Hockey legend PR Sreejesh is set to embark on a new chapter in his hockey career. Indian men's hockey team clinched the bronze medal at the Paris Olympics on August 8, a feat largely attributed to Sreejesh's stellar performance. Amidst the celebrations, the veteran goalkeeper had confirmed his retirement from international hockey. However, Hockey India has surprised everyone by announcing Sreejesh as the new head coach of the Junior Men's hockey team. This decision comes as a testament to Sreejesh's immense contribution to Indian hockey and the faith the governing body has in his coaching potential.
"The Legend makes another Legendary move. P R Sreejesh has been appointed as the new head coach of Jr. Men's Hockey Team. From playing to coaching, you continue to inspire all the youngsters. Looking forward to your coaching stint!" said HI on Instagram.
Hockey India Secretary General Bhola Nath Singh made the official announcement shortly after the match concluded. He revealed that Hockey India plans to discuss the appointment of PR Sreejesh as the Junior Men's team head coach with the Sports Authority of India (SAI) and the Government of India in the near future.
"Goalkeeper PR Sreejesh has played his last match today, but today I want to announce that Sreejesh will be the head coach of the Junior India Hockey team...We will discuss this with the SAI and the Government of India...," said Singh to ANI.
Prior to the Tokyo Olympics 2024, PR Sreejesh shared his aspirations of becoming a coach in an exclusive interview with Sports Tak. He emphasized coaching as his true passion.
"Yes, coaching is my passion. Being a goalkeeper, I am the coach on the ground. I communicate with my defence and organise them. Then I talk to the midfielders, the forwards and I correct them. So I may have watched more matches on the ground than the coaches from the sidelines. For me, I have worked atleast with close to 15 coaches. So I don't want to waste that experience. So in the future, I will definitely come into that role," Sreejesh told Sports Tak.
Sreejesh is anticipated to assume his new role as head coach of the Junior Men's hockey team once the celebrations for India's bronze medal victory at the Tokyo Olympics 2024 subside.
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