New SA men's hockey coach announced

Charlie Pereira has been appointed head coach of the national men's hockey team, the SA Hockey Association (Saha) confirmed today.

Pereira succeeds Gregg Clark, whose contract ended at the end of last season.

Saha CEO Marissa Langeni said Pereira's appointment was in line with the federation's strategy as they target the 2016 Rio Olympic Games.

"We appoint coaches on an Olympic cycle and Gregg was appointed prior to the Beijing Games in 2008, so his contract came to an end," Langeni said.

"We did open it up for Gregg to apply for the post again, but this is the start of a new era."

Alongside Pereira, Saha appointed four trainers, three team managers, three video analysts and a conditioning coach for the team, but Langeni said they would rotate the responsibilities.

While the SA men had secured a sponsor, Mugg & Bean, for the first time in years, Langeni said those funds had not been used to boost their management structures.

"These people are all employed full-time in other jobs, and we'll appoint team management for each tournament based on who is available," she said.

"We would also like to give local coaches some exposure, so we've broadened our base."

South Africa will compete at the World League semi-finals in Malaysia from June 29 to July 7.

They will then take part in the Africa Cup in Kenya, from September 27 to October 5.

"It's an honour to be appointed head coach of the national men's team and I look forward to working with the rest of the management team as there is a lot of work for us to do to get ready for Malaysia,” Pereira said.

- Sapa