Former Indian Women’s Hockey Team captain and veteran goalkeeper Savita has been recognized with two prestigious awards at the Hockey India 7th Annual Awards 2024. She received the Hockey India Balbir Singh Sr. Award for Player of the Year (Women) and the Hockey India Baljit Singh Award for Goalkeeper of the Year, marking yet another milestone in her decorated career.

Speaking on her achievement, Savita expressed gratitude for the recognition, saying, “There have been so many strong performances this year, and I was not expecting to win. Every athlete likes to be acknowledged for their hard work, and I am truly grateful for this award.”

Savita credited her teammates and family for their unwavering support. Tuning in to the ceremony from Toronto, Canada, she dedicated the honor to her in-laws, acknowledging their encouragement in her hockey career post-marriage. “Many athletes feel pressure to quit playing after marriage, but my husband and his family have always pushed me to keep giving my best for India,” she said.

The goalkeeper also reflected on the hard work that goes into excelling in her position. “Behind every stop, there are countless hours of training on footwork, reflexes, and positioning. This award is a reflection of my coaches’ and team’s efforts as well,” she added.

Savita’s exceptional performances in the Hero Hockey India League, where she captained Soorma Hockey Club, were also highlighted as key moments in her season.

Along with the awards, she received INR 25 lakh for the Player of the Year Award and INR 5 lakh for the Goalkeeper of the Year Award. She emphasized the significance of such rewards, stating, “Beyond recognition, these financial incentives empower us to support our families and inspire more women in sports.”

Looking ahead, Savita has her eyes set on the Women’s Hockey World Cup 2026 and the next round of the FIH Women’s Pro League. She recalled India’s shootout victory against the Netherlands in Bhubaneswar as one of her best performances and vowed to keep pushing forward.

“When the country recognizes and rewards us, we owe it to our nation to perform at our best,” she concluded.