Haryana Governor Prof. Ashim Kumar Ghosh on Tuesday said that Chandigarh has been a cradle of sporting excellence, producing several outstanding athletes who have brought glory to the country. Expressing confidence in the potential of young hockey players, he said the future champions of Indian hockey are among today's budding talents, who will carry forward the nation's rich sporting legacy and bring laurels to the region and the country.
The Governor was addressing the sports persons at the ‘Olympic Day’ celebrations organized by Hockey Chandigarh at the Hockey Stadium, Sector-42, Chandigarh. First Lady Smt. Mitra Ghosh was also present on the occasion.
The Governor called upon young players to play with passion, dedication and discipline, strive for excellence through perseverance and hard work, and uphold the highest ideals of sportsmanship. He urged them to bring pride and glory not only to their families but also to their cities, states and the nation through their outstanding performances and achievements.
Describing sports as one of the greatest teachers in life, the Governor said that when a person steps onto a field—be it a hockey pitch, an athletics track, or a boxing ring—he or she learns lessons that no classroom can fully impart. “You learn discipline, the kind that wakes you up before dawn.
You learn resilience, the kind that makes you rise every time you fall. You learn humility in victory and courage in defeat. These are lessons for life,” he remarked.Highlighting the significance of hockey, Prof. Ashim Kumar Ghosh said that the sport holds a very special place in the heart of the nation.
As India’s national sport and a game played with passion for over a century, hockey has gifted the country historic achievements and unforgettable moments that continue to inspire generations of young players. He said that the recent resurgence of Indian hockey on the world stage is a shining example of what dedication and teamwork can achieve.
Addressing the players, the Governor said that they live in an era of immense opportunities as well as intense competition. “Sport will give you not only medals, but character. It will teach you to set goals and pursue them relentlessly, to be part of a team, to respect your opponent, and to never stop improving,” he said.Earlier, the Governor interacted with the participating teams and witnessed the hockey match. He also distributed prizes to the winning and participating teams.
Dr. Chander Shekhar, Chief Patron, Hockey Chandigarh, Sqn. Ldr. P. Bharat, ADC to Governor, Sh. Karan Gilhotra, President, Hockey Chandigarh, Dr. Pushvinderjit Singh, Senior Vice President, Hockey Chandigarh, Sh. Anil Vohra, Vice President, Hockey Chandigarh and others were also present on this occasion.