PR Sreejesh, a name synonymous with Indian hockey’s golden era, has traded his goalkeeper’s pads for a coach’s whistle. The legendary Olympian, who brought home a bronze medal from the Paris 2024 Olympics, has retired from playing but not from the sport he loves. He has taken on a new, crucial role: head coach of the Indian junior men’s hockey team.
Sreejesh’s vision is clear: to build a strong foundation for the next generation of hockey players. His first target is the upcoming Junior World Cup, a stepping stone to the ultimate goal – the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles and the 2032 Olympics in Brisbane. “I want to make sure their base is strong, so they build from there and reach the top level,” Sreejesh said, highlighting his commitment to nurturing young talent.
Beyond coaching the junior team, Sreejesh has also been appointed as the mentor and Director of Hockey for the Delhi franchise in the Hockey India League (HIL). The league, returning after a seven-year hiatus, offers a fantastic platform for young players to showcase their skills and gain invaluable experience.
“HIL is a great platform, especially for youngsters to come up and showcase their talent. It’s the easiest shortcut to get into the national team,” Sreejesh explained. He emphasized the league’s ability to provide a valuable learning environment where young players can develop their leadership skills and learn to handle pressure in front of large crowds.
Sreejesh, known for his dedication and passion for the sport, has chosen to step away from playing at the peak of his career, but not before leaving a lasting legacy. He believes this is the right time to transition into a new chapter, mentoring and guiding the next generation of Indian hockey players.
His commitment to coaching extends beyond the field. Sreejesh is eager to further his coaching education, embracing continuous learning to stay at the top of his game. “When it comes to coaching, you should always be learning,” he says, demonstrating his unwavering dedication to developing the next generation of Indian hockey stars.
With his wealth of experience and his unwavering commitment to the sport, Sreejesh is poised to make a significant impact on the future of Indian hockey. As he guides young players towards their dreams, his legacy will continue to inspire generations of hockey players.
