LUCAS BALTHAZAR
Team: Uccle Sport & Red Lions
Position on the field: Midfielder/Defender
Stick: Osaka Pro Tour 100 – Proto Bow

What led you to play field hockey?
I have always been a very energetic kid. From a young age, I was constantly playing football during school breaks. Seeing that, my parents wanted me to channel that energy into sports, so they signed me up for both tennis and field hockey. They liked the idea of me experiencing both an individual and a team sport.
Very quickly, I connected with hockey. I loved the team aspect, the pace, and the challenge it brings. From that moment on, it became a real passion that kept growing over the years.
What does field hockey mean to you right now?
Today, field hockey is much more than just a sport. It is a big part of who I am and shapes my daily life through training, matches, and time spent with teammates. It gives structure and direction to my routine.
It is also one of the few places where you experience such strong emotions, from pressure to joy and sometimes disappointment. At the same time, it pushes you to improve constantly, not only as an athlete but also as a person, because you are always working within a team.
What was it like to represent your country? How did it feel?
Sometimes you almost get used to it, but when you take a step back, you realize it is a childhood dream. Representing your country is a huge honor and a real source of pride, especially when you think about all the players who came before you.
It reflects all the work, sacrifices, and commitment over the years. What makes it even more meaningful is seeing the impact it can have on younger players who watch and get inspired.
Which achievement are you most proud of and why?
I do not have one single achievement that stands out, but there are several I am proud of. Being selected for the Euros is definitely one, as it represents recognition at a high level.
I am also proud of my role within my club and being part of a project where we are growing together as a young group. Beyond hockey, I take pride in maintaining a good balance between my studies, my social life, and my sport. That overall balance is something that really matters to me.
How would you describe your own playing style?
I would describe myself as a complete and versatile player. I can adapt to different positions depending on what the team needs, which is one of my strengths.
Another important aspect of my game is my vision. I try to read situations well, anticipate what is going to happen, and make decisions that help the team move forward.
What makes you unique on the field? What do fans recognize you for?
The first thing people usually notice is my height. It is hard to miss and definitely makes me stand out on the field.
When I was younger, there were even comparisons with Hugo Labouchère, and we were sometimes called the “twin towers,” which was always something fun and memorable.
What is your ritual before and after the game?
I do not really have a specific ritual before games. What matters most to me is staying connected with my teammates. I am not someone who isolates themselves. I like to talk, interact, and keep things relaxed.
After the game, it is similar. I enjoy spending time together, sharing a meal, and just having a good moment as a team. Those moments are important for team spirit.
How is a normal day in your life?
Most of my days are built around training, gym sessions, and recovery. Taking care of my body is a big priority so I can perform consistently.
Alongside that, I focus on my university studies. When I have free time, I spend it with family and friends, which helps me stay balanced mentally.
What makes you happy?
What makes me happy is everything around field hockey, not just being on the pitch, but also the environment around it. Being part of a team where many players are close friends makes it special, especially at my childhood club.
It is also about the people around me in general. Having the right people in both my sport and personal life is what really matters.
What do you do besides field hockey?
Alongside hockey, I am in my first year studying economics at Solvay at ULB. It requires a lot of organization to combine both, but I am committed to managing them at the highest level.
How do you stay “on top of your game”?
I do not struggle much with motivation because I genuinely enjoy what I do. Playing matches, training, and representing my club and country naturally keep me driven.
What matters most is the constant desire to improve in every area, whether it is performance, recovery, sleep, or nutrition. That daily commitment is key.
What do you still want to achieve as an athlete?
At club level, I have strong ambitions and believe in the potential of the team we are building. I want to be part of that success.
Internationally, I still have a lot to prove. My first tournament was a learning experience, and now I am fully focused on what is ahead, especially the 2026 World Cup and the 2028 Olympic Games. My goal is to win titles.
How do you see the evolution of field hockey in the coming years?
I think the sport will continue to become faster, more physical, and more professional. The level keeps rising and the game demands more precision and intensity.
At the same time, it will keep growing in popularity, which is great for the future of the sport.
What does it mean for you to be an Osaka ambassador?
It means representing a brand that shares my values of performance, passion, and commitment. It is something I am proud of, especially because Osaka has always been a strong name in hockey.
It also allows me to represent more than just myself and contribute to promoting the sport.
What prompted you to team up with Osaka?
What attracted me is the identity of the brand, combining performance and style. I believe feeling good plays a role in performing well, and Osaka delivers both.
The quality of the equipment is also among the best, which is important at the highest level.
What is your most important advice for a beginner athlete?
My main advice is to enjoy every moment, both the good and the difficult ones. Being part of a team sport is something special, and it is important to make the most of it.
There is no shortcut. The players who succeed are the ones who truly love what they do.
How do you want to inspire young players? How do you want to be remembered?
I want to be seen as someone who is fully committed and who enjoys the game. For me, sport is more than results, it is a way to grow as a person.
If I can show that enjoying what you do and staying consistent can take you far, then that is meaningful.
What would you tell your younger self?
I would tell myself that mistakes are part of the process. What matters is how you react and learn from them.
You do not have to be perfect or try to be the hero all the time. Focus on improving and not repeating the same mistakes.








