Leisa King Interview

Just over 2 years ago Leisa King must have wondered where her England hockey career was going. Seemingly cast out into the International wilderness after being overlooked for the ill-fated GB Squad that travelled to the Sydney Olympics, she was thought of; unfairly, in some circles as a difficult and temperamental player. As time went by it looked as if she was going to be another naturally gifted player that never quite made the impact expected at the top level. Putting the disappointment of missing out on an Olympic place behind her, Leisa concentrated on Club hockey with Ipswich and was highly influential in the Club’s success. Little did she know then that a supposedly, under qualified Australian “video-operator” was going to give her another chance at the England success she craved.

Trisha Heberle was appointed coach to the England’s Women’s team in March 2001, at the time many doubted the wisdom of not only appointing an Australian to the job but one that, to the unenlightened, did not look to be more than the Video Operator, during her 4 years as part of the Australians Medal winning Management Team. How wrong could they have been? Herble has not only changed the culture surrounding Management at England level but has brought around the best results in the England Women’s team for more than a Decade, culminating in Commonwealth Games Silver and being named 2002 England Coach of the year.

Heberle impressed by King’s skill and potential during her scouting at Club games, made sure that she was part of her first training squad and that they say is that. Allowed to express her flowing hockey style and individual personality, Leisa suddenly found another gear and began producing the type of hockey at International level that had been missing in the past. Her dedication however did not waiver to her Club and Leisa missed her Bothers wedding in America to play in the 2002 Cup final for the Suffolk side. A fitting dedication to him was her scoring of a hat trick, the third; a penalty stroke in the golden goal period saw her clinch the Cup for the Suffolk Team. To cap it all Leisa was becoming a regular in the England side and was selected for the squad that would take part in the Commonwealth Games in Manchester.

The Games held in the summer of 2002 were a perfect platform for Leisa to show that, in unbelievably her first Major International Competition, she had at last matured into one of the Country’s best players. Driven on by a fierce competitive streak and the thrill of playing in front of a home crowd Leisa rose to the occasion and her performances not only helped England to a Silver medal but saw her selected for the Online FIH Dream Team, the Only England Player to be included.

Being part of the England side that finished 5^th in the World Cup in December 2002, saw Leisa cap off a remarkable year and with it complete an amazing turn around in fortune.

This award of Hockey writers player of the year 2002 highlights how far the seemingly difficult girl from Wisbech has come, and with the Athens Olympics only one year away; Leisa is not slowing down quite yet, she has some unfinished GB business to attend to.

1) Q. This award has capped a remarkable 2002 for you, can you put into words what it means to you.

I was shocked! as a player you don't think about these things until they actually happen. Its a real honour to be associated with such talented past winners that include Jane smith Jane Sixsmith and Sandie Lister.

2) Q. What do you attribute your excellent recent playing form too?

Self belief and confidence and being surrounded by quality players at England level, you have to be at your best all the time. On top of that training hard really makes a difference.

3) Q. Who has been the biggest positive influence on your hockey career and why?

Sandie Lister, my coach of 8 years. She was the only person who believed in my hockey ability and thought i could do well. Without her I would have given up years ago.

4) Q. What was the lowest point of your hockey career?

During the 2000 Olympic year. The year was a roller coaster, it was horrible.

5) Q. What is your opinion on the rumoured future policy that England squad members will no longer play Club hockey and just concentrate on the International scene?

That would be tough because I love playing for my club , I think club hockey is really is important. Take that away and the game could become too elitist. Hopefully I would have retired by then!

6) Q. Who do you most admire in hockey and why?

Not anyone in particular. Someone with no fear who just wants to play and can dig deep when things are not going well.

7) Q. Who would you have voted for, as Player of the Year and why?

Colleen Adcock because she has not got a yellow card yet this season.

8) Q. What sport would you play if you did not play hockey?

Something with a lot of money involved. Tennis or Golf.

9) Q. Do you think London should bid to host the 2012 Olympic Games?

Yes especially after experiencing the Commonwealth Games. it was run well and the whole country was behind it.

10) Q. do you think you will get involved with coaching once you eventually retire from playing ?

Eventually. I want to leave my options open but i'd like to pass on my hockey experiences especially to youngsters.

by Ipswich Press Officer