This milestone belongs to unseen heroes’: Hockey legend M.M. Somaya on India’s 100-year hockey journey
As Indian hockey celebrates 100 glorious years of its organised structure, legendary Olympian M.M. Somaya — a member of India’s 1980 Olympic gold-winning team — has dedicated the centenary milestone to the “unseen heroes” who built and sustained the sport through generations.

In an emotional reflection shared as part of Hockey India’s month-long centenary campaign, Somaya said the milestone is not just a celebration of medals and victories but a tribute to the countless contributors behind the scenes — from employers to fans — who created the foundation for Indian hockey’s enduring success.

“While we rightly celebrate the players who brought glory to the nation, I would dedicate these hundred years to the people behind the scenes — the Railways, Armed Forces, Police, Banks, Petroleum companies, and the fans who supported us through every high and low,” Somaya said.

Having represented India in three consecutive Olympics — 1980 (Moscow), 1984 (Los Angeles), and 1988 (Seoul) — Somaya witnessed one of the sport’s most transformative eras, including the transition from natural grass to AstroTurf. “It completely changed the pace and tactics of the game. Over time, Indian hockey evolved from individual brilliance to a collective structure and strategy,” he recalled.

Somaya also praised the current generation of players, calling them “the fittest and most professional” in India’s history. “The Tokyo Olympic bronze was not just a medal; it symbolised the resurgence of Indian hockey. This is truly a golden generation,” he said.

Looking to the future, the former captain emphasised the importance of nurturing young talent through structured grassroots programs. “We must continue developing under-12 to under-21 players scientifically and provide them international exposure. That will keep India among the global elite,” he added.

As India’s hockey fraternity marks this historic centenary, Somaya’s reflections embody both nostalgia and hope — a tribute to every player, coach, administrator, and fan who has kept the nation’s hockey legacy alive for a century.