"It was my dream to play in the Olympics" - Debutant Sanjay ahead of Paris Olympics
The Indian hockey team will kick off their proceedings in the Paris Olympics 2024 on July 27 against New Zealand and donning the Indian colors for the first time at the Games will be young defender and drag-flicker Sanjay.
A former recipient of the Hockey India Jugraj Singh Award for upcoming player of the year in 2021, Sanjay will share the pitch with experienced candidates like Manpreet Singh and PR Sreejesh, who will be playing their final Olympics.
Before the start of the campaign, Sanjay said to Hockey India:
“I am honored to be a part of the Indian team for the Paris Olympics. Like any other player, it was my dream to play in the Olympics, so I am happy that my hard work paid off and I made it to the squad for the Paris Olympics. This opportunity motivates me to work even harder and contribute to our team's success. I look forward to making my country proud at the biggest sporting stage.”
“My family was overjoyed when I shared the news of my selection for the Paris Olympics. Their blessings and encouragement have been a tremendous source of motivation for me to give my best in the event and make them proud," he added.
Will take one game at a time - Sanjay
Sanjay first made it to the limelight in 2021 when he scored eight goals at the Junior Hockey World Cup, including two hat-tricks. Moreover, he was also the third-highest scorer of the competition.
Moving on from the junior level, he made his senior debut in June 2022 and helped India win FIH Hockey5s. He was also a member of the gold-winning teams at the Hangzhou Asian Games and Asian Champions Trophy Chennai 2023.
Speaking on his preparations and mindset, Sanjay said:
"I will focus on the Olympics by taking it one game at a time and giving my hundred percent in each match. My goal is to stay fully present and committed, ensuring that I contribute to my team's success with every opportunity on the field. This is the moment I've worked so hard for, and I intend to make the most of it."
Sanjay also shared his dreams as a hockey player, stating:
"Ever since I picked up a hockey stick, I have dreamed of winning Gold medals at the Olympics and the World Cup. Representing my country on these prestigious platforms and bringing home the Gold has always been my ultimate goal. I am deeply committed to making my nation proud through my dedication and hard work on the field."