Hockey has bright future, player vouches

Raghunath said “all sports are equally important. It is not right to neglect hockey by comparing it with cricket. One can achieve success even in hockey.”

“Indian team is a new team, which was nurtured by Australia’s Michael Jack Nab. Michael Jack is also responsible for our victory. If we continue our efforts, then we will win even in the Olympics which will be held in London,” the player said. Earlier District Administration, Zilla Panchayat and Department of Youth Service and Sports felicitated the budding players.

Speaking on the occasion, Assembly Speaker K G Bopaiah said the sports talents have brought laurels to the state and the district.

“Kodagu is known for its bravery and sports talents from time immemorial. To encourage hockey, the state government has decided to lay astro turf hockey stadium in three taluks.”

“Accordingly, the work has already commenced. The swimming pool in Madikeri will be repaired,” he added.

Zilla Panchayat President Shantheyanda Ravi Kushalappa, Vice-President H M Kaveri, Zilla Panchayat standing commuttee president Kanthi Belliappa, members S N Rajarao, Biddanda Usha Devaiah, Deputy Commissioner Dr N V Prasad, CEP N Krishnappa, SP Manjunath Annigeri and others were present during the occasion.