Hockey India appoints David John as High Performance Director

Hockey India (HI) on Tuesday announced the appointment of David John as the High Performance Director.

David has previously worked with the men's national team as the physiologist/scientific advisor prior to the London Olympics in 2012.

In his role he had implemented and introduced new strength and training programs for the Indian men's team.

He had also worked in a similar role, as a Performance Director for two teams of the Hockey India League (HIL), most recently for Kalinga Lancers' for the 2016 season where the team finished as runners up.

David has experience working across sporting disciplines, which include Hockey, Rugby, Australian Rules Football and Triathlons.

Speaking about the appointment, HI Secretary General Mohd. Mushtaque Ahmad said: "We welcome David's inclusion into a role that has over the years become one of great importance for Hockey India.

"A High Performance Director's role is one that is not just demanding in the present but also has to include a vision for the future."

"We are confident with David's extensive experience and background in Sports Science that he along with the Chief Coaches for each of the Men and Women programmes that our athletes will have the best planning and assistance ahead of the 2020 Olympic Games."

"Added to this David's enthusiasm to develop and identify national talent that Indian hockey will go from strength to strength in the next Olympic cycle," he added.

John, on his part hoped that his previous experience of being with the Indian side would help in his new role.

"The role comes with its own unique set of challenges. I am hopeful that my previous experience as well as the presence of people who share a deep and long history with the game in the country will help me fulfil my role," he said.

"One of the crucial areas is the identification and nurturing of talent in the country and look to develop the team for the 2020 Games. I look forward to working towards that," he added.

--IANS

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