I longed to see a hockey match after my dad told me that it's a great sport. I rarely watched sports and when I did, I seldom came across a hockey match in any of them. I always had a soft corner for our national sport that was losing its charm and its players who were getting ignored. With the World Series Hockey taking place in Chennai my dream came true.
Making my way
When the IPL was organised for cricket, I wondered if something similar would come up for hockey. I was elated to learn about the WSH and I couldn't miss it for the world. I felt a little guilty that I had to act sick to get out of hostel. I informed my dad and I smirked that he would have to help me if I got into trouble with the hostel, after all I'd have lied only to see a hockey match and not to roam around with a guy. Hats off to you, dad, for supporting me!
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I sat gloating at the fact that I had managed to sneak out for the match as the auto driver manoeuvred the noisy and rickety vehicle to Mayor Radhakrishnan Hockey Stadium. To my surprise, I found the tickets very affordable with the most expensive being Rs.750! I remembered my friends saying that the tickets to the IPL cost as much as Rs. 6000! I was even more shocked to know that my friend, whose salary sums up to the same figure, was willing to part with it for just a cricket match.
Much to my disappointment, the stadium had hardly any people. I realised it increased my chances of being spotted. My palms grew wet whenever I thought of the hostel and the circumstances were I to get caught. Of course, once the match started I forgot everything.
Exhilarating experienceADVERTISEMENT
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Hockey is a fast game and it was like reading a Perry Mason novel where you never know what's going to happen next. It didn't even leave time for texting and I couldn't take my eyes off the field. The passes were quick and the sport was flushed with adrenaline. I could see that this sport demanded extreme fitness, agility and endurance from the player. It was an exhilarating experience and I sat on the edge of my seat throughout the game.
I assure you that if you are willing to spend two hours to watch a hockey match, you won't regret it. Instead of spending the same time and money on movies and other stuff, let's take some time to promote our national sport for a change. I have high regard for every player of this marvellous game.
And in case you are wondering, I never got caught!
VAISHNAVI RAGHUNATHAN, III Year, B.V.Sc & A.H., Madras Veterinary College Hostel, Vepery