Team Indian hockey star Amit Rohidas, who was awarded the Pargat Singh Award for Defender of the Year 2024 at the Hockey India annual awards, expressed his delight with the accolade and opined that such noteworthy acknowledgements only push him to perform better going forward. “Apart from me, there were three more nominations – Sanjay, Harmanpreet Singh, and Udita, and all of them are top players. I couldn’t predict who would win because everyone has been playing well and contributing to their team. I was just happy to be nominated. When I actually won, I was surprised and overjoyed. It was an incredible feeling,” the 31-year-old said. Rohidas revealed that he received touching messages of support from well-wishers ahead of the award night and following the same as well in a show of solidarity from his circle. “People in my friend circle, especially non-hockey players, were messaging me, saying I would win. But I thought, whatever happens is in God’s hands. I wasn’t expecting anything, because the competition was tough, but I’m grateful for the recognition,” he added. “This award pushes me to work even harder,” he beamed. “My teammates and coaching staff have always been supportive, and without them, I wouldn’t have achieved this. It’s a team effort, and I want to thank everyone, including my family, for their unwavering support,” the defender said. “This recognition gives me more energy to contribute to the team and the country,” he reiterated. Rohidas also touched upon the support he received from his family throughout his career and on awards night, and added that their support eggs him on further shine for the national unit. “My family was watching the awards on YouTube, and when they saw I won, they were extremely happy. When I spoke to them, they encouraged me, saying, ‘Keep playing for the nation, and you will keep receiving awards.’ Their happiness motivates me to keep pushing forward.” With the Asia Cup and the FIH Pro League looming large on the horizon, Rohidas stated his intent to come up big at the events that offer direct qualification to the FIG 2026 World Cup. “I like to go step by step. Right now, my focus is on the Pro League in June and the Asia Cup later this year. Both are key tournaments for us to secure our place in the 2026 World Cup. I’m determined to perform at my best,” Rohidas commented. Rohidas, who was a crucial cog in the men’s hockey team that claimed a bronze medal at the Paris Olympics 2024, also touched up on the special place the side’s showing at the quadennial spectacle holds in his memory. “The 2024 Paris Olympics were special. We defeated Australia after 52 years in the Olympics, which was a huge moment for our team. That win gave us immense confidence, and then winning the bronze medal made it even more memorable. It’s a moment I’ll always cherish,” Rohidas signed off.