Bangladesh Hockey Federation ad-hoc committee general secretary, Lt Col (rtd) Riazul Hasan, is on a mission to reform hockey鈥檚 glory in Bangladesh. A former player and seasoned organiser, Riazul spoke to 抖阴精品鈥檚 Wahid Ullah Bakul about the challenges, plans, and prospects for the sport.聽
抖阴精品: What challenges are you facing or expect to face after taking charge of the BHF ad-hoc committee?
Riazul Hasan: Our first challenge is ensuring regular hockey competitions. We have to earn players鈥� trust, providing a vibrant playing atmosphere for their return to the field. We aim to nurture current players and scout new talent, focusing on the basics of development to overcome these challenges.
NA: What do you mean by the basics of development?
Riazul: It involves grassroots initiatives like school and district-level competitions for talent hunt and grooming the young players. Otherwise, where will we get new players to create a strong players pool? If we succeed, hockey鈥檚 glory can return in four to five years.
NA: There is a perception that hockey is the second most potential game of the country, but gaps between the federation and club organisers hinder its progress. How do you plan to address this?
Riazul: Anyone who loves hockey will support its development. This month, we鈥檒l meet club representatives to discuss their concerns and find solutions for restarting leagues. Regular leagues are essential; without them, all initiatives will be futile.
NA: With reform sentiments across institutions, what kind of reforms does the federation need?
Riazul: The current constitution seems effective. Unless I complete the study, I cannot say whether amendments are needed. Our top priority right now is to develop stadiums so that male and female players can play every day. The primary priority is to create a lively atmosphere on the pitch, followed by other aspects.
NA: What other plans do you have?聽
Riazul: We need more artificial turfs because they are vital. Currently, we have only one turf at the Maulana Bhashani National Hockey Stadium. Other countries excel because their players train on turfs. Our goal is to install at least one turf in every division.
NA: How long will the ad-hoc committee run?
Riazul: That depends on the National Sports Council. We鈥檒l assist with elections whenever they decide. For now, we鈥檙e planning the Victory Day Hockey Tournament and organising two more events before next year鈥檚 leagues.
NA: Financial challenges often plague the federation. How will you address that?
Riazul: The federation can鈥檛 bear all the costs, and NSC鈥檚 support is not enough. So, most of our tournaments rely on sponsorships. We鈥檝e already approached potential sponsors and are hopeful about securing their support.
NA: Would you please share your experience with Bangladesh hockey?
Riazul: I was a Dhaka-based hockey player from 1974 to 1995. I played for the Army national hockey team. I also played for Cantonment Sporting Club and Bangladesh Sporting Club. As an organiser, I served the Army Sports Control Board as an assistant secretary for over two years before my retirement in 1995.
NA: What would you say about the prospect of Bangladesh hockey?
Riazul: I鈥檓 an optimistic person. Our Under-21 team showed promise, and with sustained efforts, we can achieve a strong position at the Asian level and beyond.
