National Sports Day is observed in several countries to celebrate sporting traditions and acknowledge the achievements of national teams. On this day, people of all ages actively participate in events like kabaddi, marathon, basketball, hockey, and more.

In India, National Sports Day is celebrated on August 29, marking the birth anniversary of hockey legend Major Dhyan Chand. Widely regarded as one of the greatest players in the history of the sport, Dhyan Chand was instrumental in securing three Olympic gold medals for India in 1928, 1932 and 1936. Over the course of his career, spanning from 1926 to 1949, he scored an astonishing 400 goals, as recorded in his autobiography Goals.

This day serves not only as a tribute to Major Dhyan Chand’s remarkable achievements but also as an inspiration to promote sportsmanship and encourage participation in sports across the country. News Arena India took this occasion to reach out to some sporting legends and ask them about the message they would like to send out to youngsters, and this is what they had to say.

Viren Rasquiho, former India hockey player:

Youngsters should have a great attitude and ability to stay positive during tough times because they come very often. They should develop the ability to stay fit and healthy. They must understand that rest and recovery are as important as training. Long-term consistency in training matters more than sporadic intense bouts of training. Show respect to the sport and to all stakeholders. Always make it a point to win and lose gracefully.

Joaquim Carvalho, former Indian hockey captain and manager of the team:

Youngsters should indulge in some sports activity and enjoy what they are doing. Don’t set goals but keep doing things in a disciplined manner, enjoying sports and building on your physical fitness. When the time is right, automatically you will start developing a liking for the sport. Keep working harder to achieve greater laurels. Sports builds character, discipline and good health, enjoy it.

Vimal Kumar, Dronacharya Awardee and badminton coach, spoke from France:

Dedication and commitment to sports should be priority. Don’t take defeats on a negative note. Be positive, learn from the shortcomings and make amends.

Jwala Singh, cricket coach (of Yashwi Jaiswal):

I think sports is the most important part of a human’s life because I think with sports, we can be 360° super humans. Because when you play sports, you get physically fit and mentally strong. Besides, we learn so many things through sports like being disciplined, being united. Sports gives an equal platform to prove a nation’s talent and what kind of people they are. So I think that’s why sports is very, very important. I wish all my countrymen a happy Sports Day.

Sumo Shirur, Indian shooting coach:

Sport teaches us resilience, teamwork and courage. Start where you are, use what you have and never fear failure—it’s the best teacher. One shot can change a match, one decision can change your life.

By Joe Williams