The last long weekend, Surrey, the City of Parks, witnessed an extraordinary event in the shape of inaugural invitational field hockey tournament for the junior boys and girls.
There were three categories in each group, that of under 12, under 14 and under 16 years of age. This was the first of its kind tournament for kids by the India Field Hockey Club.
The response was overwhelming. Participating kids, parents and the audience witnessed a fabulous display of talent. Although participation and a sportsman spirit were the cardinal allure of this tourney, even then there was no dearth of a spirit of competition, too. It was worth watching the stick work and team spirit of the 12-year-old kids.
The results were as follows:
U12 category: United Brothers - first, second India Club – second.
U14 category: India Club – first, Burnaby Lakers – second.
The climax of the tournament was the final of U16 category which was played between United Brothers Club and India Club.
Every ingredient of a refined hockey was there. India club was putting all the pressure in the beginning, their centre half Arshdeep and their forward Harman were distinguishing themselves with their skills and a mature sense of hockey. On the other hand, United Brother’s skipper Sukhpal Panesar along with his army of Tanveer Sidhu, Sunny Dhindsa and especially the astounding defender Arvin Atwal were all ready to thwart any threat.
But in the end, United Brothers were able to sound the board twice from the stick of Sukhpal as compare to India Club’s one which came through a beautiful drag flick of Harman.
Surrey MLA Bruce Ralston gave away the prizes. The festive mood continued until late night with lot of local singing talent ,even Nick Sandhu, assistant coach of the Canada team, didn’t hesitate to demonstrate his singing skills.
(Contributed)
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