In the dynamic realm of international hockey, where every match is a spectacle of skill, teamwork, and unyielding dedication, Savita Punia has etched her name as a stalwart goalkeeper, guarding not just the net but also the aspirations of a nation. This narrative unravels the layers of her journey – the triumphs, the trials, and the indomitable spirit that defines her career.
Rising from the Roots
Hailing from the rustic village of Jodhka in Haryana, Savita’s journey into hockey was not just personal; it was the fulfilment of her grandfather’s dreams. “No one from my family was in hockey, but my grandfather Mahender Singh was a big fan. He wanted me to make a career in hockey,” she reveals. Despite the challenges of juggling school studies and relentless practice, Savita remained steadfast in her commitment to becoming the team’s goalkeeper.
Enrolling in hockey presented a formidable challenge, juggling the demands of rigorous practice and academic studies.
“Early in my career, I resolved to embrace the role of a goalkeeper. The decision was influenced by my government school’s prominence in hockey, where unwavering support flowed from both administrative staff and fellow classmates,” she said.
Family support amidst criticisms
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Esta historia es de la edición February 2024 de Sports Champ.
Comience su prueba gratuita de Magzter GOLD de 7 días para acceder a miles de historias premium seleccionadas y a más de 9,000 revistas y periódicos.
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ICONIC STADIUM
From the ancient grandeur of the Roman Colosseum to the cuttingedge design of Beijing's Bird's Nest, stadiums around the world hold rich histories and enduring legacies. These structures not only host epic events but also reflect the cultural, political, and architectural advancements of their eras.
JUNIOR TALENT RARELY GUARANTEES ELITE SUCCESS
Dr Tania Cassidy, is a professor of sports coaching at the School of Physical Education, Sport, and Exercise Sciences at the University of Otago, New Zealand. Her research focus is pedagogy, and she uses educational theories to explore the interconnections between coach, athlete, content, and context. During the Sports Champ Talk Show with Chief Editor Bhushan Thakur, she spoke about talent identification, luck factors, and the early and later bloomers in sports. Excerpts:
PURVA EYES GLOBAL SUCCESS
With over 50 medals to her name, including the prestigious Shiv Chhatrapati Award, Purva Kinare shares her journey in Yoga and her hopes for representing India in future international competitions.
Ayush Shukla eyes Olympic dream
After claiming India’s first-ever bronze in the World Junior Taekwondo Championship, 17-year-old Ayush Shukla from Ahmedabad is now looking ahead to bigger challenges, with the ultimate goal of qualifying for the Olympics.
SCALING HEIGHTS
Shreya Nankar, a 22-year-old from Pune, has excelled in wall climbing and academics, earning over 40 medals in national competitions while pursuing her master’s degree at Arizona University, USA. Recently honoured with the Shiv Chhatrapati Award, she continues to inspire with her exceptional achievements.
Channelise your energy in the proper manner
Tell us about your childhood and liking for sports at an early age
India's fabulous fifth
India secured their fifth Asian Champions Trophy Hockey title with a 1-0 win over China, extending their record in the prestigious tournament. Jugraj Singh's crucial goal brought home the victory, while captain Harmanpreet Singh led the team to their sixth overall title, capping off a dominant campaign.
WINNING TOGETHER
Dr Deepa Malik, former president of the Paralympic Committee of India and a silver medall at the Paralympic Games underscores the pivotal role of collective efforts, meticulous plannin talent discovery, and international exposure in India's remarkable performance at the Pa Paralympics.
KAPIL'S BRONZE BLITZ
Triumph Amidst The Roar
MAKING OF A CHAMPION
Becoming an Olympic gold medallist is no easy feat. For coaches, the process is a long and arduous journey that demands immense dedication, perseverance, and skill.
