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Last Updated:December 25, 2025, 20:56 IST
The initiative serves as a testament to the strength of Indian hockey as icons of the game played their part in shaping the course of the sport in the nation.

JSW Sports' Soorma Hockey Club's 'Sitaare Aur Soorma' initiative.
JSW Sports’ Soorma Hockey Club’s on-ground initiative ‘Sitaare Aur Soorma’ brought together legends, current stars and young academy players for an afternoon that celebrated both heritage and the future of the sport.
The initiative serves as a reminder that the strength of hockey in the nation lies not just in results, but in consistency as legends inspire stars, and stars shape the course of the sport in the nation.
The event at Ramchandra University Ground was a shared hockey experience, bringing together students, fans, media, and players, all united by the love of the game.
A highlight of the occasion was the unveiling of the Soorma Hockey Club’s new jersey, in the presence of both players and youngsters, symbolizing the connection between the club’s legacy and the future generation set to wear its colors.
As soon as the gates opened, the ground began to fill with young trainees and institute students, setting the tone for a day that was as much about inspiration as it was about hockey.
Structured hockey clinics led by Rani Rampal and Sardar Singh kicked off the action, with children training at three stations focused on attack, midfield, and defense. These interactive clinics had players pausing to explain movements, correct positioning, and encourage questions.
This was followed by a spirited 7-a-side exhibition match, played across four short quarters, featuring combinations of Soorma Hockey Club’s men’s and women’s teams alongside Indian hockey legends Vasudevan Baskaran and Mohammed Riaz. The format transcended generations and gender, with the energy on the field capturing the spirit of the occasion.
One of the most moving moments of the evening was the legend felicitation, where stalwarts of Indian hockey were welcomed onto the field and honored in front of the next generation. As the legends stood shoulder to shoulder with current players during the Soorma Hockey Club jersey reveal, the symbolism of continuity, respect, and shared ownership of the sport was clear.
“For me, what’s most important is that the team always comes first. We have big names and a lot of talent. The focus is on building something together, on and off the field, and playing as one unit," Philippe Goldberg, Head Coach of Soorma Hockey Club said.
“If we do that, the results and the joy of the game will follow, and we can inspire young kids in India through the way we play," he added.
“The overseas players have felt very welcome and have embraced Indian culture, which has been great to see," Jude Menezes, Head Coach, Soorma Hockey Club, Women’s team added.
“The girls are fit, prepared, and know their hockey well. Now it’s about spending more time together and building strong on-field connections," Menezes concluded.
First Published:
December 25, 2025, 20:56 IST
News sports hockey 'Sitaare Aur Soorma' Brings Together Stars Of Past, Present And Future As Soorma HC Unveil New Drip
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