The women's national field hockey team are ready to compete in the AHF Women's Indoor Asia Cup in Thailand. — Photo courtesy of the HHA

by Thanh Nga

HCM City — The Vietnamese national women’s field hockey team are set to make a stunning debut on the international stage at the AHF Women's Indoor Asia Cup in Thailand from May 13-16 with the support of VietJet Air.

In the partnership between VietJet Air and the HCM City Hockey Association (HHA) signed in HCM City on Tuesday, the airline has agreed to sponsor the flights for the Vietnamese hockey athletes participating in the prestigious Asian event in Chonburi. VietJet Air recognises the immense potential of field hockey in Việt Nam and the positive impact it can have on young athletes.

"Field hockey is a unique and captivating sport. It is one of the oldest sports in the world, and we firmly believe that Việt Nam has what it takes to excel in this sport," said Nguyễn Bác Toán, VietJet's Commercial Vice President, in an interview with Việt Nam News.

"We are passionate about diversifying the sporting landscape and providing opportunities for young athletes to discover and nurture their potential. By sponsoring hockey, we also aim to send a positive message to the community and foster connections both within Việt Nam and beyond.

"Hockey embodies the spirit of teamwork and unity among its players. VietJet Air aims to promote the values of solidarity and inspire individuals and communities to collaborate and strive together towards shared objectives," Toán said.

VietJet Air will sponsor the flights for the Vietnamese hockey athletes participating in the AHF Women's Indoor Asia Cup. — Photo courtesy of the HHA

Nguyễn Hà Trường Hải, chairman of the HHA acknowledged the vital role played by sponsors like VietJet Air in ensuring optimal conditions and enhancing the quality of play for the national hockey team in the upcoming tournament.

Coincidentally, VietJet Air was founded 30 November 2007, the same day, month and year when the hockey movement in Việt Nam took its first steps.

The national women’s team were formed in March, making history as they prepare for upcoming international events, while the men's national hockey team dates back to 2013 and they have already competed in the SEA Games in Myanmar in 2013 and the 2017 SEA Games in Malaysia.

"It wasn't easy to get Vietnamese women on board with hockey initially, but I've always believed in their abilities and spirit to excel and bring home a medal," James Chew, CEO of the Việt Nam Hockey Federation said.

Determined to make their mark. The hockey athletes train hard for the Asia Cup. — Photo courtesy of the HHA

The 17-member women's squad are working hard in their training preparations for the Asia Cup. Every day, they pour energy into their games at the University of Sport HCM City, eager to showcase their skills at their first-ever international event outside Việt Nam.

Captain Nguyễn Hồ Ánh Ngân said: "This is a momentous occasion for our team as we step onto the international stage for the first time. We are filled with anticipation and determination. We will give it our all, following the coaching staff's plans and unite to overcome any challenges that come our way in our quest for victory."

At just 24 years old, Ngân, a student majoring in sports management at the University of Sport HCM City, has been playing hockey for five years, but before that she was dedicated to Taekwondo, but eventually fell head over heels for the game.

"I am delighted that the coaches have placed their trust in me and appointed me as the team captain," Ngân said. "I am determined to assist all my teammates in practicing harder and enhancing their skills in preparation for the Asia Cup. Additionally, I strive to instill in my team the spirit and consciousness that we are not only members of the national team but also representatives of the Vietnamese national flag."

Ngân only really started playing hockey to give it a try and to gain a greater understanding of the sport. However, her passion grew and now she hopes to be a key player making a modest contribution to the development of hockey in Việt Nam.

The women’s field hockey squad seen at a training session. — Photo courtesy of James Chew

Guiding the Vietnamese team are three talented coaches: Nguyễn Thanh Từ, Nguyễn Lê Quang and Indian Donald White, who has been living and coaching in Việt Nam for six years. Between them they have a wealth of experience from training and competitions since 2018 and so they hope to bring their skills to the women’s team.

"The Asia Cup is a prestigious tournament in Asia, and our aim is to gain invaluable experience and hone the skills of our athletes in preparation for next year's SEA Games," Từ said. "However, in the Asia Cup, we have our sights set on be placed as high up in Pool A as possible and then Việt Nam winning in a play off with a team from Pool B for a higher ranking in the Asia Cup. The other teams are among the top ten in Asia."

Meanwhile, coach Quang, a former national player who competed in two SEA Games and one World Cup qualifier, emphasised that the Vietnamese team members, most of whom are from the hockey club of the University of Sport HCM City, are focussed on a balanced defensive and attacking strategy, with a determination to secure victories in the Cup and make their mark.

The Vietnamese team will set off to Thailand on Sunday.

Ten countries are participating. Việt Nam find themself in Pool A, alongside formidable opponents such as Kazakhstan, Malaysia, Iran and Oman. Pool B comprises Thailand, Indonesia, Singapore and Cambodia. The team's schedule is packed; on May 13, Việt Nam will face off against Malaysia and Kazakhstan, followed by a match against Iran on May 14 and then with Oman on May 15.

The stakes are high, as the top three teams will secure qualification for the World Cup, scheduled to be held in Croatia in February 2025. It's an exciting time for field hockey in Việt Nam and the Vietnamese women's national team are ready to make their mark. — VNS