Hardik’s Parents Share Story Behind His Olympic Dream

News Desk

New Delhi: As the Paris 2024 Olympics draw near, Hockey India’s podcast “Hockey Te Charcha, Familia” offers a personal look into the lives of Indian hockey players through their families’ perspectives.

In the latest episode, Varinderpreet Singh Rai and Sonia Gill, the parents of Hardik Singh—vice-captain of the Indian Men’s Hockey Team—shared their heartfelt reflections on their son’s journey to becoming an international hockey star.

The Paris Olympics will run from July 26 to August 11, with India beginning their campaign in Pool B. Their schedule includes matches against New Zealand on July 27, Argentina on July 29, Ireland and Belgium on July 30 and August 1, and their final group-stage game against Australia on August 2.

Securing a top-four finish in their pool will advance India to the knockout stages.

Sonia Gill reminisced about Hardik’s early passion for hockey. “Hardik’s journey started at a young age,” she recounted with pride.

“His grandfather, a former hockey coach in the Indian Navy, played a key role in fostering his love for the sport. After his retirement, he coached local children in Khusnopur for free, and Hardik would join him, practicing tirelessly.

Even as a child, he’d skip meals to focus on hockey, hitting the ball against the wall for hours.”

Varinderpreet Singh Rai, a policeman, reflected on Hardik’s resilience. “Missing the 2016 Junior World Cup was a tough blow for him, but he didn’t let it deter him. His dedication and perseverance eventually earned him a spot on the senior team, and now he’s the vice-captain.”

Sonia also spoke about the challenges during the pandemic. “When Hardik was stranded in Bangalore and couldn’t come home, it was difficult for all of us. We stayed connected, and I supported him from afar, which tested our family’s strength.”

With the Paris Olympics approaching, Sonia expressed her mixed feelings of excitement and nervousness. “Watching Hardik compete in the Olympics is incredibly special. He’s the first in our family to participate in two Olympic Games, following his great-grandfather, who competed in the Moscow Olympics. We are very proud of this legacy.”

One touching moment was when Varinderpreet mentioned Hardik’s admiration for former Indian captain Sardar Singh. “Hardik wears the number 8 jersey with great pride. When Sardar Singh himself endorsed Hardik, it was a proud moment for our family.”

The episode also highlighted Hardik’s rigorous preparation for the Olympics. “The pressure is significant, but Hardik prepares with utmost care, both physically and mentally. His dedication and respect for the sport are evident in how he is regarded by his teammates and fans.”

As Hardik, the recipient of the Hockey India Balbir Singh Sr. Award for Player of the Year 2023, gears up for his second Olympic appearance, his parents’ reflections underscore the sacrifices and support that contribute to the success of national heroes.

“We are immensely proud of Hardik, not just for his on-field achievements, but for the person he is off the field. Seeing the community and fans celebrate him fills our family with immense joy,” they concluded.