Indian hockey celebrated its heritage and future in Chennai on Tuesday, as the "Sitaare Aur Soorma" event, an initiative by JSW Sports' Soorma Hockey Club, brought together hockey legends, current national players, and young academy talents. The event, held at Ramchandra University Ground, wasn't a formal showcase but a shared experience uniting students, fans, media, and players through their love for the game.

A highlight of the event was the unveiling of Soorma Hockey Club's new jersey, symbolizing the connection between the club's legacy and the next generation. Young trainees and students filled the ground, creating an atmosphere of inspiration. The day featured hockey clinics led by Rani Rampal and Sardar Singh, where children trained in attack, midfield, and defense.

The event honored Indian hockey legends, who were welcomed and celebrated before the next generation. The jersey reveal, with legends and current players standing together, symbolized continuity, respect, and shared ownership of the sport.

Philippe Goldberg, Head Coach of Soorma Hockey Club, emphasized the importance of teamwork, both on and off the field. Jude Menezes, Head Coach of the Soorma Hockey Club Women's team, noted the overseas players' integration into Indian culture and the team's readiness, focusing on building strong on-field connections.

"Sitaare Aur Soorma" aimed to remind everyone that Indian hockey's strength lies in continuity, where legends inspire stars, and stars inspire future generations.

Soorma Hockey Club, owned by JSW Sports, has both men's and women's teams based in Punjab and Haryana. The club aims to revolutionize hockey in India and re-establish Punjab and Haryana as top talent producers. The club's mission is to be the best hockey team, set the standard for youth development, revive interest in the sport, and use hockey for community development.

The Men's team, led by Harmanpreet Singh, represents the strength and skill of Punjab and Haryana. The Women's team, guided by Savita Punia and Salima Tete, embodies the courage and resilience of Indian hockey.

Soorma Hockey Club has announced partnerships with BMC Air Filter, Titan Eye Plus, JSW Paints, and Shiv Naresh for the 2024-25 Hero Hockey India League season. These partners will support both the Men's and Women's teams. BMC Air Filter is an associate partner, Titan Eye Plus is the official eyewear partner, JSW Paints is the official paint partner, and Shiv Naresh is the official kitting partner.

Karan Yadav, chief commercial officer of JSW Sports, expressed excitement about the partnerships, highlighting the growing popularity of hockey in India. He stated that these collaborations are vital for the team's preparations and align with their vision to inspire the next generation.

In related news, Vivek Lakra, an 18-year-old goalkeeper, was signed by Shrachi Bengal Warriors for Rs 23 lakh ahead of the 2025 HIL season. The men's HIL 2026 will commence in Chennai on January 3 with a match between Tamil Nadu Dragons and Hyderabad Toofans, while titleholders Shrachi Bengal Tigers will begin their campaign against Soorma Hockey Club on January 4.