Vadodara Hockey League

A tournament by the Baroda District Hockey Association (Gujarat) is now in its fourth year. It is a night hockey tournament which is a huge hit in the land of Irfan and Yusuf Pathan. This is a six-a-side tournaments for both men and women.

This tournament first began in 2007 with 6 men’s team participating in it. This year both men and women’s teams are participating. The stands are full of viewers and many people watch the matches sitting on their motor-bikes. Vikas Prajapati, joint secretary of BDHA says,”We introduced the shorter version of hockey to attract crowds and the idea has clicked. The stands are full of spectators and the numbers are increasing with each passing day. All the goals are cheered by spectators who throng the ground every evening.

There are 8 teams in men and 6 team in women category this year. This is a very good news from the place which is known for its cricket. I haven’t been to this tournament this year but will will visit it surely. Last year the tournament was a success where you could see many people especially youngsters watching the game. But lot has changed since last year. Last year only men teams participated and there was only one or two sponsors for the tournament but this year when you visit the ground you can see ads placed all over the stands and players practicing for the tournament.

I hope this tournament continues for a long time and thus help states which are not so good in hockey produce good players for the national team