India is a powerhouse of world hockey, says Bovelander
Dutch hockey legend Floris Jan Bovelander visited Jalandhar for the Hero Asian Champions Trophy 2026 after an invitation from Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann.
Dutch hockey legend Floris Jan Bovelander described India as a powerhouse of world hockey on Monday while attending the Hero Asian Champions Trophy 2026 in Jalandhar. According to The Hawk, Bovelander visited the Olympian Surjit Singh Hockey Stadium following a personal invitation from Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann.
Bovelander, a 1996 Atlanta Olympics and 1990 World Cup Gold Medalist, said he was astonished and honoured that the Chief Minister remembered him. He noted that the invitation reflected Mann's love for the sport and prompted his travel to Jalandhar.
The former Dutch player, who represented his country in 241 international matches, highlighted the role of Asian countries, specifically India and Pakistan, in popularising the Olympic movement. He stated that Indian hockey could not be imagined without Punjab and noted his memories are often associated with Sikh players from the state.
During the visit, Bovelander participated in a joint training session with 37 coaches from Punjab and trainees from the Surjit Hockey Academy. He shared technical tips during a drag-flick session and was felicitated by the Sports Department for his contributions to the sport.
Bovelander was accompanied by Olympic medallist Gurjant Singh, Dronacharya Awardee Jiwanjot Singh Teja, and coach Avtar Singh. He expressed his commitment to attend the Mohali leg of the tournament on November 4 and 5 at the Olympian Balbir Singh Senior Hockey Stadium.