Akhtar Rasool vows to take former Olympians for the betterment of the state of Hockey

Lahore: The newly elected president of the Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF), Akhtar Rasool has vowed to take former Olympians along for the betterment of the state of Hockey in Pakistan. “We must move forward with a clear strategy instead of keep digging into the past. I have great respect for former Olympians and I am even ready to go to their doorstep to listen to their grievances”, said Akhtar Rasool while talking to this correspondent for News One TV.

Akhtar Rasool and Rana Mujhahid were elected unopposed as president and secretary respectively of the PHF for a term of four years.

“Elections were conducted in free and fair manner and the chief election commissioner provided everyone with an equal opportunity to contest”, claimed Akhtar Rasool, who recently held the post of team’s head coach.

On a question, Akhtar Rasool stated that Pakistan was not short of experienced and qualified former players therefore the coaching task would be handed over to one of the former Olympians. “We have top quality coaches with FIH certification, hence I would go for a local coach for the national side”, said Akhtar Rasool who led Pakistan to victory in the 1982 World Cup.

“Along with the top team, the grass-root level needs utmost attention. The revival of hockey at school and club levels is a must and the PHF will take appropriate measures to achieve this goal”, concluded Akhtar Rasool.