Indian forward S.V Sunil has been named the Asian Player of the Year 2016 in the senior men’s category by the Asian Hockey Federation (AHF).
Meanwhile, drag flicker Harmanpreet Singh has been named the Asian Promising Player of the Year 2016 in the junior men’s category.
The nominations for these awards were made by coaches across Asia from the national teams in Asia and the criteria of nomination was based on the performance of the year 2016.
SV Sunil played a vital role in team India’s successful outing at FIH Champions Trophy in London last year where he led the forwardline and was instrumental in the team’s historic Silver medal winning performance. Considered to be one of the fastest men on the pitch in the world, Sunil has also served as the team’s Vice Captain and is entrusted with the duty of leading by example.
The Coorg lad thanked the AHF for the award stating that it’s a big boost to be named the Asian Player Of The Year.
“This award is an icing on the cake. I believe Indian hockey is growing year by year and we have enjoyed some memorable victories in 2016. This award could not have been possible if not for our team work. I would like to thank Hockey India for their efforts, our coaches and support staff too who work with us day in and day out as one big family. It is always a good feeling to be recognized with such awards as it only adds to the player’s motivation to improve,” stated SV Sunil.
SV Sunil is currently training at the national camp in SAI, Bengaluru, the awards were recieved by Tapan Das, Treasurer and Mohd Mushtaque Ahmad, Secretary General, Hockey India respectively.
