CHANDIGARH: Haryana Governor Prof. Ashim Kumar Ghosh on Tuesday hailed Chandigarh as a cradle of sporting excellence, noting that the city has produced numerous outstanding athletes who have brought immense glory to the country.
The Governor made these remarks while addressing sportspersons at the ‘Olympic Day’ celebrations organized by Hockey Chandigarh at the Hockey Stadium in Sector-42, Chandigarh. He was joined at the event by First Lady Smt. Mitra Ghosh.
Inspiring the Next Generation of Hockey Stars
Expressing his confidence in the potential of the young players present, the Governor stated that the future champions of Indian hockey are among today’s budding talents. He emphasized that these youths will carry forward the nation’s rich sporting legacy and bring laurels to both the region and the country.
He called upon the players to compete with passion, dedication, and discipline, urging them to uphold the highest ideals of sportsmanship. “Bring pride and glory not only to your families but also to your cities, states, and the nation through your outstanding performances,” he told the young athletes.
Highlighting the deep-rooted significance of the sport, Prof. Ghosh noted that hockey holds a very special place in the heart of the nation. As India’s national sport, it has provided historic achievements and unforgettable moments for over a century. He pointed out that the recent resurgence of Indian hockey on the world stage serves as a shining example of what dedication and teamwork can achieve.
Sports as the Greatest Teacher
Describing sports as one of life’s greatest teachers, the Governor remarked that stepping onto a field imparts lessons that no classroom can fully provide.
“You learn discipline, the kind that wakes you up before dawn. You learn resilience, the kind that makes you rise every time you fall. You learn humility in victory and courage in defeat. These are lessons for life,” Prof. Ghosh said.
Addressing the players, he added that they live in an era of immense opportunities as well as intense competition. “Sport will give you not only medals, but character. It will teach you to set goals and pursue them relentlessly, to be part of a team, to respect your opponent, and to never stop improving,” he emphasized.
Earlier in the event, the Governor interacted with the participating teams and witnessed a hockey match. He concluded his visit by distributing prizes to the winning and participating teams.
Prominent dignitaries present at the occasion included Dr. Chander Shekhar (Chief Patron, Hockey Chandigarh), Sqn. Ldr. P. Bharat (ADC to Governor), Sh. Karan Gilhotra (President, Hockey Chandigarh), Dr. Pushvinderjit Singh (Senior Vice President, Hockey Chandigarh), and Sh. Anil Vohra (Vice President, Hockey Chandigarh), among others.
