The revival of Indian hockey after the World Cup

After the hockey world cup debacle, I beleive this is the appropriate time to ponder about our national game. It was a dismal performance by the team and many came to a conclusion that Indian hockey has lost its glory. However, I do not agree with this. Let me tell you that our team consists has a bunch of spirited,talented and energetic players.

Akashdeep and Jasjit celebrate a goal

Alll they need is our support,trust and patience to prove their mettle. They fought hard against higher placed teams like Belgium and England. Both teams scored last minute goals to deny India a win during the group stages. One should also remember that many players were playing their first World Cup and the pressure might have taken a toll on them.

What’s the solution?

The answer to that question would be “Change the coach” from any layman who knows something about the game. Has it done any good to the team in the past? The answer is No.

Terry Walsh (Coach) with the team

We should give the coach some time to gel with the players. Young talent should be spotted, groomed and given enough opportunities to compete at the national and international levels. Young players performed exceptionally well in this World Cup. 

Hockey Nurseries: 

So, where do we start? Hockey academies across the country must be equipped with basic infrastructure so that players get the right training ahead of important tournaments. The state and the central government should provide jobs to youngsters who do not make it big in hockey. 

A hockey academy in Sansarpur

The search for young talent should begin at the grassroots level. All schools and colleges should have an astroturf field to go with the basic equipments required to play the game.   

Hockey India League (HIL) :

The starting of HIL is a welcome step in the improvement of the game. Public sector companies like Indian Oil, NALCO and NMDC supported the team Kalinga Lancers this year. A public-private partnership would bolster the financial sustainability of the game. 

Hero HIL

Glamour Quotient :

Glamour is an essential part of any sport. Presence of Shahrukh Khan, Priety Zinta and Shilpa Shetty adds a huge value addition to the brand called IPL. John Abraham is the owner of the Delhi Waveriders in HIL. He has managed to help hockey gain some popularity in the nation.

John Abraham with Sardar Singh

Conclusion :

Both the central and the state governments should play an active role to ensure hockey is not neglected in the country.

Dhyanchand-The Wizard of Indian hockey