New Delhi, April 21 (NationPress) India’s Anudeep Reddy is not just chasing an Olympic dream but also playing a pivotal role in advancing lacrosse in the nation. As the national team gears up for the 2026 Asian Games, he highlighted his efforts to build a framework that will transform India into a lacrosse powerhouse in a matter of years.

India showcased an impressive performance at the Asian Lacrosse Games held in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, this February, clinching gold medals in both the men’s and women’s Sixes events.

Upcoming significant events for India include the 3rd Asian Lacrosse Games in Chengdu, China, this April, and the Asia-Pacific Sixes Lacrosse Championships in Australia this October. These competitions will also serve as qualification rounds for LA 2028.

A law student and former hockey player, Reddy discovered lacrosse while seeking out lesser-known sports linked to global multi-sport events like the Olympics and the Commonwealth Games.

“One day, feeling bored, I started researching new sports included in multi-sporting events like the Olympics and Commonwealth Games. That’s when I encountered lacrosse. Competing in the Olympics is the pinnacle for any athlete, and that was a primary motivation for me to embrace this sport,” Reddy shared with Olympics.com.

Thanks to his hockey background, Reddy transitioned smoothly into lacrosse, rapidly ascending through the ranks to secure a place in the national team within months. Just three years later, he led India to a historic victory at the Asian Lacrosse Games, marking a significant achievement for a sport still emerging in the country.

Beyond personal achievements, Reddy envisions lacrosse as a means to foster long-term change.

“Engaging in an emerging sport like lacrosse allows you to construct the system from the ground up and involve players from the grassroots. This approach can create a far-reaching impact compared to joining an already established system. We aim to develop a framework that positions India as a leading force in lacrosse within a few years,” he explained.

Introduced to India in 2008, lacrosse is gaining traction, yet it faces ongoing structural challenges. With insufficient infrastructure and awareness, players often juggle multiple roles to promote the game.

“Since everything is still new, players have to take on various responsibilities. We dedicate an average of five to seven days each month promoting the sport,” Reddy added.

Despite logistical challenges, including players being scattered across various states, the team has fostered strong unity through a shared mission and regular communication.

On the field, India’s swift ascent has already caught attention. Following a learning curve in early international competitions, the team secured gold at the Asian Lacrosse Games, an unforgettable moment for Reddy.

“Listening to the national anthem after our victory and waving the national flag – those experiences are beyond words for any player, regardless of whether they are a captain. It’s something you must experience,” he remarked.

As the 2026 Asian Games draw near, Reddy anticipates tougher competition but remains hopeful.

“In the Asian arena, some of the stronger teams include China, Hong Kong, and the Philippines… Australia is formidable, and New Zealand is an emerging nation in lacrosse,” he stated.

Looking beyond regional aspirations, the long-term goal is Olympic qualification, especially with lacrosse scheduled to be featured at the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics.

“We firmly believe in our potential. Although time is limited, we are doing everything within our control to enhance our abilities. That’s our immediate goal. If not LA28, then we’ll aim for Brisbane 2032 or even 2036.