PR Sreejesh becomes member of FIH Athletes' Committee

International Hockey Federation (FIH) Athletes' Committee comprises a total of eight current and former hockey players who have the responsibility of acting as a bridge between the sport's governing body and the athletes to ensure the players' opinions are heard in the FIH decision-making process.

Indian skipper Sreejesh, on Wednesday, has been made a member of this prestigious group. The 28-year old said he was looking forward to the responsibility bestowed upon him by the FIH.

"It's a great honour to be part of the FIH Athletes' Committee which comprises of legendary players like Moritz Fuerste and other international greats. I am looking forward to this new responsibility," he said.

Sreejesh's chief role will be to seek and provide feedback to the FIH on behalf of all athletes after interacting with them in a number of ways such as surveys for the athletes and coaches after each FIH event. The committee will also need to liaise with the Athletes' Committee of the IOC and other sporting organisations to enable the sharing of information and research.

Organised meetings are also scheduled with the national teams at several events. The aim is to communicate with the players, to update them on the different activities but also to hear them.

"We get to work together to develop the game and put forth players concerns and suggestions. It's a great initiative by the FIH to directly involve the players and I look forward to giving my suggestions with the inputs of our coaching staff, my team who I am sure will support me in this new endeavor. I see this as a great responsibility in terms of helping FIH develop the game globally," said Sreejesh.

The team of eight will also get to develop, collate, provide and promote resources for athletes on topics of direct concern including athlete health and welfare, career preparation and management, anti-doping, betting and match-fixing.

Currently, the Indian goalie is gearing up to play for the UP Wizards in the Hockey India League(HIL) which is scheduled to begin on January 21.