Rugby rises in Amritsar, players pitch for greater push from Punjab govt

The majority of these players train diligently at Guru Nanak Stadium, a place that has become synonymous with their dedication.

The journey of Punjab’s rugby players has not been without its challenges. While they express their contentment with the Punjab government’s ‘Khedan Punjab Watan Diyan’ initiative aimed at boosting rugby’s popularity, they underline the necessity for a more comprehensive approach.

They are calling for policies that encompass essential elements like proper nutrition, expert coaching, medical facilities, and enhanced infrastructure.

International rugby player Bhupinder Singh reflects on his four-year journey in the sport, declaring, “It was my right decision.” He believes that rugby deserves a larger share of the spotlight in the state, as it possesses the potential to captivate more young hearts.

“Rugby is part of the Olympics, and we feel that our authorities should give proper recognition to the game and its players. Game is still not adopted by Punjab Olympic Association,” he adds.

Vipan Kumar, another international player from Punjab, said, “The players want to be treated like international players of other games. There is a need to provide job opportunities to rugby players.”

While acknowledging the strides the present Punjab government has taken, Kumar remains hopeful that even better policies will be formulated to uplift the sport and its players.

Arvinder Kumar, secretary of the Rugby Association in Amritsar and now coaches aspiring players, offers a glimpse into the essence of the game. Having participated in international rugby events, he asserts, “Rugby is a game of stamina and endurance. Once someone starts playing, it’s hard to leave it.” He emphasizes that despite the lack of recognition, educational institutions across Punjab have been instrumental in nurturing exceptional rugby talents.

Coach Arvinder Kumar draws attention to the remarkable achievement of Punjab’s team consistently securing a place among the top 10 teams in India despite facing resource limitations.

Drawing inspiration from the strides made in Odisha, he advocates for similar support and attention for rugby in Punjab.

Arvinder underscores the significance of including rugby in the Punjab Olympics Association. “It would surely attract more youth towards it,” he asserts and calls for the need for giving government jobs for rugby players, a step that could significantly uplift the sport’s profile and the players’ livelihoods.

As Punjab’s rugby players and enthusiasts continue to rally around their passion, their collective voice is clear: recognition, equitable support, and comprehensive policies are vital for rugby’s growth. With the right mix of determination, collaboration, and strategic policies, rugby in Punjab is poised to ascend, solidifying its place in the state’s sporting landscape and beyond.