AI Generated Summary
- In what has become one of Punjab’s most promising grassroots sports initiatives, the Surjit Hockey Academy is scripting a remarkable story of revival, resilience, and hope—one that is transforming the region’s hockey landscape, one child at a time.
- But the Surjit Hockey Academy is more than just a sports school—it’s a mission to reclaim Punjab’s historic love affair with hockey and steer young lives toward discipline, health and opportunity.
- His values of commitment, discipline, and excellence are reflected not only in the curriculum but also in the ethos of the academy.
At the historic Surjit Hockey Stadium in Jalandhar, whistles echo, hockey sticks clash, and the aspirations of over a hundred young players come alive every morning. In what has become one of Punjab’s most promising grassroots sports initiatives, the Surjit Hockey Academy is scripting a remarkable story of revival, resilience, and hope—one that is transforming the region’s hockey landscape, one child at a time.
Launched in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic with just ten enthusiastic participants, the academy has since flourished into a premier training hub. Now, during its annual summer coaching camp held throughout June, the grounds are bustling with children aged between five and eighteen, all united by a passion for hockey and dreams of donning the national jersey.
But the Surjit Hockey Academy is more than just a sports school—it’s a mission to reclaim Punjab’s historic love affair with hockey and steer young lives toward discipline, health and opportunity.
A Lineage of Legends
The academy draws its name and inspiration from the late Olympian Surjit Singh Randhawa—a name etched in India’s hockey legacy. His values of commitment, discipline, and excellence are reflected not only in the curriculum but also in the ethos of the academy.
Leading the charge is Olympian Rajinder Singh, a Dronacharya Awardee and one of India’s most respected hockey coaches. Backed by a seasoned panel including Davinder Singh, Yudhvir Singh Johny, Pardeep Kaur, Prof Balwinder Singh, Bindu, and Sita Devi, the coaching team brings a wealth of experience and dedication to the field. Notably, star Olympian Manpreet Singh also made a recent visit to the camp, motivating young athletes with words of inspiration and practical advice.
More Than Just Hockey
Training at Surjit Hockey Academy is offered completely free of cost. Every child receives hockey equipment, removing financial barriers for families and allowing talent to shine without restriction. Nutrition, a vital yet often overlooked element in sports development, is also taken care of, with the academy providing a simple yet effective dietary regimen—bananas, milk, and soaked almonds—ensuring players remain fit and focused.
But perhaps the academy’s most enduring gift to its trainees is not just technical skill or physical strength—it is character. “Our goal is not just to teach hockey, but to instill values, teamwork and ambition,” said Rajinder Singh.
Building a Brighter Future
Now directly affiliated with Hockey India, the academy has the distinction of sending its teams to national-level tournaments—a testament to the rising standards it upholds. However, the impact of the institution stretches well beyond medals and matches.
“We need to bring our children to the playgrounds,” said Iqbal Singh Sandhu, CEO of the Surjit Hockey Society. “Hockey builds discipline, team spirit and opens the door to a better future. It’s time for parents to take initiative and encourage their children to embrace sports.”
In a region often troubled by the shadow of substance abuse, the academy has become a safe haven, guiding children toward productive, goal-oriented lives. It stands as a powerful counter-narrative, showing how structured sport can combat social challenges.
A Vision in Motion
As the summer camp draws to a close on June 30, the energy pulsing through the stadium is palpable. Children sprint across the turf with dreams in their eyes, guided by coaches who believe in more than just the game. The Surjit Hockey Academy is not merely training players—it is nurturing future leaders, instilling pride, and renewing Punjab’s legacy as a hockey powerhouse.
In a world where distractions are many, this academy stands tall—a place where sticks and goals are shaping destinies.
