Bringing major laurels for both the senior national hockey sides, India women's team captain Savita Punia and men's team vice-captain Hardik Singh have bagged FIH Hockey Star Awards 2023. While Savita has won the women's goalkeeper of the year award for the third time in a row, Hardik has been named the men’s player of the year. (Hockey News)
Savita Punia had won the recognition in 2021 and 2022 as well. She was informed of the latest honour in the presence of the entire team, as coach Janneke Schopman lauded the 33-year-old for her consistency. You can watch the video of the celebrations below.
"Thankful to all my teammates and support staff who have helped me grow as an individual. This award will motivate me to work harder and get more success for our country. Lastly, thankful to all those who voted for me," she said.
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The Indian custodian has been in great form all through the year. Starting from the Test matches in Australia to the Hangzhou Asian Games, Savita has been on top of her game. She helped India emerge as the winners of the Asian Champions Trophy held in October in India. The skipper will be looking to help India qualify for the Paris Olympics with a top three finish at the upcoming FIH Hockey Olympic Qualifier in Ranchi in January next year.
Meanwhile, Hardik Singh was also greeted with a celebration in the presence of the entire team, including captain Harmanpreet Singh and former captain Manpreet Singh - both of whom have won the honour earlier. You can watch the video below.
"When you've got a great team, they make your game better and life easier. I am grateful for all those who have voted for me and thankful to the entire team and Hockey India for helping me reach this stage," said Hardik.
The 25-year-old midfielder has 114 caps to his name, and became a vital cog in India’s bronze-medal win at the 2020 Olympics. This is Hardik’s second big award this year as he was also awarded the Hockey India Balbir Singh Sr. Award for Player of the Year 2022.
