In a momentous announcement that reverberated throughout the Indian sporting community, star goalkeeper PR Sreejesh confirmed that the Paris 2024 Olympic Games would mark his final international outing. At 36, Sreejesh’s decision to retire has galvanized the Indian men’s hockey team, who have launched the “Win it for Sreejesh” campaign, calling on global hockey fans to rally behind them in their quest for Olympic glory.
A Glittering Career
PR Sreejesh’s career is a testament to dedication, resilience, and unparalleled skill. With 328 international caps to his name, he stands as one of the most decorated athletes in Indian hockey history. Sreejesh has represented India in three Olympic Games, multiple Commonwealth Games, and World Cups, solidifying his status as a pillar of Indian hockey.
Major Achievements:
Olympic Games: Sreejesh made a significant mark at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, where he was instrumental in India securing a historic bronze medal, ending a 41-year Olympic medal drought for the Indian men’s hockey team.
Asian Games: He has been part of several successful campaigns, including a gold medal in the 2014 Asian Games and a bronze medal in Jakarta-Palembang.
Asian Champions Trophy: He was a key player in the joint-winning team of the Asian Champions Trophy in 2018.
FIH Men’s Series Finals: Sreejesh contributed to the gold medal-winning team at the 2019 FIH Men’s Series Finals in Bhubaneswar.
Commonwealth Games: He was part of the silver medal-winning team at the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games.
FIH Hockey Pro League: Sreejesh played a crucial role in India’s third-place finish at the FIH Hockey Pro League 2021/22.
Sreejesh’s prowess and contributions have been recognized with several prestigious awards. He was honored with the Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award in 2021 and became only the second Indian sportsperson to win the World Games Athlete of the Year in 2021. Additionally, he secured back-to-back FIH Goalkeeper of the Year awards in 2021 and 2022.
A Journey of Dedication and Excellence
Sreejesh’s journey began in the small village of Kizhakkambalam in Kerala. His rise from a humble background to the pinnacle of international hockey is a story of relentless dedication and passion. Starting as a track and field athlete, he switched to hockey at a young age, displaying a natural talent that quickly set him apart.
His big break came at the 2010 World Cup, where he made his debut for the Indian team. Over the years, Sreejesh became known for his agility, quick reflexes, and an uncanny ability to read the game, earning him the nickname “The Wall” of Indian hockey. His leadership on and off the field has been invaluable, often guiding the team through challenging matches with his experience and composure.
Reflecting on an Illustrious Career
As Sreejesh prepares for his final stand in Paris, he reflects on his career with a mix of pride and gratitude. “As I prepare for my last dance in Paris, I look back with immense pride and forward with hope. This journey has been nothing short of extraordinary, and I am forever grateful for the love and support from my family, teammates, coaches, fans, and Hockey India. Thank you for believing in me,” he said.
His decision to retire after the Paris Olympics was a well-considered one, discussed extensively with his team. “My teammates have stood beside me through the tough and the ardent times. We all want to give our absolute best here in Paris and certainly, the desire is to change the color of our medal,” he added.
Tributes and Reflections
Sreejesh’s announcement has elicited an outpouring of tributes from the hockey fraternity and beyond. Hockey India President Dilip Tirkey, who witnessed Sreejesh’s early days, reminisced about the young talent he saw years ago. “Sreejesh was hardly 18 or 19-years-old when I first saw him in the Indian camp, and if I recall right, he made his international debut when I was captaining the Indian team. He is a very special player, and my heart fills with joy and gratitude for his exemplary contribution to Indian hockey. This outing in Paris will certainly be a special one for the team, and I believe Sreejesh’s decision will only encourage the team further to stand on the podium yet again and make it truly special not just for Sreejesh but for the entire hockey fraternity. I wish him and the team the very best,” said Tirkey.
Echoing similar sentiments, Hockey India Secretary General Bhola Nath Singh hailed Sreejesh as a legend and an inspiration to the nation. “Sreejesh is a legend, an inspiration to the entire nation, and I congratulate him on a fantastic career studded with several laurels that have brought honor and pride to the nation. Hockey India respects his decision to retire after the Paris Olympic Games, making this a truly special tournament not just for the team but also for Indian hockey fans. I wish him and the team the best in their campaign,” Singh stated.
The Team’s Response: “Win it for Sreejesh”
The announcement of Sreejesh’s retirement has ignited a renewed sense of purpose within the Indian men’s hockey team. Captain Harmanpreet Singh affirmed the team’s commitment to making Paris 2024 a memorable tournament. “Paris 2024 will indeed be a special tournament. We have decided to dedicate our campaign to the legend PR Sreejesh. He has been an inspiration for all of us, and I still remember his mentorship in the 2016 Junior World Cup when we lifted the title. It was the beginning of many of our careers in international hockey, and he has shaped each one of our careers in his own way. We want to ‘Win it for Sreejesh,’ and we are all the more encouraged to stand on the podium once again,” said Harmanpreet.
Sreejesh’s Impact on Indian Hockey
PR Sreejesh’s impact on Indian hockey extends beyond his individual accolades. His presence in the team has been a source of strength and confidence for his teammates. His journey from a young boy in Kerala to a global hockey icon has inspired countless young athletes across India.
Sreejesh’s commitment to fitness and continuous improvement has set a benchmark for aspiring goalkeepers. His rigorous training routines, mental fortitude, and strategic understanding of the game have made him a role model. As a senior player, he has often taken younger players under his wing, providing guidance and mentorship that have been crucial in their development.
Looking Ahead to Paris 2024
As the Indian men’s hockey team gears up for Paris 2024, Sreejesh’s farewell campaign adds an emotional and motivational dimension to their preparations. The team’s unity and determination to honor their veteran goalkeeper’s legacy are palpable.
The road to Paris will be challenging, with rigorous training camps, international fixtures, and strategic planning. However, the team’s resolve to give their best for Sreejesh will drive them to push boundaries and strive for excellence.
Sreejesh’s Legacy
PR Sreejesh’s legacy in Indian hockey is profound. His journey is a testament to hard work, resilience, and unwavering dedication. He has not only excelled as a goalkeeper but has also been a true ambassador of the sport, representing India with pride on the global stage.
As he prepares to bid farewell to international hockey, Sreejesh leaves behind a rich legacy of inspiration. His story will continue to motivate future generations of hockey players, reminding them that with determination and perseverance, dreams can indeed become reality.
The Paris 2024 Olympic Games will be a bittersweet moment for Indian hockey. While it marks the end of an era with PR Sreejesh’s retirement, it also presents an opportunity for the team to create a memorable chapter in their history. The “Win it for Sreejesh” campaign embodies the spirit of camaraderie and respect within the team, highlighting the profound impact Sreejesh has had on his teammates and the sport.
As fans and well-wishers, we join the Indian men’s hockey team in their quest to make Paris 2024 a fitting farewell for PR Sreejesh. His contributions to Indian hockey are immeasurable, and his legacy will continue to inspire and uplift the sport for years to come
