a third place. Belgium (2939) had an up and down season in the Pro League, but a final day win over Netherlands sees them climb into third place in the world rankings, ahead of FIH Hockey Pro League 2023/24 winners Australia (2921), who find themselves in the fourth spot. Less than hundred points cover teams between fifth and seventh places. World Cup winners Germany (2765) find themselves in fifth, followed by Argentina (2690), who had a much improved season in the FIH Hockey Pro League as they finished fourth, four places better than their previous campaign where they came close to getting embroiled in a relegation battle. A poor European leg of the Pro League saw India (2688) drop a lot of points in the Pro League as well as the world rankings, where they now find themselves in seventh, just two points behind Argentina. Spain (2365), eighth in the world rankings, lead a quartet of teams all headed to the Olympics. Hosts France (2241) find themselves in ninth, following an impressive showing at the FIH Hockey Nations Cup, where they finished as runners up. New Zealand (2219) were the winners of the Nations Cup, qualifying for the upcoming season of the FIH Hockey Pro League and round out the top-10 in the world rankings. Ireland (2043) found it tough going in their first Pro League season, but two late season wins against Belgium showcased the improvement in the side headed into the Olympics, as the eleventh ranked team in the world.