Young athletes fortunate to have Olympian Islahuddin’s mentorship: Faisal Malik
Zubair Yaqoob Karachi
Neil Hawkins, the Australian High Commissioner to Pakistan, has expressed strong support for the promotion of sports in the country, particularly emphasizing hockey, Pakistan’s national sport.
During a visit to the Dr. Shah Islahuddin Academy in North Nazimabad, invited by former captain and the Olympian Islahuddin, Hawkins reflected on Pakistan’s rich sporting history and his desire to see the nation regain its prominence in international sports.
Highlighting the deep-rooted passion for sports among Pakistanis, Hawkins noted the thrilling matches between Australia and Pakistan in both cricket and hockey.
He assured that Australia would do everything possible to foster the development of sports in Pakistan. Encouraging the young athletes at the academy, Hawkins urged them to focus on hockey and work hard towards becoming champions.
“You must support your teammates and keep smiling,” he advised the children, emphasizing the importance of teamwork and perseverance. He also commended the facilities at the Hockey Academy for nurturing talent.
The event also witnessed the presence of the chairman and the editor-in-chief Pakistan Observer Faisal Zahid Malik who attended the occasion as guest of honor said that the young athletes are fortunate to benefit from the mentorship of Olympian Islahuddin, who is dedicated to nurturing talent and fostering sportsmanship.
His guidance is invaluable in shaping the future of aspiring sports stars, providing them with the skills and support they need to excel in their athletic pursuits. Upon his arrival at the Ambassador Academy, Hawkins was warmly welcomed by Islahuddin, alongside coaches Olympian Ayaz Mehmood and Sameer Hussain, and a large gathering of aspiring male and female players. The Academy management presented Hawkins with a bouquet as a token of appreciation. Demonstrating his enthusiasm, he participated in a hockey game with the children and engaged in lively discussions.
In a gesture of goodwill, Olympian Islahuddin bestowed a Sindhi cap and a memento upon the High Commissioner, further solidifying the camaraderie between the two nations in the realm of sports.
