The current heroics of the Indian men’s hockey team to win a bronze in the Paris Olympics confirms that they have made the country proud again.
This was their second consecutive Olympic bronze—a feat similar to the one achieved in Tokyo 2021.
The celebrations have just begun; Hockey India is already looking at its future and, notably, the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, while they are in a great mood.
A Future Vision
Preparations for the 2028 Olympics will begin right away,” says Dilip Tirkey, President of Hockey India and former skipper of the Indian hockey team.
“To have a strong show in Los Angeles, we need to build a strong foundation way in advance,” he told Sportstar.
“We have to start preparing for the 2028 Olympics now,” Tirkey said.
He also outlined some details about the Asian Games 2026, in which most of these players will also be participating and which will largely serve as an Olympic qualification event.
‘After the 2026 Asian Games, the coach and selectors will have to decide as to how many players from this team can be sent to Los Angeles,’ Tirkey pointed out.
Challenges Ahead
However, some challenges need to be worked out as the Indian team has had considerable success. Of course, there is the announcement of goalkeeper PR Sreejesh’s retirement—arguably one of the stalwarts of Indian hockey.
Other than that, three players are already in their 30s in the current squad, and by the time the 2028 Olympics takes place, nine players will cross the age of 30.
He acknowledged these challenges and emphasized the need for spotting and grooming young talent to ensure a competitive edge in the team.
Besides the Olympics, he said, there were other major tournaments, such as the World Cup and the FIH Pro League, that demanded continuous performance.
Revival of Hockey India League
Image Credit: JioCinema
One of the most important strategies for promoting young talent and strengthening the team, he felt, was the revival of the Hockey India League.
“The HIL, launched in 2013 and running for five years, did immense good to domestic players.”.
“The young players and domestic coaches will benefit greatly from the HIL,” Tirkey said. He added the inclusion of a women’s competition in the league would make it even bigger and more impacting.
However, the revival of the HIL is not an easy task. The long-term sustainability of the league is a critical issue for Hockey India.
“Tirkey said that franchises have almost been finalized and the Odisha Government, which has been a consistent backer of Indian hockey, would also continue to play an important role.
Balancing Domestic and International Commitments
But Hockey India is also taking steps to make its domestic events more exciting and competitive.
“We made participation in the National Championships and two other domestic events mandatory for all players,” Tirkey mentioned before adding, “With so many internationals happening and the forthcoming HIL, we may have to revisit this decision.”
“We are aware that the international events have increased, and with the HIL on our calendar, we need to rethink the mandatory participation in domestic events,” Tirkey explained. Despite that, he hinted that participation in the National Championships may still be compulsory.
Focus on Junior and Sub-Junior Players
This is why Hockey India is also focusing on junior and sub-junior players to ensure the future of Indian hockey. With its backs to the Paris Olympics, it is now turning its focus toward the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.
By starting preparations early, bringing back the Hockey League, and focusing on young talent, the federation desires to raise a team that will not only compete but also do well on the world stage.
The challenges are huge, but a clear vision and strategic approach will help Hockey India in its pursuit of sustained success and further glory for the nation.
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Cheers to PR Sreejesh, The God of Modern Indian Hockey
References:
https://sportstar.thehindu.com/hockey/hockey-india-olympics-los-angeles-2028-preparations-paris-games-bronze-medal-dilip-tirkey/article68554198.ece
https://sportstar.thehindu.com/hockey/hockey-india-olympics-los-angeles-2028-preparations-paris-games-bronze-medal-dilip-tirkey/article68554198.ece#:~:text=Los%20Angeles%20Games.-,A%20day%20after%20the%20members%20of%20the%20bronze%20medal%2Dwinning,for%20the%202028%20Olympics%20now.
