Gestern gab es für die Niederlande bei der Champions Trophy eine überraschende 1:3-Niederlage gegen das Team aus Neuseeland. Der neue Headcoach Paul van Ass sah die Schwächen vor allem im fehlenden Rhythmus und Speed. Wie er sich in seiner neuen Rolle fühlt und was er sich für die Champions Trophy vorgenommen hatte, könnt ihr im nachfolgenden Interview lesen.

How does it feel to be the new bondscoach?

I'm thrilled that I should be the coach of The Netherlands. I am in favor of more fighthockey which translate into a more aggressive form of pressure on the opponent when we are not in possession of the ball. Generally it comes down to more one-on-one situations in that press phase.

You will also see, the Dutch team will stand a little less "half court". Initiative, even without a ball is oure theme.

We have recognized that you have selected a young team for the Champions Trophy without stars such as T. Taekema and R. Brouwer. Is this your new strategy to focus on young, talented players? What's your mission with the team for the next 2-3 years?

What are your targets for the Champions Trophy in Mönchengladbach? Which teams will be the top favorits for the title?

I look forward to the upcoming Champions Trophy. The only statistic that is significant here is the result! Yes, it is also next to it, the power relationship between us and in particular Germany and Australia. The two countries are higher listed in the world ranking and in recent years are found difficult for us to play. A great opportunity for me to test our "new" tactics while playing under pressure. In my opinion Germany and Australiy are still in favorite position to win the championship. Unless our new approach will have immediately success!