HEAD of the Guyana Hockey Board and Head Coach of the national women’s team, Phillip Fernandes, says that they are set to face some stiff opposition at the upcoming Pan American Hockey Federation (PAHF) Challenge series set for Hamilton, Bermuda, from September 20-28, but he believes they

have the goods to succeed.
‘I am actually confident in the possibility of our team, just because they are enthusiastic, they are committed, they have a high level of skill and I think we can put this group together with proper training over the next months to create a good balance.’
The coach says the toughest test should come from Mexico, who will be the highest-ranked side in the competition. ‘It is going to be a tough tournament for Guyana because all the teams are more highly ranked than Guyana. Mexico is going to be the most difficult, they are typically a powerhouse in the region, so it will be difficult, but they are all within our reach.

He says that the age-old issues with adequate playing surface continues to plague them, but they are actively seeking innovative solutions.
Fernandes also alluded to the fact that not competing regularly internationally has not allowed them to maintain rankings.
‘We do not have the budget to travel to compete often; this is our lowest international ranking and it also robs players of valuable international exposure, which is a necessary ingredient to keep having your team improve’, Fernandes said.
The locals will battle the likes of hosts Bermuda, Brazil, Guyana, Jamaica, Peru and top-ranked Mexico.

Guyana last competed at the PAHF Challenge back in 2011, when they finished runners-up to Uruguay in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
The squad announced on Tuesday includes goalkeepers –Empress Charles,
Jessica Mittelholzer, Keziah Johnason, and Sarah Harry.
Defenders – Julia Gouveia, Kezia Chinian, Kirsten Gomes, Kazaquah Uzzi,
Makeda Harding, Tekeisha Deleon, Trisha Woodroffe.
Midfielders – Charlia Webb, Clayza Bobb, Gabriella Xavier, Kenisha Wills,
Madison Fernandes, Sarah Klautky, Temmara Clarke.
Strikers – Abosaide Cadogan, Carolyn Deane, Chantelle Fernandes,
Makaylah Poole, Princessa Wilkie, Samantha Fernandes.