Born to play – and coach – hockey

Like father like son: Former international Stephen Van Huizen (left) with his son Joel.

HIS Eurasian features seemed to be weathered after years of tireless service but when Stephen van Huizen speaks about hockey, the years fall away. His eyes light up with enthusiasm, reflecting nothing but his passion for the sport.

After four decades as a player and coach, the 61-year-old’s tenure with the national team ended last year, but it’s not going to stop this zealous Olympian, not even slow him down.

“I can’t sit still, that’s me, ” said Stephen, who represented Malaysia at the 1984 Olympics in Los Angeles, and is currently the vice-president of the Malaysian Olympian Association (MOA).