Thank you, Sreejesh: PM Modi writes to former hockey goalie, backs him as Junior coach

Retired Indian hockey star P.R. Sreejesh praised by PM Modi for his monumental contributions to Indian hockey.

Retired Indian hockey star P.R. Sreejesh has shared a letter that he received from Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently in which the leader has lauded the former goalkeeper for his service to the game and expressed confidence in his ability to be “impactful” as the new national junior coach.

Mr. Sreejesh called time on his illustrious 15-year career after India’s bronze-winning Paris Olympic campaign, which was his and the team’s second successive Games medal after the bronze in Tokyo.

Known as ‘The Wall’ for his impeccable skills in front of the goalpost, Mr. Sreejesh was instrumental in guiding the team through remarkable successes, including two Asian Games gold medals, and two Champions Trophy silver medals.

Following his retirement, Hockey India appointed Mr. Sreejesh as the head coach of the junior men’s team and he vowed to make India a “powerhouse in hockey”.

Confident of Mr. Sreejesh’s impact as junior team coach, PM Modi wrote: “I am sure your work in the new role will be as impactful and inspirational.”

“As you call it a day on your playing career, I wish to convey my heartfelt appreciation for your monumental contributions to Indian hockey,” PM Modi wrote in the letter dated August 16.

Mr. Sreejesh thanked PM Modi for his support.