Ahead of the 9th edition of the FIH Hockey Women’s Junior World Cup taking place in South Africa (1-12 April), we’re conducting a series of exclusive interviews with the participating teams. Today: Melanie Scholz (CAN).
Melanie, 3 months ago, you had already reached South Africa and you learnt that finally the event would not take place. You had to stay away from home for some time before you could fly back to Canada. In retrospect, would you think that this experience has created an extra feeling of unity within your team and possibly even made you stronger than before?
Melanie Scholz: I actually do think it made us stronger. Because we were going against so much adversity together. We were relying on each other a lot more. And then we also got like a “bonus” training camp out of it. We could learn how each other play and also just grow as a team while we were down there. So, although it was a challenge for us, I do think it made us stronger.
Was it your first time in South Africa and what can you tell us about the hospitality you received there?
Melanie Scholz: Yes, it was my first time in South Africa. So, I didn’t really know what to expect. I haven’t travelled a lot. We were all pleasantly surprised. We were staying at the Astrovilla, which is right next to the field in Potchefstroom. You’re treated so well! It was very safe. We could walk to the field. We each had a roomie. It was very fun!
So, now how do you feel about finally playing this World Cup?
Melanie Scholz: Very excited! It’s been a long road, obviously, and we’re just super eager to get on the field finally and just enjoy the international competition. We’re a very young team, very new to this, so it’s going to be a challenge, but a very good experience to get to play some hockey finally!
What are your expectations for the tournament?
Melanie Scholz: We talked about this, in small groups, but our goal is definitely to play second in our pool and then make a cross-over. That’s a measurable goal but beside that it is growing at every game and developing as a country in hockey.
How will you prepare for this event?
Melanie Scholz: We’re all on our own right now doing our training. Then, we will centralise in Toronto on March 20 to train together for a couple of days and then fly to South Africa. So, it’s been a lot of individual training plans but it’s all along the same line.
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