Former Kerala State hockey player A.V. Rajagopal, fondly known as the “Father of Alappuzha Hockey,” passed away in Alappuzha on Thursday at the age of 73.
Rajagopal’s journey in hockey began in Chennai, where he picked up the sport in the St. Thomas Mount area. He went on to represent Kerala in three senior Nationals in the late 1960s, playing as a left half-back.
After his playing career, Rajagopal dedicated himself to promoting hockey in Alappuzha. At a time when the sport was dominated by people from Gujarat, Rajagopal played a pivotal role in introducing hockey to the local community.
His efforts bore fruit as Alappuzha emerged as a hockey powerhouse in Kerala. Rajagopal’s brother, A.V. Suresh, also a former State hockey player, recalls his brother’s unwavering commitment to the sport.
“He was the one who introduced hockey among the local people and developed Alappuzha hockey,” Suresh said. “He was a great coach and mentor, and he inspired many young players to take up the sport.”
Rajagopal’s legacy extends beyond his contributions to Alappuzha hockey. He was a respected figure in the Kerala hockey community, known for his passion, dedication, and unwavering belief in the power of sports to transform lives.
His passing has left a void in the Kerala hockey fraternity, and his memory will continue to inspire generations of players to come.
