From Video Games to Hockey Glory: Amandeep Lakra's Inspiring Journey to the Indian Team
In the city of Rourkela, a pivotal moment unfolded when Amandeep Lakra was just ten years old. His mother, Fulkumari, discovered him engrossed in video games on the computer instead of attending his tuition classes. Frustrated, she delivered a stern reprimand before issuing a directive that would alter the course of his life: "If you want to play, go out and play hockey." This simple yet powerful statement marked the beginning of Amandeep's remarkable hockey journey.
A Father's Guidance and Early Struggles
Prior to this incident, Amandeep had dabbled with a hockey stick, played cricket, and even tried football. However, that day set him on a new path. Now 23 years old, he recently made his debut for the Indian national team against Belgium in the prestigious FIH Pro League on Saturday. His parents, Bijay Kumar Lakra and Fulkumari, are overwhelmed with pride, witnessing the fruits of years of relentless hard work and dedication.
His father, Bijay, a coach with over three decades of experience, played a crucial role in nurturing his talent with immense patience. By the age of twelve, Amandeep was selected for the Panposh Sports Hostel, where Bijay was then serving as a coach. The family later relocated to Sundergarh following his father's transfer. Despite his efforts, Amandeep faced a significant hurdle: he could not break into the junior national camp for several years.
The Turning Point and Rise to Prominence
Recalling a poignant moment, his father, with tears in his eyes, shared advice given just before the 2021 junior nationals: "I told him you will have to give it all the time because it's the last chance for you to make the junior camp." That year, Odisha secured a bronze medal in the junior nationals, and Amandeep was honored as the tournament's best defender. More importantly, he finally earned a spot in the national camp, launching a period of unstoppable progress.
Since then, Amandeep has participated in numerous junior tournaments, including the 2023 Junior World Cup, and emerged as the top scorer in the 2023 Sultan of Johor Cup. He first caught the attention of senior selectors during last year's Hockey India League (HIL) and subsequently joined the India A team. His performance in this year's HIL was exceptional, earning him the Player of the Tournament award. He not only scored nine goals from penalty corners but also demonstrated solid defensive skills.
Family Support and National Debut
His mother often reminisces about the days when his father pushed him to excel. She recounted a touching conversation: "One day he came and asked me, 'What does father think of me?' I told him that he believes you can play for India." Inspired by these words, Amandeep dedicated himself wholeheartedly to training. On Saturday evening, he realized his dream, making his debut for India at the packed Birsa Munda Hockey Stadium, located less than two kilometers from where he grew up.
This achievement fulfills not only his own aspirations but also those of his parents. Reflecting on his journey, Amandeep expressed gratitude for the guidance he received, particularly from senior player Harmanpreet Singh: "I got to learn a lot from Harmanpreet about penalty corners. He told me about what needs to be done during retakes if I fail to convert the PCs in the first instance." With this knowledge and his unwavering determination, Amandeep Lakra is poised to make a significant impact in the world of hockey in the coming years.
