If you want to unite youth and channelize their energy to a positive path, throw a ball to them and see the magic.

Sports for youth development is a unique avenue for the children of Punjab to learn the techniques of hockey from International coaches.

The initiative came as a gift for the aspiring youth of Punjab to engage in hockey to learn life skills and personality development through the sport.

The partnership between Caritas India and One Million Hockey Legs (1MHL) opened a new chapter between sports and philanthropy. 1MHL was roped in to train the youth of Punjab towards the brighter future and skills such as team work, leadership and fitness for the holistic development of youth.
SNS, one of the premium hockey brand from Jalandhar came forward to join this initiative and sponsored hockey equipment’s worth Rs. 2 Lakh for the enthusiastic youth in Punjab.

The initiative flagged off on July 25, 2016 by training the trainers, organizing hockey clinics for the youth thereby promoting hockey – the ‘fun’ way.

“They need to start from the beginning and go step to step to develop their coaches and player for good results” stressed Mr. Ewout, one of the trainer from 1MHL. Mr. Damien and Mr. Ewout from 1MHL are training local coaches and youth on skills and techniques of hockey. National hockey players from Punjab are also endorsing this initiative by encouraging young players to take hockey seriously.

Expressing his willingness to promote the sport, Mr. Talvinder Singh, prominent player of the National Hockey Team said he is happy to be a part of this clinic practice session and ensured his time for the program. Mr. Balvinder Singh, Former Hockey player and one of the recipient of the training was very positive about the training and shared that the Punjabi kids will learn the latest style and skills from the Netherland coaches which will help young players improve their game.

“I am happy to play under local and International coaches and learnt many new techniques”, shared Yograj, a student from St. Joseph School, Jalandhar.

The plan is to extend this coaching to 15 more schools and communities across Punjab.