FROM NATIONAL HERO TO COMMUNITY MENTOR: FAIZAL SAARI INSPIRES FUTURE HOCKEY STARS AT HARI KOMUNITI HOKI BERSAMA FAIZAL SAARI

Kuantan, 19 April 2025 - The Gelanggang Hoki SUKPA in Kuantan was a hive of excitement and inspiration as former Malaysian national hockey icon Faizal Saari, stepped onto the pitch, not as a striker but as a mentor, during the inaugural Hari Komuniti Hoki Bersama Faizal Saari. This one-day coaching clinic stood out for its dynamic fusion of athletic training, English language learning, and alignment with sustainable development goals (SDGs), offering participants a holistic and transformative experience. 

The event gathered over 100 enthusiastic participants, including primary and secondary school students from Kuantan and Pekan, as well as students from Universiti Malaysia Pahang Al-Sultan Abdullah (UMPSA). Jointly organised by the UMPSA Sports Centre and the Centre for Modern Languages (CML), the programme was first conceptualised by the coaching team of Kampung Hockey Club (KHC); a local initiative led by UMPSA staff and former players committed to nurturing grassroots talent. 

A Natural Transition from Playing to Coaching 

Following his recent retirement from international hockey, Faizal Saari has embraced a new chapter as a coach and mentor. Renowned for his exceptional skill and goal-scoring record, Faizal now dedicates his experience to shaping the next generation of hockey talent. 

"This is a natural transition for me," Faizal reflected. "I’ve always believed in giving back. With my chapter as a national player concluded, I see this as the start of something equally meaningful; helping to develop future athletes and leaders both on and off the pitch." 

His involvement also echoes the values of SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being) by promoting active lifestyles, and SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities) by providing equitable access to training for youth from diverse backgrounds. 

Hockey Meets Language: A Bilingual Learning Experience 

What truly distinguished the programme was its innovative integration of English language learning into the sports training environment; an initiative aligned with SDG 4 (Quality Education). As part of a structured bilingual approach led by the Centre for Modern Languages, participants learned the fundamentals of hockey including rules, equipment, and playing positions using English terminology commonly employed in international contexts. 

The initiative aimed to build not only technical proficiency in the sport but also functional English vocabulary in a meaningful and contextualised setting. Terms such as “dribble”, “push pass”, “penalty corner”, and “goalkeeper” were introduced and reinforced through active demonstrations and gameplay. 

“We believe in holistic development,” said Mohd Shafeirul Zaman bin Abd Majid, Programme Director, who is also a Senior Language Teacher at CML and coach with KHC. “By leveraging sports as a platform, we make language learning more engaging, practical, and relevant to everyday scenarios.” 

Unity Through Community Sport 

This programme was made possible through strong collaboration between UMPSA departments and community stakeholders. The dedicated coaching team from Kampung Hockey Club played an integral role in both the design and delivery of the clinic. Throughout the day, Faizal and the KHC coaches conducted drills, team-building games, and mini-matches.  

Participants also benefited from personalised feedback and motivational insights during a special Q&A session with Faizal, where he shared reflections on his career milestones, training discipline, and mental preparation for high-level competition. 

“It’s not just about improving technique,” Faizal emphasised. “It’s about instilling discipline, teamwork, and passion; values that extend far beyond the hockey field.” 

A Lasting Impression 

For many participants, this was their first encounter with structured hockey coaching and a national sports icon. The enthusiasm, focus, and smiles observed throughout the day were a clear testament to the programme’s success, not only in cultivating sporting skills but also in sparking confidence, motivation, and a desire to learn.  

Al-Muhaimin bin Ali, Head of Division at the UMPSA Sports Centre, expressed his aspiration for continued collaborations. “Programmes like this represent our vision to bridge education, sport, and community empowerment. We are honoured to host a national icon like Faizal and to champion initiatives that nurture young talent and civic engagement.” 

A Legacy in Motion 

As the sun set on Gelanggang Hoki SUKPA, it was evident that Hari Komuniti Hoki Bersama Faizal Saari had left a lasting impact. More than a coaching clinic, it was a catalyst for change; unifying youth through sport, equipping them with language and life skills, and encouraging them to prioritise their health and personal development. 

Faizal Saari’s transition from national hero to community mentor is a powerful reminder that greatness lies not only in accolades, but in the legacy, we build by uplifting others. By sharing his journey and passion, he ignited a spark in every participant, one that may one day fuel the rise of new athletes, educators, and changemakers. 

In promoting values of health, discipline, inclusivity, and lifelong learning, this initiative exemplifies how sustainable development can be meaningfully achieved through community sport. For the young generation watching from the side lines, the message is resounding: your dreams are valid, your voice matters, and your journey has only just begun. 

Prepared by: Mohd Shafeirul Zaman Abd Majid, Amy Zulaikha Mohd Ali, Jamilah Bebe Mohamad