With the second half of the FIH Hockey Pro League 2024-25 fast approaching, we are catching up with players and coaches of all 9 men’s and women’s teams to take the temperature of their season through the first half and explore their targets for the remaining matches. In today’s interview, we speak with members of the Belgium men’s team, the Red Lions, including coach Shane McLeod and senior stars Arthur Van Doren and Arthur De Sloover.
How would you assess the team’s overall performance during the first part of the Pro League season?
Shane McLeod: So far so good. It has been great to see our program onboarding so many new players successfully. There is a good mix of talented players that are working hard to continue the story of the Red Lions in their own way. This has brought new energy to the group and new responsibilities to players that have been part of the program for a while. The points speak for themselves and tell part of the story but the story behind winning games is due to a lot of effort by many. This includes the work by the federation and B-Gold youth program to have players close enough that they can step into the international environment.
Were there any key learnings or surprises — either tactically or in terms of player development?
SM: Our biggest learnings during this process is that different players handle the lifestyle that is required to international hockey in different ways. They therefore make gains at different moments during this process. It has been very pleasing to see many of the players changing some of their behaviours that slow them down in how they play and train. What is surprising is that we have yet to see where this new group will reach their best level. Each time we challenge them they thrive on the challenge and deliver more than we expected. This also contributes to the working environment.
Do you have a ranking objective?
SM: The second part of the proleague contains several objectives. At number one is to get our group ready for the Europeans. We do this by giving opportunities to the larger squad until we settle on the European selection. At number two, we have an opportunity to practice tournament hockey with back to back games and also treat the last three matches as quarter, semi and final matches. Lastly, our team is keen to win their first event together.
What moments from the first part of the season stand out most to you?
Arthur Van Doren: I’m really enjoying the fresh energy the new faces are bringing. We’ve already seen some of them make a strong impact—it’s hard to pick just one or two standout moments.
Arthur De Sloover: The start of our campaign in Holland. Especially the games against Germany, where our youngsters that came in the team after Paris showed already some of their excellence.
How did the team grow or evolve during those first matches?
AVD: We’re a relatively young team in terms of experience of playing together, so we’re growing after every game we play with each other. We’re embracing the challenge of learning and improving as a unit.
ADS: In December the team had some great results, and after a good winter period we managed to replicate this in Argentina. The young players have shown a great mentality and a high degree of maturity.
How are you and the team preparing mentally and physically for the final stretch?
AVD: Heading into summer is always the most exciting stretch. It’s when the games that matter most are played—both at the club level and with the national team. We’re really looking forward to the challenge ahead.
ADS: Physically we have worked very hard in the winter period to make sure we will cope with the high amount of games in June. It’s going to be a very intense period where the body will have to recover well. On the mental part, we want to go all-in to win the Pro League. Playing games of consequence will help in our development.
Do you feel added pressure or extra motivation playing on home soil in Antwerp?
AVD: Mostly motivation and excitement. We love playing in front of our friends and family as well as the Belgian fans!
ADS: No big nerves, but a lot of motivation! Playing in front of our own family, friends and fans is the most exciting there is. That’s why we do all the hard work in the background. Going for the win in the Pro League will add some pressure towards the end of the competition, but this is a good learning process towards the Euros this summer.
What would you like to say to the supporters who’ll be in Antwerp or watching from home?
AVD: To everyone in Antwerp or watching from home—thank you for your support. We love playing in Belgium and we’ll give our all to make you proud.
ADS: Come and support us in Antwerp! We need your support and it’s always great to play in a full house 😄 For the people watching at home, show us your support on the socials and be positive with a group in full development!
How important is the home crowd energy for you on the pitch? Can the crowd in Antwerp be a decisive factor in key matches?
AVD: It’s crucial—an electric home crowd always gives you that extra push. A perfect example is the 2019 European Championship semi final against Germany. We were 2-0 down, but with the crowd behind us, we pulled off a comeback.
ADS: Definitely. The past has shown what the Belgian crowd can do for us! Being able to fight for the win in the Pro League on home soil is something special.
How does it feel to be closing the Pro League at home in Antwerp? Is there a special connection to that venue?
ADS: It’s the place where we train week in week out with the team. Also the place where we won our only European title. It’s a very special place where we feel we always have an advantage compared to the opposition.
