The entire nation’s attention is focused on the Tokyo Olympics. Compared to previous Olympics, the highest number of Indian athletes are participating this time. Therefore, there is hope that the country will win more medals. Although Dutee failed in the 100 meters, there is optimism that she will deliver a better performance in the 200 meters, said athlete and member of the technical team of the Odisha Athletics Association, Upendra Maharana.
In 1972, he first got an opportunity to play in the Koraput High School football team. Later, as a student of Jeypore V.D. College, he played football and volleyball and was selected to compete at the university level. He was associated with many state-level volleyball tournaments. At that time, there was no junior category; players of all ages competed in a single senior category. Now, since competitions are held in different age groups, children should take advantage of this opportunity to create a distinct identity for themselves.
The district sports department selects children right from the school level and sends them to sports hostels. However, most of these children leave the hostels midway. Some others join the police or the army and do not give much importance to sports thereafter. Similarly, athletes from rural areas and ordinary families, along with their parents, are no longer inclined toward athletics. Cricket has become the first choice for children of all categories. The respect and self-satisfaction that come from setting individual records in athletics are not found in cricket. Even so, hundreds of children are turning toward cricket. Upendra said this trend will have a severe impact on athletics.
The synthetic tracks on which competitions are now held have neither been seen nor practiced on by local children. Even after 50 years, there are no good playgrounds in Koraput and Jeypore. Despite this, some children, through their own efforts, practice and participate at the state level and achieve success. We should at least be satisfied with that. To become a good athlete, personal effort and family support are absolutely essential. If one understands oneself, thinks about setting at least one record, and maintains focus, success is certain to come.