PR Sreejesh: Shreejesh is one of the most iconic figures in Indian hockey, has carved out an extraordinary career as a goalkeeper. His rise from the small town of Kizhakkambalam in Kerala to becoming a global hockey star is a story of grit, perseverance, and exceptional talent. He announced his retirement after medal winning Olympic.
How goal keeping became his identity?
Born on May 8, 1988, in Kerala’s Ernakulam district, Parattu Raveendran Sreejesh was drawn to sports from a young age. Although he initially explored various disciplines, including athletics, it was hockey that eventually became his calling. Sreejesh’s skills were nurtured at the GV Raja Sports School in Thiruvananthapuram, where he trained under the guidance of renowned coach Jayakumar. His talent quickly shone through, earning him a place in the junior national team. He gravitated towards the goalkeeper position, a role that would later define his career.
Carrier in Indian Hockey team
Sreejesh debuted for the Indian senior team in 2006 at the South Asian Games, but it was the 2011 Asian Champions Trophy where he truly announced his arrival. In the final against Pakistan, Sreejesh’s outstanding saves during the penalty shootout clinched the title for India, earning him widespread acclaim as the hero of the tournament. Another career-defining moment came at the 2014 Asian Games, where Sreejesh played a pivotal role in securing a gold medal for India. His consistency and composure under pressure earned him the captaincy of the Indian hockey team in 2016.
Olympics, The crowning achievements
The crowning achievement of Sreejesh’s career came at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics (held in 2021 due to the pandemic). The Indian men’s hockey team had been without an Olympic medal for over four decades, and the pressure was immense. Sreejesh’s experience and calmness were crucial in guiding the team to a historic bronze medal. His incredible saves in the final moments of the bronze medal match against Germany are forever etched in the memories of Indian hockey fans. This victory not only brought immense pride to the nation but also solidified Sreejesh’s status as one of the greatest goalkeepers in the history of Indian hockey.
Honors and Awards of Shreejesh
Throughout his illustrious career, P.R. Sreejesh received numerous honors. In 2015, he was awarded the Arjuna Award for his contributions to Indian sports, followed by the prestigious Padma Shri in 2017. In 2021, Sreejesh was named the FIH Goalkeeper of the Year, further underscoring his excellence on the global stage.
A proud Retirement
After a long and distinguished career, Sreejesh announced his retirement from international hockey in Olympic 2024. Sreejesh leaves behind a legacy that will inspire future generations of hockey players. His journey from a small Kerala town to becoming the guardian of India’s goalpost on the world stage is a testament to his perseverance, discipline, and unwavering commitment to the sport. His leadership, sportsmanship, and exceptional talent have set a high standard for future goalkeepers, both in India and globally.
Positive takeaway
PR Sreejesh’s career exemplifies what can be achieved through passion, hard work, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. As he steps away from the international arena, his legacy will continue to be celebrated and remembered for years to come.
