Chennai Embraces Hockey Extravaganza
The vibrant city of Chennai has thrown open its arms to the Junior Men's Hockey World Cup 2025, transforming into a hockey paradise with banners, hoardings, and enthusiastic fans flooding the streets. The tournament kicked off in spectacular fashion on November 28, 2025, at the Mayor Radhakrishnan Hockey Stadium, where the electric atmosphere was palpable even before the first whistle blew.
Sreejesh Steals the Show
As teams warmed up for the opening match between India and Chile, the proceedings were momentarily delayed by a dazzling light and song show with strong Tamil cultural themes. However, the real magic began when a group of children in the East Stand started chanting 'Sreejesh, Sreejesh!' - paying tribute to the legendary Indian goalkeeper who has become the tournament's biggest draw.
PR Sreejesh, now serving as head coach of the Indian junior hockey team, received a hero's welcome from Chennai fans who remember his years playing domestic hockey in Tamil Nadu. The former stalwart goalkeeper emerged as the most recognizable face and crowd favorite, though attention soon shifted to the young squad hoping to make their mark under his guidance.
City-Wide Tournament Makeover
Chennai has undergone a remarkable transformation to host this global sporting event. From the international airport to the city's two main railway stations, tournament branding dominates the landscape. The mascot Kangeyan features prominently across countless hoardings, while political figures including Chief Minister MK Stalin and Deputy CM Udhayanidhi Stalin are also visibly present in the marketing campaigns.
The organizers have pulled out all stops in their marketing efforts. 'We wanted to ensure greater visibility across all available media,' explained officials. The campaign includes continuous FM radio promotions, television commercials, and even a fully wrapped metro train dedicated to tournament branding.
Stadium Upgrades Enhance Fan Experience
The Mayor Radhakrishnan Hockey Stadium itself has received significant upgrades since hosting the Asian Champions Trophy just over two years ago. The previously open-air East and South galleries, which featured uncomfortable concrete benches that trapped summer heat, have been completely transformed.
'Deputy CM Udhayanidhi sir said two things were a must,' revealed J Meghanatha Reddy, IAS - CEO and Member Secretary of Sports Development Authority of Tamil Nadu. 'We'll first cover those stands, and we'll also provide chairs. Our engineering team ensured that there is tensile roofing on both sides and also proper seating.'
These improvements come as a direct response to the overwhelming fan response during the Asian Champions Trophy, which served as an eye-opener for organizers about Chennai's appetite for international hockey. 'Almost every match, it was a packed house. We didn't expect that,' Reddy admitted, highlighting the city's strong sporting culture across multiple disciplines.
The successful hosting of the Asian Champions Trophy, which marked the return of international hockey to Chennai after a 16-year gap, paved the way for this World Cup bid. Inspired by Odisha's hockey hosting model and encouraged by Hockey India, Tamil Nadu authorities seized the opportunity to bring another major international tournament to the city.
As the tournament progresses, all eyes remain on Coach Sreejesh and his young Indian team, who carry the hopes of a city that has clearly demonstrated its passion for the sport. With upgraded facilities, extensive marketing, and enthusiastic fan support, Chennai has set the stage for what promises to be an unforgettable Junior Hockey World Cup.
