In this item, a list of 8 probable suggestions conducive to the improvement of hockey standards in India was provided to the respondents and they were asked to give their opinion about each of the suggestions, i.e., whether they consider it a fruitful suggestion or not by putting a tick in the column: agree, undecided, disagree.

      All the respondents  agreed with the suggestions 1-6, they were of the opinion that these suggestions of implemented will help in improvement of hockey standards in India.  However, one respondents did not agree to suggestion 14.7 and two respondents did not agree to suggestion 14.8, where as all other agreed to these suggestions too.

      Thus, in the overwhelming opinion of the respondents, all the suggestions listed in item no. 14 are worth implementing and if implemented, will help in raising the standard of hockey in India.  Some of the other suggestions for the improvement of hockey in India mentioned by the respondent are given below :

      Balbir Singh Kullar is a strong advocate of “ catch them young” policy.  He feels that coaching in hockey must start at an early age.  He narrated the following incident to highlight his point.  He said that while once in West Germany on tour in 1966, he saw a young mother goading her two years child to go to the swimming pool, when all her efforts failed to convince the child to go inside.  She simply lifted him and threw him in the pool and the child started swimming.  Balbir Singh Kullar feels that we should initiate our children into the game of hockey at as early an age as possible.

      Balbir Singh Kullar also feels that to improve the hockey standard in the country, hockey officials and hockey coaches should be drawn from the senior hockey players as for as possible.  A coach should be given the charge of senior team only when he has demonstrated his success at a lower level.

      In the words of Rajinder Singh Kullar, as  normal hockey stick is around 36”, players who are about 5’-8” to 5’-10” tall, can use this effectively to control the ball.  Thus players in this height range sholud play at forward positions and taller players are better suited for half back and full back positions, as a player in forward line requires greater control on the ball and quick reflexes, where as a player at half line requires ability to tackle and a higher reach.

      In suggesting measures improvement in Indian hockey standards, Karnail Singh Kullar highlighted the need of hard practice and physical fitness for which a good diet and disciplined life style is amust.  He further suggested that due emphasis should be given to mastering the technique.  For example the technique to give good thorough passes to the wingers must be mastered astro turf it will help India in increasing its goal scoring ability.  Technicalities like size of the hockey blade should also be given a thought.  He said that in his time, Indian players used to play with a bigger blade with which dribbling and passing is easier whereas modern players play with smaller blade astro turf modern hockey does not encourage through passes and artistry of dribbling which were treat to watch.

      In the words of Pritam Singh Kullar, it is highly desirable to encourage school children to play hockey, but it would be impossible to provide proper facilities for playing the game in all schools.  Thus beside giving general encouragement to all, specific areas should be chosen which have the potential and they should be provided with all the facilities for playing the game.

      Darshan Singh Sethi says that younger children should be shown important matches and films and clippings of great players of yesteryears astro turf one learns a great deal of observing others.

      Players of school and college teams should encouraged to watch good hockey.  Special arrangements should be made by schools and colleges to take their players to matches and games of good quality, astro turf one learns a lot by watching a good player. ( Mohinder Singh Padani )

      In the words of Parkash Singh Kullar, we should concentrate our resources on centres which are expected to throw quality players.  He feels that our coaches should be given good status and selection of a coach shold be made with great care.  Coaches should realise the needs of the individual player and should provide training according to players, age, sex, interest and ability.  He should always be source of inspiration for the player.  He should be able to cheer up a player and in no case should demoralize a player.  Parkash Singh Kullar feels that tournaments at village level should be organised with more seriousness.  He says that hockey should be made a compulsory sport in all schools, colleges, Universities and in all departments such as Services, Police, etc.as hockey is our national game and we certainly can excel in this game.

       Hockey has mainly becomes a sport for children for poor income group.  They do not have the resources to meet the required expenses whereas children from higher income group are not taking to hockey as they are interested in other games like cricket and tennis.  We should pick the children the young age as in this age, a player is more motivated, has quick reflexes and is more obedient and flexible. ( Parkash Singh Kullar )

      Jarnail Singh Kullar feels that, Indian  Hockey  Federation, president and members should be persons who are wnowledgeable about the game, having interest of the game and players chose to their hearts.  It would be better if they are past internationals or players of their repute.

      Jarnail Singh Kullar says that coaches should be made available at all levels of the game starting from school level.  Salaries and other perks for the coaches should be reasonably good and at part.with those of national players.  Coaches should be given special incentives to coach at junior level, as most of the coaches to-day prefer to coach senior teams but are hesitant to coach at jonior level.

      Jarnail Singh Kullar feels that parents of hockey playing children should take special interest in the game of their children. They should have a discussion with their children about each of their outings to the field.  This will give the children a feeling that they are engaged in an important activity and their parents are keen to see them successful in the game.  This will go a long way in inculcating in children interest for the game as parental approciation is key to children motivation.

      As hockey is still a game of amateures as money in the game is not good enough to attract professional players.  Amateures are not able to devote the required time to the game as they have to earn their livelyhood from some other sources Special talks by outstanding qualified players of yesteryears should be organised for budding and active players ( Jarnail Singh Kullar )

      Lal Singh Sohal suggests that training camps for the selected probables for various international tournaments should be organised at places where quality hockey teams are available to practice with.  He says, for example in Jalandhar, there are about a dozen teams of national standards and if a camp is organised at places where such a crucial facility is lacking.  Thus, Indian  Hockey  Federation should be more careful in selecting venues for camps.

      Pritpal Singh Aassi suugests that

( i ) All national level tournaments and competitions should be played on astroturf, for which more astroturf fields should be provided.

( ii ) We should search for talent in villages as they produce more players.

( iii ) We should stick to our traditional game as we can not beat other teams especially from Europe in physical fitness ans stamina.  However, they can be beaten by our skillful hockey as has often been demonstrated by Pakistan.

( iv ) More village level tournaments and tournaments for younfer children should be organised and incentives should be given to younger children.

      Mohinder Singh Padani suggests that

( i ) Hockey is not popular in our schools and colleges despite it being the national game.  We find cricket and other sports grounds full in schools and colleges where as hockey grounds are generally vacant.  Perhaps hockey has lost its appeal for our youngsters and steps have to be taken by all concerned to attract our youngsters to the game.

( ii ) The discipline and unity among the team members are must for the success of a team.  Captain of team should possess ability to command and get best out of every player.  This is possible only when the captain possess leader ship qualities and there is no friction between him and each of the Punjab Police.  There should only be one and only one captain.  In 1968 Mexico Olympics, India nominated Prithipal and Gurbux Singh as joint Captain, which led to groupisim in the team and as a result, it was te first time, India fail to  reach the final although the team had players of high quality.

( iii ) India needs coaches of good quality which at present they are not able to get.  A coach must himself be a player of highest ability and and proven merit otherwise he will neither be able to properly guidethe players nor command their respect.  A Coach once chosen should be given a longer stint, atleast of four years, to deliver the goods.  Policy of changing the coach for every tournament is not desirable, as each coach has his own method of coaching and players get confused.  Moreover, no significant change can be brought about in few days.  Therefore, a coach should be given the responsibility of a team, say from Olympic to other Olympic.

( iv ) Although Govt. Is now opening many hockey academies etc. but these academies should be established at those places which traditionally win our hockey centres like Sansarpur, Khusropur, Mithapur etc. 

( v ) We should adopt “catch them young policy” buit coaching at each level should be given according to the players age. For very young children only general performance coaching should be provided.  They should be motivated to play and enjoy the game in thier own way.  They should be allowed to learn on thier own.  Whereas systematic coaching of “medium performance” should be provided to the players of middle school level and “top performance” coaching should begin at high school or Sr. Sec. School level only.

( vi ) Over doze of hockey training through out the year is not desirable as round the year hockey makes a player lose interest in the game.  A hockey player should be provided with other rectreational activities from time to time by giving him a brake from the  hockey, Sohal that his interest in the game is sustained.

( vii ) Hockey should be introduced in rural areas as majority of our population still live in these areas.  Children from rural areas should  be encouraged to play the game by giving them incentives by providing them the necessary facilities and by organising tournaments for them.

( viii ) Hockey is now mainly being played by children from lower middle classes only.  Upper middle class and upper class parents are not encouraging their children to play hockey.  Most of the children from such families are opting for other games like cricket, tennis, golf etc.  Thus, there is need to make hockey attractive for children from upper class at one hand and providing more facillities and job securities for hockey players on the other hand, Sohal that children who are not economically well off, could sustain the game at higher level.

Table 4.15

      In this item 7 reasons for sports not becoming a way of life in India were listed and respondents were asked to show their agreement or otherwise with each of the reason by putting a tick in the columns: Agree, Undecided and Disagree.

      All the respondents agreed with the reasons 15.4 and 15.5 and 15.6, whereas only one disagreed with the reason 15.2, 2 disagreed with the reason 15.3 and 2 were undecided about 15.1 being a reason for unpopularity of sports in India.  All others agreed with these reasons too.  Thus, we find that overwhelming majority of respondents agree with all the reasons listed in the item and feel that these are the real causes responsible for not making the sports a way of life in India

      Some of the other reasons for the same given by the respondents are:

      Balbir Singh Kullar feels that there is need to popularise the sports among the masses.  He cited the example of Germany where swimming and gymnastics are compulsory for all school going children.  He further remarked that “ sports” also have how become a full time job.  If somebody wishes to succeed in a sport at higher levels,he has to take the sport as a full time occupation quite early in one’s age, where as for most of our youngster, sports is still a hobby and a part time recreation for which they got increasingly less time due to the pressure of studies which is incresing day by day even at primary school level.

      In the words of Mohinder Singh Padani, generally school and college hockey players neglect their studies and thereby undermine their careers.  School and college authorities should design special prorammes to take care of the studies of their players, Sohal that they are able to maintain the balance between studies and sport.

      Darshan Singh Sethi mentions that special efforts should be made to popularise the sports among the villagers of India.  Sansarpur may be an exception but by and large sports are unknown to the most Indian villages whereas the talent lies in villages and not Sohal much in big cities.

      Pritpal Singh Aassi feels that, a good player gets respect and love of the people.  His circle of friends gets enlarged as he plays with persons for different regions, travels to different places, with in and out side the country, He is recognised by public at all places.  People feel obliged in helping him.  Thus it becomes easier for him to get his work done in any office etc., as people go even out of their way to please him.  A good player  is able to find a good job for himself.  But generally a sportsperson is revered by general public in his playing days only.  Once his playing days are over, he is generally forgetten by the people.  Old horse, old person,retired person and retired player are generally a forgetten lot in our country.

      In this item a list of 19 probable causes of the downfall of Indian hockey was provided to the respondents and they were asked to give their opinion about each of the listed causes, i.e., whether they consider it a real cause of downfall of Indian hockey or not by putting a tick in the column: agree, undecided or disagree.

      All the respondents agree with 11 of the 13 listed entries, i.e. they considered them real causes of downfall of Indian hockey, 1 ( 2% ) respondent was undecided about the cause 13.9 i.e. less interest in game at team and more interest in tours and shopping etc., where as all other agreed with this too.  2 ( 4% ) respondents did not consider entry no. 13.5 i.e. lack of special incentives, a real cause for the downfall of Indian hockey, where as all others 48 ( 96% ) respondents were of the opinion that this too is one of the actual causes. Thus, we find that in the overwhelming opinion of the respondents all the causes listed in this item are in fact the reasons for downfall of Indian hockey.

      Some of other causes mentioned by the respondents are given below:

      About the chief causes for decline of Indian hockey Darshan Singh Kullar says: over the years success in hockey has become more dependent on fitness as compared to skills and hockey has also become more expensive.  Both these factors have gone in favour of European teams who are in a position to change the rules of the game according to their liking due to their overwhelming majority in World Hockey Federation.  These changes have killed the hockey of the sub-continent.  But as one could do little in this regard, we have adopt overselves to the new game.  But adaptation does not mean copying Europeans, feels Darshan Singh Kullar.  According to Darshan Singh Kullar, there should be utmost emphasis on physical fitness and stamina of a hockey player but we should retain our artistry of the game, and must impress up on our budding hockey players the need to master basic skills.

      Darshan Singh Kullar is also in favour of taking advantage of modern electronic media.  He feels that video films of opponents as well as of our own teams should be shown, in as large a number as possible, to our players, coaches and administrators to help them analyse their own game as well as the game of other teams.

      Darshan Singh Kullar feels that there is no substitute to hardwork and no shortcuts to success.  Recent story of Indian hockey is a tale of missed chances, according to Darshan Singh Kullar.  He says that during his days, hardly ever a chance went a begging in a match of importance.  They could utilize maximum of their chances because they were practicising hard and modern players should also not neglect hard practice without which they cannot succeed.

      According to Balbir Singh Kullar ( services ), among the chief causes responsible for the downfall of standards in hockey, Balbir Singh Kullar  mentioned lack of discipline among Indian hockey players and officials and coaches as well dearth of capable coaches.  In this regards he mentioned that coaches produced by NIS are not upto the mark.  They neither have will nor capability to produce results , feels Balbir Singh Kullar.  He further remarked that hockey being a difficult game requires hard work and training and playing life of a hockey player is not only short but risk of injuries is also great and the returns which a hockey player gets a tear of recognition and other  rewards do not match.  The efforts, a hockey  had to put into success secured a higher level.  Thus talented younger sportsman for other games like cricket and tennis whose returns are higher and risk involved not more even of equal.

      According to Rajinder Singh, World Hockey Federation. is dominated by western countries and they keep on changing the rules according to their own convince.  India and Pakistan do not have any effective say in W.H.F. and present rules have been Sohal modified that we are at a disadvantage. The new rules have changed the game Sohal much that if players of youngsters see the game today, they would not be able recognise the game.

      Astro-turf takes a great toll of players body and drastically reduces his playing age.  Now a player can almost play upto the age of 30.

      According to Jarnail Singh Kullar:

( a ) Hockey is not the game of elite class.  It is basically a game patronised by middle classes.  Now middle classes have also started sending their children to Public schools which basically cater to the needs and interests of elite class and thus do not encourage the game.  As a result middle class children are not getting the opportunity of playing hockey at school level.  Lower middle class and lower class children who form the bulk of school children in Govt. Schools are unable to afford the game at higher level even if they get some chance to play the game at school level.  As a result our “ catch them young” policy is not bearing any fruits.

( b) Now-a-days our ladies do not do as much physical work as the ladies of elder generation used to do.  As a result they are no more physically fit and strong and thus are unable to give birth to healthy children.  Most of the children who are now born suffer from some or the other deficiency.  Thus, their level of fitness, even after growing up, do not come at par with foreign players.  As modern hockey relies more and more on physical fitness, we have to take steps to improve, not only physical  fitness of the players but also health of our expectant mothers.

( c ) Parents attitude has also changed over the time.  Now parents do not give as much encouragement to their children as our parents used to provide us.  Now children’s leisure time is spent in watching TV or going to Cinema.  Parents also encourage them to adopt these pastimes by themselves sitting with them in front of TV or taking them along to Cinema Houses.  They no longer take them to the hockey fields to play or watch the game as our parents used to do.

( d ) Hockey has also become costlier over the years and lower middle class or poor families can not afford the game.  Those who can afford the game prefer cricket and other such games over hockey.  They do not mind buying a costly ticket to watch a cricket match but do not go to a hockey match of the same standard even if there is no gate fee.  Similarly this class of people buy expensive cricket gear for their children but do not buy them a hockey stick.

( d ) Parents attitude towards sport is not positive.  They do not mind buying their son a scooter or any other automobile or other expensive items but are hesitant to spend their many on sport goods for their children.  Even if they do spend some money on sport gear, they buy gear for cricket or other elite games but hardly ever on hockey.

( e ) Coaches themselves are not physically fit.  They are unable to run with the players and thus are not able to guide the players properly.  A coach has not only to look after the game skills of his wards but also has to provide them moral training.  A coach  who himself indulges in smoking and drinking with the players, how can he be a moral guide for the players.  Unfortunately most of our coaches are not free of these vices and therefore are unable to inculcate discipline among the players. 

( f ) Selection of players at any level of the game is not based on merit solely.  Many considerations including satisfying whims and fancies of selectors and those who matters play a crucial role in the matter of selection of a player.

( g ) Now competition even at highest level has decline.  In our days, there used to be 6 or 7 players of almost equal quality for each position.  Now, the things have come to such a passe that when an Indian player even in international games, gets injured, it becomes difficult to find a suitable substitute.

In the words of Mohinder Singh Padani, we always used to play for a win and were not afraid of losing.  We used to play attacking game as attack is the best defence. If attack is strong, deficiencies of defence can be overcome but if attack is weak, no matter how strong is defence, one can not win.  Now-a -days Indian players have become defensive, they do not take chances as they are afraid of losing and by playing a defensive game give chance to the opponent to dominate.  But in order to successfully attack, players should have mastery over game skills.  At present, our players are lacking in basic skills, and thus common Indian failing is that we fail to score by jumbling at the last moment.

      Lal Singh Sohal feels that modern players lack commitment to the game and nation.  Their aim is to get Indian Colour for personal benefits.  Modern players lack fighting spirit.  He feels that Punjabi’s by nature possess this quality and this is evident in Pakistan team also.

      According to Pritpal Singh Aassi, the lack of practice among Indian players is the most important reason for downfall of Indian hockey.  He says that while other teams practice hard for penalty corner, penalty strokes etc. and master the art of scoring, we generally are not able to convert goal scoring opportunities into goals, as we do not practice so hard.  Indian teams also lack in confidence and do not play with the determination to win the game.

      Jaswinder Singh Kullar adds that the competition in hockey has become very tough as other countries have also improved a lot.  He laments the lack of quality coaches for hockey in India and puts responsibility on the shoulders of N.I.S., Patiala who were supposed to provide quality coaches.  He feels that N.I.S. should revise its admission policy and give admission in coaching courses only to those who themselves are good players.  N.I.S. curriculai also needs revision according to Jaswinder Singh Kullar as they are more theoretical in nature. Jaswinder Singh Kullar feels that NIS should lay greater emphasis on practical aspects of the game.  He feels that a good player, if he has a flair for coaching, could become a successful coach even if he has not passed a course from institutions like NIS.

      Now a days, more money is being invested in hockey.  No. of tournaments has increased.  More prizes are being awarded and quality of kit has improved greatly, making the kit costlier. But still the final outcome is not satisfactory.  As our planning is faulty and players also are not sufficiently motivated.  In our time, we had much less facilities.  WE had greater determination and used to take the game more seriously.  Junior level tournaments, the way they are organised are mostly waste of time and energy as many players do not graduate from junior level to senior level and those who do succeed are mostly found wanting at senior level.

         no.                                10                    20                  20

         %age                             20                    40                  40

      This item was designed to illicit the opinion of respondents about the role of Indian Government in the development of the Indian hockey.  Only 20% of the respondents were of the opinion that government is contributing positively to the development of Indian hockey.  Rest of the respondents were either of the opinion that government is neither contributing positively nor negatively ( 40% ) or they were highly critical of the government’s role and felt that government is contributing negatively to the development of the game (40% ).

      Some of the comments which were made by respondents to illustrate their points of views are given below:

      According to Mohinder Singh Padani Sports authority of India has introduced many schemes for upliftment of the game but they are yet to give results.  Perhaps in due course of time some positive outcome will result from these schemes.

      Jaswinder Singh Kullar is full of praise for the steps Indian Government has taken in connection with retired outstanding hockey players who have won medals for country in Olympics, World Cup and Asian games, are getting Rs2000 monthly pension and facility to travel free of cost in Indian Railway in India in I or AC class.  Jaswinder Singh Kullar also acknowledged other incentives, India government is giving to Indian hockey players.

      In the words of Jarnail Singh Kullar, Government is mostly giving lip service to the game.  No efforts on the part of government are being undertaken to promote the game at school level.  Sports Authority of India is channelising its resources into few chosen areas merely to please their masters.  Certainly this policy of Sports Authority of India is not going to result in any positive development of the game.

     no                           20                  10                   20

    %age                       40                   20                   40

      About the role of media in development of Indian hockey, the opinion of the respondents is sharply devided.  40% of the respondents feel that the media is cotributing positively in the development of the game but equal no. Of respondents  ( 40% ) have exactly opposite opinion about its role and feel that media is doing more harm to Indian hockey than good, where as 20% respondents are not Sohal sure and feel that medi’s contribution to the development go the game is neither positive nor negative.  Thus, we find that majority of the respondents ( 60% ) feel that media is not contributing positively to the development of Indian hockey.

      Some of the special comments made by respondents in this regard are given below:

      Balbir Singh Kullar is critical of the roll played by media viz. a viz. hockey.  He feels that hockey has got a step motherly treatment from media where the lime light is reserve for cricket and tennis.

      Pritam Singh Kullar feels that media can play a very important role in popularising hockey among masses and attracting youngsters to the game. But there is need to entrust the job of covering a hockey game to only those media men who possess knowledge of the game and understand the subtalities of the game.  Sohal that a good analysis of the game is presented to the people and press can truly play its role of being a watch-dog of the game.

          No.                               11                    20                            20                 19

          % age                           22                     40                            40                 38

      This item was designed to know the opinion of the respondents  about the role of Indian  Hockey  Federation, which is supposedly the governing body of Indian hockey  and is responsible for development of the game in the country.

      Only 38% of the respondents feel that Indian  Hockey  Federation  contribution to Indian hockey  is positive, where as almost equal number of respondents feel ( 40% ) that the Indian  Hockey  Federation is not making any contribution to Indian hockey, it is only a managing body ( 40% ) and rest 11% are highly critical of the role of Indian  Hockey  Federation and feel that Indian  Hockey  Federation’s contribution is negative to development of Indian hockey.  Thus, we find that majority of respondents ( 62% ) are not satisfied with the performance of Indian  Hockey  Federation.

      Some of the comments, which were made by respondents both in its favour and in against it are given below:

According to Pritam Singh Kullar, Indian  Hockey  Federation is not doing justice to the job entrusted to it.  Indian  Hockey  Federation is being controlled by the people who have little knowledge of the game and have become its members for reasons other than hockey.  There is hardly any resulted oriented action programme worth the name, which has been put forward by the Indian  Hockey  Federation.

      Pritpal Singh Aassi is satisfied with the role of Indian  Hockey  Federation and feels that KPS Gill after becoming Indian  Hockey  Federation president has taken many positive steps, such as: ( i ) TA/DA for players and officials has been developed ( ii ) Players have been given more facilities ( iii ) Arrangement for good diet has been made for the players ( iv ) Promotion avenues for the players in their respective departments have been increased.  Such measures will certainly helh in improving Indian hockey standard, feels Pritpal Singh Aassi.

      In the words of Jarnail Singh Kullar, Indian  Hockey  Federation, Chief, KPS Gill is taking interest in the well being of the game and also players.  He is investing money into the game and taking initiatives.  His efforts will surely result in upliftment of the standards of the game.  Though it may take sometime to justify hia efforts.

      Jaswinder Singh Kullar feels that Indian  Hockey  Federation is playing its role successfully, especially its present president, KPS Gill is making great efforts for Indian hockey.  He has made provisions for good diet, quality kits and proper lodging and boarding facilities for players and officials.

      Out of 50 respondents, 45 ( 90% ) consider “ total hockey system” was responsible to a great extent for poor Indian  performance in Barcelona Olympics ( 1992 ), where as 5 respondents ( 10% ) did not give any response to this item.  Thus, in the unanimous view of the respondents to this item, “ total hockey” was a failure.  Many of the respondents felt rather strongly about it and made special comments to elaborate up on the reasons for total hockey’s unsuitability.  These comments are given below:

      While discussing the “ total hockey system”, Balbir Singh Kullar  made two very significant points.  In his opinion no change in the system should be brought abruptly as it is not possible for players to change their style of play over night.  Thus, if any change is desired, it should be first discussed thread bare at the level of coaches and then first experimented at club level and at state level and only if found superior interm of result production, it could be implemented at the national level.  Without these preconditions i.e. a thorough discussion and experimentation of lower level any system, no matter how good it may be for others, is bound to fall, remarked Balbir Singh Kullar.  Personally Balbir Singh Kullar is not much in favour of total hockey system as he feels that it is more suitable for fitter, faster players of European teams who have experimented with it at lower levels, where as for our players, who are not used to this system and or neither as physically fit nor as fast as Europeans, this system is simply not suitable.  Still, he feels that before reverting to old system, we should have a national debate on this topic among national players, Coaches and experts in this field.

      In the words of Jarnail Singh Kullar, total hockey demands total physical fitness on the part of a player.  As Indian players  are not generally as physical strong as players for European Countries, total hockey is not suitable for us.  Among Indian players, players from Services teams are generally more physically fit and disciplined as compared to the players  from other teams due to their military training.  Thus, if we wish to build a strong hockey team, we should train our players in military lines  therefore, total hockey is suitable for fitter teams like Services.

       Only four of the respondents ( i.e. 8% ) consider modern hockey better in comparison to traditional hockey and only 12 ( i.e. 24% ) feel that Astro-turf is more suitable for us as compared to grass court.  Thus, overwhelming majority of respondents favour Indian style of hockey and grass as the suitable playing surface.

      Udham Singh Kullar is against the modern concept of total hockey and feels that traditional 5-3-2-1 formation, the best suited formation for Indian hockey.  Udham Singh Kullar is a great admirer of traditional hockey and feels that the recent changes in rules of hockey has robbed the modern hockey of much of its charm.  He feels that modern hockey is not Sohal esthetically pleasing.  In traditional hockey days of his time, “ bully off” and penalty bully etc. Were real treat to watch and called for artistic flair of the game says Udham Singh Kullar.  Where as modern hockey is simply a hit and run business which laids great emphasis on physical fitness but beauty of the game is sacrificed in the name of speed.

      Udham Singh Kullar feels that Astro-turf is neither a fordable nor suitable for players from Indian Sub Continent.  He says that to play on Astro-turf one needs a physical fitness, stamina and speed at a level where we cannot compete with European players.  He feels that grassy grounds  are more suitable for Indian players and clay ground ( Chat ) is the most suitable for us it requires least money to build a ground  and maintain it and provide fast hockey.  Udham Singh Kullar also feels that if Astro-turf were available during his playing days, India would have scored more goals as it is easy to play on Astro-turf because of its smoothness and he himself and his contemporary Indian players were fit and fast enough to play on this surface.

      While comparing the modern hockey with traditional hockey, Balbir Singh Kullar  feels that modern hockey is more attractive to watch as more goals are scored, a less of whistling takes place, making the game most spectator orientated.  In relation to hockey playing hockey surfaces, Balbir Singh Kullar  feels that though Astro-turf provides a faster of hockey is a true surface conducive to power hockey and a suitable surface to play even during rainy season but the surface has reduced the life span of players as they tried to burn out early and also because of the fact that Astro-turf is more injury prone and content playing in this surface may lead to Asthmatic problems.  Where as grass hockey presents completely contrasting hockey where the game though slower calts for crafty skills and techniques and is esthetically more pleasing and a green field is good for eyes and is free from health hazards.

Darshan Singh Kullar feels that the traditional hockey was superior to modern hockey as it involved the artistry, skills and class of highest order, which could be appreciated by the knowledgeable viewers of these days.  Whereas the modern hockey is only a bit and run business and is not much of a treat to watch.

      About Astro-turf also Darshan Singh Kullar has similar views.  He feels that Astro-turf and other such artificial surfaces are more suited to the players of European countries who are physically fitter. 

      Parkash Singh Kullar feels that Chat ground is fast better  than grassy ground.  The movements on Chat ground can sometimes be Sohal fast that spectators are bewildered and they get real joy out of the game.

      In the words of Mohinder Singh Padani, modern hockey depends on long straight passes and thus a lot of time is wasted.  Where as traditional hockey depends on game skills and short through passes, which were more eye catching.

      Mohinder Singh Padani feels that hockey on grass is better than Astro- turf.  Hockey as the game becomes more beautiful and entertaining for the spectators when played on grass.  Astro-turf is not suitable for a country like India as it is very costly and due to climatic conditions and physical fitness of an average Indian player, it is harmful for the players also.

      Modern hockey is breft of artistry and skills and is not Sohal pleasing to watch.  Where as traditional hockey was more graceful and entertaining to the spectators.  Astro-turf is very expensive, not suitable for health of players.  Climatic conditions of India are not suitable for its use as due to hot weather, it requires constant watering which leads to Asthmatic problems for players.  As playing on Astro-turf takes a heavy toll of one’s body, the life of a player reduces.  On the other hand grass ground is conducive to players health especially for their eyes.  The hockey played on grass is esthetically more pleasing to watch as a player on grass can show his skills and artistry of the game.  The playing life of a player is more on grass as compared to that at Astro- turf and it is much cheaper too.  Chat ground is cheep and best.  Although playing on Chat ground puts some strain on a player ankles, the game on Chat ground is as fast as game on Astro-turf provided it is properly maintained. ( Jarnail Singh Kullar )

      Jaswinder Singh Kullar  prefers traditional hockey over modern hockey and says that in traditional hockey ball used to be in play for longer duration and spectators, players and even refrees used to have greater enjoyment.  He feels that Astro-turf is better than grass court but warns that play on Astro-turf successful one needs to have practice of playing on the surface.  If one practices at grass ground and plays tournaments and matches on Astro-turf, he can not do well.  Therefore, Sansarpur should also get a Astro-turf as now most of international tournaments are played on this surface.

      Lal Singh Sohal feels that traditional hockey was superior to modern hockey as traditional players possessed greater control over the ball and their mastery over the game was of high calibre, their moves were never used to go a bagging.  They were team players and very skillful and the game was more interesting.  Where as modern hockey is a hit and run affair and has no such spectator interest.

      Though he does not prefer Astro-turf as he feels that it is not suitable for Indian players.  According to him game on Astro-turf makes greater demands on physical fitness of the player on one hand and is a costly affair on the other hand.  However, the game on Astro-turf is fast and it is easier to give accurate passes as the surface is smooth.

      Pritpal Singh Aassi prefers traditional hockey was esthetically more pleasing as return passes, winger’s crosses, ino-trio and into-in etc. Were a real joy to watch. All these techniques are missing from the modern hockey which has become a mere hit and run affair.

      Prefers grass court over Astro-turf as he feels that Astro-turf hockey does not calls for many skills and even a novice can play on this surface.  Moreover, in playing on Astro-turf, there is greater risk of injury to a player especially ankles and knee of a player become more susceptible.  Astro-turf also reduces the playing age of a player as one can play on this surface upto a maximum of 30 years, where as grass hockey is the real test of skills of a player and a good player can easily be singled out from mediocors while playing on grass.  Playing age of a player also increases on this surface. 

      In the opinion of 46 respondents ( i.e. 92% ), hockey has a bright future in Sansarpur, where as 02 respondents ( 4% ) feel that the state of Sansarpur hockey will neither improve nor decline and only 01 of them ( 2% ) predicts further detoriation in Sansarpur hockey.  Thus overwhelming majority of respondents ( 92% ) is hopeful about Sansarpur hockey future.      

      But Balbir Singh Kullar is still optimistic about future prospects of hockey in Sansarpur.  He mentioned that now people have realised the above causes and some steps have been taken in right direction to correct the follies of the past and which will bear fruits in due course of time.  He says that Lieutenant General Kalha, present GOC Western Command has taken great interest in Sansarpur hockey.  In lieu of our old hockey ground, where a canal was dig by the army, he has given the village two fully prepared hockey grounds.  The general has also provided hockey equipment to Sansarpur children.  Thapars of JCT. Mills, Phagwara, also were taking interest  in the development of hockey in Sansarpur.  Thapars have established Karam Chand Thapar hockey academy in Sansarpur in Jan, 1996, which enrolls thirty players in 14-18 years age group.  The academy not only provide training but also gives a diet and a maintenance allowance of Rs.500/-per month and a complete hockey kit each of its trainees.  Balbir Singh Kullar ( services )feels that all these efforts will certainly have a positive impact  n Sansarpur hockey and Sansarpur will surely be able to regain some of its lost hockey glory.

      Udham Singh Kullar is optimistic about the future of Sansarpur.  He feels that the recently established hockey academy which has 250 boys/ girls playing under the supervision hold great  hope for the future.  These youngsters   are being provided coaching free for all cost.  In fact Udham Singh Kullar himself contributes about Rs 10,000 per month for gear, diet etc. of the trainees.

      Darshan Singh Kullar is quiet optimistic about the future of Sansarpur hockey.   He said that after returning from England, he saw a great upsurge in Sansarpur hockey.  Now, under the supervision of Udham Singh Kullar 250-300 boys are having daily practice. He remarked that Hockey academy which has been founded lately is also doing a good job and all these efforts would surely result in regaining the hockey prestige of Sansarpur in

regaining the hockey prestige of Sansarpur 5-6 years according to Darshan Singh Kullar.

      In the words of  Jarnail Singh Kullar in Sansarpur.  But Government  must take steps to check “hockey drain” from the country in general and Sansarpur in particular.  Availability of good jobs for outstanding hockey players can be instrumental in discouraging hockey players from migrating. .Thus Government of India must take necessary steps in this direction.

      Karnail Singh Kullar still feels that hockey in Sansarpur has a bright future as Sansarpuri’s play a game of distinct quality and their technique is different from others.

       Parkash Singh Kullar mentioned that now the things are changing.  More facilities are now made available to younger players.  Our retired players are now providing free coaching to younger generation and J.C.T., Academy is providing kit and diet of the amount of  Rs 500/-per month per player to 30 players.  Lt.  General Kalha has also helped Sansarpur hockey a lot.  He has given us two hockey fields, four six-a side hockey fields and has also helped in providing kits to the Sansarpur players.  Now, we hope that Sansarpur players will again dominate the Indian scene and bring laurels to Indian hockey.

       Among the factors responsible for decline of Sansarpur hockey, 6.2 lack of exposure to game and 6.3 immigration of hockey players from Sansarpur were agreed up only by all the respondents where as change of attitude of Sansarpuri’s towards sports particularly hockey not getting the encouragement from parents were also agreed up on as factors responsible for decline of Sansarpur hockey by all but one and two respondents ( 98%, 96% ) respectively.  However, only 11 of the respondents ( i.e. 22% ) consider lack of facilities as a factor contributing to decline of Sansarpur hockey.

      It is significant that no factor other than those listed was mentioned by any of the respondents.  It shows that 6.1-6.5 could be the only reasons for decline of Sansarpur hockey.  However, many respondents made special remarks to elaborate upon one or more of the above mentioned ( 6.1-6.5 ) reasons.  Some of these comments are given below:

      In the opinion of Udham Singh Kullar main causes of decline of hockey in Sansarpur are:

      Disruption of the tournament system which prevailed in his younger days and provided opportunities to budding players to show their skills.  Now a days, very few such tournaments are organised and their is need to provide more playing opportunities to village youngsters feels Udham Singh Kullar.

      Udham Singh Kullar also feels that in his younger days as there was a constant flow of players from Sansarpur to national team and these senior players used to maintain a constant touch with the village by regularly visiting the village, playing in village games, providing training and motivation to youngsters. Now a days, the flow has ebbed on one hand and on the other hand a few players who do succeed a national/international level, maintain little interest in Sansarpur hockey there by depriving the younger generation of the great hockey traditions of the village

      Darshan Singh Kullar feels that though there are general causes for decline of Sansarpur hockey, which are also interrdated, the chief causes are:

( a ) Lack of facilities, especially inavailability of the ground for a very long period.  Darshan Singh Kullar says, when cantonment took over the old ground of the village in mideighties, there was no place for village folk to play hockey in the village.  It was only after a lapse of almost 10 years, that army provided an alternate ground to village for hockey though the old ground  of which Darshan Singh Kullar had fond memories is still not available for playing hockey.  These 10 years, during which Sansarpuris have no proper place to practice hockey, in view of Darshan Singh Kullar, were instrumental in setting a decline in Sansarpuri’s hockey standard.

( b ) Changing scenario of Indian sport also had its impact on Sansarpur,s hockey according to Darshan Singh Kullar.  He feels that somehow hockey lost the position of being the prime sport of the country.  Other sports namely cricket, tennis etc. Received more recognition at national level, Sohal the attitude of Sansarpur parents also changed, and the encouragement his generation received from their parents, new generation surely missed that.  Village people became materialistic over the years and started migrating in search of greener pastures.  Even those who earned their livelihood and prestige on the basis of hockey, after retiring from hockey preferred to settle abroad and the new could not get the benefit of their guidance.

      Among the reasons for decline of hockey in Sansarpur Balbir Singh Kullar  feels that lack of locally available facilities, migration of people from Sansarpur for greener pastures abroad and decline in prestige of the game of hockey at national level are the chief causes responsible for decline of hockey in Sansarpur.  To elaborate the above points, he mentioned that for long Sansarpuris were not having a hockey ground of their own to practice.  It is only recently that they have been provided by two hockey grounds by the army.  He said the great hockey players of yesteryears like Gurdev Singh Kullar, Darshan Singh Kullar and Gurjit Singh Kullar etc., who could have been the role model for youngsters have settled abroad and youngsters among the present generation are also preferring to take any job out side in comparison to playing serious hockey.  As they feel that a career in hockey does not offer much by way of a good living.  They find no glamour in hockey and even if they are sport minded they opt cricket instead.  Here, he feels that govt. Policies and media’s roll has also been questionable.  Govt. has not provided enough incentives for hockey players and media has given more exposure other games sidelining the national game of hockey.

      Darshan Singh Sethi emphasised that lack of commitment among modern players as the most important reason.  He stated that during his youth, they not only cared for their hockey but they themselves used to take initiatives in related matters.  They were themselves looking after the field, they were organising matches among different teams from and outside the village. They used to go on foot or on bicycles to other villages to fix matches with the teams there and inform the players.  They were interested in the game and had no selfish motives.  They were open to suggestions and had great regards for elders opinions on hockey matters.  Where as youngsters now simply do not listen to their seniors.

      In the words of Jarnail Singh Kullar, many senior players migrated to foreign countries, depriving Sansarpur youngsters of their guidance.  This was a major factor in the decline of hockey standards in Sansarpur as senior players used to act as a link between an active players and budding youngsters who were to replace active players.  Some of the great names who migrated to foreign countries were: Darshan Singh Kullar,  Gurdev Singh Kullar, Gurjit Singh Kullar all migrated to England and Mohinderpal Singh Aassi, Pritpal Singh Kullar and Avtar Singh migrated to Canada.

      Sansarpur was not a very prosperous village and to Sansarpuri’s were used to hard physical labour by working in fields and doing other manual work at their homes.  This physical labour not only was instrumental in keeping them physically fit and strong, but was also effective in inculcating in their correct work ethics and positive mental attitude.  All this used to go moulding them into great hockey players.  But now the lifestyle has changed children now a days do not have to go through the same physical drill and thus are not as physical strong as used to be.  Moreover economic prosperity enables them to lead a luxurious life and they are no more as hardworking.  As hockey is a demanding game, they are unable to put in  enough hardwork and the quality of their hockey suffers.

      Sansarpur hockey traditions could not be kept alive because of large scale migration of original Sansarpur habitants to other parts of the country.  Many great hockey playing families of Sansarpur are now settled in various other parts of the country after selling their ancestral homes.  The new settlers who occupied their homes now are those who have come from other places and have no knowledge of Sansarpur hockey tradition.  As a result of this demographic change of population in Sansarpur, the village atmosphere, which used to be conducive to hockey playing, has changed and hockey no more enjoys the same prestige in the village.  Evenku families who used to dominate Sansarpur hockey, have started migrating from the village.

      Hockey used to be helpful for Sansarpuri’s in getting employment in army and other such organisations.  At that time, Sansarpuri’s were looking for any job jobs even at lower levels in these organisations were acceptable to them.  Now the economic prosperity and education among village folks have changed this attitude.  They are looking for good positions only in these organisations.  As higher positions are rare and  only hockey playing ability does not fetch one such a position, hockey has lost some of its charm as a license to get the job for Sansarpuri’s.

Karnail Singh Kullar considers lack of exposure to the game as most among Sansarpuri’s.  He feels that he learnt his hockey by playing in village tournaments, while todays youngsters have no such opportunity to have their skills.

      Rajinder Singh Kullar says that we used to put our hearts in the game.  Even daily practice was taken very seriously.  Everyday, after the complete practice session, Udham Singh Kullar used to ask us to take 3-4 rounds of the field, running with full speed and all of us always obeyed his orders.  Modern players play for the perks like getting Colour or job, where we used to play for the love of the game.

      In those days, we used to play bare foot and with used hockey sticks as we had little resources at our disposal.  When ever we heared that a game of hockey was being organised in the village, we used to make all efforts in making the field match fit and were not hesitant to do any job in this connection.  After working hard throughout the day, even if we were not selected to play the game, we never used to mind that, as for us the top priority was to make the game a success.  Now, although the younger generation has all the facilities available to them, they do not possess the will power and zeal of players  like Udham Singh Kullar and Darshan Singh Kullar.

      Modern senior players do not encourage their juniors as our seniors used to encourage us.  Even player like Udham Singh Kullar used to play with their juniors and gave them encouragement and guidance.  Now, senior players consider it below their dignity to play with juniors.  Now juniors do not have anybody to look upto.  They rarely get opportunity to watch a good game leave alone practicing with great players.

      Kullar family, who were the back bone of Sansarpur hockey in its hey days, have largely migrated from the village.  This has further led to the decline of Sansarpur hockey.

      He feels that every Sansarpuri should have a firm determination to play hockey  for the country.  This should be other motto.  If we do Sohal, surely Sansarpur would produce many more players for Indian hockey team.

      In 1990, Sansarpuris lost their traditional hockey ground, the then incharge of the ground built a canal there for army training.  This was a facility, which Sansarpuri’s were availing since the times of Britishers.  The loss of ground deprived Sansarpuris of a great facilities and this is a major factor in decline of Sansarpur hockey.  Later in 1994, Lt. Gen. H.B.Kalha provided Sansarpuri with two grounds, a little away from the traditional ground.  Now- a- days, Sansarpuri’s practice on these new grounds.  But for 4 years, they were without a place where they could practice.

      In the words of Pritam Singh Kullar, in earlier days good hockey players were given jobs in army, which were considered coveted in those days.  Now army jobs have lost that prestige and due to the risk involved in the job and hard service conditions, these jobs are not in much demand, on one hand and on other hand lesser hockey players are now being absorbed by army.  Thus, there is a dearth of lucrative jobs for hockey players.  Children from well-to-do families are therefore not being attracted by hockey and children from middle or lower middle classes are not able to sustain themselves in the game as playing hockey demands a good diet and hockey equipment has also become very costly.

      No job  guarantee and risk of injuries and uncertain future are the main factors which discourage youngsters to adopt the game.

      Some comments regarding the decline of Sansarpur hockey are given below:

( a ) Quality of talent available in the village has gone down.

( b ) Interest in the game is also on the vain.

( c ) Sons of hockey players, who could have got the benefit of advice from parents started   opting for other games.  My own son play tennis.

( d ) Equipment has become costly.

      In the words of Parkash Singh Kullar, not having a ground of our own for a considerable period of time.  He feels that guidance for senior players was not available to younger generation for about 10-15 years.

      Four respondents did not mention any name.

      In the response to the question asking respondents to name the favourite national and other outstanding players of Sansarpur who have fascinated them most.  Mohan Singh Aassi was cited by the highest number of respondents i.e. 11 ( 22% ).  Shamsher Singh Kullar, Karnail Singh Kullar, Modan Singh Sohal were mentioned by 03 ( 6% ) respondents each.  Sadhu Singh Kullar, Atma Singh Kullar, Pritam Singh Kullar, Jaswinder Singh Kullar, Avtar Singh Kullar, Parmjit Singh Kullar, Lal Singh Sohal, Kishan Singh Sohal were named by 02 ( 4% ) respondents.  The names of Gopal Singh Kullar, Ram Chand Padani, Naginder Singh Kullar, Abchal Singh Aassi, Inderjit Singh Kullar, Balwant Singh Kullar were mentioned by 01 respondent only.

      The special comments which were made by some of the respondents  in justification of their choice of the player are given below:

      While mentioning the name of other great hockey players from Sansarpur, Balbir Singh Kullar also mentioned the name of Mohan Singh Aassi and Ajit Singh Dublee, whom he himself did not see in those playing days but has heard about them from others.  He told us that Mohan Singh Aassi of Sansarpur though could not play for India due to lack of opportunities in those days and played for 5/13 Frontier Force Rifle and S.R.C. ( Meerut ) was held in high esteem by the hockey wizard Dhyan Chand was so successfully thwarted in his attempts to score by Mohan Singh Aassi in a game against 5/13 Frontier Force Rifle that after the game was over, Dhyan Chand remarked that Mohan Singh Aassi is the greatest Indian hockey player, better than himself and there is no body who can match him in mastery over the game.

      About Ajit Singh Dublee, Balbir Singh Kullar said that once playing for S.R.C., Meerut, as full back against “ Pakistan Club”, which comprised of eight players from 1952 Pakistan Olympics team at national stadium in 1952, he did not allow Pakistani forwards to attacked S.R.C. ( Meerut ) goal even once.  Pakistani were beaten 0-2 in that game.  Balbir Singh Kullar mentioned that he has such a good speed that he was affectionately called “ Dublee”, ( fast runner ) by his peers later became part of his name. He was a real tough full back in opinion of Balbir Singh Kullar ( Services ).

Among the other players from Sansarpur, Gurjit Singh Kullar mentioned Mohan Singh Aassi as the one who had great impact on him.  According to Gurjit Singh Kullar, Mohan Singh Aassi was a master dribbler and a very intelligent and a great schemer.  His passes were very accurate and well thought of.  He used to play clean hockey and foul play was completely unknown to him.  He used to play according to the situation of the game as he possessed a great hockey brain. 

    Karnail Singh Kullar said that Mohan Singh Aassi had mastered the unique art of scoring a goal by taking the rebound from Goal Keeper’s pads,  was a natural player and it was unfortunate that he could not get the national Colour.

      Among the other outstanding Sansarpur players who have impressed Darshan  Singh  Sethi, he named Mohan Singh Aassi as the one who left a deep impression on him.  Darshan  Singh  Sethi says that Mohan Singh Aassi who played at inside right position was an outstanding player.  Though, he was slightly built, he possessed a good hockey brain.  He was a great schemer and has mastered the art of scoring the goal on taking a rebound from the goal keepers pads. 

      Among national players, Jaswinder Singh Kullar had great regards for his S.R.C. team mate full back Modan Singh Sohal.  Jaswinder Singh Kullar says that Modan Singh Sohal was a tall, well built man and an used to play aggressive hockey.  Modan Singh Sohal’s physical presence in Indian half used to send shivers in rival forwards.  He was a penalty corner expert.  It was unfortunate that he could not won Indian colour, but competition in those days for full back position in Indian hockey team was very tough and he missed narrowly.

      In the words of Jarnail Singh Kullar , Karnail Singh Kullar could have easily played for India but narrowly missed the chance.  He was a scorer of highest calibre.  He could cover the ground very fast due to his long strides.  He was a daring, rough and tough centre forward and majority of opponent defenders were afraid of him, though generally in hockey, forwards fear from defenders.

      According to Rajinder Singh Kullar, Shamsher Singh Kullar was a great full back.  He had a great reach, possessed very strong hit, and India is yet to produce a full back of his quality.  His untimely death at a very young age, deprived India of services of a quality full back.

      Parkash Singh Kullar says that Shamsher Singh Kullar was expert in penalty corner and possessed a great hit.  His hit was so strong that one can hear a sizzling sound.  He used to hit the ball so hard during his practice sessions that ball did not only reach the wall of house near old Banyan tree but could cross several rows of the houses built nearby.

      According to Mohinder Singh Padani, My elder brother Ram Chand Padani was a centre forward of great ability.  His dribbling and understanding of the game was of highest order.  He was popularly called Dhyan Chand II as he not only resembled the great ace in appearance but also possessed matching game skills.  He represented four Indian teams in nationals, which are: Services, N.W.F.P., Madras, Rajasthan.  He could surely have played for India but some how narrowly missed the chance.  He toured Afghanistan with Rajasthan hockey team.

      Among national players Lal Singh Sohal specially mentioned the name of Punjab left half Kishan Singh Sohal.  Lal Singh Sohal feels that Kishan Singh Sohal was one of those unfortunate ones who narrowly missed India Colour.  According to him Kishan Singh Sohal was very accurate with his passes and was master of positional play.  His recovery was also of high calibre.