Hockey is rapidly gaining popularity among youngsters in Kashmir, thanks to the joint efforts of the J&K Sports Council and senior hockey players. This initiative aims to encourage toddlers to play hockey, helping them attain professional skills to represent the Union Territory (UT) and the country on national and international platforms.
The training program under this initiative will start on Sunday, May 19, 2024, and will continue every Sunday from 9:30 am to 10:30 am. Recognizing the need for modern facilities, the J&K Sports Council has set up three new Astroturf hockey fields—one in Pulwama and two in Srinagar, providing an excellent environment for young players to practice and hone their skills.
Despite challenges like extreme weather conditions, the J&K Sports Council has successfully organized tournaments across different age categories in various districts. The council has also introduced league tournament matches, elevating the status of hockey in J&K, and has implemented basic hockey skills programs for toddlers.
Nuzhat Gul, Secretary of the J&K Sports Council, expressed optimism about the future of hockey in the UT. She emphasized the importance of nurturing young talent and creating a strong foundation for the sport. She also mentioned that the toddler hockey workshop would strengthen the foundation of hockey and would be replicated in other districts of J&K.
