The Hockey India league which had 2 seasons has brought new Indian talent to light. These youngsters have learnt a lot from the experienced international players. Hockey deemed as our national game by many people has gone to smaller venues, and created interest among the people of the states who can watch the matches live. There were 5 teams last year in 2013. In the year 2014, one new team was added. The names of these teams are UP wizards, Delhi Wave-Riders, Punjab Warriors, Ranchi Rhinos, Mumbai Magicians and Kalinga lancers.
Gains of HIL so far:
- By participating in the league the penalty corner conversation has also improved.
- Has created a competition among the Indian players and do their best.
- Indian players are picking up finer skills of the game.
- The Indian players got tips from the experienced international coaches.
The process: The members of Indian hockey team are provided with a chance for them to show their talent to the world and learn from experience players of the world. The likes of Manpreet Singh, Mandeep Singh, Kothjit Singh, Ragunath, are the main players in the tournament from India which can help the franchises to win this tournament. The Indian Hockey Federation must make sure that these Indian players can perform much better with international players. The Indian players must learn from the international players like Simon Child,(NewZeleand) Jamie Dawyer(Australia) and De Nooijer from Holland, and know their tricks how to play.
Role of the Media: This league was shown on TV in both languages that is Hindi and English can bring the interest back in the audience and if the crowds support the players it will help the players to perform better and earn more. The coach of India Terry Walsh said that this tournament is crucial that will help to select the team for future competition. There are popular film stars like John Ibrahim, supporting this league which will create a big morale for the Indian players. The young Indian players by showing their talent to the world can become mature and do a brilliant job for the Indian team at the highest level.
Challenges to address:
- More and more juniors must get a chance into the League.
- More celebrities involvement
- Government Of India sports Ministry’s support for infrastructure development
- Better management in Hockey Federation
- Crowd pulling tactics and mobilization efforts by local units
As an Indian I would love to see that Hockey gets the same respect and financially viable position in sports. The Sports Ministry and IHF must take care that this tournament gains popularity like the IPL and create a big pool of players to select to represent eh country at international level. The Hockey India league is a platform for the young players to show their talent and increase their range of play.