Maharashtra Hockey to host the inaugural Junior National Championship 2011
In a bid to encourage the youngsters to showcase their talent, Maharashtra Hockey under the aegis of Hockey India (HI) decided to host the maiden edition of the Junior National Hockey Championship, at the Shiv Chattrapati Shivaji Sports Complex, in Pune,
India, from December 10 to 21.
It is vital to mention here that Pune produced four Olympians who played a vital role in earning titles for the country. These names are Vikram Pillay, Dhanraj Pillay, Joe Phillips and Baburao Nimal.
Maharashtra Hockey President, Rekha Bhide, termed it a great opportunity to promote the national game at the junior level.
She observed, “Pune has been a front runner in taking initiatives in hosting events. As president of Maharashtra Hockey I will ensure that there will be no stone left upturned in making this championship an event to remember”.
Honorary General Secretary Maharashtra Hockey, Commander Kehar Singh VSM IN (Retd), was of the opinion that they will show their real competency in organising tournaments of high importance.
He further stated that the event will be a great source of inspiration for youngsters, particularly from Pune.
Unfortunately, no proper selection criterion was adopted at the junior level in the past. The revival of hockey at the junior stage surely will provide the impetus to promote the sport at the grass-root level.
A total of 26 teams, comprised of 520 players, will display their performances in the significant tournament.
Although the standard of the game at the national level improved since Hockey India took the reins of the sport, no major steps were taken to upgrade the quality of junior hockey in the country.
Thus the restoration of Junior Hockey Championship will be a positive omen in hunting and highlighting the hidden talent of youngsters.
HI Joint Secretary, Manoj Bhore, also spoke with the media on the occasion and offered thanks to Hockey India for selecting Pune for such a great tournament. It is vital to mention here that he also serves as Treasurer to the Maharashtra Hockey.
He asserted, “The Junior National will provide the right platform for Hockey India to have a look at the talent that exists in the country”.
Without any doubt, the Junior Hockey Championship will serve enormously in raising the standard of the sport at the grass-root level.
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