The 6th Annual Hockey India Awards 2024 celebrated achievements in Indian hockey, recognizing both individual players and national teams. Hardik Singh and Salima Tete emerged as the biggest winners, claiming the prestigious Player of the Year awards for men and women respectively.
Hockey India League Set for Thrilling Return in 2025
The ceremony also brought exciting news for hockey fans. Hockey India announced the revival of the much-anticipated Hockey India League (HIL) in January 2025. The five-week tournament will feature eight men’s and six women’s teams, with auctions planned after the Paris Olympics.
Award Highlights
- A total prize pool of ₹7.56 crore was distributed among deserving players and teams.
- The 2016 Junior World Cup winning men’s team received a special recognition eight years after their triumph.
- Individual category winners like PR Sreejesh (Goalkeeper), Harmanpreet Singh (Defender), Abhishek (Forward), and Deepika Soreng (Women’s U-21 Player) received ₹5 lakh each.
- Araijeet Singh Hundal (Men’s U-21 Player) and Salima Tete (Women’s Player of the Year) were awarded ₹10 lakh each.
- Hardik Singh, clinching both FIH and Hockey India Player of the Year honors, received a cash prize of ₹25 lakh and the Balbir Singh Sr. Trophy.
- The legendary Ashok Kumar was presented with the Major Dhyan Chand Lifetime Achievement Award, receiving ₹30 lakh.
The Hockey India Awards 2024 served as a night of recognition for Indian hockey’s brightest talents and a promising glimpse into the future with the return of the HIL.
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