Bengaluru, May 7 (NationPress) Transitioning from the junior to senior level may appear to be a natural progression for a player, but it poses significant challenges due to varying standards. Young hockey talent Sunil Jojo has recently navigated this critical phase.

Hailing from Rourkela, the 22-year-old defender is now part of the senior men’s national coaching camp, embarking on the next chapter of his hockey career. After representing India at the Junior Hockey World Cup twice and contributing to a bronze medal finish at the recent Sultan of Johor Cup, Sunil is now training among the nation’s elite.

“It requires some adjustment. It’s certainly not simple,” Sunil remarked regarding his first-time transition to the senior camp. “The physicality is significantly greater, and the pace of the game is extremely fast, so adaptation is essential. Additionally, the skill level has changed, necessitating rigorous training. Now that I’m here, I’m learning to adapt my play style,” he stated in a release from Hockey India on Wednesday.

Sunil considers his game awareness and tackling capabilities as his primary strengths, yet he remains dedicated to improvement. “My key strengths are awareness and tackling, but I recognize the need to enhance my stamina and endurance to reach my full potential,” he noted.

Like many emerging Indian players, Sunil has long admired the legendary Manpreet Singh. Now training alongside him, Sunil is seizing the chance to observe and learn.

“I spend a lot of time with him, and I’m gaining invaluable insights,” he shared. “He plays in various positions, so I study how he adapts to different circumstances.”

With a clear vision, Sunil expressed, “I aim to be a regular member of the Indian team and participate in all upcoming competitions. Like many of us, my dream is to bring home medals for our nation.”

Recently, Sunil was selected by UP Rudras in the reinstated Hockey India League. Although his game time was limited, he cherished the experience. “It was a fantastic opportunity. While I didn’t play many matches, I learned a lot in the dressing room and on the training pitch. I intend to apply that knowledge moving forward,” he said.

For Sunil, achieving success at the elite level transcends mere physical training. “I believe that the foremost quality of the world’s best players is mental focus. If you possess that, all your aspirations become attainable,” he emphasized.

A product of Odisha’s vibrant hockey culture, Sunil has also leveraged the sport to enhance his family’s life. Employed with Southeastern Railways, he takes pride in being able to support them. “It holds great significance for me to assist my family and alleviate their burdens. They have always been there for me, so it’s rewarding to contribute in any way I can,” he shared.