Sidestory  

FATHER AND SON IN TEAM AUSTRALIA

Adam Clay, 42 years old, is one of the oldest WFC-participants, his son Daniel (16), is the youngest WFC-player. Both of them are representing Australia at these World Championships. How the two came about playing floorball and what it is like for them to be here in Switzerland for this WFC, you can read here.

How did you get into floorball?

Alan: "Four years ago a friend of mine, whom I know from field hockey, took me to a floorball practice in Sydney. I was allowed to play with them and this sport fascinated me right away. When I returned home, I brought along some sticks for my sons."

Daniel: "I played indoor hockey before, that's field hockey indoors. One day my dad brought this new type of hockey material home with him and so I began playing in my dad's team, the Glebe Floorball Club. Since then I don't play indoor hockey anymore, I just concentrate on floorball."

Father and son at World Championships is unusual enough, furthermore Daniel is the youngest WFC-participant.

Daniel: "Had I been I few months younger, I wouldn't even be allowed to participate! I am ver happy to be here, it is of course very special, that I can play with my father. I think that won't be the case for much longer in the national team."

Alan: "It is wonderful to take part at World Championships! And it is even nicer to be able to share all these impressions wit my son.

Daniel: "I feel priveleged and honoured to be here. Not many players get the chance I received. I hope this won't be my last WFC. The national antheme before the games, the national outfit I am wearing, the many companions, who followed us here from Australia; all this makes me very happy. That my father is playing as well, is the finishing touch.

Do you play in a league team?

Alan:" There is no official league yet, but there are a few teams. These meet on weekends to play against each other.

Daniel: "I founded a team with my friends in my home town, because no junior categories exist yet. I practice with my dad with Glebe."

Alan: "Daniel often practices alone, he is the only Australian able to master the airhook (laughs). When we played against Koovee (2nd Finnish league) in Finland a couple of weeks ago, he achieved our only goal in that fashion. He was behind the goal, lifted the ball and surprised the goalkeeper. I don't think the goalkeeper thought Daniel was capable of this maneuver.

Are you spending family holidays here?

Daniel: "These are not holidays. We don't have much time on our own, because we have game practices, team meetings, etc. We had some time though to spend in Zurich.

Alan: "Well, we still get to experience a bit of Switzerland. From here you can see the snow capped mountains, I was a little surprised about that in this warm weather."

Thank you for the Interview and I hope you continue having a great time.

Both: "Thanks."