Dilip Tirkey has inspired my village to look at Hockey as engine of change, says Amit Rohidas
The 28-year-old defender, who has played 97 matches for the national side, expressed that it has taken him 12 years to fulfil his dream of being a part of the Olympic squad.
“It has taken me 12 years to reach here. I am extremely delighted to be part of the Olympic squad, one of my biggest dreams has been fulfilled now,” said Amit.
“I am thankful to every Coach who helped me to groom as a Hockey player. My sole focus is to have a successful campaign at the upcoming Tokyo Olympics and the recent successful tours have definitely been a boost for the Team’s confidence.”
Being born in same village in Sundargarh as Tirkey, Amit said, “He (Dilip Tirkey) has inspired many from my village to look at Hockey as an engine of change.
“From where I belong, Hockey is not only a sporting discipline but a vehicle for socio-economic growth. I have become the first non-tribal Hockey Olympian from the state of Odisha.”
Having honed his skills at Panposh Sports Hostel, Rourkela, Rohidas made his India debut at the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup 2013 in Malaysia. He was part of the team that won the Silver Medal at the 2013 Asia Cup and was also named as the Vice-Captain of the junior national team for the 2013 FIH Junior Men’s Hockey World Cup held in New Delhi.
