Interviewer (Vishal M): Hey there, sports enthusiasts! Today, we’ve got a special treat for you. We’re sitting down with the man, the legend, Captain Bollepanda Kariappa (Retd.), a true icon of Indian hockey. Captain Kariappa, thank you for joining us today. Let’s dive right into your incredible journey.
Captain Kariappa: Thank you, Vishal. It’s a pleasure to be here.
Vishal M: Captain, your story is one of inspiration. Could you take us back to those early days when you first fell in love with hockey?
Captain Kariappa: Ah, the memories! I grew up in the Coorg region of Karnataka, a place where hockey runs in our veins. I can’t even remember when I started playing; it was just a part of my life. But things really kicked off when I was with the St. Anne’s school and we started playing in a place called Chickpet, Virajpet and further, I joined the Cauvery College hockey team.
Vishal M: And then came that crucial moment when you caught the eye of Col. AE Ganapathy. Could you share that experience with us?
Captain Kariappa: Oh, absolutely! Col. Ganapathy was on a talent hunt in Coorg, and I was among the lucky 20 players he selected. We were on our way to becoming part of the invincible ASC Jalandhar hockey team. That’s when my real hockey journey began.
Vishal M: Your list of achievements on the domestic front is awe-inspiring. Tell us, what was it like to represent ASC Jalandhar, a team known as the ‘Undefeatable Hockey team of the Defence Sector’?
Captain Kariappa: Representing ASC Jalandhar was a dream come true. We were a force to be reckoned with, and our victories in tournaments like the K D Singh Babu Memorial, Beighton Cup, and Indira Gandhi Memorial were unforgettable moments in my career.
Vishal M: Speaking of tournaments, could you share some of your most memorable matches and victories during your playing days?
Captain Kariappa: Absolutely, Vishal. Those matches were the stuff of legends. We triumphed in tournaments like the K D Singh Babu Memorial, Beighton Cup, and so many more. The thrill of representing our team and winning those tournaments is something I’ll always cherish.
Vishal M: And then, in 2003, you decided to transition into coaching. Can you walk us through that decision and your coaching journey?
Captain Kariappa: Coaching was a calling I couldn’t resist. I took up a Diploma in Hockey Coaching at NIS Patiala in 2004, and from there, I never looked back. Over the years, I added more feathers to my coaching cap with various courses, including becoming an FIH Coach Educator.
Vishal M: Your coaching career has been remarkable, working with both senior and junior teams. Can you share some of your proudest coaching moments?
Captain Kariappa: There have been so many memorable moments. Winning the Sultan Johor Cup with the junior team and the Asian Champions Trophy with the senior team were definitely highlights. And let’s not forget the recent bronze at the Hero Asia Cup Men’s Championship in 2022 – another proud moment for Indian hockey.
Vishal M: Captain Kariappa, could you provide us with a summary of your coaching achievements during your tenure with these teams?
Captain Kariappa: Certainly, Vishal. My coaching journey has been a thrilling ride. As the coach of the Senior Men’s Indian Hockey Team, we had some remarkable moments, including winning the India – South Africa Test Series in 2012 and securing a silver medal at the Champions Challenge Cup in Johannesburg in 2011. We also clinched a bronze at the Hero Asia Cup Men’s Championship in 2022, which was a proud moment for the team.
As for the Junior Men’s Indian Hockey Team, we achieved gold at the 3rd Sultan Johor Cup in 2013 and struck gold again at the 4th Sultan Johor Cup in 2014. Our journey also included a silver medal at the Youth Olympics in 2018 and a fourth-place finish at the Junior Men’s World Cup in 2022. These young talents showed immense promise, and I’m proud to have been a part of their growth.
Vishal M: Indeed, your contribution as a coach has been remarkable. Can you tell us about your role in shaping the Indian hockey team during your tenure from 2011 to 2022?
Captain Kariappa: It was a privilege to be a part of the Indian hockey coaching setup during those years. I worked tirelessly with both senior and junior teams to instill skills, tactics, and a winning mindset. I believe our journey together has contributed to the growth of Indian hockey on the international stage.
Vishal M: Your passion for hockey is truly inspiring, Captain. To wrap up, what’s your message for aspiring athletes and parents?
Captain Kariappa: To all the parents and young talents out there, remember that hockey is in our blood as Indians. It’s more than just a game; it’s a journey that makes you a better person, a team player, and a leader when needed. India offers immense opportunities in sports and fitness, so make sports and fitness a part of your life!
Vishal M: Well, there you have it, folks! Captain Bollepanda Kariappa (Retd.), a true embodiment of passion, dedication, and perseverance. Thank you for sharing your incredible journey with us today, Captain. Your story is an inspiration to us all.
Captain Kariappa: It’s been my pleasure, Vishal. Keep supporting Indian hockey, and let’s continue to grow the sport we love. https://www.sportiwe.com/
