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KARACHI: Former Pakistan Captain Ahmed Alam has said that specialized goal-keeping training and coaching will help in preparing and developing the skill of future custodians.
“Better brand of goal-keepers can change the face of Pakistan Hockey,” he told APP in an interview here at the Hockey Club of Pakistan on Thursday where the coaching was in full swing.
“We are trying to impart scientific training and coaching to upcoming goalkeepers,” he said.
Five goalies - Mazhar Abbas, Muhammad Sufiyan, Amjad Ali, Mujahid Ali and Asad Ali from across the country are attending the 10- day specialized camp.
Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) is holding the camp to groom and train the keepers to strengthen deep defence.
He said with the panel of coaches which also included Samsam Qadir and Abdul Ghafoor they are teaching new technique to players under the bars.
A modern concept is being developed in goalkeepers to act as third full back and to improve their speed and agility in the fast- moving sport.
“Goal-keeping is very important area of defence and Pakistan must prepare better keepers for good future of the game,” Alam, who represented Pakistan in 2004 Athens Olympic said.
He said boys are taught how to act in different situations and circumstances.
“They got to be swift and their reaction time on attacks should be very sharp,” he said.
“If we were able to raise the standard of the goalkeepers and groom teenagers it can be very benefiting for Pakistan,” he added.
“In modern hockey, keepers have to come forward on the top of the circle and react because of quick changing of flanks on crosses,” he said.
“Improving the standard of goal-keeping is imperative for the future of Pakistan hockey,” he said.
