Jayanagara Kodava Sangha marks Indian Hockey Centenary with tournament for kids | Bengaluru News
BENGALURU: As India commemorated 100 glorious years of international hockey, the Jayanagara Kodava Sangha took a decisive grassroots step to shape the sport’s future by organising a kids’ hockey tournament for children aged 8 to 13 years. The tournament was held on Sunday, at Turf City, JP Nagar 7th Phase, Bengaluru, bringing together young players, former internationals and community leaders in a celebration of legacy and hope.Indian hockey’s journey began with unparalleled dominance, starting with the Olympic gold medal at Amsterdam in 1928, followed by decades of global supremacy led by legends like Major Dhyan Chand. For a century, the sport has been deeply intertwined with India’s sporting identity — and the Kodava community of Kodagu has played a pivotal role in that legacy, producing a remarkable number of national and international players.Recognising that the next era of Indian hockey must be built from the ground up, the Jayanagara Kodava Sangha’s initiative focused on early exposure, structured competition and inspiration. The tournament aimed to ignite passion for hockey among children at a formative age, while encouraging parents and schools to view sport as a serious pathway rather than a hobby.The tournament was inaugurated by Raghunath V.R, former Indian hockey player, Olympian and Arjuna Awardee, whose presence inspired the young participants. Kottangada N. Joyappa, Sub-Junior Karnataka hockey player, and Kangira Bheemaiah, Chairman, Kodava Samaja Legal Cell, attended as Guests of Honour. The prize distribution ceremony was graced by Chiriapanda Suresh Nanjappa, President of Kodava Samaja Bangalore, along with Mallengada S. Muthanna, Joint Treasurer, Kodava Samaja Bangalore. Speaking on the occasion, the Kodava Samaja Bangalore President said he would take the initiative forward by promoting similar hockey events across other Kodava Sanghas in Bengaluru.Matches were played on a modern turf surface, ensuring a fast-paced and engaging format suited to young players. All participants were recognised with trophies and mementos, reinforcing the message that encouragement and participation are as important as winning.Speaking about the initiative, organisers said the tournament was not just a one-day event, but a statement of intent. “Commemorating 100 years of Indian hockey is not only about honouring the past; it is about investing in the next generation. If hockey has to thrive for the next 100 years, it must begin with children,” said a member of the Jayanagara Kodava Sangha Sports Committee.
