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Former Hockey Legend HM Urges Andhra Youth to Embrace Sports

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Saturday, November 22nd 2025 at 20:11 GMT by The Hans India

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Former Hockey Legend HM Urges Andhra Youth to Embrace Sports

In a stirring interview published by The Hans India, former Indian hockey stalwart H M Singh‑Bajwa (commonly known as HM) laid out a heartfelt appeal to the young people of Andhra Pradesh. Drawing on his own experience as a national‑team player, the former captain urged children and teenagers to view sports—not as a mere pastime but as a vital pillar of holistic development. The article, which cites several additional sources and links to regional sporting bodies, paints a picture of a sports‑oriented future for the state.

A Legacy Rooted in Hockey

HM’s journey began in the dusty streets of Guntur, where he first picked up a hockey stick at the age of nine. By his early twenties, he was a key player for the Indian national team, representing the country at multiple international tournaments, including the Commonwealth Games and the Asian Games. A proud winner of a gold medal at the 2006 Asian Games, HM’s accolades are documented on the official Indian Hockey Federation website—one of the many hyperlinks embedded in the article that readers can follow for a deeper dive into his career statistics.

The interview gives a glimpse into how HM’s early mentors and family supported him. “It was always about discipline,” he says. “Every match was a lesson in perseverance. I want the same for our youngsters.” The article notes that his father, a school teacher, introduced him to the fundamentals of sportsmanship long before he entered formal coaching.

Why Sports Matter, According to HM

HM’s message is clear: sports are a catalyst for building character, health, and future opportunities. He points out that in Andhra Pradesh, sports infrastructure has grown steadily, with new stadiums and training academies opening across the state. Yet he warns that enthusiasm has not kept pace with availability. “You can’t simply go to a field and expect success,” he cautions. “You need a structured path—practice, coaching, competition.”

The article lists several key benefits that HM emphasizes:

1. Physical Fitness and Health
   Regular training combats rising rates of childhood obesity and fosters lifelong wellness habits.

2. Mental Resilience
   Facing wins and losses in sports equips youth with coping mechanisms that translate into academic and professional life.

3. Teamwork and Leadership
   The field is a micro‑society where communication and trust are paramount. “Team sports teach you to rely on others and to lead when necessary,” HM says.

4. Career Pathways
   Sports can open doors to scholarships, professional contracts, and even national service opportunities. The article links to the Sports Authority of India’s scholarship portal for students who excel in school competitions.

HM’s Call to Action

In the heart of the piece, HM addresses parents, coaches, and school administrators. He encourages them to:

• Set Clear Goals: “Kids should set specific, measurable targets—whether it’s improving shot accuracy or increasing stamina.”
• Invest in Coaching: “Qualified trainers are the backbone of any program. Schools should partner with local clubs to bring in experts.”
• Foster Inclusive Participation: “Sports must be a safe space for all—gender, economic background, or disability.”
• Integrate Academics and Athletics: The article references a study published by the Indian Institute of Science that shows students who engage in sports perform better academically.
• Leverage Government Schemes: Links to the Andhra Pradesh Sports Council’s funding initiatives are highlighted, urging parents to apply for subsidies and equipment grants.

The Road Ahead: Infrastructure and Opportunities

Beyond the motivational narrative, the article provides practical information about upcoming tournaments in Andhra. HM mentions that the state will host the All‑India School Games next year, and he encourages schools to send teams. He also stresses the need for better sports infrastructure in rural districts. In this vein, the article directs readers to the Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports’s rural sports development portal.

Another key point is the need for a sustainable ecosystem that supports athletes beyond their school years. HM points to the Sports Promotion Programme run by the National Sports Development Authority, which offers training scholarships for state athletes aiming for national selection. He urges local governments to ensure that talent scouting is not limited to metros but extends to villages and smaller towns.

Final Thoughts

In concluding, HM reminds Andhra’s youth that sports are “not a luxury; they are a necessity.” He emphasizes that the values learned on the field—discipline, integrity, and perseverance—will serve them throughout life. The article ends with a powerful quote: “When you step onto the field, you step into a world where hard work pays, and every ball you play is a chance to write a new chapter of your life.”

Through a blend of personal anecdotes, statistical evidence, and actionable guidance, The Hans India piece offers a comprehensive roadmap for the next generation of Andhra sports enthusiasts. The article’s linked resources—ranging from the Indian Hockey Federation to state sports councils—provide readers with the tools to turn this inspiration into tangible progress.