Wishlist0
0
Continue Shopping

 +91 91155 12977

Home / Tagged "Hockey" (Page 9)

Tag: Hockey

Kodava Hockey Festival: A Month-Long Celebration of Unity and Sportsmanship

Kodava Hockey Festival: A Month-Long Celebration of Unity and Sportsmanship

By April 13, 2024 0

Kodava Hockey Festival: A Month-Long Celebration of Unity and Sportsmanship

Nestled amidst the picturesque hills of Kodagu, Karnataka, the Kodava Hockey Festival is a month-long extravaganza that brings together around 300 Kodava families for a unique blend of hockey, tradition, and camaraderie.

The festival was conceived by Pandanda Kuttappa, a retired banker, who sought to foster unity among the Kodava community. Recognizing the power of sport, he introduced the hockey tournament in 1997 with just 60 teams. Today, it has grown exponentially to include 360 teams, showcasing the passion and skill of Kodava hockey players.

The festival is not merely a sporting event; it is a celebration of Kodava heritage. The families gather in traditional attire, sharing meals and stories, and participating in cultural activities. The tournament fosters a sense of belonging and strengthens the bonds within the community.

For the younger generation, the festival is an opportunity to connect with their roots and learn about the importance of sportsmanship. Many young players have gone on to represent Kodagu and India at the national and international levels.

The organizers are constantly striving to enhance the festival experience. They plan to introduce new categories, such as women’s hockey and youth tournaments, to encourage wider participation. They also aim to improve the infrastructure and facilities to accommodate the growing number of teams and spectators.

The Kodava Hockey Festival is a testament to the power of sport to unite communities and preserve traditions. It is a celebration of Kodava culture, a showcase of hockey talent, and a reminder of the importance of sportsmanship and camaraderie.

Categories: Others
Read more
India's Hockey Woes Continue with Fourth Consecutive Defeat in Australia

India’s Hockey Woes Continue with Fourth Consecutive Defeat in Australia

By April 12, 2024 0

India’s dismal performance in Australia continued as they suffered a 1-3 defeat in the fourth Test of the five-match men’s hockey series. Despite an improved display, the Kookaburras proved too strong, securing their fourth consecutive victory.

The match, delayed by lightning, saw all four goals scored from penalty corners. India took the lead through skipper Harmanpreet Singh in the 12th minute, but Jeremy Hayward’s brace (19th, 47th) and Jack Welch’s strike (54th) handed Australia another win.

India had been decimated 1-5 in the opening Test and lost the second and third Tests 2-4 and 1-2 respectively. However, they showed signs of improvement in the fourth Test, matching Australia in the first quarter.

Mandeep Singh had an early chance for India, but his shot was saved by the Australian goalkeeper. The Kookaburras responded with back-to-back penalty corners, but veteran goalkeeper PR Sreejesh made twin saves to deny them.

India used the midfield more effectively than in previous games, building attacks with fine ball transfer. They secured their first penalty corner in the 10th minute, but Jugraj Singh failed to convert.

Australia earned their third and fourth penalty corners, but the Indians defended stoutly. India took the lead when Harmanpreet converted their second penalty corner with a low and hard flick.

The Kookaburras responded quickly, with Hayward converting their fifth penalty corner. Rajkumar Pal’s reverse hit hit the post for India, and Australia secured their sixth penalty corner, but reserve goalkeeper Suraj Karkera made a brilliant save.

The second half saw India secure another penalty corner, but Harmanpreet failed to breach the Australian defense. Australia earned back-to-back penalty corners in the final quarter, with Hayward converting the second.

The hosts kept up the pressure, securing two more penalty corners but failing to utilize them. Welch scored Australia’s third goal from another penalty corner six minutes later.

India had chances in the form of three penalty corners in the last four minutes but wasted the opportunities. The final Test of the series will be played on Saturday.

Categories: Others
Read more
India Loses Closely-Fought Hockey Match to Australia in Perth

India Loses Closely-Fought Hockey Match to Australia in Perth

By April 10, 2024 0

The Indian men’s hockey team faced a narrow 1-2 defeat against Australia in the third match of their five-match Test series in Perth. Despite a valiant effort, India’s lone goal by Jugraj Singh (41′) was overshadowed by Jeremy Hayward’s brace (44′, 49′) for the hosts.

India began the match with possession, while Australia opted for a counter-attacking strategy. Australia’s approach paid off as they earned the first penalty corner, but Indian goalkeeper PR Sreejesh’s exceptional reflexes kept the score level. Australia continued to press, earning three consecutive penalty corners in the 10th minute, but Sreejesh’s brilliance denied them again.

India responded with swift passing and penetrations into the Australian defense, earning a penalty corner of their own. However, they failed to capitalize on the opportunity. The opening quarter ended with both teams unable to break the deadlock.

Australia launched a relentless attack in the second quarter, but India’s resilient defense and Sreejesh’s performance thwarted their efforts. India intensified their offensive efforts, but neither team managed to score, leaving the score at 0-0 at halftime.

Australia earned an initial penalty corner in the third quarter, but failed to convert. India seized the opportunity to break the stalemate when Jugraj Singh unleashed a potent shot from a penalty corner, giving India the lead. However, Australia responded quickly with a penalty stroke converted by Jeremy Hayward, restoring parity.

Australia won back-to-back penalty corners early in the fourth quarter and this time they were finally able to convert one as Jeremy Hayward scored again through a powerful shot to put the hosts in lead. With the score in their favor, Australia put India under pressure, preventing them from finding the equalizer and winning the match 2-1.

Categories: Others
Read more
Indian Hockey Star Sreejesh and Chilean Defender Caram Appointed Co-Chairs of FIH Athletes Committee

Indian Hockey Star Sreejesh and Chilean Defender Caram Appointed Co-Chairs of FIH Athletes Committee

By March 28, 2024 0

Indian hockey star PR Sreejesh and Chilean defender Camila Caram have been appointed as co-chairs of the International Hockey Federation’s (FIH) newly established Athletes Committee. This appointment marks a significant step towards empowering athletes and ensuring their voices are heard in the decision-making process of the sport.

The FIH Athletes Committee serves as a consultative body, providing recommendations to the FIH Executive Board, committees, and other bodies. Its members are responsible for seeking and providing feedback on behalf of all athletes, developing resources and initiatives to support their well-being, and promoting the sport to attract new fans.

Sreejesh, the Indian goalkeeper who led his team to a historic bronze medal at the Tokyo Olympics, expressed his honor and responsibility in assuming this role. “Being part of the athletic committee itself is a great honor for me. Getting in as the co-chair is an added responsibility,” he said. “I’m looking forward to working with Camila and all the athletic committee members for the betterment of hockey players around the globe.”

Caram, a key member of the Chilean women’s hockey team, echoed Sreejesh’s sentiments. “Very happy and honored that my fellow colleagues voted me as Co-chair,” she said. “I will work hard to be the voice of the athletes and have always the channels open for communication.”

The appointment of Sreejesh and Caram as co-chairs reflects FIH’s commitment to the “Athletes First” approach enshrined in its “Empowerment and Engagement” strategy. FIH President Tayyab Ikram emphasized the importance of athlete involvement in shaping the future of hockey. “Athletes have always been at the center of all sporting endeavors of the FIH,” he said. “The Athletes Committee will play a crucial role in the execution of this vision, and I look forward to working closely with all our hockey athletes to safeguard the present and improve the future.”

In addition to Sreejesh and Caram, the FIH Athletes Committee includes several other prominent hockey players from around the world. Matt Swann (Australia), Catherine Fabiano (Argentina), Jacqueline Mwangi (Kenya), Mohamed Mea (South Africa), Juliani Mohamad Din (Malaysia), Marlena Rybacha (Poland), and Cesar Garcia (Mexico) will serve as regular members and representatives in various committees.

The establishment of the FIH Athletes Committee is a testament to the growing recognition of the importance of athlete voices in sports governance. By empowering athletes to participate in decision-making, FIH aims to create a more inclusive and responsive organization that truly represents the interests of the hockey community.

Categories: Others
Read more
Hockey Embraces Dry Turfs for Sustainable Future

Hockey Embraces Dry Turfs for Sustainable Future

By March 27, 2024 0

Hockey is undergoing a significant transformation as the International Hockey Federation (FIH) transitions from water-based synthetic turfs to environmentally sustainable dry pitches. This shift aims to reduce the sport’s water consumption, which currently stands at approximately 6,000 liters per match.

The move towards dry turfs was prompted by the need to address the excessive water usage associated with hockey matches, particularly in water-stressed regions like India. Despite advancements in turf technology, the amount of water required to lubricate a hockey field remains substantial.

To ensure a seamless transition, FIH has established innovation standards for dry turfs, focusing on factors such as speed, gripping, bounce accuracy, and aerial ball performance. These standards aim to replicate the playing conditions of watered surfaces.

GreenFields, an FIH supplier, has developed a dry turf called Pure EP, which has been installed in the Netherlands. Additionally, dry turfs have been inaugurated in South Africa and Namibia. The recent FIH Hockey5s World Cup was played on a dry turf, providing valuable feedback on its performance in warm climates.

The transition to dry turfs requires adjustments in footwear and equipment. Players may need protective undergarments to prevent injuries when sliding on dry surfaces. Stick manufacturers may also need to incorporate coatings to reduce friction.

FIH is targeting the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics as a potential milestone for the widespread adoption of dry turfs. In India, where there are approximately 150 hockey turfs, the new technology is expected to gain traction due to its water-saving and cost-effective benefits.

Categories: Others
Read more
Savita Punia: Indian Women's Hockey Captain Grapples with Olympic Qualifiers Heartbreak

Savita Punia: Indian Women’s Hockey Captain Grapples with Olympic Qualifiers Heartbreak

By March 23, 2024 0

The Indian women’s hockey team’s failure to qualify for the Paris Olympics has left a profound impact on captain Savita Punia. The team’s fourth-place finish in Tokyo just three years ago had raised hopes, but the recent setback has shattered those dreams.

Punia, known as the “Great Wall” of Indian hockey, has been grappling with the disappointment. “Losing the Olympic qualifiers is such a bad moment that we will probably not be able to forget our entire life,” she said. “I haven’t been able to get over it yet.”

In the aftermath of the qualifiers, Punia sought solace in yoga and meditation. She also returned to the field quickly, competing in the FIH Pro League and the ongoing Nationals in Pune. “The good thing about sports is that you have to forget the past and move forward very quickly,” she explained.

Despite her efforts to move on, Punia admits that the pain of missing out on the Olympics lingers. “We were confident and well-prepared, but you cannot predict anything in sports,” she said. “We all did our best and our preparation was very good. It’s a lot about luck also.”

Punia’s husband has been a source of support during this difficult time. “He said that we could not change what happened but can look ahead and play as long as you want to play,” she said.

The Indian team will now focus on the upcoming Pro League matches in Belgium in May-June. Punia believes that a new core group will emerge after the Nationals, and she is prepared for the changes. “Now a new core group will be formed and some new players will also come,” she said. “The focus will be on fitness and drag flicks.”

Despite the disappointment of missing out on the Olympics, Punia remains committed to hockey. “Hockey is my passion and the more I stay away from the field, the more it will bother me,” she said.

Categories: Others
Read more
India Slips to Fourth in FIH Men's Hockey Rankings, Germany Moves Up

India Slips to Fourth in FIH Men’s Hockey Rankings, Germany Moves Up

By March 12, 2024 0

India’s men’s hockey team has slipped one spot to fourth in the latest FIH world rankings, while Germany has moved up to third place following their impressive performance at the FIH Hockey Olympic Qualifiers. India had already qualified for the Paris Olympics through an Asian Games gold last year and did not participate in the Olympic Qualifiers.

Germany, on the other hand, went unbeaten at the Olympic Qualifiers in Oman and followed that up with two wins and two draws against Argentina and a young Belgian side during the Santiago del Estero mini tournament in the FIH Pro League to surpass India.

Netherlands continues to sit at the top of the rankings, while Belgium holds on to second place. Australia has leapfrogged England into fifth place, while Argentina and Spain remain in seventh and eighth positions respectively.

In the Women’s Rankings, India is ranked ninth, while Netherlands remains clear of the chasing pack. Argentina and Germany have moved ahead of Australia into second and third places, while Australia is now fourth. Belgium has dropped a place to fifth, while England remains sixth. Spain has closed the gap to England thanks to a strong showing at the Olympic Qualifiers in Valencia, where they finished second to qualify for Paris.

The closely contested nature of international women’s hockey is evident, with less than 100 points separating England on sixth and India on ninth.

Categories: Others
Read more
NHL Weekend Roundup: Sabres, Panthers, Bruins, Rangers Triumph

NHL Weekend Roundup: Sabres, Panthers, Bruins, Rangers Triumph

By March 10, 2024 0

The NHL witnessed a thrilling weekend of action, with several teams making significant strides in the playoff race.

In Buffalo, the Sabres overcame a two-goal deficit to defeat the Edmonton Oilers 3-2 in a shootout. Alex Tuch scored the decisive goal, while Jacob Bryson tied the game late in the third period. Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen made 32 saves for Buffalo.

The Florida Panthers continued their dominance, defeating the Calgary Flames 5-1. Vladimir Tarasenko, acquired from Ottawa, scored his first two goals as a Panther. Aleksander Barkov, Sam Bennett, and Kevin Stenlund also found the net for Florida, who now have won 17 of their last 20 games.

The Boston Bruins extended their winning streak to four games with a 5-1 victory over the Pittsburgh Penguins. David Pastrnak reached 40 goals for the third consecutive season, while Pavel Zacha had two goals and an assist. Linus Ullmark made 38 saves for Boston.

The New York Rangers shut out the St. Louis Blues 4-0, with Igor Shesterkin making 26 saves for his 13th career shutout. Vincent Trocheck and Jimmy Vesey scored in the first period, while Chris Kreider and Kaapo Kakko added goals later.

The Carolina Hurricanes defeated the New Jersey Devils 4-2, with Jesperi Kotkaniemi scoring the game-winning goal in the third period. Pyotr Kochetkov made 24 saves for Carolina, who have now won eight of their last 11 games.

The Toronto Maple Leafs edged out the Montreal Canadiens 3-2, with John Tavares scoring the game-winning goal in the third period. Max Domi and Bobby McMann also scored for Toronto, while Ilya Samsonov made 29 saves.

The Nashville Predators extended their winning streak to 10 games with a 2-1 victory over the Columbus Blue Jackets. Luke Evangelista scored the game-winning goal in the third period, while Kevin Lankinen made 32 saves.

The Tampa Bay Lightning routed the Philadelphia Flyers 7-0, with defenseman Darren Raddysh recording five assists. Victor Hedman scored twice and added an assist, while Andrei Vasilevskiy made 25 saves for his second shutout of the season.

The Washington Capitals defeated the Chicago Blackhawks 4-1, with Tom Wilson scoring for the second consecutive game. Charlie Lindgren made 29 saves for Washington, who are now within striking distance of a wild-card spot in the Eastern Conference.

The San Jose Sharks snapped a nine-game losing streak with a 2-1 victory over the Ottawa Senators. Thomas Bordeleau scored two power-play goals, while Magnus Chrona made 31 saves for his first NHL win.

Categories: Others
Read more
Ovechkin Scores 840th Goal, Capitals Crush Penguins 6-0

Ovechkin Scores 840th Goal, Capitals Crush Penguins 6-0

By March 8, 2024 0

Alex Ovechkin’s relentless pursuit of hockey history continued on Thursday night as he scored his 840th career goal, propelling the Washington Capitals to a resounding 6-0 victory over the Pittsburgh Penguins. The Russian superstar’s milestone goal, coupled with an assist, elevated him past Hall of Famer Paul Coffey into 15th place on the NHL’s all-time scoring list.

Ovechkin’s 10th goal in his last 15 games brought him within 54 goals of Wayne Gretzky’s untouchable record of 894 career goals. The 38-year-old’s unwavering determination and exceptional scoring prowess continue to captivate the hockey world.

The Capitals’ triumph was a collective effort, with Tom Wilson contributing a short-handed goal and an assist. Nick Jensen, Sonny Milano, Hendrix Lapierre, and Ivan Miroshnichenko also found the back of the net for Washington, who are desperately clinging to their playoff hopes in the Eastern Conference.

Charlie Lindgren, filling in for the ailing Darcy Keumper, turned in a stellar performance, stopping all 39 shots he faced for his sixth career shutout. Tristan Jarry, on the other hand, endured a rough outing for the Penguins, allowing four goals on 22 shots before being pulled in the second period.

The Penguins’ loss further dampened their fading postseason aspirations, as they have now dropped four of their last five games. Sidney Crosby, the team’s captain and perennial superstar, was held without a point for the third consecutive game, marking the first such occurrence this season.

Pittsburgh’s struggles have prompted speculation that they may become sellers before Friday’s trade deadline, with star forward Jake Guentzel potentially on the move to division rival Carolina. The Penguins, the NHL’s oldest team, are looking to rejuvenate their roster and focus on the future, with this season appearing to be a lost cause.

The Penguins’ woes have been exacerbated by their abysmal power play, which ranks 28th in the league and has been prone to surrendering short-handed goals. Wilson’s early goal in the game marked the 10th time Pittsburgh has allowed a goal while on the power play this season, the third-highest total in the NHL.

Despite their struggles, the Penguins remain hopeful that they can turn things around and make a late push for the playoffs. However, with 21 games remaining in the regular season, time is running out for the once-mighty Penguins.

Categories: Others
Read more
Indian Hockey Team's Paris Olympics Schedule Unveiled

Indian Hockey Team’s Paris Olympics Schedule Unveiled

By March 6, 2024 0

India’s Hockey Odyssey at Paris Olympics: Schedule Unveiled

The Indian men’s hockey team’s path to glory at the Paris Olympics has been laid out, with the release of the official match schedule. The Tokyo Olympics bronze medallists will embark on their quest for a podium finish on July 27, facing New Zealand in their opening encounter.

India’s Pool B campaign will continue with a clash against Argentina on July 29, followed by a showdown with Ireland on July 30. The team will then face the formidable Belgium on August 1 and conclude their group stage against Australia on August 2.

Pool A features an equally competitive lineup, including the Netherlands, Spain, Germany, France, Great Britain, and South Africa. The top four teams from each pool will advance to the quarterfinals, scheduled for August 4. The semifinals will take place on August 6, setting the stage for the bronze-medal playoff and the grand finale on August 8.

The matches will be held at the Yves-du-Manoir Stadium in Colombes, a historic venue that has witnessed countless sporting triumphs. Belgium, the reigning Olympic champions, will be eager to defend their title, while India will be determined to improve upon their bronze medal performance in Tokyo.

The schedule announcement was made in the presence of International Olympic Committee chief Thomas Bach and FIH president Tayyab Ikram, underscoring the significance of the event. The Indian team will now have a clear roadmap as they prepare for the biggest stage in hockey.

Categories: Others
Read more
Main Menu
Home
Shop
Wishlist0
Back to Top

Search For Products

Product has been added to your cart