Expect the usual suspects to vie for Under-19 title

The tournament’s name may have been changed but expect the same teams to contend for the title.

The Malaysia Hockey League (MHL) Under -19 category, which starts with 11 matches today, is basically the 14th edition of the Malaysia Junior Hockey League (MJHL).

The Division Two is for the elite teams (12) while the other 10 also-rans and development teams will feature in Division Three of the new one-system MHL.

Call it what you want but expect the same teams — Bukit Jalil Sports School (BJSS), Old La Sallians Association of Klang (Olak), Tenaga Nasional and Bukit Penawar Sports School (BPSS) — to be in the thick of the title challenge, as usual.

BJSS, the reigning double champions, will be the team to beat although they claim that this year will see a more open race for the two titles.



They have decided to use their Under-17 players as the National Juniors are barred from playing. Even then, BJSS can expect to walk away with at least one title, thanks to their strength — teamwork.

BJSS coach S. Prakash hopes to see his team prevail although he expects more than four teams to be in contention this year.

The four teams had better be wary of another former champions — Petaling Jaya City Council (MBPJ), who have recruited some talented players.

With the National Juniors not allowed to compete in the MHL, hockey fans can expect a more open fight for the titles.

The Juniors are preparing for the Junior World Cup in June and the MHF have barred all the 31 players in the training squad from taking part in the MHL.

Overall, the one-league system offers nothing new. If anything, the youngsters stand to lose more than they gain because they will not be able to play in the higher divisions.

Previously, the junior teams were allowed to field a team in the senior category to gain experience.

Now, those who are playing in the Under-19 category will not be allowed to feature at the senior level.

And the teams are irked by this ruling.

BJSS’ Prakash said the previous system allowed them to develop their teams in a structured manner and gain valuable experience by playing in the senior category.

“Many other teams also hired some of these talented players by giving them contracts. So I do not see the rationale of this one-system league,” he said.

“Nothing has changed in terms of the playing format or even the prize money. Why not allow the youngsters to play in the open category as well?”

Many of the other coaches felt that same way.

Only time will tell if the move by MHF is the right one.

For now, 22 teams will battle in the Under-19 category. Hopefully, there will be some quality matches and some new talents will come through the ranks.