Abhishek Celebrates Team Spirit in Retaining Forward of the Year Award
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Synopsis
On March 20 in New Delhi, Abhishek, an Arjuna Awardee, was honored as one of India's top hockey players, retaining the Hockey India Dhanraj Pillay Award for Forward of the Year during the 7th Annual Hockey India Awards. His contributions were vital for the national team in 2024.
Key Takeaways
- Abhishek retains Hockey India Dhanraj Pillay Award.
- He played a pivotal role in India's Olympic and Asian Champions Trophy success.
- Acknowledges team efforts in achieving awards.
- Received a cash prize of Rs 5,00,000.
- Plans to strive for Olympic gold and World Cup victory.
New Delhi, March 20 (NationPress) Abhishek, an Arjuna Awardee, has been celebrated once more as one of India's premier hockey players, successfully retaining the esteemed Hockey India Dhanraj Pillay Award for Forward of the Year during the 7th Annual Hockey India Awards.
The 25-year-old forward, recognized for his exceptional goal-scoring abilities, significantly contributed to India's achievements throughout 2024, solidifying his reputation as a vital player for the national team. Alongside the award, Hockey India also awarded Abhishek a cash prize of Rs 5,00,000.
Abhishek played a crucial role in India's bronze medal victory at the 2024 Paris Olympics, where he netted two key goals during the event. His contribution in the forward line was essential as India triumphed in the 2024 Men's Asian Champions Trophy held in China, scoring twice again to help India secure their fifth championship title.
Upon accepting the award, a thrilled Abhishek stated, "This award is not solely mine—it represents the entire team and support staff. Hockey is fundamentally a team endeavor, and every player’s contributions are integral to such accomplishments. I’m genuinely grateful to win this award for the second consecutive year, and I appreciate my teammates and coaches for their confidence in me."
Recognizing the commitment required to excel at the highest levels, he remarked, "We train tirelessly throughout the year, so being acknowledged for our diligence is always meaningful. My aim now is to keep scoring for India and assist the team in winning more tournaments moving forward."
In addition to his accolades, Abhishek received the Arjuna Award from the Government of India for his contributions to Indian hockey in 2024. Reflecting on this honor, he said, "Winning the Arjuna Award was an exceptional moment, particularly for my family. However, for me, nothing compares to the pride of standing on the Olympic podium with a medal for India."
Looking to the future, Abhishek has set ambitious goals. "My ultimate aspiration is to help India secure an Olympic gold and triumph in the Hockey World Cup next year. If we reach these milestones, accolades will naturally follow. I am determined to restore the golden era of Indian hockey, and I will give my utmost to turn that vision into reality."
