Indian men’s hockey team goalkeeper PR Sreejesh, a stalwart in the sport, is currently preparing for his fourth Olympics. In a recent interview, he expressed his reluctance to predict his future beyond the Paris Olympics, emphasizing the importance of focusing on the present.

However, despite remaining tight-lipped about his retirement plans, Sreejesh harbors ambitions of contributing to Indian hockey even after hanging up his gloves.

Focused on the Present

Sreejesh, renowned for his agility and leadership on the field, refrains from contemplating life post-Olympics, stating that he prefers to take things one year at a time. At 36 years old, he defies age norms with his remarkable fitness levels, evident from his impressive beep test scores.

Despite uncertainties about his future, he remains optimistic about his participation beyond Paris, driven by his passion for the sport.

A Vision for the Future

While Sreejesh is committed to his playing career, he envisions a transition to coaching roles after retirement. His long-term plan includes aspiring to become the chief coach of the Indian national hockey team by 2036 or 2040. With an eye on the future, he aims to leverage his experience to nurture and guide future generations of hockey players.

Tokyo Triumph and Paris Prospects

Having played a pivotal role in India’s historic bronze medal win at the Tokyo Olympics, Sreejesh believes that the current Indian team has the potential to achieve even greater success in Paris. Despite the stiff competition from top teams worldwide, he remains confident in India’s abilities while emphasizing the need to stay grounded and focused.

Mentoring for Success

Ahead of the Paris Olympics, renowned mental conditioning coach Paddy Upton joins the Indian team, providing invaluable support to players in managing the pressures of elite competition. Sreejesh acknowledges the significance of Upton’s presence, especially in navigating the mental challenges associated with the Olympics, highlighting his past success with the Indian cricket team.

Crucial Preparatory Phases

The upcoming tours of Australia and Belgium serve as crucial preparatory phases for the Indian team. Sreejesh emphasizes the importance of these tours in fine-tuning strategies, testing new approaches, and assessing the team’s readiness for the Olympics. These tours offer valuable opportunities for players to refine their skills and build cohesion ahead of the pinnacle event.

Final Preparations Before the Big Stage

With the Antwerp leg of the Pro League marking the last round of preparations before the Olympics, Sreejesh stresses the significance of this phase akin to a final exam rehearsal. Following these preparations, the team will engage in thorough self-analysis to address any weaknesses and further enhance their performance before heading to the Olympics.

In conclusion, PR Sreejesh’s unwavering commitment to Indian hockey, both as a player and a prospective coach, underscores his dedication to the sport’s growth and success. As the Indian team gears up for the Paris Olympics, Sreejesh’s leadership and vision serve as guiding lights, inspiring confidence and determination among players and fans alike.