VIKRAM DITYA SHARMA/FEROZEPORE
In a heartwarming reunion with his roots, Gagan Ajit Singh, SSP Malerkotla and former international hockey player, visited Ferozepur and interacted with budding hockey players at the newly constructed hockey stadium. The visit held special significance as Ferozepur was where Gagan Ajit's illustrious journey in hockey began.
The budding players, inspired by the presence of the iconic hockey star, cherished the moment as a milestone in their sporting journey. While sharing his experiences, Gagan Ajit emphasized the importance of discipline, hard work, and passion in achieving their dreams.
The Malerkotla SSP also distributed sports kits to the players, symbolizing his commitment to nurturing young talent in the sport that shaped his own life. Sharing his experiences and encouraging the young athletes, he emphasized the importance of discipline, hard work, and passion in achieving their dreams.“It feels like coming home, Ferozepur gave me my first lessons in hockey, and it’s my privilege to support the next generation of players here” said Gagan Ajit Singh adding that when he used to play here, there was no astro turf but these players are lucky that they have their own astro-turf.
The Malerkotla SSP also distributed sports kits to the players, symbolizing his commitment to nurturing young talent in the sport that shaped his own life. Sharing his experiences and encouraging the young athletes, he emphasized the importance of discipline, hard work, and passion in achieving their dreams.
“It feels like coming home, Ferozepur gave me my first lessons in hockey, and it’s my privilege to support the next generation of players here” said Gagan Ajit Singh adding that when he used to play here, there was no astro turf but these players are lucky that they have their own astro-turf.
“I didn’t see him play live but I have seen lot of his videos. He (Gagan Ajit) really was a great player and we are happy that he is here”, said Manpreet, a budding hockey player.
On this occasion, Gagan Ajit also announced that a regular hockey tournament will be organized here under the banner of the Ferozepur Hockey Association (HFA) in which teams from all over Punjab will participate. He assured his full support for the event and pledged to return soon to his “home ground” to witness the local talent in action.
He also appreciated the efforts of the HFA for keeping hockey alive in this region.
On this occasion, Manmeet Singh Rubbal Coach, Daler Singh International player, Maninder Handa, Sunil Kumar, Ashok Behal Secretary Red Cross besides others were present.
It is pertinent to mention here that Ferozepur had been a nursery of international hockey players and has produced many hockey stalwarts including Olympians Harmeek Singh, Ajit Singh, Gagan Ajit Singh, Parvinder Singh Pindi and many others.
Earlier after a prolonged wait, the long pending demand of an astro turf ground at the newly constructed hockey stadium was fulfilled in 2021 though the project had been announced in 2014 only