CHENNAI: It’s no secret that Odisha has become the cradle of hockey in the country. And this has ensured that many regular starters in the senior and junior men’s and women’s teams over the past few years are from the eastern state. You can now add Dipsan Tirkey to that list.
The 18-year-old will be the vice-captain of the Indian junior men’s squad that will play in the upcoming World Cup in Lucknow from December 8 to 18. And Dipsan feels that it was just a matter of time before hockey players from his state became regular national fixtures.
“Hockey is pretty big in Odisha, especially in Rourkela and Sundargarh. Every year, there are at least a dozen chota mota (small-time) locally-conducted tournaments that attract a large number of youngsters — both boys and girls — to the sport. And that’s where many of us start our tryst with hockey as well. My father was a hockey player at club level, and our whole family used to go and watch his games,” said the Rourkela lad.
“That’s where my interest, along with that of my two brothers, also increased. At the same time, my family also wanted us to get into hockey, and they pushed and motivate us towards the same. This is the case with almost all families in the state. I’m not surprised that Odisha has become a hub for hockey in India,” he added. Having joined the Sports Hostel in Panposh in 2009, Dipsan has come a long way. A ball-playing defender, he has formed a great partnership with Harmanpreet Singh, and both have been earmarked for bigger things. Ask Dipsan the secret behind their partnership, and he attributes it to their camaraderie.
“The junior squad has been together for the better part of two-and-a-half years, and that has ensured a good understanding between all of us. We’re all close to each other and we know our strength and weaknesses. Our combinations have also gotten better with time, not to forget that it’s a talented bunch,” the 12th standard student opined.
His aim is to clinch gold in the World Cup. “Unlike the senior World Cup, we only get one crack at the junior event. So, I really want to win. Plus, we’re playing at home. So expectations will obviously be high. But we want to enjoy the occasion, first and foremost.”
Senior coach Roeland Oltmans has been with the squad for a while, and Dipsan says he has been a big influence. “Since the junior and senior teams follow the same module and style of play, it has been a smooth ride with Oltmans sir. The biggest challenge is converting what we practice and discuss into on-field performances.”
raviiyer@newindianexpress.com