Wither Indian Hockey- The Grand Plummet

The modern game of hockey grew from English Public Schools in the 19th century and the game was brought to India by British servicemen. Pioneering the Indian dribble and entering the Olympic Games in 1928 at Amsterdam, India won all the five matches it played without conceding a single goal and beat Netherlands 3-0 to win the Gold medal. The winning spree continued with dribble master Major Dhyanchand at the helm, to Olympic Golds in 1932, 1936,1948, 1952 and 1956.

While the Indian team reigned supreme Internationally, alongside hockey in Mount Abu enthralled with regular indulgence. Summer heralded the hockey season. The Polo Ground, venue of games activity every evening throbbed with friendly action packed matches and cheered at by addicted spectators. The game gathered momentum by participation of the local and upcountry teams in the Reynold's Cup and Sanghi Cup Tournaments. With local teams such as the Abu Club, Walter High School and team of artisans, Abu Green Stars and outsiders as formidable contenders, the St. Mary's High School team of teenagers spearheaded by brothers Kenny and Rodney Essai, playing with lightening speed and aided by dribble expertise of Om Prakash Sherman, a civilian teacher, retained both the trophies in Mount Abu for years.

Then alas, perhaps weighed down by the responsibility of the young republic and increased International competition, Indian hockey deteriorated within half a century and touched an all time low of 8th position in World Cup Hockey 2010 as Australia from down under emerged as the World Champion beating Germany.