Indian hockey legend PR Sreejesh has brought his illustrious career to a close after a remarkable 18-year journey that saw him achieve two Olympic bronze medals. His dedication to the sport has been recognized with the retirement of his iconic No. 16 jersey from the national senior men’s team. This decision marks the end of an era for Indian hockey.
Sreejesh’s impact on Indian hockey extends beyond his impressive performance on the field. He has chosen to continue his involvement in the sport by stepping into a coaching role, serving as the mentor for the junior men’s hockey team. Sreejesh’s decision to become a coach is a testament to his commitment to nurturing young talent and ensuring the future of Indian hockey remains strong. He has drawn inspiration from the career path of legendary cricketer Rahul Dravid, who made his mark as a coach after a successful playing career, starting with India’s U-19 and A teams before leading the senior team.
Sreejesh has outlined his ambition to build a robust feeder system for the national team. He intends to follow a similar path as Dravid, starting with the juniors and guiding them through their development until they reach the senior team. This strategy, echoing Dravid’s success, aims to ensure a consistent stream of high-quality talent for the national team, strengthening the foundation of Indian hockey for years to come.
Sreejesh’s retirement marks the beginning of a new chapter in his journey. While he steps away from the field, his passion for hockey remains ablaze. The retirement of his jersey is a fitting tribute to a career marked by dedication, determination, and a desire to inspire future generations of athletes. His transition to coaching is a testament to his unwavering commitment to the sport, and his legacy will continue to resonate within Indian hockey for years to come.
