Charlesworth Taking Charge Of Men's Side

Newcastle Herald

Monday September 29, 2008

AAP

THE man with hockey's Midas touch Ric Charlesworth is set to work his magic with the Kookaburras.

The successful former Hockeyroos mentor was expected to be unveiled today as the Australian men's coach.

Hockey Australia will also name the women's coach, expected to be Charlesworth's former assistant Chris Spice.

Barry Dancer walked away from the Kookaburras after the Beijing Olympics, ending a successful seven-year tenure that included a historic gold medal in Athens.

But Dancer's stint ended in frustration after the Kookaburras failed to defend their Olympic title in China.

They were beaten in the Beijing semi-finals by Spain and had to settle for bronze.

If anyone can pick the Kookaburras up after their Games disappointment, it is Charlesworth.

His stint as Hockeyroos coach from 1993 to 2000 is legendary. He transformed the women's team into world-beaters, winning four Champions Trophies and two World Cups. But the highlight was back-to-back Olympic gold medals in Atlanta and Sydney. AAP

© 2008 Newcastle Herald

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