“We want to make everyone who has helped us truly proud!”

With the next Olympic hockey tournaments scheduled to take place in Los Angeles, USA, in less than two years, we spoke exclusively to the hosts - the women’s and men’s US national teams - when we met them at the FIH Hockey Nations Cup earlier this year. Today, we hear from rising star Sekayi Charasika (20) and seasoned player Pat Harris (41).

FIH: When you think about LA28, what comes to mind?

Sekayi Charasika: It is definitely a dream come true. Growing up playing field hockey in the US was challenging, but knowing we have this opportunity is truly exciting. We just want to represent our country and make everyone who has helped us truly proud.

Pat Harris: I grew up in a small town called Moorpark, California, about 45 minutes outside Los Angeles. So, when I think of LA28, I mostly think of my family and friends, and the possibility of them attending the Games and watching, which brings that familiar feeling of wanting to do well for them.

FIH: Is this a topic that comes up regularly in your conversations with teammates, friends, or family members?

Sekayi Charasika: Yes, absolutely! It’s more with my family and friends. They’re always saying, ‘Oh, you’re going to be an Olympian!’ Some of them have never even seen me play, so they almost just have faith in me when I don’t even have faith in myself.

Pat Harris: I think it’s probably daily, sometimes weekly. You’re working towards an idea, and of course, there’s no guarantee. That’s the difficult part at times - knowing the goal may be so far away, yet still investing in the everyday and making your sacrifices.

FIH: Considering that those Games will be held in your country, how special does that make the occasion?

Sekayi Charasika: It is incredibly special to know that I can represent the US in the United States in the Olympics. It has been such a long time, particularly for the men's field hockey programme.

FIH: Where do you think your team needs to improve to secure a medal in two years' time?

Sekayi Charasika: We are working hard on our fitness levels. We want to become fitter than other teams because that is how we can be more effective in attack and solid in defence. Tactically, we are making some adjustments to improve ourselves with the players we have in our team.

Pat Harris: Since Allan (Head Coach Allan Law) took over, we have made significant progress, particularly in the physical aspect. However, I believe the challenging bit is bridging the gap between the experienced players and the less experienced ones. Some are still competing in Europe, while others are part of a centralised group. When we come together, the time is limited. So, how do we maintain that cohesion? I think our aim is to eventually centralise the group.

FIH: There are two years remaining. Is that too short, or is it too ... long and you can’t wait to begin?

Sekayi Charasika: That's a good question. It depends on how you look at it. For some aspects, two years might be a little too short. I believe fitness can be achieved within two years, but tactically, depending on our objectives, that period could be either very short or quite long. However, I think we are ready, and two years will be sufficient time.

Pat Harris: I almost feel like it’s too short in a way. There are always things you want to fix or feel need work. Again, because you don’t have much time together, I get the feeling that sometimes you’re running out of time. But the good thing is that everyone’s invested. We all want to do well and be competitive, so we’re going to do everything we can.

FIH: What legacy can LA28 leave for hockey in the US?

Sekayi Charasika: This is incredibly important. Coming from Kentucky, I was the only male playing field hockey for some time, but the sport is gradually developing. I know there are now a few guys playing at my former club. I am simply trying to set an example for young boys, showing them that they can achieve anything if they put their mind to it. At LA28, we have a real opportunity to inspire them.

Pat Harris: We want to inspire the next generation to continue playing men's field hockey and to grow the game within the US. Hopefully, we can perform well and demonstrate that field hockey can be a thing for men in the US.