Dec 20, 2023
Hurdles and Victories: Hardik’s Resilient Path to Glory!
In an inspiring tribute to unwavering dedication, Hardik Singh, the dynamic vice-captain of the Indian men’s hockey team, reflects on the FIH Player of the Year award as a profound acknowledgment of years devoted to “hard work and perseverance” in his beloved sport. Joining the illustrious ranks of Manpreet Singh (2019) and Harmanpreet Singh (2020-21, 2021-22), Hardik’s recent triumph solidifies his legacy in Indian hockey.
Expressing gratitude for the prestigious honor, Hardik shares, “It’s an absolute privilege to be recognized with this esteemed award. My heartfelt thanks go out to my teammates, coaches, and supporters – the true pillars of my success. This recognition reignites my determination to continually contribute my very best to the sport I hold dear.”
Delving into the hurdles and victories of his extraordinary journey, Hardik emphasizes the paramount importance of hard work, unwavering perseverance, and the unwavering support of his dedicated team. His path to this significant accolade included a triumphant return after a hamstring injury sidelined him during the gripping 2023 World Cup, co-hosted by Bhubaneswar and Rourkela.
This accolade marks the second significant recognition for the 25-year-old player in 2022, adding to his list of achievements that includes the prestigious Hockey India Balbir Singh Sr Award for Player of the Year. Boasting an impressive record of 114 caps, Hardik played a pivotal role in India’s historic bronze medal at the Tokyo Olympics, along with clinching gold medals in the Asian Champions Trophy 2023 and the Asian Games.
Hardik’s journey serves as a testament to the indomitable spirit of an athlete, illustrating that determination, resilience, and a united team can pave the way for extraordinary accomplishments. As he embraces the honor of the FIH Player of the Year Award, it becomes a symbol not only of individual brilliance but also of the collective strength propelling Indian hockey to unprecedented heights.
