K ARUMUGAM
In a glittering ceremony that celebrated the finest in the sport, former Indian captain and Olympic Gold medalist Zafar Iqbal was recently bestowed with Hockey India’s prestigious Major Dhyan Chand Lifetime Achievement Award. The honor is a fitting testament to a man whose name is synonymous with the spirit, speed, and glory of Indian hockey during a defining era. While the entire nation rejoices in this well-deserved recognition, perhaps no group is more elated than the young stakeholders of the Delhi-based hockey Trust, “One Thousand Hockey Legs” (OTHL).
Zafar Iqbal was the heartbeat of the Indian team throughout the late 1970s and 1980s. For nearly twelve years, he was the undisputed master of the left-wing, a position he made his own with mesmerizing skill. Known for his blistering pace, signature dribbling style, and pinpoint precision in crossing the ball, he was a nightmare for opposing defenders globally. The crowning glory of his illustrious playing career came as a key member of the gold medal-winning team at the 1980 Moscow Olympics. He further cemented his legacy by captaining the national side with distinction at the 1982 Asian Games in New Delhi and carrying the Indian tricolor at the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics opening ceremony.
Beyond his fame as a player and his subsequent stint as the National Chief Coach (Asia Cup and Asian Games 1994), Zafar Iqbal has always remained deeply committed to the growth of hockey at the grassroots level. It is this passion that drew him to “One Thousand Hockey Legs,” an organization dedicated to introducing the national sport to children from underprivileged backgrounds in Delhi government schools. As a sincere well-wisher of the Trust, Iqbal has frequently taken time to interact with these budding players, offering encouragement, invaluable advice, and sharing stories from his golden era.
For the OTHL kids, Zafar Iqbal is more than an icon on television or in record books; he is a real-life mentor whose journey proves that dedication can lead to greatness. Congratulating him on his prestigious award, the young players and administrators of “One Thousand Hockey Legs” expressed their profound joy and pride.
“We are so happy for Zafar Sir. Seeing him receive this Lifetime Achievement Award makes us believe that if we work hard and play with passion, we can also achieve great things,” said a young striker from an OTHL center in New Delhi.
Hockey India’s decision to honor Zafar Iqbal celebrates a phenomenal past, but his continued dedication to grassroots initiatives like OTHL ensures that the future of Indian hockey is bright. He remains a beacon, guiding the next generation of players from the dusty playgrounds of Delhi to the grandest turf pitches in the world.
It is interesting to note the OTHL organizes a Living Legends Cup. One of the teams was named after Zafar Iqbal Ji. Any wonder why the kids were so happy!