Leading up to the International Day of Sport for Development and Peace, which takes place on 6 April, the International Hockey Federation (FIH) will spend the upcoming days celebrating hockey’s place in promoting peace and development via a range of projects and initiatives. The stories come from across the five hockey-playing continents, with today’s story coming from Asia.
The Khawaja Junaid Hockey Academy, co-founded by Olympian Khawaja Junaid and Junaid Chattha, is at the forefront of hockey development in Pakistan. With a strong commitment to nurturing young talent, the academy goes beyond the game, instilling discipline, teamwork, and sportsmanship in the next generation of players. Through its innovative programs and community outreach, the academy has become a beacon of hope for aspiring hockey players from all walks of life.
One of the most remarkable aspects of the academy’s work is its dedication to providing hockey training and resources to underprivileged children. Young athletes from slums, orphanages, and child labor-affected areas are given the opportunity to step onto the field, hold a hockey stick, and dream of a better future. The academy’s inclusive approach ensures that both boys and girls have equal access to training, breaking down barriers and opening new avenues for success.
Collaborations with organizations like the Almarah Foundation and The Noor Project have further expanded the academy’s reach. These partnerships ensure that more children can participate in structured hockey programs, providing them with not just sporting opportunities but also a sense of belonging and purpose.
The impact of the Khawaja Junaid Hockey Academy can be seen in the lives it has changed.
Zunair Khan’s journey is a testament to the power of opportunity. Coming from a humble background, he had little access to quality sports facilities. Recognizing his talent, the academy took him under its wing, providing him with intensive training and support. Today, he has earned a scholarship to an elite school in Lahore and is regarded as one of the brightest young hockey prospects in the country.
For Abdul Razzak, a 7-year-old from the Almarah Foundation, hockey has provided a path filled with promise. His raw talent and passion for the game caught the attention of coaches at the academy. With continued training and guidance, he is set to become a future star, inspiring countless others to follow in his footsteps.
Eiman Asad, a 15-year-old representing The Noor Project, has not only excelled in hockey but also in athletics. Her speed and agility have won her multiple medals, making her a standout performer. With colleges and sports departments already showing interest in her, she is well on her way to making a name for herself in both hockey and athletics.
For many of these young athletes, the Khawaja Junaid Hockey Academy has been a life-changing experience.
"The academy has changed my life. I never imagined I would be studying at one of the best schools in Lahore. Hockey has given me a future I could only dream of," says Zunair Khan, reflecting on his journey.
Eiman Asad shares a similar sentiment: "Playing hockey has empowered me. I feel stronger and more confident, knowing that I have the chance to achieve my goals on and off the field."
A Brighter Future for Hockey in Pakistan
The Khawaja Junaid Hockey Academy continues to shape the future of hockey in Pakistan by giving young athletes the tools they need to succeed. Through its commitment to community engagement, inclusivity, and excellence, the academy is not just building great players—it is building great individuals. As more young talents rise through the ranks, the impact of this initiative will be felt far beyond the hockey field, paving the way for a stronger and more vibrant sporting culture in Pakistan.
