An Olympic medalist and a bonafide legend of field hockey, former Indian captain and coach of the national side, MP Ganesh has weighed in on the foreign vs local coach debate.
Speaking exclusively to Connected to India on the sidelines of the 6th Chairos Bheemaiah Hockey Cup in Bangalore earlier this month, the 78-year-old told interviewer Manish Batavia, when asked about his dream for Indian hockey and where he saw the sport going in the future, “As I said, Indian coaches are also to be encouraged here in this country, which is not done.”
Ganesh urged administers to consider the potential of local coaches and facilitate better opportunities for them. He also said that foreign coaches can come to India, aid in training for a certain time, but must not overstay.
“Foreign coaches can be invited, but then they should be brought only for a time period,” the hockey legend said.
He also cited example of penalty corners, which Ganesh opined that foreign coaches are better equipped with knowledge and can pass on the same to players.
“You (foreign coaches) come for 15 days,” he said, adding, “give them (foreign coaches) whatever money they ask, but after that you better pack”.
“In my opinion, Indian coaches should be encouraged and the administration should improve,” he added.
Ganesh also spoke about a range of topics, including QNET’s support for the tournament, hockey when he was the captain, and his playing days.
Watch the Spotlight conversation below to find out more.
