"It was a mix of nerves and excitement” – Ishika Chaudhary reflects on the first-ever HIL women’s player auction [Exclusive]
Ishika Chaudhary went through a wide range of emotions as she sat down to watch the historic HIL women's player auction along with her teammates. The Madhya Pradesh-born player was picked up by the Odisha Warriors during the event held in October in Delhi.
Much like all the other players who went under the hammer, the entire process was a new experience for Ishika. It was a mixed feeling of nervousness and excitement that she felt as her name came up.
Ishika Chaudhary was in a conversation with Sportskeeda on the sidelines of the recently concluded Senior Women's Inter-Department National Championship where she recalled her emotions.
“It was after one of our matches that we sat down to watch the auction. To be honest, I was nervous. I was actually wondering if anyone will actually bid for me (smiles). I then felt extremely excited and happy when the paddle started going up. It was a feeling of nervousness mixed with excitement. But, I really enjoyed," said Ishika.
For Chaudhary, one of the greatest outcomes of her joining the Warriors is that she will get to play alongside Deep Grace Ekka. The ace Indian player, Deep, is a defender much like Ishika and has been an inspiration for the youngster since long.
"Ever since I joined the Indian Team, I have been looking up to Grace. It is a really great feeling for me that I will be playing with her yet again. There is a lot I have learnt watching her train and play. I am happy with the other players I will get to share the stage with as well. But, I am most looking forward to play alongside Grace," she added.
Glad to be a part of Odisha as they've always supported hockey: Ishika Chaudhary
For long, Odisha has been a state that has played a pivotal role in the growth of hockey in India. The region in eastern India has supported the sport immensely and has made significant contributions in its development.
Ishika Chaudhary acknowledged the impact Odisha has had and is proud to represent a team from the state.
"Odisha is supporting hockey for a long time now. I felt happy when they bid for me and took me in their team. It is a good moment for me as a player to represent such an iconic Indian state. I cannot wait to join the squad as there are so many talented players I would like to learn from and also pass on my experience to." Ishika concluded.
The Hockey India League 2024 promises to showcase the skills and talent of numerous domestic and foreign hockey stars. For Ishika Chaudhary, the league is yet another opportunity to display why she is rated so highly as a player.