Ward expecting fireworks from men's Team GB hockey squad

By Tom Harle

Sam Ward told the British public to expect fireworks from Team GB’s men at Paris 2024.

The men’s squad features a mix of youth and experience with seven men set to make their Olympic debuts in the French capital.

Ward belongs in the latter category, set to represent his country at the Games for the third time alongside skipper David Ames.

Head coach Paul Revington has overseen a transformation in the team, instilling an attacking philosophy and leading England to the final of the EuroHockey Championships.

Ward, 33, epitomises that approach and wants his side to be Team GB’s great entertainers in the French capital this summer.

“We don’t believe in draws,” said Ward. “We want to entertain the crowd and do everything we can to win some more games.

“At the end of the day, you don’t want to park the bus and win 1-0, I’d rather win 5-4. That’s the way I see it, although I’m not sure the gaffer would appreciate us conceding four!

“That’s how I see it. We want to bring the crowds with us, we want people to watch hockey, to play hockey and see the enjoyment in it. It’s all about growing the next generation.”

Ward is one of over 1,000 elite athletes on UK Sport’s National Lottery-funded World Class Programme, allowing them to train full time, have access to the world’s best coaches and benefit from pioneering medical support – this is vital for his pathway to the Paris 2024 Games.

Ward suffered horrific facial injuries when he was hit by a shot from team-mate Harry Martin in 2019, losing sight in his left eye.

He has continued to be Team GB’s masked talisman and believes the traumatic experience makes his third Olympic call-up all the sweeter.

“When you’ve nearly had it all taken away from you, it’s pretty special to come back from it,” said Ward. “Obviously you don’t just see life differently visually, but you realise how precious everything is and how fortunate I am to carry on playing.”

Team GB begin their campaign against Spain on 27 July, with reigning world champions Germany and reigning European champions Netherlands looming large in Group A.

The pool also features France and South Africa, with the top four sealing progression to the quarter-finals.

“I’m going to say we’ll come home with a medal - hopefully gold,” predicted Ward. “If you’re not there to try to win a gold medal, what’s the point?”

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