Commonwealth Games launching new chapter for Canadian field hockey

It's a transition period for Canadian field hockey. After years of a similar group leading the way, the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games will showcase a new chapter as younger athletes take the reins. 

Canada's women had a busy summer, playing at their first FIH World Cup in 28 years, while the men, who haven't played a competitive match since January, spent an extended period together preparing for the tournament. 

Both teams are in pool play with India and England, ranked in the top 10 on both sides, as well as Ghana and Wales. 

The top two teams in each pool advance to the semifinals, while the remaining play consolation games for places 5-10. Canada's best finish in the men's competition at the Commonwealth Games is sixth, at Manchester 2002 and Glasgow 2014, while the women set a best-ever result at Gold Coast 2018, finishing fifth. 

"It's been pretty intense over the last while; we had a long prep ahead of the World Cup. Our first time there in 28 years was exciting, and at times overwhelming," women's head coach Rob Short told CBC Sports. 

The Commonwealth Games don't offer the grandeur of the Olympics or World Cups. Still, it is a major tournament that offers a chance to prepare for future competitions.

2022 has been historic for the Canadian women. The year began with them qualifying for the FIH World Cup through the Pan American qualification tournament and a 1-0 win over the United States. 

At their first World Cup since 1994, they bowed out in the group stage with losses against Spain, South Korea and Argentina before losing to India and South Korea to finish 15th. 

The Commonwealth Games are a quick turnaround, but Canada arrives in Birmingham with clear goals — gain experience and surprise a few people.