“Now more stronger than Rio Olympics”: Savita Punia Goalkeeper of Indian Hockey team


“Now more stronger than Rio Olympics”: Savita Punia Goalkeeper of Indian Hockey team

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Savita Punia: 10 things to know about India's female hockey ...

Indian hockey team’s goalkeeper Savita Punia thinks Indian women’s team is much stronger now than the Rio Olympics 2016.

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“I feel our team was raw at that time and we made a few mistakes. Now, we have a much stronger side and I am sure we will be able to put the nightmare in Rio behind us. The experience at the Olympic Games will certainly hold us in good stead for the next one in Tokyo,” Savita was quoted as saying in a Hockey India release.

“I think we have a great chance to make history at the Tokyo Olympics. We have a good mix of experience and youngsters in our side and all our bases are covered. We have competed against top teams in the recent past and we have a strong belief in our abilities. If we play to our potential, we will surely win a medal for India at the Olympics next year.” she added.

Indian women’s team has never been able to win a medal in a prestigious event. In the Moscow Games in 1980, the team finished 4th while in Rio Games in 2016, they finished in the 12th spot.

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“We have certainly changed the way we operate on and off the field since the 2016 Olympics. We have recorded great victories in the last four years which includes Asia Cup 2017 and FIH Women’s Series Finals Hiroshima 2019. It was absolutely amazing to book a berth at the Tokyo Olympics through the FIH Olympic Qualifiers 2019 in front of our home crowd.”Savita recalled her experiences of the Rio Olympics, saying the entire team was buzzing with excitement to be just a part of the quadrennial sporting extravaganza after 36 years.” she said.

“The Olympic Games will always be the pinnacle tournament for any sportsperson. All of us dream of not just participating in the competition, but also of winning a medal for our country. It was fantastic to take part in the Rio Olympics in 2016,” added.

“We had qualified for the big competition after 36 years and we were very excited to be in the midst of the best athletes from around the world. The feeling was unparalleled. The buzz of the fans, spreading color around the different sporting venues lifts and motivates all sportspersons instantly.” she further added.

Also Read: Indian Hockey team ready for Tokyo Olympics Next Year

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