Bhubaneswar, September 23: Hockey’s deep-rooted association with Odisha and the sport’s emphasis on discipline, teamwork and resilience can help strengthen the professional qualities of police personnel, said Inspector General of Police (IGP), Central Range, Dr Satyajit Naik.
Addressing the 76th State Police Hockey Championship-2026 at Kalinga Stadium here, Dr Naik said the championship was more than a sporting competition, as it provided police personnel an opportunity to cultivate qualities that are essential to their profession.
“Hockey has become an integral part of Odisha’s sporting identity, with players from the State making their mark from grassroots grounds to the international stage,” he said.
Dr Naik observed that the demands of policing—including physical fitness, mental alertness, discipline, resilience and the ability to perform under pressure—closely correspond with the qualities required on the hockey field.
“No player can win a match alone. Every pass requires trust and every defensive move requires coordination,” Dr Naik said, emphasising that teamwork and collective responsibility are equally important in policing.
He urged the participating teams to compete with determination while maintaining respect for opponents, officials and the rules of the game. A victory, he said, should be accompanied by humility, while a defeat should be treated as an opportunity to learn and improve.
Encouraging younger police personnel to make sports an integral part of their lives, Dr Naik said regular participation in sporting activities can contribute to physical fitness, discipline and professional preparedness.
He also appreciated the efforts of the Odisha Police Sports & Cultural Association, along with coaches, trainers, referees and support staff, in organising the State-level championship.
Dr Naik urged the players to carry the pride of their respective units, districts and the Odisha Police family onto the field while upholding the spirit of sportsmanship.
“The real victory is not only in lifting the trophy; it is in becoming a better athlete, a better teammate and ultimately a better police officer,” he said.
