I just want our government to make a world-class rehab centre in the country for sportspersons' recovery.
— Sandeep Singh
HIL boasts of a high-class list of players and coaches like Ric Charlesworth, Barry Dancer, etc.
If you are just a drag-flicker, you may some time be out of the team because you're not performing well.
I never think that I'm the best flicker, but I practice to learn new things every day.
Whether I play for Ranchi or Delhi, I will give my hundred percent.
In 2001, '02, and '03, our forward line had Gagan Ajit, Prabhjot, Deepak, who were playing together since junior days. Their coordination was terrific.
As a drag flicker, I have always strived that my team wins and comes on top.
I am enjoying playing as a full back, and I would like to continue in this position.
I have no problems with the blue astro-turf. I have got used to it, and I believe that we have got sufficient games to get accustomed to playing on blue turf.
It's a great feeling to earn a place in the Olympics.
Like cricket has their 'A' team that plays against other international 'A' teams and get exposure. Hockey should also have a similar development squad, which can play in non-premium international tournament, while the national team plays in bigger meets. This way, we will have players ready with international exposure.
Hockey players are given as much respect as any other sportsperson in our country.
For me, movie making is not business.
When 'Soorma' was first discussed with me, 'Bhaag Milkha Bhaag' was fresh in my memory because when I saw it and saw the hard work that went into making Milkha Singh an iconic figure, I felt that a biopic should also be made highlighting the odds that I've fought to make it so far in life.
As a team leader, I have always told my team to never give up. Analyse why you failed so that, next time, you know what should not be done.
My brother Bikramjeet supported me on every step in life. He put the blinkers on my eyes and taught me to focus on my goals.
Hockey is my first love, and I devote most of my time to hockey only. But if I get time, I won't mind working in films, too.
A competitive HIL can do wonders for India hockey. The tournament will promote young talents and give them the opportunity to play alongside and against some of the best in the business.
I don't just want to be a drag-flicker. I want to be become a complete hockey player.
I am a marquee player and certainly that means a lot of responsibility.
I know everyone wants to see India winning on home soil, be it in hockey or cricket. But sometimes with expectations come pressure, which can affect our performance.
Any player who is in a national team is their because he deserves to be.
India is known for hockey all over the world.
I feel many times we do all the hard work, but in the absence of smart work, we do not get the desired results.
I always try to give my best and improve my skills as per the changing trends of the game.
There are times when new players replace injured players in the national squad. Since the new players don't have enough experience and match practice at the international level, they seldom play under a lot of pressure.
During my playing days, when I used to see the repeat telecast of my matches, I used to feel bad on hearing criticism of my game by the commentators.
We have always been taught that hockey is our national game, but it is only in general knowledge books and not on official papers.
I charged Rs 101 for the rights to my biopic.
As was shown in 'Soorma,' for me, my father and brother have been my heroes.
All those who have played with me are aware that I am very strict when it comes to discipline and punctuality.
Ric Charlesworth is a legendary figure. He is one of the best coaches in the world.
HIL is a boon for Indian hockey.
My target is to score in every match here at the 2012 Olympics. I am hoping to land on target with my penalty corner shots at crucial moments.
A competitive HIL means that India will be able to field a stronger team in the international tournaments.
I have identified my weaknesses, and I am working on those.
There's no point sulking for what has happened in the past.
If I could have played in the qualifying rounds for the Beijing Olympics, the result could have changed. India would have booked the Olympics berth.
We need variations, variations in not just attempt but in flickers' attempts as well. I mean, a flicker needs to use different angles, pace to keep the opposition defence guessing.
Jugraj helped me improve my scoring ability from drag flicks, and Dilip Tirkey helped in my defence work. I can say that I have improved with their help.
I want to work on players at school and college level. I will not open an academy but looking to work with the government and Hockey India.
I think every sport has its own loyal audience.
I am lucky to have a family like this who have motivated me throughout.
The day you are content, you will stop growing.
The success or failing in one competition doesn't define you, and that is one thing that any sports would teach you.
Delhi is special for me because I made my world record here. We were playing against France at Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium when I hit the fastest drag-flick in the world during the London Olympics qualifications in 2012.
