Tom Boon Interview | Happy that I still have the hunger to perform Premium

In an exclusive interview, Tom Boon reflects on his career, mentoring young players, and aspirations for the upcoming Olympics.

In Ranchi Royals colours, Belgian superstar Tom Boon emerged as the top-scorer of the Hockey India League (HIL). Even in the final phase of his illustrious career, the World and Olympic champion is leading by example.

Donning multiple roles as a forward, drag-flicker and mentor, Boon, who celebrated his 36th birthday on January 25, has set a great example for up-and-coming players across the globe. Boon, an inspirational figure in the hockey world, spoke to The Hindu about his magnificent career and future goals. Excerpts:

No (I did not expect it), I’m really happy about it. It’s part of my job; I’m a striker, I’m taking the penalty corners, the penalty strokes. Somehow it’s normal that I stand there. I’m happy that the team has grown as well, that we have taken some great steps forward. When we look back at where we came from, from the first match and the visage we have now, it’s an improved team. I’m just proud and happy to be part of it.

It was challenging. Everyone has their own way of playing and we had to try to make something work. I was working hand-in-hand with Harendra Singh to make something work, to try to help with my experience there. What we saw from Ranchi was that we grew and this was the most important thing. I’m happy about it, we started on a not-so-good note but we kept believing. We worked hard to make it work and the most important of all is we were a really solid group. Manpreet Singh did a really nice job to try and connect the Indians with foreigners. The Indians looked really, really happy to be together, they’re good friends with the foreigners as well. The whole mix is important. Everyone is equal, everyone wants the best for the team.

Tom Boon. | Photo Credit: Getty Images

It’s challenging to get out of your comfort zone. I’m going to give an easy example about me. I had never been a captain before, I was a captain this season. I got out of my comfort zone. I tried to do it as well as I could and everyone seemed to be happy, so it was a great experience. I will take the learnings from it, try to dare to speak more in a changing room when I’m back with Belgium.