MARGAO
Padma Shri awardee and former Indian women's hockey captain Selma D'Silva has expressed her delight at the steady progress of hockey in Goa, crediting the rise to the passion and dedication of the local hockey community. Speaking on the recent positive performances in the Sub-Junior Boys’ Nationals and Girls’ National Championships, she called them a “very positive signal” for the future of the sport in the state.
A stalwart of Indian hockey, Selma D’Silva was a key figure in the national team during its golden era. She represented India at the Olympics, World Cups, and Asian Games, not just as a participant, but as a vital contributor to the team’s success. Her leadership and goal-scoring prowess helped India clinch major victories, including a historic gold medal at the Asian Games in Delhi, where she emerged as the highest scorer of field goals. She also captained India at the World Cup, leaving a lasting legacy in Indian women’s hockey.
Selma commended the Directorate of Sports and Youth Affairs for organizing school-level tournaments that provide young talents with platforms to sharpen their skills and rise through the ranks. “Such tournaments are crucial to sustaining interest in the game,” she noted, adding, “More competitions should be introduced to keep the momentum going.”
Urging young athletes to stay focused, Selma emphasized the importance of discipline and consistent effort. “Hard work and dedication alone will lead to success, sooner or later. But it’s not just about practice—perfect practice makes a man or woman perfect,” she said.
Addressing infrastructure gaps, Selma highlighted the urgent need for a dedicated hockey ground in South Goa, particularly in Salcete. Currently, the Peddem Sports Complex in Mapusa is the only facility equipped with modern amenities. She suggested establishing a similar hockey infrastructure at Fatorda, which would ease the travel burden on aspiring players from South Goa.
With administrative support and sustained grassroots efforts, Selma D’Silva believes Goa can once again become a stronghold of Indian hockey. “There is tremendous potential here,” she said. “With the right facilities and guidance, Goan hockey can reclaim its past glory.”
