AI Generated Summary
- Manpreet Singh’s return to the turf where his hockey journey began turned into an emotional homecoming as the Indian star was felicitated by Hockey Punjab and the Mithapur Hockey Academy following his achievement of becoming the country’s most-capped men’s hockey player.
- It was a celebration of a hometown hero whose journey from a village hockey ground to the international stage continues to inspire a new generation of players dreaming of wearing the Indian jersey.
- The Mithapur Astroturf Hockey Stadium in Jalandhar wore a festive look as hundreds of fans, former coaches, budding players and residents gathered to honour the Olympian, who recently completed 413 international appearances for India.
Manpreet Singh’s return to the turf where his hockey journey began turned into an emotional homecoming as the Indian star was felicitated by Hockey Punjab and the Mithapur Hockey Academy following his achievement of becoming the country’s most-capped men’s hockey player.
The Mithapur Astroturf Hockey Stadium in Jalandhar wore a festive look as hundreds of fans, former coaches, budding players and residents gathered to honour the Olympian, who recently completed 413 international appearances for India. Accompanying him were his mother Manjit Kaur, wife Illi Saddique, and daughters Jasmine (4) and Avelyn (1), with the family receiving an equally warm welcome as admirers showered them with garlands and applause.
While the occasion celebrated a remarkable sporting milestone, it also reflected the family’s years of perseverance behind Manpreet’s rise to the pinnacle of Indian hockey. The presence of his mother, wife and young daughter added an emotional touch to the ceremony, drawing heartfelt appreciation from those in attendance.
For the young trainees at the Mithapur Hockey Academy, the event carried special significance. Many of them practise daily on the same ground where Manpreet first developed his game before representing India on the international stage. Several aspiring players said his journey had strengthened their belief that dedication and hard work could one day earn them a place in the national team.
Addressing the gathering, the former Indian captain thanked Hockey Punjab, the academy and the people of Mithapur for the grand reception. He urged youngsters to stay away from drugs and channel their energy into sports, describing hockey as a powerful avenue for discipline and personal growth.
Looking ahead, Manpreet expressed confidence in the Indian team’s preparations for a packed international calendar, including the upcoming FIH Hockey World Cup, Asian Champions Trophy, Asian Games and the 2028 Olympic Games. He said the squad remained focused on achieving its long-standing objective of winning an Olympic gold medal.
Hockey Punjab president Nitin Kohli hailed Manpreet’s record as a landmark achievement for Indian hockey, saying his 413 international appearances had set a new benchmark while bringing immense pride to Punjab and the nation. He described the veteran midfielder as an inspiration for young athletes and expressed hope that he would continue to serve India for many more matches.
Mithapur Hockey Academy coach Kuldeep Singh called the felicitation a historic moment for the village, saying the celebrations reflected the community’s pride in one of its own.
For the people of Mithapur, the ceremony was not merely about recognising a record. It was a celebration of a hometown hero whose journey from a village hockey ground to the international stage continues to inspire a new generation of players dreaming of wearing the Indian jersey.
