Saachi Baat Special
Indian hockey hero, PR Sreejesh, needs to be celebrated as much as Manu Bhaker or Neeraj Chopra for winning two Olympic medals. Agreed, star goalkeeper Sreejesh has won his two medals in a team sport – hockey – but that is no mean achievement. On Wednesday, the seasoned veteran, who has now officially retired from the sport, will be felicitated by Hockey India in New Delhi.
In an exclusive chat with Saaachi Baat, Sreejesh spoke on his journey. “I mean, when I started, from Kerala, I never dreamt I would be here, having won two medals from four Olympic campaigns. Coming from Kerala and breaking into the Indian team and dressing room, mostly comprising players from Punjab, I was an outsider of sorts. As I retire, I take back such fond memories from wonderful teammates,” said Sreejesh.
As the goalkeeper, Sreejesh had to handle pressure repeatedly in each match and never minded it. To do this in two Olympics, in Tokyo and Paris, he loved it. “I had said before the team left New Delhi, this team was better prepared and now we can celebrate it,” said the humble man. His family in Ernakulam, Kerala, was watching the bronze medal playoff last week against Spain in Paris with prayers on their lips.
Sreejesh loves his roots, so when he decided to get his photo clicked with a traditional “white mundu” around his waist, the photo broke internet. Background was the iconic Eiffel Tower. The “dhoti” tied around his waist in typical Kerala style and the bronze medal around his neck is a picture which has defined Sreejesh. He says he loved posing for that photo.
Asked about the next generation of goalkeepers who will take over, Sreejesh is not worried. “I am sure we will groom the next few goalkeepers, I am confident,” said Sreejesh. He will be the next junior coach of the national team as well, a role he is looking forward it.” “This is my time to pay back to the sport,” is the message from Sreejesh.
Yes, he will miss the dressing room but to retire on a high is the best thing he could have done. More luck to you Sreejesh. You will be missed.
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