Ireland with young options

At the time of David Harte's rise to prominence in Ireland and on the international scene, there were three goalkeepers in the running for the first team spot. In goalkeeping terms this meant that the talent they had was young and promising; the years have passed and Ireland has its own goalkeeping star, with a capable second choice in David Fitzgerald waiting his turn should he ever be needed. Which, unfortunately him, won't be too often, as Harte is considered the heir apparent, much like trying to get playing time when you're benching for Buffon. I.e. it's not going too happen pretty much, unless because of injury!

Though David (Fitzgerald; there seem to be a few famous David's in the Irish Goalies Union!) is getting his chance in friendlies, and with England getting some warm up games in before the World Cup over the summer, and for the coaching staff to get a look at some of their options going forward, he is getting a chance to add to his caps for his home nation.

That is alongside youngster Stephen West. West, a goalkeeper for Three Rock Rovers, has come up through the junior ranks and impressed enough to get included in the larger training squad (in comparison to the slimmer version, where cuts are made for the starting 11 and subs!) and is considered Ireland's future in goal.

You can read more about the three way battle for the no. 1 jersey from a few years back here:

http://www.hookhockey.com/index.php/2011/08/fitzgerald-bides-time-for-major-euro-call-up/

Vande Vyer gets some playing time with Brussels

Another round of Euro Hockey League and another chance for a young second choice to get some game time, albeit however small. Henri-Simon came on in place of Belgian international Gucasoff, as Brussels dominated against Dinamo Elecktrostal. He didn't have much luck, conceding, but it will have been a good opportunity for him to have got invaluable playing experience of being in a high level, fast paced game as this. As well as the psychological aspects of "stepping up" to the level of competitive play. The goal itself could have been stopped if he had stopped and reacting, instead of continuing to rush out against the play, which made him susceptible and didn't give him enough time or space to make a reactive save.

http://cdn.ehlhockey.tv/uploads/pressinformation/Match%2008%20-%20RC%20Bruxelles%20v%20Dinamo%20Elektrostal.pdf

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yQ-Z6jK5rfk

D'hooghe: the Olympic's youngest goalkeeper

I recently found out an interesting fact, which I think demonstrates the rise of the young goalkeeper and the coaching staff of high level hockey's recognition of outstanding young talent. Aisling D'Hooghe, Belgian's first choice was 18 when she played in the recent Olympics. Whilst I'd like to blog more about this at some point, I feel this is a reflection of the improved standard of technical coaching available to high level goalkeepers, whilst the confidence of youth aids the ability to play with a strong mental game. Interesting!