Tanguy Cosyns Speaks Out: Local Culture Fuels Performance in Hockey India League

Tanguy Cosyns’ journey from Olympic silver medalist to aspiring coach is a testament to the highs and lows of a sporting career

His reflections on the importance of cultural alignment in coaching, coupled with his resilience in the face of setbacks, make his story one of inspiration and learning.

Tanguy Cosyns: From Silver in Rio to Coaching Ambitions

A Journey of Highs and Lows

Tanguy Cosyns, a former Belgian hockey stalwart, has experienced a career filled with triumphs, setbacks, and lessons that extend beyond the playing field.¹

From clinching a silver medal at the Rio 2016 Olympics to the heartbreak of missing the Tokyo Games, Cosyns has seen the best and worst of competitive sports.

Now, as he prepares for a new chapter in coaching, Cosyns reflects on his remarkable journey, sharing insights on his career, the role of culture in coaching, and his aspirations.

JO Paris 2024 ✅ pic.twitter.com/YaXhXygION

— Cosyns Tanguy (@tanguycosyns) January 20, 2024

A Surprise Podium Finish at Rio 2016

Cosyns’ journey with the Belgian Red Lions reached its pinnacle in Rio de Janeiro, where his team claimed a historic silver medal. Reflecting on the achievement, he described it as an unexpected triumph.

“It was a surprise for us to be in the top four,” Cosyns said, highlighting the chaos preceding the Olympics, which included replacing their coach only six months before the Games.

Under Shane McLeod’s leadership, the team adapted quickly and delivered stellar performances, including a crucial quarterfinal win over India.

Belgium’s 3-1 victory against India marked a turning point, especially after trailing 0-1 at halftime. The momentum carried them past the Netherlands in the semifinals, guaranteeing a medal. While they fell to Argentina in the final, Cosyns cherishes the experience as one of his career’s most memorable moments.

Tanguy Cosyns: The McLeod Effect

A Coach Who Understood Culture

Shane McLeod, who took over as Belgium’s coach before the Rio Olympics, played a crucial role in the team’s ascent to the world stage.²

Cosyns attributes McLeod’s success to his ability to resonate with Belgian culture, which he described as a critical factor for any coach.

“I think Shane is someone who fits the Belgian culture. It’s really important,” Cosyns remarked, emphasizing that cultural alignment is as significant as tactical expertise.

Drawing comparisons to India’s current coach, Craig Fulton, Cosyns noted similarities between the two, particularly their openness and approachability. Fulton, having previously worked with the Belgian team, brought a unique perspective to his role as India’s head coach.

From Counter-Attacking Weakness to a Tactical Powerhouse

Belgium’s journey to success wasn’t just about cultural alignment; it was also about strategic evolution. Before McLeod’s arrival, the team struggled with counter-attacking, a weakness that opponents frequently exploited.

Under McLeod, the Red Lions transformed into one of the best counter-attacking teams in the world.

Cosyns highlighted their zonal tactics and adaptability as key factors in their rise. “We worked a lot to be one of the best counter-attacking teams,” he explained.

Tanguy Cosyns: The Pain of Missing Out 2018 and Tokyo 2020

While Cosyns reveled in the glory of Rio, the years that followed were fraught with disappointment.³

Injuries and selection issues saw him sidelined for major events, including the 2018 World Cup and the Tokyo Olympics.

Cosyns candidly admitted that being left out strained his relationship with McLeod. However, he views these challenges as opportunities for personal growth. “As a sportsman, you need to reboot yourself and find other ways to be back in the team,” he reflected.

Despite the setbacks, Cosyns remained a passionate supporter of his team, watching them clinch gold in both tournaments.

A Glimpse of Redemption: The 2023 FIH World Cup

Cosyns’ perseverance paid off when he was selected for the 2023 FIH Men’s World Cup in India. Although Belgium fell short in the final, losing to Germany in a tense shootout, the experience marked a significant milestone in his career.

“It was a long journey for me,” he said. “We lost in the final against Germany, but it was a lot of learning for me.”

With his playing days nearing an end, Cosyns is setting his sights on a coaching career. Inspired by his experiences with McLeod and other mentors, he hopes to bring a unique perspective to the role.

Coaching, Cosyns believes, is not just about tactics but also about understanding players and their cultural contexts. His journey with the Red Lions has equipped him with invaluable insights, which he plans to pass on to the next generation of players.

Tanguy Cosyns: Indian Style of Play in the Hockey India League

The anticipation for the revamped sixth season of the Hockey India League (HIL) is mounting, and Tanguy Cosyns, the Belgian hockey star, is one of the international players eager to make an impact.

Playing for the UP Rudras alongside stalwarts like Lalit Upadhyay and Alvaro Iglesias, Cosyns is preparing for a unique challenge: adapting to the Indian style of hockey while contributing his expertise to his team’s success.

The UP Rudras boast a formidable lineup that blends international experience with Indian talent.

Tanguy Cosyns will join forces with Lalit Upadhyay, a prolific scorer known for his speed and precision, and Alvaro Iglesias, a Spanish powerhouse with an uncanny ability to find gaps in defenses. This combination offers a tantalizing prospect for fans and a challenge for opponents.

Cosyns is keenly aware of the potential within this lineup. He emphasized, “I think we have a team that is really balanced with some of the best Indian players in the lineup. To be at least in the playoffs or play the final is the objective.”

Adapting to the Indian Style of Play

One of the biggest challenges for Cosyns is adapting to the fast-paced and fluid Indian style of play. Indian hockey is known for its quick passing, flair, and improvisation, which contrasts with the structured European approach.

“I am aiming also to adapt to the Indian style of play,” Cosyns remarked. For him, this season is not just about winning matches but also about evolving as a player.

The forward is focused on communication and collaboration, understanding that synergy is the key to unlocking the team’s potential.

A Belgian Perspective on Transitions

Belgium’s national hockey team has experienced a transition phase, especially after their golden triumph at the Tokyo Olympics.

With key players retiring, the team is navigating the dual challenges of integrating fresh talent and maintaining competitive results.

Cosyns shared his insights, stating, “It’s a difficult period because a lot of players have stopped playing internationally… The biggest challenge for a coach now is to bring new players with fresh talent at the right moment so they can really grow in a good period.”

Despite these hurdles, Belgium has shown resilience, evidenced by a strong start in the Pro League with wins against Germany and draws against the Netherlands.

Tanguy Cosyns: Shaping the Next Generation

At 33, Cosyns is embracing a dual role as a player and mentor. Back home, he is coaching the under-18 Belgian team, nurturing young talent and preparing them for the rigors of international hockey.

Having recently completed his coaching degree, Cosyns is passionate about his new venture. “I hope in the future I can coach in Belgium or elsewhere… For me, it’s an objective to be active as a coach and to continue playing hockey with my club,” he shared.

This role complements his playing career, as it allows him to bring a fresh perspective to the game while sharing his wealth of experience with the younger generation.

The Evolution of the Hockey India League

• The return of the Hockey India League after a hiatus brings fresh energy and excitement to the hockey fraternity.
• With its revamped structure and international stars, the league aims to elevate the sport’s profile in India and globally.
• For players like Cosyns, HIL serves as a platform to compete against top talent while adapting to a new style of play.
• The league also fosters cross-cultural exchanges, allowing players to learn from one another and develop a deeper appreciation for the game.
• Success in a tournament like HIL requires more than individual brilliance. Team chemistry, strategic planning, and adaptability are crucial elements.
• Cosyns acknowledges the importance of these factors, saying, “We need to see how it goes in the beginning and really talk a lot to bring out our best.”
• With a blend of seasoned internationals and rising Indian stars, the UP Rudras have the potential to dominate.
• However, their journey will depend on how quickly they can gel as a unit and execute their strategies effectively.

 

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Lessons from the Pro League: Belgium’s Blueprint

Belgium’s recent Pro League performances offer valuable lessons for teams like the UP Rudras. Despite facing a rebuilding phase, the Belgian team has demonstrated the importance of resilience, teamwork, and steady progress.

Cosyns’ experience with the national team can serve as an asset for the Rudras. His understanding of rebuilding processes and his ability to mentor younger players can provide the team with a strategic edge.

As the December 28 kickoff approaches, the excitement surrounding the Hockey India League continues to grow. For Tanguy Cosyns, this season represents an opportunity to showcase his skills, learn from Indian players, and contribute to the growth of the sport.

Combining with players like Lalit Upadhyay and Alvaro Iglesias, adapting to the Indian style, and aiming for playoff success are high on Cosyns’ agenda. His journey reflects the essence of HIL—a melting pot of talent, culture, and innovation in the world of hockey.