PR Sreejesh Withdraws From 2024 Hockey India League Player Auction
Legendary Indian goalkeeper PR Sreejesh announces his retirement from international hockey, opting out of the upcoming Hockey India League Player Auction.
PR Sreejesh has announced his retirement from international hockey and has decided to opt out of the upcoming Hockey India League Player Auction. Moving forward, he will focus on coaching and mentoring the next generation of talent.
In an exclusive interview with *Sportstar*, Sreejesh shared that he had informed Hockey India of his decision to retire from active play and focus on nurturing the next generation of players.
PR Sreejesh Opts Out of the Upcoming Hockey India League Auction
In an exclusive conversation with *Sportstar*, Sreejesh confirmed that he had submitted a letter to Hockey India expressing his intention to retire from playing and focus on mentoring the next generation of players.
“I have given considerable thought and have decided to withdraw from the Player Auction for the next Hockey India League,” he conveyed to HI president Dilip Tirkey on Wednesday.
“Your offer to organize a retirement celebration for me upon our return from Paris deeply moved me. It’s rare for players to conclude their careers on such a high note… The last six weeks have been both humbling and gratifying… I finished my playing career on a high, securing a place atop the Olympic podium for the second time in a row… The act of bowing to the goalpost following our victory against Spain and the ensuing celebrations with my teammates was extraordinary, and I wish to preserve those memories forever. The idea of returning to the field for ‘One Last Dance’ doesn’t seem appropriate at this moment, as it might overshadow those cherished memories and moments,” he elaborated.
What’s Next for PR Sreejesh After His Retirement from Playing?
Sreejesh, who has been appointed to lead the junior Indian men’s team – subject to final approval from SAI and the sports ministry – will also serve as the Brand Ambassador for one of the franchisees in the upcoming league. Interestingly, the delay in government clearance is related to his remuneration, with Hockey India officials stating that the federation will cover his salary until the approval is granted.
“The HIL, in its previous outing, helped develop an entire generation of Indian players and was the foundation that built India’s international success over the last few years. I believe it will do the same this time around and help give youngsters and a new crop of Indian players the exposure and experience to excel for the national team. I have achieved everything I ever dreamt of as a player, and it will be unfair for me to continue playing now, blocking perhaps a talented youngster’s spot,” Sreejesh told Sportstar.
“My love and passion for Indian hockey remains intact, and with your blessings, I am about to embark on a new journey as a coach and mentor to the next generation of champions. That is my present and future now, and that is where my priorities lie. I will be involved with the Hockey India League in that capacity…,” he added in his letter.
His role with the HIL, though not officially designated, will involve closely working with the team staff and players, advising coaches, and offering guidance. “It will be more of a mentorship role, using my experience to support the team in every way possible,” he said.
A formal announcement is expected soon, with sources confirming a three-year contract that won’t conflict with his national duties. Hockey India has reportedly already approved it.
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