Hockey India has appointed Paddy Upton as the Mental Conditioning coach for the Men’s team. The South African’s appointment comes just few months ahead of the Asian Champions Trophy and the much awaited Asian Games. Upton, who has worked with Indian cricket team in the past, is set to take over the new role immediately. The National camp for the Men’s Hockey side will begin from July 1 in SAI, Bengaluru. Upton will hold a three-part mental conditioning sessions during the camp from Saturday.
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Hockey India President Dilip Tirkey said, “Hockey India wanted to ensure there is absolutely nothing lacking in the team’s preparations for major tournaments this year. Particularly the Asian Games in China where the Olympic qualification will be at stake.”
“To help the team manage the pressure and expectations to perform, we felt that it was essential to invest in a mental conditioning expert. We recognise that this is a major area that needs focus ahead of big-ticket events and we are confident that Paddy’s expertise and guidance will greatly benefit our team,” he a
He further added, “We recognise that this is a major area that needs focus ahead of big-ticket events. We are confident that Paddy’s expertise and guidance will greatly benefit our team.”
“I am honoured to be given this opportunity to work with Hockey India and the Indian Men’s Hockey Team. Having witnessed the tremendous growth of Indian hockey in recent years, I am excited to contribute to the team’s success by enhancing their mental resilience and psychological skill set. Together, we will work towards achieving the highest level of performance and excellence.”” said Upton.
The South African was the mental conditioning coach for Indian Cricket team from 2008 to 2011. Under Gary Kirsten tenure as head coach, he was part of the 2011 World Cup winning side.
Besides cricket, Paddy has also has experience in other sports. He has provided mental training workshops to the Indian Super League (ISL) sides FC Goa and FC Hyderabad, England Men’s Rugby Team. He has also worked with the the South African Men’s Hockey Team and Australia Men’s Hockey Team in the past.
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