Indian Women Hockey Team forward Lalremsiami was commended by the India Hockey on Monday for winning the FIH rising star of the year in 2019.

The youngster who made her maiden debut in 2018 contributed to her team’s success in the FIH Women’s Hockey series finals held in Hiroshima, Japan last year.

She also played a vital role in India’s team performance in the FIH Olympic Qualifiers in November 2019 where they defeated the USA to clinch the 2020 Tokyo Olympics ticket. She also partook in the team that won the Olympic test event in Tokyo.

Lalremsiami had to contend for the award with the likes of China’s Zhong Jianqi, Argentina’s Julieta Jankunas, and Netherland’s Frederique Matla.

Asked how she felt winning the award, she said ” I am happy to win this award, it is a big moment for me in my career, and I want to appreciate those who voted for me. Will this award have come as a big encouragement for me to push on and achieve more.

I Would like to say a big thank you to my teammates which without them, this (award) wouldn’t have been possible. They stood by me during my struggles, and I’m grateful.”

The happiness was written all over Lalremsiami’s face who had also won a silver medal at the Youth Olympic Games in Buenos Aires, Argentina.

President of the Hockey India Mohd Mushtaque Ahmad also congratulated Lalremsiami for winning the award tagging her a youth icon for other youngsters in the country. “She is a brilliant talent, and I wish her the very best in future tournaments.” the president added.

Written by: Olumide Akinnifesi