The Half Court Press Podcast

Alan Veitch is an archivist and a statistician for the sport of field hockey. He is one of the people behind the organisation that celebrates and records the game in the North of Britain, called Scottish Hockey Heritage. In this series of episodes, taken from an interview recorded in Edinburgh on May of 2025, we chat about a variety of topics, including what Scottish Hockey Heritage does, what it plans to do in the future and how you and others can help to record the history of hockey in Scotland. All episodes were done in conjunction with the Half Court Press and Scottish Hockey Heritage. The producer was Tao MacLeod.Scottish Hockey Heritagewww.scottish-hockey-heritage.orgAlan Veitch Hockey Archivist and StatisticianInterview location; EdinburghInterview date; 09.05.2025Episode 1; Alan Veitch of Scottish Hockey Heritage an IntroductionEpisode 2; Alan Veitch on Scottish Hockey HeritageEpisode 3; Alan Veitch on the Current Activities of Scottish Hockey HeritageEpisode 4; Alan Veitch on the Future Plans of Scottish Hockey HeritageHalf Court Presswww.halfcourtpressmagazine.comFacebook & Twitter; @HalfCourtPress1Threads & Instagram; @half_court_press1The Half Court Press Podcast is available on…iTunesSpotifyGoogle PodcastsApple PodcastsAmazon MusicBreakerOvercastPocket CastsRadioPublic

Dennis Hay Interview Scottish Hockey Heritage Dennis Hay is a former Scottish hockey player and coach who has had an interesting and long lasting career. As a player he toured Australia with Great Britain, when such things where less common, and went to the 1972 Munich Olympic Games, that was overshadowed by infamous terror attack, by a militant organisation. He went on to coach both domestically with the University of Edinburgh, as well as internationally with Scotland and Great Britain. Here he coached the women's team at the Olympic Games in 1988 and to a bronze medal in 1992.  In this series of four segments of his interview, recorded on 08.03.2024, we explore the various aspects of his hockey life. Starting with his early days and entry into the game, Dennis talks about his memories from his playing career, as well as his experiences as a coach. Episode One; Dennis Hay Introduction Episode Two; Dennis Hay on his Playing Career Episode Three; Dennis Hay on his Coaching Career Episode Four; Dennis Hay on his Memories of his Career This interview has been produced in conjunction with Scottish Hockey Heritage.  Dennis Hay Former Scotland & Great Britain Hockey Player Former University of Edinburgh Hockey, Scotland & Great Britain Hockey Coach Interview location; Edinburgh Interview date; 08.03.2024 Interview produced in conjunction with Scottish Hockey Heritage The Half Court Press Podcast is available on… iTunes Spotify Google Podcasts Apple Podcasts Amazon Music Breaker Overcast Pocket Casts RadioPublic

Dennis Hay Interview Scottish Hockey Heritage Dennis Hay is a former Scottish hockey player and coach who has had an interesting and long lasting career. As a player he toured Australia with Great Britain, when such things where less common, and went to the 1972 Munich Olympic Games, that was overshadowed by infamous terror attack, by a militant organisation. He went on to coach both domestically with the University of Edinburgh, as well as internationally with Scotland and Great Britain. Here he coached the women's team at the Olympic Games in 1988 and to a bronze medal in 1992.  In this series of four segments of his interview, recorded on 08.03.2024, we explore the various aspects of his hockey life. Starting with his early days and entry into the game, Dennis talks about his memories from his playing career, as well as his experiences as a coach. Episode One; Dennis Hay Introduction Episode Two; Dennis Hay on his Playing Career Episode Three; Dennis Hay on his Coaching Career Episode Four; Dennis Hay on his Memories of his Career This interview has been produced in conjunction with Scottish Hockey Heritage.  Dennis Hay Former Scotland & Great Britain Hockey Player Former University of Edinburgh Hockey, Scotland & Great Britain Hockey Coach Interview location; Edinburgh Interview date; 08.03.2024 Interview produced in conjunction with Scottish Hockey Heritage The Half Court Press Podcast is available on… iTunes Spotify Google Podcasts Apple Podcasts Amazon Music Breaker Overcast Pocket Casts RadioPublic

Dennis Hay Interview Scottish Hockey Heritage Dennis Hay is a former Scottish hockey player and coach who has had an interesting and long lasting career. As a player he toured Australia with Great Britain, when such things where less common, and went to the 1972 Munich Olympic Games, that was overshadowed by infamous terror attack, by a militant organisation. He went on to coach both domestically with the University of Edinburgh, as well as internationally with Scotland and Great Britain. Here he coached the women's team at the Olympic Games in 1988 and to a bronze medal in 1992.  In this series of four segments of his interview, recorded on 08.03.2024, we explore the various aspects of his hockey life. Starting with his early days and entry into the game, Dennis talks about his memories from his playing career, as well as his experiences as a coach. Episode One; Dennis Hay Introduction Episode Two; Dennis Hay on his Playing Career Episode Three; Dennis Hay on his Coaching Career Episode Four; Dennis Hay on his Memories of his Career This interview has been produced in conjunction with Scottish Hockey Heritage.  Dennis Hay Former Scotland & Great Britain Hockey Player Former University of Edinburgh Hockey, Scotland & Great Britain Hockey Coach Interview location; Edinburgh Interview date; 08.03.2024 Interview produced in conjunction with Scottish Hockey Heritage The Half Court Press Podcast is available on… iTunes Spotify Google Podcasts Apple Podcasts Amazon Music Breaker Overcast Pocket Casts RadioPublic

Dennis Hay Interview Scottish Hockey Heritage Dennis Hay is a former Scottish hockey player and coach who has had an interesting and long lasting career. As a player he toured Australia with Great Britain, when such things where less common, and went to the 1972 Munich Olympic Games, that was overshadowed by infamous terror attack, by a militant organisation. He went on to coach both domestically with the University of Edinburgh, as well as internationally with Scotland and Great Britain. Here he coached the women's team at the Olympic Games in 1988 and to a bronze medal in 1992.  In this series of four segments of his interview, recorded on 08.03.2024, we explore the various aspects of his hockey life. Starting with his early days and entry into the game, Dennis talks about his memories from his playing career, as well as his experiences as a coach. Episode One; Dennis Hay Introduction Episode Two; Dennis Hay on his Playing Career Episode Three; Dennis Hay on his Coaching Career Episode Four; Dennis Hay on his Memories of his Career This interview has been produced in conjunction with Scottish Hockey Heritage.  Dennis Hay Former Scotland & Great Britain Hockey Player Former University of Edinburgh Hockey, Scotland & Great Britain Hockey Coach Interview location; Edinburgh Interview date; 08.03.2024 Interview produced in conjunction with Scottish Hockey Heritage The Half Court Press Podcast is available on… iTunes Spotify Google Podcasts Apple Podcasts Amazon Music Breaker Overcast Pocket Casts RadioPublic

Coaches Corner is the latest series from the Half Court Press Podcast. Here, Tao MacLeod chats to a variety of coaches from different sports about what it is they do. We talk about coaching philosophies and techniques, youth development and team preparation, as well as how the individual fits into these concepts. If you're curious about coaching then this is the podcast for you… Episode nine is with Alyson Annan. A legend of the game of hockey, she is one of the few people to have been a world class player and a world class coach. As a player she had a ten year international career with the Australian Hockeyroos and stayed in the game after retirement. In 2018 she led the Dutch ladies team to victory in the London World Cup, before coaching the side to the Gold Medal in the 2020(1) Tokyo Olympic Games. Now Alyson is the Head Coach of the Chinese women's hockey team, who won the Asian Games in 2023. In the same year Annan was named the FIH Women's Coach of the Year. The Half Court Press Magazine has listed her as one of the six most iconic hockey coaches of all time. In this episode we chat about how to develop a positive learning environment, handling different communication styles and how to create a balanced team You can check out the Half Court Press online. Check out the following prompts listed below. Website; www.halfcourtpressmagazine.com Social Media Facebook; @HalfCourtPress1 Instagram; @half_court_press1 Threads: @half_court_press1 X (Twitter); @HalfCourtPress1 The Half Court Press Podcast is available on… iTunes Spotify Google Podcasts Apple Podcasts Breaker Overcast Pocket Casts RadioPublic

Coaches Corner is the latest series from the Half Court Press Podcast. Here, Tao MacLeod chats to a variety of coaches from different sports about what it is they do. We talk about coaching philosophies and techniques, youth development and team preparation, as well as how the individual fits into these concepts. If you're curious about coaching then this is the podcast for you… Episode eight is with Tom Barton, who has had an interestingly diverse coaching career. He is currently the head of the youth programmes at Edinburgh based Inverleith Hockey Club, which is a committee position. He is also a co-coach of the ladies first team in the Scottish Premiership. At the same time Barton is an international standard coach with the Cyprus Men's Hockey Team. All of this he has achieved before the age of 30, whilst also playing in his club's men's first eleven. In this episode we chat about coaching styles and principles, how to engage players within a positive team culture, as well as how to coach junior, senior and elite level players. You can check out the Half Court Press online. Check out the following prompts listed below. Website; www.halfcourtpressmagazine.com Social Media Facebook; @HalfCourtPress1 Instagram; @half_court_press1 Threads: @half_court_press1 X (Twitter); @HalfCourtPress1 The Half Court Press Podcast is available on… iTunes Spotify Google Podcasts Apple Podcasts Breaker Overcast Pocket Casts RadioPublic

Coaches Corner is the latest series from the Half Court Press Podcast. Here, Tao MacLeod chats to a variety of coaches from different sports about what it is they do. We talk about coaching philosophies and techniques, youth development and team preparation, as well as how the individual fits into these concepts. If you're curious about coaching then this is the podcast for you… Episode seven is with Kareena ‘Kaz Cuthbert (née Marshall). A former captain of the Scottish national team, for the past few years she has been the Head Coach of Glasgow based hockey club Western Wildcats. Previously Cuthbert was the Vice President of Scottish Hockey, but recently has been named as the Head of High Performance at Bowls Scotland. In this interview we chat about what makes a good coach, how to develop a positive culture, as well as the importance of building relationships with people.   You can check out the Half Court Press online. Check out the following prompts listed below. Website; www.halfcourtpressmagazine.com Social Media Facebook; @HalfCourtPress1 Instagram; @half_court_press1 X (Twitter); @HalfCourtPress1 The Half Court Press Podcast is available on… iTunes Spotify Google Podcasts Apple Podcasts Breaker Overcast Pocket Casts RadioPublic

Coaches Corner is the latest series from the Half Court Press Podcast. Here, Tao MacLeod chats to a variety of coaches from different sports about what it is they do. We talk about coaching philosophies and techniques, youth development and team preparation, as well as how the individual fits into these concepts. If you're curious about coaching then this is the podcast for you… Episode six is with John Bagnall, who is the head coach of the Scottish korfball national team. In addition to this, John is also the coach of English Premier League side Bristol Thunder Korfball Club. In this interview we chat about Bagnall's coaching principles, his experiences of training elite level players and the differences between working at domestic and international level.   You can check out the Half Court Press online. Check out the following prompts listed below. Website; www.halfcourtpressmagazine.com Social Media Facebook; @HalfCourtPress1 Instagram; @half_court_press1 X (Twitter); @HalfCourtPress1 The Half Court Press Podcast is available on… iTunes Spotify Google Podcasts Apple Podcasts Breaker Overcast Pocket Casts RadioPublic

Coaches Corner is the latest series from the Half Court Press Podcast. Here, Tao MacLeod chats to a variety of coaches from different sports about what it is they do. We talk about coaching philosophies and techniques, youth development and team preparation, as well as how the individual fits into these concepts. If you're curious about coaching then this is the podcast for you… Episode five is with the celebrated hockey umpire educator Keely Dunn. Whilst officiating in England, the Canadian set up FHumpires as an online platform to interact with other match officials. Over the years it's developed in to a resource to help inform, educate and coach field hockey umpires around the world. In this interview we chat about teaching philosophies, communicating with a variety of people and how to tailor educational methods to the needs of the individual. You can check out the Half Court Press online. Check out the following prompts listed below. Website; www.halfcourtpressmagazine.com Social Media Facebook; @HalfCourtPress1 Instagram; @half_court_press1 X (Twitter); @HalfCourtPress1 The Half Court Press Podcast is available on… iTunes Spotify Google Podcasts Apple Podcasts Breaker Overcast Pocket Casts RadioPublic

Coaches Corner is the latest series from the Half Court Press Podcast. Here, Tao MacLeod chats to a variety of coaches from different sports about what it is they do. We talk about coaching philosophies and techniques, youth development and team preparation, as well as how the individual fits into these concepts. If you're curious about coaching then this is the podcast for you… Episode four is with korfball coach Dan Pratt. Currently he is coaching the first team at Edinburgh City Korfball Club, but has previously been involved with his hometown side Croydon KC, as well as the University of Edinburgh sides. As a player Dan has captained the Scotland national team. In this interview we chat about how to prepare a team, change a system and develop a positive culture. You can check out the Half Court Press online. Check out the following prompts listed below. Website; www.halfcourtpressmagazine.com Social Media Facebook; @HalfCourtPress1 Instagram; @half_court_press1 X (Twitter); @HalfCourtPress1 The Half Court Press Podcast is available on… iTunes Spotify Google Podcasts Apple Podcasts Breaker Overcast Pocket Casts RadioPublic

Coaches Corner is the latest series from the Half Court Press Podcast. Here, Tao MacLeod chats to a variety of coaches from different sports about what it is they do. We talk about coaching philosophies and techniques, youth development and team preparation, as well as how the individual fits into these concepts. If you're curious about coaching then this is the podcast for you… Episode three is with Matt Christie, who is a coach at Inverleith Hockey Club. Hailing from Leith, he comes from a hockey family and has played in and around the Edinburgh area for several years. Having started his coaching career with the Waverley Inveresk Trinity HC youth teams, Matt is now down the road with Inverleith. Here he is the Ladies 2nd XI and Men's 3rd XI coach. Last season saw some silverware come his way, Christie coached the Ladies 3rd XI to the league title and received the club's Coach of the Year Award for 2023. In this episode we chat about coaching and communication styles, the development of a positive culture, as well helping the individual alongside the wider group.  You can check out the Half Court Press online. Check out the following prompts listed below. Website; www.halfcourtpressmagazine.com Social Media Facebook; @HalfCourtPress1 Instagram; @half_court_press1 X (Twitter); @HalfCourtPress1 The Half Court Press Podcast is available on… iTunes Spotify Google Podcasts Apple Podcasts Breaker Overcast Pocket Casts RadioPublic

Coaches Corner is the latest series from the Half Court Press Podcast. Here, Tao MacLeod chats to a variety of coaches from different sports about what it is they do. We talk about coaching philosophies and techniques, youth development and team preparation, as well as how the individual fits into these concepts. If you're curious about coaching then this is the podcast for you… Episode two is with football coach Jordan Forrester. Originally from South Queensferry, he is a product of the Edinburgh College Sports Programmes. Now Jordan is the assistant coach at Livingston Women's Football Club. Last season his side won the Championship division, which is the third tier of Scottish football, allowing for promotion to the Scottish Premier League Two. In this interview we chat about principles of coaching, team development and how to build a positive culture.  You can check out the Half Court Press online. Check out the following prompts listed below. Website; www.halfcourtpressmagazine.com Social Media Facebook; @HalfCourtPress1 Instagram; @half_court_press1 X (Twitter); @HalfCourtPress1 The Half Court Press Podcast is available on… iTunes Spotify Google Podcasts Apple Podcasts Breaker Overcast Pocket Casts RadioPublic

Coaches Corner is the latest series from the Half Court Press Podcast. Here, Tao MacLeod chats to a variety of coaches from different sports about what it is they do. We talk about coaching philosophies and techniques, youth development and team preparation, as well as how the individual fits into these concepts. If you're curious about coaching then this is the podcast for you… Episode one is with Aiden Wren. He is the founder and director of AW Performance Hockey, which runs coaching clinics and sports sessions for youth players. Aiden is also a hockey coach at Watsonians and ESM Hockey Clubs. In this interview we discuss the development of youth players, some of the pressures faces by young athletes and how some of his coaching methods and processes. You can check out the Half Court Press online. Check out the following prompts listed below. Website; www.halfcourtpressmagazine.com Social Media Facebook; @HalfCourtPress1 Instagram; @half_court_press1 X (Twitter); @HalfCourtPress1 The Half Court Press Podcast is available on… iTunes Spotify Google Podcasts Apple Podcasts Breaker Overcast Pocket Casts RadioPublic

The Half Court Press Podcast is back! Goalmouth Gossip is our latest series, where we focus on the first player on any hockey team sheet. Tao MacLeod talks to a variety of goalkeepers from around the world about training, development and personal backgrounds. In episode four we hear from three goalkeepers who have all played in the German Bundesliga at some point in their careers; Jean Danneberg, Amy Tennant and Tommy Alexander. Jean Danneberg is a goalkeeper for the German national team and Rot-Weiss Köln. He was a part of the World Cup winning side, where he made a name for himself as a penalty saving hero for his country. Amy Tennant is one of the goalies for the England and GB hockey teams. Currently, she plays her club hockey for Reading, but previously turned out for Großflottbeker THGC, in Hamburg, as well as East Grinstead and Bowdon HIghtown. Tommy Alexander is Scotland's number one keeper. He is playing in the Bundesliga, in both the indoor and outdoor codes, for der Club an der Alster, having previously kept goal for UHC Hamburg, Indian Gymkhana and Reading HC. In this episode we chat about goalie kit, playing styes and what they think makes a good goalkeeper. The Half Court Press Podcast is available on… iTunes Spotify Google Podcasts Apple Podcasts Breaker Overcast Anchor Pocket Casts RadioPublic

The Half Court Press Podcast is back! Goalmouth Gossip is our latest series, where we focus on the first player on any hockey team sheet. Tao MacLeod talks to a variety of goalkeepers from around the world about training, development and personal backgrounds. In episode three we hear from the South African ladies goalkeepers Phumelala Hlophe (née Mbande) and Marlise van Tonder. Hailing from Mthatha, in the Eastern Cape, Phumelala has been the first choice goalie for her country for several years playing in the 2018 and 2022 World Cups, as well as the Tokyo 2020/1 Olympic Games, captaining the team in the latter two tournaments. Van Tonder, coming from capital city Pretoria, has travelled with her friend and team mate around the world as one of the other keepers in the programme, being a member of the squad in the 2018 World Cup. Marlise has also played in American collegiate system, whilst studying in the USA. In this conversation we chat about what makes a good goalie, their preference for protective kit and why the goalkeeper is the most important player on the pitch. The Half Court Press Podcast is available on… iTunes Spotify Google Podcasts Apple Podcasts Breaker Overcast Anchor Pocket Casts RadioPublic

The Half Court Press Podcast is back! Goalmouth Gossip is our latest series, where we focus on the first player on any hockey team sheet. Tao MacLeod talks to a variety of goalkeepers from around the world about training, development and personal backgrounds. In episode two we hear from James Mazarelo of England and Great Britain, as well as Jess Buchanan of Scotland and the Great Britain Elite Development Programme (EDP). James Mazarelo hails from the Northern English city of Manchester, where he started his hockey career with local club Bowdon, before moving on to Loughborough Students. Now he plays his domestic hockey for Surbiton, whilst being a part of the British setup. Originally from Glasgow, Jess Buchanan has recently moved back to the UK to be a part of the GB EDP, having spent the last few seasons playing in goal for Catalonian side Atlètic Terrassa Hockey Club. Next season she will be playing for Exeter University, whilst looking to progress in her international career, with Scotland and GB. In this interview we chat about playing styles, the differences and similarities between indoor and outdoor hockey for goalies, as well as how the aerial rule affects goalkeepers.  

The Half Court Press Podcast is back! Goalmouth Gossip is our latest series, where we focus on the first player on any hockey team sheet. Tao MacLeod talks to a variety of goalkeepers from around the world about training, development and personal backgrounds. In episode one we hear from Aleisha Power, of the Australian Hockeyroos, and Brooke Roberts, of the New Zealand Black Sticks. Their friendship goes back several years, having first met at the Junior World Cup, whilst representing their respective national youth teams. Since then, both have represented their countries at the Commonwealth Games and the Hockey World Cup. In this interview we chat about overcoming challenges, goalkeeper playing styles and who the other goalkeepers that they appreciate and enjoy… The Half Court Press Podcast is available on… iTunes Spotify Google Podcasts Apple Podcasts Breaker Overcast Pocket Casts RadioPublic

Ross Stott is a former international hockey player, who earned over 120 caps for the Scottish National Team and played in both the Delhi 2010 and Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games. Originally from Tayside, he came through the youth ranks at Dundee Wanderers, before playing for local rivals Grove Menszieshill Hockey Club, as well as Kelburne H.C. After moving to England he played for Bowdon H.C. and is now in his second stint at East Grinstead H.C. Mental Health in Hockey is a three part series from the Half Court Press Podcast. Ross Stott talks to Tao MacLeod about different mental health aspects within the game. In Episode One, Ross talks about his own experiences. In Episode Two we talk about how sport can positively affect mental health. In Episode Three Ross and Tao discuss how different organisations can help those with mental health issues. Warning; these episodes deal with depression and other mental health issues, which might be triggering for some listeners. There is also a smattering of swearing and strong natured language. Recommended reading: Everything Is F*cked; A Book About Hope (Mark Manson) The Subtle Art Of Not Giving A F*ck; A Counterintuitive Approach To Living A Good Life (Mark Manson)

Ross Stott is a former international hockey player, who earned over 120 caps for the Scottish National Team and played in both the Delhi 2010 and Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games. Originally from Tayside, he came through the youth ranks at Dundee Wanderers, before playing for local rivals Grove Menszieshill Hockey Club, as well as Kelburne H.C. After moving to England he played for Bowdon H.C. and is now in his second stint at East Grinstead H.C. Mental Health in Hockey is a three part series from the Half Court Press Podcast. Ross Stott talks to Tao MacLeod about different mental health aspects within the game. In Episode One, Ross talks about his own experiences. In Episode Two we talk about how sport can positively affect mental health. In Episode Three Ross and Tao discuss how different organisations can help those with mental health issues. Warning; these episodes deal with depression and other mental health issues, which might be triggering for some listeners. There is also a smattering of swearing and strong natured language. Recommended reading: Everything Is F*cked; A Book About Hope (Mark Manson) The Subtle Art Of Not Giving A F*ck; A Counterintuitive Approach To Living A Good Life (Mark Manson)

Ross Stott is a former international hockey player, who earned over 120 caps for the Scottish National Team and played in both the Delhi 2010 and Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games. Originally from Tayside, he came through the youth ranks at Dundee Wanderers, before playing for local rivals Grove Menszieshill Hockey Club, as well as Kelburne H.C. After moving to England he played for Bowdon H.C. and is now in his second stint at East Grinstead H.C. Mental Health in Hockey is a three part series from the Half Court Press Podcast. Ross Stott talks to Tao MacLeod about different mental health aspects within the game. In Episode One, Ross talks about his own experiences. In Episode Two we talk about how sport can positively affect mental health. In Episode Three Ross and Tao discuss how different organisations can help those with mental health issues. Warning; these episodes deal with depression and other mental health issues, which might be triggering for some listeners. There is also a smattering of swearing and strong natured language. Recommended reading: Everything Is F*cked; A Book About Hope (Mark Manson) The Subtle Art Of Not Giving A F*ck; A Counterintuitive Approach To Living A Good Life (Mark Manson)

The latest season of the Half Court Press Podcast takes a look at several players who have been entertaining us at this summers tournaments and elsewhere. In Hockey Player Profiles, Tao MacLeod talks to a variety of international players, within the sport of hockey, about their lives, careers and backgrounds. In episode seven we speak to goalkeeper Phumelela Mbande (now Hlophe), who since the recording of this episode has married her long term partner. She has had a very successful career. As the goalkeeper for the South African hockey team she has won the African Cup of Nations, played in two Commonwealth Games, two World Cups and the Tokyo Olympic Games, most recently as captain. In this interview we talk to Phumelela about what she does outside of hockey, her thoughts on how her team has performed in the recent international tournaments and some suggestions on how to develop the sport. The Half Court Press Podcast is available on… iTunes Spotify Google Podcasts Apple Podcasts Breaker Overcast Anchor Pocket Casts RadioPublic

The latest season of the Half Court Press Podcast takes a look at several players who have been entertaining us at this summers tournaments and elsewhere. In Hockey Player Profiles, Tao MacLeod talks to a variety of international players, within the sport of hockey, about their lives, careers and backgrounds. In episode six we speak to Fiona Burnet of Wimbledon Hockey Club and the Scottish National Team. Originally from the West Coast of Scotland, she worked her way up through the ranks and now plays her senior matches as a forward. Having recently competed for Scotland in the Commonwealth Games, in Birmingham, she is also a part of the GB Hockey Olympic training squad. Fiona also works within the realms of the UK Parliament within International Relations, managing bi-lateral relations between the United Kingdom and the Asia-Pacific region. In this job she also engages in female political empowerment and climate related activities. In this interview, we talk about the Commonwealth Games, how to develop hockey and environmental sustainability within the game hockey. The Half Court Press Podcast is available on… iTunes Spotify Google Podcasts Apple Podcasts Breaker Overcast Anchor Pocket Casts RadioPublic

The latest season of the Half Court Press Podcast takes a look at several players who have been entertaining us at this summers tournaments and elsewhere. In Hockey Player Profiles, Tao MacLeod talks to a variety of international players, within the sport of hockey, about their lives, careers and backgrounds. In episode five we hear from Hockey Australia goalkeeper Aleisha Power. The twenty-five year old has recently represented her country at the Hockey World Cup (winning the bronze medal) and the Commonwealth Games, where she was a part of the side that won silver. In addition to playing for the Hockeyroos, Aleisha represents the Perth Thundersticks in the state representative franchise league, Hockey One. In this interview we talk about the positives of women's hockey, her international experiences over the summer and the hockey culture in Australia. The Half Court Press Podcast is available on… iTunes Spotify Google Podcasts Apple Podcasts Breaker Overcast Anchor Pocket Casts RadioPublic

The latest season of the Half Court Press Podcast takes a look at several players who have been entertaining us at this summers tournaments and elsewhere. In Hockey Player Profiles, Tao MacLeod talks to a variety of international players, within the sport of hockey, about their lives, careers and backgrounds. In episode four we hear from England and Great Britain player, Darcy Bourne. The 20 year old forward is a recent addition to the centralised programme, having made her international debut against Argentina in February of 2022. Having spent most of her domestic career playing for Surbiton, Bourne has also spent some time in the United States where she was a part of the hockey team at Duke University. In this interview she speaks about her experiences playing at the 2022 World Cup, her inclusivity activism with the Beyond Our Game organisation (which she co-founded) and Spencer Lynx Hockey Club (for whom she is an ambassador). The Half Court Press Podcast is available on… iTunes Spotify Google Podcasts Apple Podcasts Breaker Overcast Anchor Pocket Casts RadioPublic

The latest season of the Half Court Press Podcast takes a look at several players who have been entertaining us at this summers tournaments and elsewhere. In Hockey Player Profiles, Tao MacLeod talks to a variety of international players, within the sport of hockey, about their lives, careers and backgrounds. In episode three we hear from New Zealand Black Sticks goalkeeper Brooke Roberts. The Kiwi international has recently competed in the 2022 Hockey World Cup, as well as the hockey tournament of the Commonwealth Games, in Birmingham. In this interview she talks about her participation in these competitions, her journey as an elite level athlete and what she does outside of hockey as a business owner. The Half Court Press Podcast is available on… iTunes Spotify Google Podcasts Apple Podcasts Breaker Overcast Anchor Pocket Casts RadioPublic

The latest season of the Half Court Press Podcast takes a look at several players who have been entertaining us at this summers tournaments and elsewhere. In Hockey Player Profiles, Tao MacLeod talks to a variety of international players, within the sport of hockey, about their lives, careers and backgrounds. In episode two we hear from Chilean player Francisca Tala, who plays as a forward for the Las Diablas. This summer we saw her and team entertain us at the recent World Cup, where she famously scored against the Dutch. In this interview she talks to us about the story behind that goal, her career as a doctor, outside of hockey, and what we should know about the sport in her country. The Half Court Press Podcast is available on… iTunes Spotify Google Podcasts Apple Podcasts Breaker Overcast Anchor Pocket Casts RadioPublic

The latest season of the Half Court Press Podcast takes a look at several players who have been entertaining us at this summers tournaments and elsewhere. In Hockey Player Profiles, Tao MacLeod talks to a variety of international players, within the sport of hockey, about their lives, careers and backgrounds. In episode one we hear from the Canadian goalkeeper, Rowan Harris. The 26 year old is from the city of Vancouver, in the region of British Colombia, and is from a strong hockey family in Canada. It has been a busy few months for Harris. Recently, she has represented her National Team at both the World Cup and the hockey tournament of the Commonwealth Games. The Half Court Press Podcast is available on… iTunes Spotify Google Podcasts Apple Podcasts Breaker Overcast Anchor Pocket Casts RadioPublic

The EuroHockey Qualifier D, Men's event is happening at Uddingston Hockey Club (Scotland), between Wednesday 24th August and Saturday 27th August 2022. Wales, Switzerland, Scotland and Gibraltar play a round robin format tournament in order to qualify for the EuroHockey Championships. Jorgen Haveland is one of the more experienced players in a very young Gibraltarian squad at the tournament. Here, in this interview, he gives us his thoughts on the match against Wales. He also gives us a little insight into what's happening with Gibraltarian hockey... Toby Reynolds-Cotterill is the goalkeeper for the Welsh National Hockey Team. Here are his post match thoughts after the third and final match of the qualifying event, against Gibraltar. The seven nil win secured Welsh qualification to the A Grade EuroHockey Championships in 2023. Toby Reynolds-Cotterill also discusses what's upcoming for Hockey Wales. Wales 7 - 0 Gibraltar 27.08.2022 The Half Court Press Podcast is available on… iTunes Spotify Google Podcasts Apple Podcasts Breaker Overcast Anchor Pocket Casts RadioPublic

The EuroHockey Qualifier D, Men's event is happening at Uddingston Hockey Club (Scotland), between Wednesday 24th August and Saturday 27th August 2022. Wales, Switzerland, Scotland and Gibraltar play a round robin format tournament in order to qualify for the EuroHockey Championships. Toby Reynolds Cotterill is the goalkeeper for the Welsh National Hockey Team. In their second match of this tournament Wales beat their British rivals, Scotland to put themselves into a strong position to qualify for the A Grade EuroHockey Championships... Rupert Shipperley is a player for the Welsh National Hockey Team and Great Britain. In this interview he gives his post match thoughts on the one nil win against Scotland, as Wales looks to qualify for the A Grade EuroHockey Championships. Scotland 0 - 1 Wales 25.08.2022 The Half Court Press Podcast is available on… iTunes Spotify Google Podcasts Apple Podcasts Breaker Overcast Anchor Pocket Casts RadioPublic

The EuroHockey Qualifier D, Men's event is happening at Uddingston Hockey Club (Scotland), between Wednesday 24th August and Saturday 27th August 2022. Wales, Switzerland, Scotland and Gibraltar play a round robin format tournament in order to qualify for the EuroHockey Championships. Patrick Krüsi (who speaks with an Australian accent) and Elias Brönniamann both play hockey for the Swiss National Team. Both players got themselves on the score sheet today, with Elias Brönniamann bagging four of them in a nine goal game against Gibraltar. Eric Abudarham is one of the more experienced players in a very young Gibraltarian squad at the tournament. Here, in this interview, he gives us his thoughts on the match against Switzerland. Switzerland 7 - 2 Gibraltar 25.08.2022 The Half Court Press Podcast is available on… iTunes Spotify Google Podcasts Apple Podcasts Breaker Overcast Anchor Pocket Casts RadioPublic

The EuroHockey Qualifier D, Men's event is happening at Uddingston Hockey Club (Scotland), between Wednesday 24th August and Saturday 27th August 2022. Wales, Switzerland, Scotland and Gibraltar play a round robin format tournament in order to qualify for the EuroHockey Championships. Alan Forsyth is the captain of the Scottish Hockey Men's National Team. As a forward, he is also one of the main goal scoring threats. Tommy Alexander is the goalkeeper for the Scottish Men's national team. In this interview he gives his immediate feedback on his side's nine nil win against Gibraltar. Struan Walker is a player for the Scottish National Team. He scored a hat trick against Gibraltar in the host nation's opening game in the EuroHockey Qualifying tournament. Scotland 9 - 0 Gibraltar 24.08.2022 The Half Court Press Podcast is available on… iTunes Spotify Google Podcasts Apple Podcasts Breaker Overcast Anchor Pocket Casts RadioPublic

The EuroHockey Qualifier D, Men's event is happening at Uddingston Hockey Club (Scotland), between Wednesday 24th August and Saturday 27th August 2022. Wales, Switzerland, Scotland and Gibraltar play a round robin format tournament in order to qualify for the EuroHockey Championships. Daniel Newcombe is the Head coach of the Hockey Wales Men's National Team. In this interview he gives his opinion on the opening match of the qualification tournament. Gareth Furlong is a set piece specialist for Hockey Wales. He is a defender for the Welsh National Team, who can also add a goal to the score line from a short corner. Wales 9 - 0 Switzerland 24.08.2022 The Half Court Press Podcast is available on… iTunes Spotify Google Podcasts Apple Podcasts Breaker Overcast Anchor Pocket Casts RadioPublic

Three Games of Hockey is the sixteenth season of the Half Court Press Podcast. In this series, Tao MacLeod, talks to a variety of hockey players, coaches, journalists and personalities about three matches that have been particularly important to them in their lives and careers. In episode six we hear from Ross Stott of East Grinstead and formerly the Scottish Hockey National Men's Team. Ross gained in excess of 120 caps for his country, has been to two Commonwealth Games (Delhi 2010 and Glasgow 2014), several European Championships and has even won a bronze medal at the Youth Olympics with a Great Britain Under 21 side. After starting out with Dundee Wanderers, in his native Tayside, he had successful stints for several other teams north of Hadrian's Wall, before moving to play for East Grinstead. Here he has won eight English Indoor titles, as well as a bag full of outdoor trophies. In this episode, Ross Stott describes his favourite game of hockey as a club player, as an international player and as a hockey fan. The Half Court Press Podcast is available on… iTunes Spotify Google Podcasts Apple Podcasts Breaker Overcast Anchor Pocket Casts RadioPublic

Three Games of Hockey is the sixteenth season of the Half Court Press Podcast. In this series, Tao MacLeod, talks to a variety of hockey players, coaches, journalists and personalities about three matches that have been particularly important to them in their lives and careers. In episode five we hear from Kareena ‘Kaz' Cuthbert (née Marshall) is the Vice-President of Scottish Hockey, which is the national governing body for the sport in Northern Britain. As an international standard player, she went to two Commonwealth Games (Delhi 2010 and Gold Coast 2018) and several continental tournaments, captaining her side to victory in the 2019 EuroHockey Championships II Division. Currently, she is the player/coach at Western Wildcats in the Scottish Premiership, and has recently lead her club to their first ever national title. In this episode, Kareena describes her favourite game of hockey as a player, as a coach and as a hockey fan. The Half Court Press Podcast is available on… iTunes Spotify Google Podcasts Apple Podcasts Breaker Overcast Anchor Pocket Casts RadioPublic

Three Games of Hockey is the sixteenth season of the Half Court Press Podcast. In this series, Tao MacLeod, talks to a variety of hockey players, coaches, journalists and personalities about three matches that have been particularly important to them in their lives and careers. In episode four we hear from hockey journalist, John Lee, who plays his club hockey for Fremantle Cockburn H.C. John is famous for being one of the co-hosts of The Reverse Stick; Global Hockey Podcast. In addition to this, he has been been involved with the Push Pass Pundits Podcast, which celebrates all things to do with Indian hockey, Not the Footy Show, with Ashley Morrison, as well as being one of the contributors for the Hockey World News Magazine. In this episode, John Lee gives his favourite game of hockey as a school team player, a club player and a veterans player The Half Court Press Podcast is available on… iTunes Spotify Google Podcasts Apple Podcasts Breaker Overcast Anchor Pocket Casts RadioPublic

Three Games of Hockey is the sixteenth season of the Half Court Press Podcast. In this series, Tao MacLeod, talks to a variety of hockey players, coaches, journalists and personalities about three matches that have been particularly important to them in their lives and careers. In episode three we hear from 20 year old University College of Dublin player and Ireland international, Sarah McAuley. After starting out at Avoca Hockey Club, before playing for Muckross H.C., she then moved to UCD for her university studies, in Social Policy and Sociology. As a part of the Ireland senior team, she has played in several tournaments recently, including a World Cup Qualifier, the EuroHockey Championships and the Tokyo Olympic Games. Here she describes her favourite game of hockey as a school team player, as a club player and as an international player. The Half Court Press Podcast is available on… iTunes Spotify Google Podcasts Apple Podcasts Breaker Overcast Anchor Pocket Casts RadioPublic

Three Games of Hockey is the sixteenth season of the Half Court Press Podcast. In this series, Tao MacLeod, talks to a variety of hockey players, coaches, journalists and personalities about three matches that have been particularly important to them in their lives and careers. In episode two, we hear from Greg Mackenzie of Inverleith Hockey Club and the Scottish National Indoor Team. Hailing from Penicuik, just outside of Edinburgh, he started out at his local club Eskvale, before moving onto Inverleith in the north of the Scottish capital city. Here, he plays for both the indoor and the outdoor sides, as well as acting as the assistant coach to the ladies indoor team. Recently, Greg was called called up to the Scottish national indoor side, for the first time, at the three match test series in Ireland. Here he describes his favourite game of hockey as a club player, as a coach and as a hockey fan. The Half Court Press Podcast is available on… iTunes Spotify Google Podcasts Apple Podcasts Breaker Overcast Anchor Pocket Casts RadioPublic

Three Games of Hockey is the sixteenth season of the Half Court Press Podcast. In this series, Tao MacLeod, talks to a variety of hockey players, coaches, journalists and personalities about three matches that have been particularly important to them in their lives and careers. In episode one, we hear from Sarah Jamieson, of Watsonians Hockey Club and the Scottish National Team. She has also previously played for Grove Menzieshill H.C., Dundee University and spent a year in Germany with Münchner Sports Club. Sarah started out with Inverleith H.C., by whom she was named their Player of the Decade. As a Scotland player, Jamieson has gone to the Commonwealth Games and several EuroHockey Championships. Here she describes her favourite game of hockey, as a club player, an international player and a fan. The Half Court Press Podcast is available on… iTunes Spotify Google Podcasts Apple Podcasts Breaker Overcast Anchor Pocket Casts RadioPublic

Fife Sports Series is a special shorter season of episodes for the Half Court Press Podcast. Here, Tao MacLeod talks to sports clubs in the Scottish county of Fife, about what they have been up to in the region. In this interview Tao MacLeod speaks to Dave Heddle of East Fife Community Football Club. East Fife Community Football Club believes in providing a positive learning environment where players are challenged and are allowed to develop technically, tactically, physically and psychologically. Their goal is to not only educate players, but to also let the players have fun through a learning experience. Dave Heddle talks about the background of the club, what's happening right now and what are the plans for the future… The Half Court Press Podcast is available on… iTunes Spotify Google Podcasts Apple Podcasts Breaker Overcast Anchor Pocket Casts RadioPublic

Fife Sports Series is a special shorter season of episodes for the Half Court Press Podcast. Here, Tao MacLeod talks to sports clubs in the Scottish county of Fife, about what they have been up to in the region. In this interview Tao MacLeod speaks to Neil Braid, who is the President of the Gallatown Bowling Club. The Gallatown Bowling Club is based on Bandon Avenue, in the coastal town of Kirkcaldy. It has an quite a long history, having been fully established in 1885. Neil Braid is one of the longest serving Presidents, having been in the role for six years now. He talks to us about the organisation's background, heritage and ambitions for the future. The Half Court Press Podcast is available on… iTunes Spotify Google Podcasts Apple Podcasts Breaker Overcast Anchor Pocket Casts RadioPublic

Korfball Player Profiles is the fourteenth season of the Half Court Press Podcast. In this series Tao MacLeod talks to players about their lives outside of the sport, as well as their careers, experiences and perspectives within korfball. In episode four we chat to Vivek Santayana. Originally hailing from India, Vivek Santayana now calls Scotland his home, after moving here to study at Edinburgh University. A decade later and he has become a part of the korfball community within Edinburgh, having started out with the University and is now playing for Edinburgh City. Vivek has captained one of the reserve teams at City and is also a qualified referee. In this episode we chat about gender participation, neurological diversity in sport and how to develop the game of korfball. The Half Court Press Podcast is available on… iTunes Spotify Google Podcasts Apple Podcasts Breaker Overcast Anchor Pocket Casts RadioPublic

Korfball Player Profiles is the fourteenth season of the Half Court Press Podcast. In this series Tao MacLeod talks to players about their lives outside of the sport, as well as their careers, experiences and perspectives within korfball. In episode three we chat to Christie Smillie. A former basketball and netball player, Christie Smillie converted to the sport of korfball, whilst at University. Now at the age of 23, she has coached several sides, across a variety of different levels, introducing new players into the community. She has also played for Scotland at international level, at the recent European Championships. In this episode we chat about her enjoyment of the game, as well as how to improve korfball. The Half Court Press Podcast is available on… iTunes Spotify Google Podcasts Apple Podcasts Breaker Overcast Anchor Pocket Casts RadioPublic

Korfball Player Profiles is the fourteenth season of the Half Court Press Podcast. In this series Tao MacLeod talks to players about their lives outside of the sport, as well as their careers, experiences and perspectives within korfball. In episode two we chat to Sam Stevenson. Originally from Glasgow, Sam Stevenson is a player for Edinburgh City Korfball Club, who has had a brief stint on the Scottish national team. He is an accomplished club player who has done well within the domestic leagues in his native Alba. However, he has had a broader impact on the sport in his other roles within the game. He has been around the world as an administrator for the International Korfball Federation, helping with the running of elite level competitions. He may also have a familiar voice to many korfball fans around the world, as he has been a commentator for many of the live streamed matches over the past few years. The Half Court Press Podcast is available on… iTunes Spotify Google Podcasts Apple Podcasts Breaker Overcast Anchor Pocket Casts RadioPublic

Korfball Player Profiles is the fourteenth season of the Half Court Press Podcast. In this series Tao MacLeod talks to players about their lives outside of the sport, as well as their careers, experiences and perspectives within korfball. In episode one we chat to Nina Murdoch. Nina Murdoch has been playing the sport for over eight years, taking on roles in coaching and captaincy, as well as that of a player. Currently she plays for Edinburgh City K.C. but has played for a variety of teams, including St. Andrew's University, Glasgow K.C. and a team out in Basel when she lived in Switzerland. In this episode we chat about opportunities for women in sport, the highlights of her career and the best bits of korfball. The Half Court Press Podcast is available on… iTunes Spotify Google Podcasts Apple Podcasts Breaker Overcast Anchor Pocket Casts RadioPublic

Hockey Player Profiles is the thirteenth season of the Half Court Press Podcast. In this series Tao MacLeod chats to players from the sport of hockey about their careers, lives and experiences. In episode six we hear from England and Great Britain star Ellie Rayer. Hailing from the Berkshire market town of Maidenhead, Ellie Rayer plays her club hockey for East Grinstead, turning out as a forward and occasionally rotating as a midfielder. She has medaled at the 2017 Euro Hockey Championships, in Holland, the 2018 Commonwealth Games on the Australian Gold Coast and, most recently was a part of the Great Britain side that won Bronze at the Tokyo Olympics. In this interview we discuss her multi-sports background, her thoughts on the differences between club and international hockey and some of her experiences in Japan… The Half Court Press Podcast is available on… iTunes Spotify Google Podcasts Apple Podcasts Breaker Overcast Anchor Pocket Casts RadioPublic

Hockey Player Profiles is the thirteenth season of the Half Court Press Podcast. In this series Tao MacLeod chats to players from the sport of hockey about their careers, lives and experiences. In episode five is with the captain of the Cypriot Men's Hockey Team, Tunç Ilgin. Originally from South London he now plays for Blackheath & Elthamians Hockey Club, having previously turned out for Bromley and Beckenham HC, as well as his university side, whilst in Cardiff. Due to his Cypriot heritage Tunç qualifies to play for the national team of his paternal nation. Whilst studying at university, he was approached to play for the country of his father's birth and in 2017 he became the captain of the Cyprus Men's Hockey Team. In this interview we discuss sports development, the differences between international and domestic hockey and how best to help the lower grade national teams to improve… The Half Court Press Podcast is available on… iTunes Spotify Google Podcasts Apple Podcasts Breaker Overcast Anchor Pocket Casts RadioPublic

Hockey Player Profiles is the thirteenth season of the Half Court Press Podcast. In this series Tao MacLeod chats to players from the sport of hockey about their careers, lives and experiences. In episode four, we hear from Czech International Katerina Laciná… The 27 year old hockey player has played outside of her home nation since 2014, having been in the Netherlands, Germany, England (for East Grinstead) and in Australia. Now she lives in Antwerp and plays for Braxgata Hockey Club, in the Belgian top division. Katerina Laciná has won bronze medals at the 2015 Indoor World Cup and the 2020 Indoor European Championships. In 2015 the city of Prague hosted the EuroHockey Championships II Division. Here, she was a part of the squad that won the silver medal. In this episode we talk about the differences between club and international hockey around Europe, coming back from surgery, as well as how to promote development of the sport. The Half Court Press Podcast is available on… iTunes Spotify Google Podcasts Apple Podcasts Breaker Overcast Anchor Pocket Casts RadioPublic

Hockey Player Profiles is the thirteenth season of the Half Court Press Podcast. In this series Tao MacLeod chats to players from the sport of hockey about their careers, lives and experiences. In episode three, we hear from 33 year old, Scottish born, English based Ross Stott. Ross Stott is a former Scottish international, who has gone to two Commonwealth Games, Delhi 2010 and Glasgow 2014 and has played over 100 times for his country. Hailing from Tayside, he started out with his local club Dundee Wanderers, before moving to play for Kelburne Hockey Club and Grove Menzieshill H.C. over in Glasgow. After this he moved to England, where he played for Bowdon. Now he is in his second stint at East Grinstead H.C. In this interview Ross his opinion on the hockey played across Britain, Hockey 5's and the FIH Pro League. The Half Court Press Podcast is available on… iTunes Spotify Google Podcasts Apple Podcasts Breaker Overcast Anchor Pocket Casts RadioPublic

Hockey Player Profiles is the thirteenth season of the Half Court Press Podcast. In this series Tao MacLeod chats to players from the sport of hockey about their careers, lives and experiences. In episode two we hear from twenty one year old Emily Dark. Emily Dark is an up and coming star of Scottish and British Hockey. She's currently playing for, Edinburgh based, Watsonian Hockey Club, in the Scottish Premier League and is a member of the Scottish senior side, as well as the Great British Elite Development Program. In 2019, Emily was a part of the Scottish side that won the EuroHockey Championships II Division, where she was also named the Young Player of the Tournament. Outside of hockey Emily is studying Physics at the University of St. Andrew's, as well as serving as a reservist in the Royal Air Force. At the RAF she is the first ever woman, in her squadron, to have passed out as a Gunner. The Half Court Press Podcast is available on… iTunes Spotify Google Podcasts Apple Podcasts Breaker Overcast Anchor Pocket Casts RadioPublic

Hockey Player Profiles is the thirteenth season of the Half Court Press Podcast. In this series Tao MacLeod chats to players from the sport of hockey about their careers, lives and experiences. In episode one, we hear from Scotland international goalkeeper, Jess Buchanan. Nineteen year old Jess Buchanan is the Under 21 team goalie for her country, but she has also been capped for the senior side. She has won gold medals at youth European level, as well as having played continental hockey for her former club Clydesdale Western. Now, she plays in Spain, for the Catalan based team Atlètic Terrassa Hockey Club. The Half Court Press Podcast is available on… iTunes Spotify Google Podcasts Apple Podcasts Breaker Overcast Anchor Pocket Casts RadioPublic