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The most esteemed members of the Hockey Fraternity from different states of India came together for the National Hockey Conclave, held at the Eco-Retreat at Konark, Odisha on Tuesday.
The event was organized on the occasion of Odisha state hosting the much awaited 2023 Men’s FIH Hockey World Cup, which will kick off on the 13th of January in Bhubaneshwar.
The National Hockey Conclave was graced by Mr. Dilip Tirkey, President Hockey India, Odisha Sports Minister Tusharkanti Behera, Bhola Nath Singh, Secretary General, Shrawon Kumar, Minister of Rural Development and Parliamentary Affairs (Bihar), Hockey India, former hockey legends with the likes of Zafar Iqbal, RP Singh, veteran coach Ajay Kumar Bansal, AB Subbaiah along with President and Secretaries of more than 15 Hockey State Associations.
The dignitaries and other officials were welcomed the officials of the Sports Department and Puri District Administration. The atmosphere at the Eco Retreat was buzzing with excitement.
People were soaking in all the joy, participating in various activities at the retreat and indulging in discussion around Hockey and the Hockey World Cup 2023. The Eco Retreat, a glamping festival at Ramchandi beach, provided a unique experience to the delegates.
At this immersive and engaging conclave, dignitaries deliberated on the various ways state associations can help each other in promoting the sport.
Several topics like the growing Indian Hockey ecosystem, specifically, the holistic development of Indian Hockey, including player performance, importance of coaching, grassroots talent identification and various schemes, administration as well as staying abreast of global emerging trends, opportunities and challenges were discussed.
Former hockey players talked about their experience and their favourite memories from their playing career. They also shed light on how we can improve and take the game to even greater heights.
Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik welcomed the delegates through a video message and said, “India is hosting the Hockey Men’s World Cup for the second consecutive time and like us in Odisha, I am sure, each one of you feel immensely proud to be a part of this prestigious tournament. The emotional connect that each one has for Hockey and the World Cup reflects in your participation in this National Hockey Conclave.”
Today, our National Teams are ranked amongst the best. The Bronze at the Tokyo Olympics has proved that the glorious days of Hockey are back and we all can unite in our efforts and initiatives to take Indian Hockey to global heights. This National Hockey Conclave and the Hockey World Cup are platforms to bring great ideas together.”
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