India's most-capped hockey player Manpreet Singh received a hero's welcome at the Mithapur Astroturf Hockey Stadium in Jalandhar, returning to the ground where his journey began. Accompanied by his mother Manjit Kaur, wife Illi Saddique, and two daughters—four-year-old Jasmine and one-year-old Avelyn—the hockey star was greeted with garlands and cheers from admirers.
Record-breaking achievement
Manpreet recently became India's most-capped hockey player after completing 413 international matches. He was felicitated by Hockey Punjab and the Mithapur Hockey Academy in front of a packed gathering. Among those present were dozens of children from modest backgrounds who train daily on the same ground where Manpreet once honed his skills.
Hockey Punjab president Nitin Kohli lauded Manpreet's achievement, saying, "By playing 413 international matches, he has created a new benchmark in Indian hockey and brought immense pride to Jalandhar, Punjab, and the country." Kohli called him a role model for the younger generation and expressed hope that Manpreet would go on to represent India in another 100-150 international matches.
Inspiration for young athletes
Several young players said Manpreet's success had inspired them to believe they could one day wear the Indian jersey. Mithapur Hockey Academy coach Kuldeep Singh described the day as a memorable chapter in the village's sporting history. "It is a proud day for Mithapur. Our hero has come home, and there is happiness everywhere," he said.
Manpreet expressed gratitude for the warm reception and urged the youth to stay away from drugs and embrace sports as a path toward a brighter future. Speaking about India's ambitions, the Olympian said the team was fully prepared for the upcoming FIH Hockey World Cup, Asian Champions Trophy, Asian Games, and the 2028 Olympics. He said the Indian team was determined to fulfill its long-cherished dream of winning an Olympic gold.
Homecoming celebration
For Mithapur, the event was more than a felicitation ceremony—it was the homecoming of a local boy who conquered world hockey. Garlands adorned not only Manpreet but also his mother and elder daughter, adding to the celebratory atmosphere. Amid the applause that echoed across the stadium, the quiet pride on the faces of his mother, wife, and elder daughter stood out, speaking of a family's joy after witnessing years of sacrifice and hard work.
