– She is a nice lady, who knows how to talk in groups, says Martin Bakkejord Skolbekken about the crown princess’s visit.
Nesbuen plays on the Norwegian parahockey national team, which last week secured victory in the B WC and thus promotion to the A WC. The WC was played in Skien.
– It was a great honor when she appeared, and is involved in fronting para-hockey. There are many of these athletes who train more than ordinary athletes, says Skolbekken.
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The Norwegian national team had its own kit with the crown princess’s name on the back, which was handed over during the visit.
– She expressed that she would like to see more matches, says Skolbekken.
Reached the goal
Skolbekken is also very satisfied that the Norwegian team reached the goal in the B-WC, says and promotion. Six nations participated, and there was sometimes a very large difference in level between the teams. Norway won two of the matches 25-0 and 18-0.
– The first three games were easy, then Sweden and Germany were waiting, he says. The six countries played a simple series, and after three big wins it was 3-0 against Sweden.
– We had pretty good control. The Swedes tend to be good in championships, says Skolbekken. This time Norway was better.
In the decisive match against Germany, Nesbuen had to give up after the first period. An injury to a finger meant that he could not hold the hockey stick properly, and then it is difficult to play hockey.
Should be an A nation
Skolbekken says that Norway should be an A-nation, and after an exciting match against the Germans, Norway won 4-3 in sudden death. The players could let loose their cheers.
– There were many tired players, but we managed it, says Skolbekken.
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– We are incredibly grateful
Martin became a father eight months ago, and says that it somewhat limits how much he can train. But he gets time for three ice sessions a week, as well as personal training.
– The best train quickly five or six times a week, he says.
Had to amputate
Skolbekken had to have both legs amputated after he had a brick wall over him following an earthquake on the holiday island of Kos in July 2017. Then he played football at FUVO, and enjoyed training. He is still the last. In FUVO, he is an assistant coach.
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– In 2018, parahockey made contact. I didn’t quite know what I was getting myself into. But I missed being a performer, knowing the dressing room culture, says Martin.
He gets a little feel for coaching in FUVO, and gets a little extra on the parahockey national team. And after his success on the ice, he was back on the sidelines at the Funnefoss stadium on Monday evening when FUVO played 2-2 against the Kristiansund recruits.
– It was great to play the WC at home. It made it easier for family and friends to come and watch, concludes Skolbekken.
