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Odisha's Hockey Culture & League's Role in Player Growth: Amit Rohidas

Indian hockey defender Amit Rohidas praised the passionate hockey culture in Odisha, where large, cheering crowds enhance the player experience. He emphasized the Hockey India League's critical role in player development by providing a platform to compete and learn alongside world-class talent. Rohidas explained his team, the Tamil Nadu Dragons, is analyzing past performances to correct mistakes and improve in the final leg. He concluded that the league's value extends beyond Olympic preparation, helping players progress from national to the highest international levels.

Key Points: Amit Rohidas on Odisha's Hockey Culture & HIL's Player Development

  • Odisha's vibrant hockey culture
  • HIL as a key development platform
  • Learning from world's best players
  • Focus on correcting mistakes
  • Building confidence for international stage
2 min read

Amit Rohidas highlights Odisha's hockey culture and league's role in player development ahead of final leg of men's HIL

Indian hockey star Amit Rohidas highlights Odisha's fan culture and how the Hockey India League builds player confidence for international success.

"This tournament is very helpful for Indian players... It builds confidence and prepares you for higher levels of competition. - Amit Rohidas"

Bhubaneswar, Jan 17

Accord Tamil Nadu Dragons defender Amit Rohidas praised the vibrant hockey culture in Odisha and underlined the importance of the Men's Hockey India League 2026 in shaping players for success at the national and international levels.

Speaking at the captains' press conference ahead of the final leg, Rohidas said playing in Odisha always brings a special feeling. "Odisha is known for hockey. Wherever a tournament is held here, the crowd turns up in large numbers. Fans cheer for their teams, and that atmosphere makes the game even more enjoyable for players," he said.

Talking about the team's preparation, Rohidas explained that the Dragons are carefully managing their strategy based on recent performances. "We are analysing our last matches, identifying areas where we need to improve, and holding meetings to plan better. The focus is on correcting our mistakes and performing stronger in the upcoming games," he added.

Rohidas also highlighted the league's value in player growth, calling it a major platform for learning and confidence-building. "This tournament is very helpful for Indian players. You get the chance to share the dressing room with some of the world's best players, play alongside them, and learn through interaction. It builds confidence and prepares you for higher levels of competition," he said.

Emphasising the long-term impact of the league, he noted that the experience gained goes beyond just preparing for the Olympics. "It helps players from the national to the international stage. This league contributes to overall development and helps players gradually reach the highest levels of the game," Rohidas concluded.

Rohidas' team will have to do a lot in the second leg of the Hockey India League as Tamil Nadu Dragons had ended the previous leg of the competition against defending champions Sharchi Bengal Tigers. Jugraj Singh scored his first hat-trick of the season to ensure a commanding 5-3 win for the Sharchi Bengal Tigers against Accord Tamil Nadu Dragons in the ongoing Hockey India League 2026 (Men) on Tuesday at the Marang Gomke Jaipal Singh Munda Hockey Stadium in Ranchi.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

R
Rohit P
Rohidas is spot on about the league's role. Playing with international stars in HIL is a game-changer for our young talent. It bridges the gap between domestic and international hockey perfectly. Hope the Dragons can bounce back after that tough loss to the Tigers.
D
David E
As a sports fan following from abroad, it's impressive to see India investing in a structured league like this. The focus on long-term player development, not just Olympic prep, is very smart. Odisha's passion for the sport is legendary. Great insights from the player.
A
Aman W
Respectfully, while the league is great, the article highlights a concern - the Dragons' defence conceded 5 goals. Analysis and meetings are good, but they need to show results on the pitch now. The second leg is do-or-die. Hoping for a stronger defensive show!
S
Shreya B
The atmosphere in Odisha is electric! Been to a match in Bhubaneswar, and the energy is unmatched. It really does lift the players. More states should develop such a deep sports culture. HIL is creating heroes for the next generation. 🥳
K
Karthik V
True that! Learning from the best in the world right here in India is a massive advantage. This is how we build a strong bench strength for the national team. Wishing all teams the best for the final leg. Let's go, Hockey India!

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