The Road to the 2026 Masters World Cup
The United States men’s O‑60 side is set to travel to Belgium for the 2026 World Masters Hockey World Cup, where they will contest the tournament at the KHC Dragons complex in Brasschaat from August 7 through 16. The schedule promises a rigorous sequence of matches, beginning with group play against Belgium, England and South Africa before advancing to the quarterfinals, semifinals and ultimately the final.
Under the guidance of head coach Nigel Traverso and assistant Christopher Pereira, the squad blends veteran experience with a shared commitment to representing the United States at the masters level. Both coaches emphasize discipline, teamwork and the chance to showcase American talent on an international stage.
Among the players, goalkeeper Prashant Aji stands out for his immigrant narrative and his early switch from soccer to hockey at age fourteen. A first‑generation American of Indian heritage, Aji recalls the pride of wearing the Stars and Stripes and the memorable 2013 Cactus Cup moment when he saved a decisive shot while his son incurred a rib injury during a celebratory chest bump.
Forward Bill Larkins, a native of Manchester, New Hampshire, discovered hockey later in life, picking up a stick at fifty‑one after years of coaching his daughter’s high school team. His highlight came when that same team secured a second‑seed postseason berth, a milestone he attributes to his wife’s steadfast support and his daughter’s encouragement to pursue the sport at a higher level.
Both athletes share a philosophy that balances career, family and personal health. Aji maintains a routine of running, swimming and strength training, while Larkins credits his spouse for enabling his passion and his daughter for opening doors to coaching and competition.
The upcoming matches will test the team’s cohesion as they face seasoned opponents from Belgium, England and South Africa. Regardless of the outcomes, the players view the tournament as an opportunity to honor their journeys, inspire younger generations and leave a lasting imprint on the sport.