The HIL, set to commence on December 28, marks Ward\u2019s maiden foray into the league. The Lucknow-based UP Rudras, captained by Indian midfielder Hardik Singh, have assembled a formidable squad featuring a mix of seasoned players and emerging talent.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Speaking about his upcoming debut in the HIL, Ward expressed excitement about joining forces with stalwarts like Lalit Kumar Upadhyay, Simranjeet Singh, Lars Balk, and Kane Russell, alongside young talents like Priyobarta Talem and Gurjot Singh.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\"Oh, I\u2019m very excited. I think we have an incredible team. Players like Hardik, Kashdeep, and Lalit stand out, and that\u2019s without even mentioning international talents like Lars Balk and Flores. It\u2019s shaping up to be an exciting time for us all,\" he said.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Ward\u2019s story is one of unparalleled determination. During the Tokyo Olympic Qualifiers in November 2019, he suffered a horrific injury while playing for Great Britain. A wayward shot from a teammate struck him on the side of his face, resulting in seven or eight fractures and a torn retina. The damage left Ward with permanent loss of central vision in his left eye and required major reconstructive surgery.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\"Back in November 2019, about five years ago, I was struck in the face by a ball while standing in front of the goal during a game. It was my teammate\u2019s shot, and it hit me on the side of my face. I ended up with eight facial fractures and had to undergo major surgery to rebuild my face. I also lost about 60\u201370% of the vision in my left eye because the ball sliced my retina in half. It was a tough time, and I was told I might never play again. But I was determined to prove people wrong, and now I wear the mask for protection.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\u201cI was told I probably wouldn\u2019t play again. But when someone says that, you want to prove them wrong,\" recalled Sam Ward.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Against all odds, Ward returned to the field, donning a protective mask that has since become his signature. Ward\u2019s mask is not just a piece of equipment\u2014it\u2019s a symbol of his journey. Spectators unfamiliar with hockey might wonder why he wears it, but for Ward, it\u2019s a reminder of the challenges he has overcome.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\u201cI wear the mask for protection,\u201d he explained. \u201cIt\u2019s a small price to pay to be back on the field doing what I love.\u201d<\/p>\r\n\r\n
One of the unique aspects of the HIL is the opportunity it provides players from different nations to come together as a team. For Ward, the transition from playing against some of his new teammates on the international stage to forming bonds with them off the field has been seamless. \u201cWe all have a mutual love for hockey, and that makes it easy to create connections,\u201d Ward said. \u201cThe Indian boys and all the foreigners are amazing guys. It\u2019s been a lot of fun so far, and we\u2019ve already started building those bonds that will help us on the field.\u201d<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Ward represented Great Britain in the Paris Olympics, where his team was eliminated by India in the quarterfinals. Reflecting on the experience, he praised the Indian side\u2019s performance. \"The Olympics are always incredible. I\u2019ve been fortunate to attend three so far, and each one is special. While I don\u2019t have the medal I hoped for, the journey is still an honour. That quarterfinal against India was a big game, and they were outstanding. India fought hard, stayed united, and performed brilliantly. They were one of the strongest sides in the tournament this year.\"<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Ward believes leagues like the HIL are crucial for the growth of hockey, providing young players with opportunities to develop their skills alongside international stars. \u201cThe strength and depth of young Indian players are impressive,\u201d he said. \u201cPlaying with more internationals will only make their game better.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\"It\u2019s been impressive to see the talent among the young Indian players. They\u2019re exceptional. Players like Mammi, Zaid, and Sardar, who\u2019s a great flicker, showcase the depth of hockey here. Playing alongside international players will only help them grow and improve further.\"<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Ward believes leagues like the HIL are crucial for the growth of hockey, providing young players with opportunities to develop their skills alongside international stars. \u201cThe strength and depth of young Indian players are impressive,\u201d he said. \u201cPlaying with more internationals will only make their game better.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
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