Here is the story of India's Women Ice Hockey Team, Their Struggle for Survival And Hopes for Support
While even the nobodies of cricket are being sold in crores during the IPL auctions, forget players like Stokes who garnered a fortune, most us wouldn't even earn in a lifetime, the Indian Women's Ice Hockey Team struggles for Survival amidst the tough terrains of Himalayas.
Yes, India has a women's ice hockey team. Most of us don't even know that ice hockey is played in India, (to us it's strictly Canadian domain). But these women who stationed and Skate at the frozen pond of Gupuks in Leh belong to Indian ice hockey team of women.
These women who mostly belong to the hills have passions for this unconventional sport. But if we go by the official apathy shown by concerned people, its looks like they are fighting a lost battle.
With the lack of proper equipment and facilities, the players are chipping in from their own pockets to participate in international tournaments.
Last Year, They participated in the Asia Cup in Taiwan, though they didn't bring the cup, the Team were very happy to play on a professional rink for the first time. Noor Jahan was awarded the best goalkeeper after saving 193 shots from possible 229.
But this feat doesn't encourage her anymore as she and her mates meet administration's apathy. Without funds, a proper rink, or training equipment's, they have battled many hardships.
Prepared Pool Themselves
Last Year, the girls prepared an ice rink on their own. They would fill buckets, and the frozen pool
from 8Pm to 3Am in groups of four. Even a small amount of water that splashed on their clothes would freeze. While even thinking of being out at this time in the Himalayas would normally give us the chills, these girls were determined not to let any obstacles thaw their grit and ambitions.
Odds they battles before they could get funds from state.
Another problem has been the lack of funding, which has affected their growth. To receive funding from the government, the sport needs 75% affiliate members states, which is difficult at the moment. There is an artificial rink in Dehradun, But with no caretaker or money to maintain it, it lies neglected.
Amidst all these challenges, what the girls have is the determination to succeed.
An Example of Sacrifices made for the Game.
Stanzin Chotso, the youngest player of the team skipped the board exams of class 10th last year and decided to represent India in Chinese Taipei. And she's not alone who has been giving this game her sweat and blood by keeping her studies away from priority. Semzes Dolma will appear for her 12 Standard board exams next year, but that has not lessened her passion towards the game.
Players also aspire for speed skating
Though Ice Hockey Association of India has been trying to promote the game and prepare an ice hockey culture for the coming generations. But their efforts aren't enough to secure the future of these players. And that's why some players of this team are trying to excel in speed skating. Team's best player Rinchen Dolma, Kunzes Angmo, Disket Angmo also excel in speed skating at national and international levels.
They need a helping hand
Today these girls represent every sports person in the country who couldn't make it big himself. They represent an aspiration which seeks across all boundaries but marred by slew of odds. People can help their cause by donating whatever they can so that these girls get some help for building and upkeep of infrastructure. The money generated through this crowd funding will be used for providing the Indian National Ice Hockey team with training, accommodations, air-fare, visa, insurance, team jerseys, and equipment.
A GRAND SALUTE TO THEM !!!!
