After his visit to the Olympian Islahuddin Hockey
Academy, Hawkins expressed his desire to see
Pakistan return to its golden days in hockey
Sports Reporter
Karachi: Australian High Commissioner Neil Hawkins praised Pakistan’s impressive hockey history, highlighting the country’s past dominance in the sport. Speaking to the media after visiting the Olympian Islahuddin Hockey Academy, he expressed his hope for Pakistan to reclaim its former glory in hockey.
Hawkins commended the academy for its training facilities and acknowledged Olympian Islahuddin’s commitment to developing young talent by offering free coaching. “When Islahuddin played, Pakistan saw tremendous success,” Hawkins remarked, noting that Islahuddin now gives back through his academy. He explained that, while Australia has extensive sports infrastructure and numerous hockey academies, Pakistan’s hockey program faces significant challenges. He urged the government to step in and support the sport’s revival.
Olympian Islahuddin spoke about the longstanding hockey and cricket ties between Pakistan and Australia. He expressed optimism about Hawkins’ interest in promoting hockey in Pakistan. Islahuddin stressed that, with dedication and sincere efforts, Pakistani hockey could recover within the next four years.
Earlier, the Australian High Commissioner received a warm welcome at the academy from Chairman Olympian Islahuddin, Olympian Ayaz Mehmood, and Head Coach Olympian Syed Sameer Hussain. Hawkins received a bouquet, a Sindhi cap, an Ajrak, and a hockey stick as a memento. He mingled with young players, shaking hands and playing hockey with them. The event was attended by Mrs. Islahuddin, Mrs. Sameer Hussain, Academy Administrator Muhammad Aslam Khan, and several coaches.
