Indian Hockey team had spent two days at Swiss Alps for Paris Olympics prep with adventurer Mike Horn
PTC Web Desk: In a unique twist to their preparation for the Paris Olympics, the Indian men’s hockey team and support staff had participated in a two-day bootcamp at Swiss Alps led by Mike Horn, a renowned Swiss adventurer. Known for his motivational work with Indian cricket teams and IPL franchises, Horn introduced the hockey players to a series of physical challenges in Switzerland.
The bootcamp involved activities such as walking with harnesses on glaciers, climbing mountains via ferrata, rappelling down waterfalls, and cycling through rugged terrain. For many players, including reserve goalkeeper Krishan Pathak, these were new and daunting experiences.
As per a report published in Hindustan Times, Mike Horn explained that these adventurous activities are designed to build mental resilience, teamwork, and strategic thinking—qualities essential for high-pressure situations like the Olympics. “By pushing athletes out of their comfort zones, they develop the ability to stay composed under pressure, strengthen their team bonds, and enhance their problem-solving skills,” Horn was quoted as saying.
The bootcamp was part of the planning by Paddy Upton, the hockey team’s mental conditioning coach, and was scheduled between the team’s departure from India and their arrival in the Netherlands before heading to Paris for Olympics 2024.
The training began at Glacier 3000 in Switzerland, where players walked on ice with harnesses. Although initially met with some nervousness, the team adapted quickly. They spent the night at a hostel and then cycled to Rougemont, where Horn gradually increased the difficulty of the activities.
The camp also included traditional Swiss meals and a challenging night sleeping on hay at a farm without mattresses. “It was a tough experience, but the team adapted and learned to embrace it,” Horn was quoted as saying.
By the end of the bootcamp, the team showed a noticeable change, embracing the challenges and bonding strongly. “They developed resilience and a sense of achievement,” Horn observed.
- With inputs from agencies
