DHA Hockey Academy seen as key step in Pakistan hockey revival

LAHORE: President of the Pakistan Sports Writers Federation and Secretary General of AIPS Asia Amjad Aziz Malik has described the DHA Hockey Academy in Lahore as an important initiative for the revival of Pakistan hockey, while urging young players to work towards restoring the country’s standing in the national game.

He made the remarks while addressing under-30 players taking part in training sessions at the DHA Hockey Academy at Manzoorul Hassan Hockey Stadium. Former Olympian Manzoorul Hassan and former World Cup player Colonel Saeed Khan were also present on the occasion.

Malik was warmly received on his arrival at the stadium and was introduced to the young players. In his address, he said hockey represented Pakistan’s identity, national pride and rich sporting heritage. He told the participants that the younger generation would need commitment, discipline and patriotic spirit to help Pakistan return to the ranks of the world’s leading hockey nations.

Recalling the country’s past successes, Malik said Pakistan had gained international recognition through Olympic gold medals, World Cup triumphs, Champions Trophy titles and Asian Games victories. He also paid tribute to the legendary players whose performances brought distinction to the country on the global stage.

Focus on discipline and education

Malik advised the young athletes to give attention not only to sport but also to education, physical fitness, discipline and character building. He said the players had the ability to go on to represent Pakistan internationally and carry the national flag with pride in future events.

Highlighting the role of the academy, he said such efforts were essential for developing new talent and reinforcing the future of Pakistan hockey. He added that sporting success depended on sustained hard work, sacrifice and determination, and could not be achieved through talent alone.

He urged the players to remain focused on their ambitions and move ahead with confidence and national spirit so that Pakistan could once again regain its former position in world hockey.

On the occasion, Malik also paid tribute to Manzoorul Hassan, who is currently serving as head coach of the Pakistan Hockey Federation. He presented the latest edition of the AIPS Asia magazine to the Olympian in recognition of his services to the sport.

The event brought together senior figures from Pakistan hockey and young trainees at a time when efforts are continuing to strengthen the game’s grassroots structure. Malik’s remarks centred on the need for discipline, education and long-term commitment among emerging players, while also underscoring the importance of institutional initiatives such as the DHA Hockey Academy in Lahore.

The academy session at Manzoorul Hassan Hockey Stadium was attended by under-30 players undergoing training, with Malik using the occasion to encourage them to pursue both sporting and personal development as part of their journey in hockey.