Calls grow for helmets, supervision and first-aid at practice sessions in schools
MARGAO
A pall of gloom descended on Guirim after a 14-year-old girl student of St Anthony’s High School, Ruisha Sudhir Kharsel, died during a hockey practice session at the school ground on Thursday. She was reportedly struck by a hockey ball on the final day of training.
The tragedy has sent shockwaves through the village, with residents, parents and members of the sporting community expressing grief and condolences. Social media platforms were flooded with messages mourning the young student and calling for accountability.
The incident has also raised serious concerns over safety standards during school-level sports activities. Parents and coaches have questioned whether adequate protective gear and supervision were in place during the practice session.
Many have urged schools and academies to make helmets, mouthguards, shin guards and trained first-aid support mandatory during hockey training and matches.
No official statement detailing the circumstances of the incident had been issued at the time of going to press. However, the tragedy has intensified demands for stricter safety measures to prevent similar accidents in future.
Hockey fraternity mourns young life lost in tragedy
MARGAO: Calling the incident during a school practice session a deeply saddening moment for Goans Hockey, secretary of the Goans Hockey Association Farrel Furtado expressed grief over the death of a young girl.
Furtado said the tragedy was especially painful as the victim was the sister of talented and promising player Suraj Kharsel, who has represented Goa’s sub-junior team with dedication.
He conveyed heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family, especially the parents, and prayed that they find strength during the difficult time.
Furtado said the incident should serve as a reminder to players, coaches and organisers about the importance of safety, awareness and responsibility on the field. While hockey is a spirited and competitive sport, he stressed that it must always be played with discipline, care and true sportsmanship.
He added that the association remains committed to ensuring safe playing environments and promoting a positive sporting culture. “On behalf of the association, we mourn the loss of a young life. May her soul rest in peace,” he said.
