Bihar’s Hockey Aspirations: Sawan Kumar Shines Bright
In 2018, former Indian hockey player Ajitesh Roy established the RK Roy Hockey Academy in Patna with a clear goal: to nurture local talent that could make it to the national team. Since the formation of Jharkhand, only Ajitesh has represented Bihar on the senior Indian team, leaving many aspiring players from the state without that dream realized. A few have participated in national junior camps, but none have yet made the jump to the senior level.
That may be about to change, thanks to a promising young goalkeeper from Patna named Sawan Kumar. Training at the RK Roy Hockey Academy since 2019, Sawan has earned a spot on the India U-18 team, which is preparing for an upcoming four-match series against Australia. This series acts as a warm-up for the U-18 Asia Cup set for late May in Kakamigahara, Japan.
While Sawan acknowledges he has a long journey ahead, he is thrilled about this opportunity. One of his biggest delights has been training under the guidance of former Indian captain Sardar Singh. “He made us feel at ease right from the start. Training has been enjoyable and uplifting,” Sawan explained during a camp in Bhopal. “There’s so much we can learn from him—his discipline, dedication, and presence on the field are truly inspiring.”
Sawan is also an ardent admirer of PR Sreejesh, a former Indian goalkeeper. He has learned a great deal by watching Sreejesh’s performances, especially during the Tokyo and Paris Olympics, where India clinched back-to-back bronze medals. “I gained valuable insights by observing and then practicing those techniques,” Sawan said, highlighting his admiration for Sreejesh’s confidence during crucial moments like shoot-outs and penalty corners.
Much of Sawan’s journey can be attributed to his coach Sashi Rana, who initially encouraged him to take on the role of a goalkeeper. “Before hockey, I played a lot of different sports. I started as a forward, but my coach suggested I try goalkeeping. Eventually, I fell in love with it,” he shared.
Support from his father, Sanjay Kumar, an accountant, has also been instrumental in Sawan’s development. “He always told me to keep pushing forward. When I faced losses, he would say, ‘No worries—just work harder for the next time,’” Sawan remarked. He also expressed gratitude to Raveendran Sankaran, the director of the Bihar State Sports Authority, for the continued encouragement for hockey in the state.
Ajitesh, who sees potential in Sawan, remains grounded amid the excitement. He advises his protege not to get carried away just yet. “We’re still at the junior level, and it’s essential to stay focused,” Ajitesh said. “I tell Sawan, ‘Remember, you haven’t achieved everything yet.’ While everyone is thrilled about the India colors, the ultimate satisfaction comes from playing for the senior team. That’s what we are all aiming for.”
With figures like Ajitesh paving the way and increasing support from the state government, Sawan’s success may herald a new era for hockey in Bihar.
