chapter - iv social factors for the downfall of...

CHAPTER - IVSOCIAL FACTORS

FOR THEDOWNFALL OF

HOCKEY

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CHAPTER - IVSOCIAL FACTORS FOR THE DOWNFALL OF HOCKEY

The process of socialization plays an important role in the

development of the personality of an individual. Socialization makes a man

social. This is a process of learning by which an individual learns about

the society, his position and role. Harry M. Johnson understands

socialization as “learning that enables the learner to perform social roles”.

He further says that it is a “process by which individual acquire the

already existing culture of groups they come into”. As C.H. Cooley said

while explaining his “Looking Glass Self” theory that an individual

develops the idea of self through contact with the primary groups. The

child conceives of himself as better or worse in varying degrees depending

upon the attitude of others towards him. Similarly G.H. Mead held the

opinion that society is determining factor in the socialization of an

individual. He stated that the individual largely through the interaction

became aware of himself that is an individual comes to know about

himself by what is known as “role playing”. He mentioned that an

individual puts himself in the role of the “others”. This is how society

plays a role in shaping and the formation of self.

The society, family, peer group, school, neighbourhood, community

are the main agencies in the process of socialization. This chapter will

trace out the role of these agencies in motivating or de motivating an

individual towards the game. It will focus on how these social factors are

responsible for the downfall of hockey. Whether family, peer group,

community, neighbourhood, audience are inspiring him or discouraging

him towards the game? When an individual is encouraged, the result is

the sport socialization which socializes an individual in the field and he

follows the sport ethics. It will shed light on the role of family and society

in supporting or de-supporting him. How society plays a crucial role in the

socialization of hockey players will be discussed in the present chapter.

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The respondents were asked to mention who inspired them towards

the game. As we know, “others” plays an important role in the formation of

self. As G.H. Mead, said that role of generalized others and significant

others plays a positive role in the formation and development of self. The

responses of the respondents regarding the source of inspiration towards

the hockey have been shown in the table given below.

Table 4.1Distribution of respondents according to source of their inspiration

towards hockey.

Sources of inspiration Frequency Percentage

Peer Group 101 33.67

Own Interest 69 23.00

Coaches/ Teachers 64 21.33

Relatives 30 10.00

Family 20 6.67

International

Players/Olympians

16 5.33

Total 300 100.00

The table above depicts that about one third of the respondents i.e.

33.67 percent said that they were inspired by the peer group; followed by

23.00 percent of the respondents mentioned that it was their own interest

and nobody had inspired them towards hockey; succeeded by 21.33

percent of the respondents who mentioned that they got inspiration from

the coaches; 10.00 percent of the respondents got inspiration from their

relatives; while 6.67 percent of the respondents got inspiration from their

own families; and only 5.33 percent of the respondents got inspiration

from renowned international players. This clearly shows that players got

inspiration from many sources in the society like friends circle or peer

group, caches/teachers, relatives, their own families, even renowned

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international players. While some among them have their own interest in

the game. Some of the respondents mentioned that “ki international

players te olympinas te hor vi renowned hockey players kade v nhi ande

ground te sanu inspire karan lyi, jad ke ena kol bahut sari knowledge hai

sanu den lyi.” Even during my field work I also observed that neither the

Olympians nor the international hockey players come to the ground for

motivating the hockey players. As one of my respondents narrated his

personal experience “ki usnu international player ton hockey nal related

kam si te oh us de ghar duphar nu chala gaya te ago us international

player ne keha ki eh kehda time hai ghar aa ke kam karwan da, je kam si

tan aa ke ground mil lenda.” My respondent stated to me “madam gi eh

attitude hai sade international players da te ehna ne sanu ki inspire karna

hai, jad ki international players nu tan hockey players da kam karan lyi

tatpar tiyar rehna chahida hai, eh ki inspire karange sanu!!!” This clearly

depicts the behaviour as well as attitude of the Olympians as well as

international hockey players.

The respondents were further asked whether any member of their

family played hockey. The responses of the respondents are given in the

following table.

Table 4.2Distribution of respondents whether any member of their family

played hockey.

Whether any member played hockey Frequency Percentage

Yes 83 27.67

No 217 72.33

Total 300 100.00

The above table reveals that an overwhelming majority of the

respondents i.e. 72.33 percent mentioned that their family member had

not played hockey; while 27.67 percent of the respondents said that their

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family member had played hockey earlier. This may be due to the fact that

their family member had played hockey, they may not have any kind of

interest to send their kids for the game because the motivational factor

seem to be absent in these case. Until and unless family plays a role for

encouraging their children towards the game, a vast majority of talent may

not give their performance while they can.

The respondents who stated that their kinsfolk had played hockey

were asked to mention the relation with them. Their responses are shown

in the following table.

Table 4.3Distribution of the respondents according to their kinsfolk who

played hockey earlier.

Kinsfolk who played hockey earlier Frequency Percentage

Father 35 42.17

Brother 22 26.51

Other relatives 13 15.66

Grand Father 8 9.64

Sister 5 6.02

Total 83 100.00

{Other Relatives includes mother’s father (nana), father’s brother

(chacha), mother’s brother (mama)}

The above table depicts that 24.17 percent of the respondents said

that their father participated in the game before; followed by 26.51 percent

mentioned that their brothers participated in the game; 15.66 percent of

the respondents mentioned that their relatives (nana, chacha,

mama)played hockey before; while 9.64 percent of the respondents stated

that their grand fathers used to play hockey before and only 6.02 percent

of the respondents said that their sisters participated in the game before.

This table indicates that parents, grand parents, sisters along with other

relatives used to become the source of inspiration to attract towards the

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game because whenever they see the performance, rewards and respect

which they got due to their performance at various levels in the game.

These were the reasons for their inspiration or interest in the game.

The respondents who stated that their other family members had

played hockey before were asked to mention the level of their performance.

The responses in this regard are shown in the table given below.

Table 4.4Distribution of respondents according to the performance level of

their other kinsfolk.

Performance level of their otherkinsfolk

Frequency Percentage

National 37 44.58

Inter-varsity 16 19.28

International 13 15.67

State 10 12.04

District 7 8.43

Total 83 100.00

The table above reveals that those who stated that their family

member had played hockey up to national level were 44.58 percent of the

total who mentioned that their kinsfolk have played hockey earlier;

followed by 19.28 percent who said that their family member had

participated at inter-varsity level; succeeded by 15.67 percent who stated

that their family members had participated at international level; followed

by 12.04 percent of the respondents who stated that their family member

had participated at state level; and the remaining only 8.43 percent of the

respondents stated that their kinsfolk have participated at the district

level. This is again a clear indication that those parents or relatives who

have already played hockey at any level may have more interest to send

their children to play hockey so that by their experience in the game may

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give better performance. This may boost their morale and can give them

better attention towards training, practice, stamina, endurance and diet.

This table indicates that as only 83 respondents stated out of 300

respondents that their kinsfolk became a source of inspiration. While the

remaining 217 respondents remained outside of this and denied from the

benefits. The role of the family in encouraging the youngsters towards the

game is decreasing. This may be a cause for the downfall of Indian hockey

because families are not interested to send their kids to play hockey rather

kids are also interested to play computer games or to play on Play Stations

or Nintendo in spite of going to the play grounds which is becoming the

main concern for their physical development.

Further the respondents were asked to mention whether they were

satisfied by choosing hockey in their life. The data in this regard is shown

in the following table.

Table 4.5Distribution of respondents regarding their satisfaction by choosing

hockey in their life.

Whether satisfied by choosinghockey


Yes 106 35.33

No 194 64.67

Total 300 100.00

The table above reveals that majority of the respondents i.e. 64.67

percent mentioned that they were no satisfied by choosing hockey in their

life; while 35.33 percent of the respondents stated that they were satisfied

by choosing hockey in their life which clearly indicates that a vast majority

of the players were dissatisfied and shown their regret. As some of my

respondents who stated that they were dissatisfied by choosing hockey in

their life stated that “ki asi tan hockey le k galti kiti hai kyonki is vich kise

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vi tarah da benefit nhi hai te hun asi pachtaonde han.” The incident which

I am going to narrate happened before my eyes when I was conducting

field work, “a hockey player who had played at the national level took his

luggage and left the game and on being asked from me he stated that “ki

koi faida tan hai nhi te mein padna chahunda han, te hockey khed ke

mera tan kuch vi nhi ban na kyonki mein India khedna chahunda si par

nhi khed sakya othe tak te hun menu ewe lagda hai ki mein hockey nu

choose kar ke satisfied nahi han kyonki iss vich kise vi kisam di job

security nhi hai.” In this way he left the game due to his dissatisfaction.

Further the respondents were probed to give the reasons for their

satisfaction as well as dissatisfaction. The data in this sense is presented

in the table given below.

Table 4.6Distribution of respondents according to their given reasons for their

satisfaction.

Reasons for satisfaction Frequency Percentage

Proud of being a hockey player 72 67.92

Achieved fame for them and their

families

15 14.15

Got jobs on the basis of hockey 12 11.33

Got support from family and

society

7 6.60

Total 106 100.00

Out of the total 300 respondents, 106 have shown their satisfaction

regarding choosing the game in their life. Among them who stated that

they are satisfied with their decisions have given different reasons for that.

Among those 67.92 percent of the respondents have given the reasons as

they felt proud of being a hockey player; 14.15 percent of the respondents

mentioned that they achieved fame for them and their families which is

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the another reason for their satisfaction; while 11.33 percent of the

respondents stated that they got jobs on the basis of hockey which made

them satisfied for their chosen game; and the remaining 6.60 percent

further mentioned that they got support from their family as well as from

the society too, to inspire them towards the game which became the

reason for their satisfaction.

The respondents who have shown dissatisfaction in choosing hockey

were asked to give reasons. Their responses are presented in the following

table.

Table 4.7Distribution of respondents according to their given reasons for their

dissatisfaction.

Reasons for dissatisfaction Frequency Percentage

Less opportunity for jobs 60 30.93

People prefer those games which

are easier and requires less time

and labour

31 15.98

No commercial status of the game 29 14.95

Lack of facilities and support from

government in comparison to

other games

22 11.34

Lack of recognition by society 21 10.82

Lack of rewards 19 9.79

Selection procedure is faulty 12 6.19

Total 194 100.00

194 respondents among the total 300 respondents which constitute

64.67 percent were dissatisfied from their decision to choose hockey in

their life for which they have given following reasons. Among them 30.93

percent stated that less opportunity for the jobs as a reason for their

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dissatisfaction; 15.98 percent of the respondents mentioned that people

prefer those games which are easier and requires less time and labour due

to which they feel dissatisfied; followed by 14.95 percent of the

respondents said that the game has no commercial status which made

them dissatisfied; succeeded by 11.34 percent of the respondents stated

that there is lack of facilities and support on the part of the government in

comparison to other games and the respondents further mentioned that

the organization of F.I.H. is very weak; followed by 10.82 percent of the

respondents said that lack of recognition by society made them

dissatisfied; while 9.79 percent of the respondents mentioned that lack of

rewards (moral, financial) in the game had made them dissatisfied; and the

remaining 6.19 percent of the respondents stated that the selection

procedure is very faulty which had made them dissatisfied. This table

indicates that there are reasons to believe until and unless hockey could

not achieve the status of commercial game, it will be less preferred by

people and its status in the eyes of the society will be a farther place to

achieve.

The respondents were asked to mention their aims in life as a

hockey player. The responses of the respondents in this regard are shown


Table 4.8Distribution of respondents according to their aims in life as a hockey

player.

Aims in life as a hockey player Frequency Percentage

To get a job 159 53.00

To make it most familiar game in

the eyes of society

97 32.33

To achieve the lost glory of the

game

44 14.67

Total 300 100.00

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The table on the preceding page clearly reveals the more than half of

the respondents i.e. 53.00 percent mentioned that they wanted to get a job

and they also said that they were playing the hockey only to get a job;

followed by 32.33 percent of the respondents stated that their aim in life

was to make it familiar game in the eyes of society so that people may

interact towards the game, if more and more people will get interaction

with hockey, their number in participation will also be increased

automatically so because until and unless we have a second line of

players, the performance level will never be increased. A player must have

a fear in his mind that if my performance level will be decreased another

player will take my position; and only 14.67 percent of the respondents

mentioned that their aim was to achieve the lost glory of hockey. Thus it

clearly shows that hockey players were keener in getting jobs as compared

to achieve the lost glory and to make it most familiar in the eyes of society.

It happens in many cases as soon as a person gets a job, he starts losing

interest in the game or they take the game casually. From this table it is

also clear that there are some respondents or players who were really

worried about the lost glory of the game and they have made it their

ambition in life to raise the familiarity of the game in the eyes of society.

They may be working day and night to achieve their ambition and there

are some people who are still dedicated towards the game. From this table,

another perspective which emerges as that to get a job is an utmost

economic need; if economic needs are not satisfied, then why a player play

for society or nation.

The responses of the respondents were correlated with the age

category of the respondents. The data in this regard are presented in the

table given on the succeeding page.

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Table 4.9Distribution of respondents according to their age and their

responses regarding their aims in life as a hockey player.

Aims in life as a hockey playerAge(years) To get a job To make it

most familiargame in the

eyes ofsociety

To achievethe lost gloryof the game

Total

15-20 138 (51.30)

(86.79)

91 (33.83)

(93.81)

40 (14.87)

(90.91)

269 (89.67)

21-25 21 (67.74)

(13.21)

6 (19.35)

(6.19)

4 (12.90)

(9.09)

31 (10.33)

Total 159 (53.00) 97 (32.33) 44 (14.67) 300 (100.00)

X ² = 3.292, df = 2, P > 0.19

The above table reveals that majority of the respondents in both the

age categories mentioned that their main aim was to get a job. But among

them a majority belonged to the age group of 15 to 20 years. This seems to

be more worried regarding increasing the familiarity of the status of

hockey in the eyes of society which constitutes 33.83 percent. This also

shows that the players of younger generation i.e. 15 to 20 years seem to be

more dedicated to increase the familiarity of the hockey in the eyes of

society. The chi square also shows a significant association between these

two variables.

Further the respondents were asked to mention the status of hockey

players in society in comparison to cricket. The responses of the

respondents are presented in the table given on the succeeding page.

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Table 4.10Distribution of respondents regarding the status of the hockey

players in the society.

Status of hockey players Frequency Percentage

Very good 21 7.00

Good 45 15.00

Average 40 13.33

Bad 80 26.67

Worst 114 38.00

Total 300 100.00

The above table shows that 38.00 percent of the total respondents

mentioned that the status of the hockey player is worst; followed by 26.67

percent of the respondent who stated that the status of hockey player was

bad. If we club both these categories of bad and worst, it becomes 64.67

percent of the total that sated that status of the hockey player in the eyes

of society is not good; succeeded by 15.00 percent of the respondents

emphasized that the status of hockey player is good; followed by 13.33

percent of the respondents mentioned that the status of hockey player was

average in the society and only 7.00 percent of the respondents stated that

the status of hockey player was very good in the society. This clearly

indicates that hockey players were not properly recognized in the society

and even they did not enjoy respect from the society. Therefore, lack of

recognition, popularity and respect has lowered the status of hockey

players in the eyes of society. As some of my respondents stated that “ki

na tan samaj de vich sanu koi puchda hai ten a hi ghar vich. Jado ghar

jande han tan ghar de kehnde han padai kar lawo kyonki hockey waleya

nu samaj vich koi jagah nhi mildi te na hi thohada kuch banna hai.”

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The respondents were asked to mention how longer they want to play

hockey. Their responses will determine their dedication and determination

towards the game. The responses have been categorized and presented in

the table given below.

Table 4.11Distribution of respondents according to their determination to play

hockey.

Determination of the respondentsto play hockey


Till I get the job 166 55.33

Till I perform well 79 26.33

Forever 55 18.34

Total 300 100.00

The table above clearly reveals that more than half of the respondents

i.e. 55.33 percent mentioned that they wanted to play the game till they

get job; followed by 26.33 percent of the respondents who stated that they

want to play the game till they perform well and the remaining 18.34

percent of the respondents said that they want to play hockey forever. This

shows their dedication towards the game. This table shows that majority of

the hockey players used to play hockey only to get job and they were more

concerned with their own motives. Moreover, they were playing for

themselves, for satisfying their needs and not for the cause of the game.

The attitude of the players has changed as compared to previous hockey

stars. Gone are the days when the hockey players played for the game’s

glory so that they can improve with putting up too much hard labour the

status of the game in the society and they did it. That’s why with their

higher ambitions, they planted the game on the top of all the games which

was considered as a national game once upon a time. This attitude is

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absent from the data given in the table mentioned above which can be

considered as the main drawback of Indian hockey.

The responses of the respondents were correlated with the age

category of the respondents. The data in this regard are shown in the

table.

Table 4.12Distribution of respondents according to their age and their

determination to play hockey.

Determination of the respondents to playhockey

Age(years)

Till I get job Till I performwell

Forever Total

15-20 145 (53.90)

(87.35)

73 (27.14)

(92.41)

51 (18.96)

(92.73)

269 (89.67)

21-25 21 (67.74)

(12.65)

6 (19.35)

(7.59)

4 (12.91)

(7.27)

31 (10.33)

Total 166 (55.33) 79 (26.33) 55 (18.34) 300 (100.00)

X ² = 2.175, df = 2, P > 0.34

The above table reveals that more than half of the respondents in the

age category of 15 to 20 years said that they will play till they get job

followed by those who said that they want to play hockey till they perform

well or forever. Even among the respondents of 21 to 25 years category,

the trend is same. However those who mentioned that they want to play

the game only for the jab sake, they are in the vast majority i.e. 87.35

percent from the age category of 15 to 20 years. While those respondents

who stated that they want to play till they perform well or want to play

forever, their majority was in the age category of 15 to 20 years as

compared to age category of 21 to 25 years. The hope lies with those who

mentioned that they will play hockey till they perform well or forever. If we

club these categories, that constitutes 46.10 percent of the total. The light

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of hope remains with these dedicated players by which good results can be

hoped. The chi square also shows significant association between these

two variables.

The respondents were asked to mention why parents did not prefer to

send their children to play hockey. In this regard, the information is

presented in the following table.

Table 4.13Distribution of respondents according to their responses regardingwhy parents did not prefer to send their children to play hockey.

Reasons for not sending theirchildren to play hockey


Uncertainty for settlement in life 84 28.00

Decreasing popularity of the game

as compared to cricket and other

games.

71 23.67

Preference to education so due to

more pressure of education

children do not have time

44 14.67

Everyone can not play hockey

because it is very expensive game

31 10.33

Now a days people play only to get

certificates so they prefer other

easy games

27 9.00

Hockey needs more skill and is a

injurious game

24 8.00

Small size of the family 19 6.33

Total 300 100.00

The above table reveals that respondents have given various reasons

for not sending their children to play hockey as it is clear that 28.00

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percent mentioned that there is an uncertainty for settlement in life that is

why parents did not prefer their children to play hockey; followed by 23.67

percent of the respondents who stated that there is decreasing popularity

of the hockey as compared to cricket and other games; succeeded by 14.67

percent of the respondents said that more preference is given to education

and parents think that their children should be given some professional

lines (like medical line or engineering line), due to more pressure of

education, as well as the more and more demands of the teachers and

parents, children do not have enough time to participate in the game;

while 10.33 percent of the respondents emphasized that everyone can not

play hockey because it is very expensive game; amongst the total 9.00

percent of the respondents gave reasons as now a days people play only to

get certificates so they prefer other easy games; 8.00 percent of the

respondents stated that hockey needs more skill, endurance and hard

training and is also prone to injuries; and only 6.33 percent of the

respondents mentioned that due to small size of the family and they stated

further that as now a days almost in majority, there is one or two kids in

the family so families do not want to take risks for the future of their kids

so they do not want to send their children to play hockey. This clearly

shows that many reasons had been given by the respondents which clearly

show why parents did not give preference to hockey and more preferences

are given to professional games. These may be the major reasons for the

downfall of the hockey. As the game is not yet commercialized. If the

economic future of the player will be made granted, people may change

their attitude and may send their wards to play hockey.

Further the respondents were probed to know whether in future, they

would like to permit any of the family members to participate in hockey.

Their responses are presented in the table number 4.14.

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Table 4.14Distribution of respondents whether they would allow any of their

family members to play hockey.

Whether they will allow theirfamily member to play hockey


Yes 106 35.33

No 194 64.67

Total 300 100.00

The above table clearly shows that a vast majority of the respondents

i.e. 64.67 percent mentioned that they would not permit any of their family

members to play hockey in future; while 35.33 percent of the respondents

stated that they would permit their family members to play hockey. This

clearly indicates that those respondents who mentioned that they would

not allow their family member to play hockey were the same who were also

not satisfied by choosing hockey in their life. This also shows their

resentment regarding the game due to the reasons already mentioned on

page no. 110, table no. 4.7. They also stated that “ki asi apne bacahya nu

oh game khidwage jehdi samaj de vich lok jada pasan karan te jis vich

ohna nu popularity te benefit dono milan.”

Further the respondents were asked to mention who supported

them in their family. The data in this regard is presented in the table given

on the succeeding page.

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Table 4.15Distribution of respondents according to who extended the

encouragement from the family to play hockey.

Who extended encouragementfrom the family to play hockey


No support 170 56.67

Father 45 15.00

Mother 34 11.33

Brother 24 8.00

Other relatives 15 5.00

Sisters 12 4.00

Total 300 100.00

The above table shows that 56.67 percent of the respondents stated

that they did not get encouragement from their families; followed by 15.00

percent of the respondents who said that they get encouragement from

their fathers; 11.33 percent of the respondents mentioned that they get

encouragement from their mothers; followed by 8.00 percent who said that

they get encouragement from their brothers; succeeded by 5.00 percent of

the respondents stated that their other relatives encouraged them; while

4.00 percent said that their sisters encouraged them to play hockey. Thus

the table clearly indicates that more than half of the respondents did not

get encouragement and support from the family members. As family is the

main agency of socialization and in providing support and encouragement

to its members. Until and unless, the family will not support to their

children to play hockey, one can not think of better results. As those

respondents who stated that they did not get support from the family

stated that “ki sanu ghar deya to vi support nhi mildi kyonki ghar deya nu

hockey khedna pasad nhi hai. Oh kehnde han ki hockey ton kuch nhi

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milna, padai kar lawo tan ki naukri mil jawe jo ki hockey khedan nal nhi

mil sakdi.”

Further the respondents were asked to mention that what kind of

support they were getting from the family. Their responses are presented


Table 4.16Distribution of respondents regarding the kind of support from the

family.

Kind of support from the family Frequency Percentage

Moral 85 65.38

Both (Moral and Financial) 25 19.24

Financial 20 15.38

Total 130 100.00

The above table depicts that 130 respondents out of 300 respondents

mentioned that they were getting support and encouragement from their

respective families. Among those, 65.38 percent stated that they were

getting moral support; followed by 19.24 percent of the respondents

mentioned that they were getting both support from the families, moral as

well as financial; and the remaining 15.38 percent stated that they were

getting financial support from their families. Thus the table clearly

indicates that the family members were not providing the adequate

financial support to their children playing hockey. As the respondents

stated that “ki ghar de sanu paise nhi dinde kyonki oh kehnde han ki

hockey de vich paisa lagana befazul hai te iss paise nu padai de vich ya

koi kam karan de lyi vartaya ja sakda hai. Respondents also stated that

“ki ghar di financial halat bahute wadiya nhi hai ge jis kar k ghar de sanu

paisa nhi dinde.” This is the need of the hour that a hockey player must be

supported or encouraged from the family member at the grass root which

will provide confidence, determination, and dedication towards the game.

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Therefore, the family members must encourage their wards to play hockey

or any other game which will also provide them strength as well as

physical beauty as it is observed now a days that children are stick to

computers, television, internet which is making them unhealthy, obese

etc.

Again the respondents were asked to mention whether hockey players

get their due respect in the society. The data in this regard are presented

in the table number 4.17.

Table 4.17Distribution of respondents whether hockey players get their due

respect in the society.

Whether hockey players get theirdue respect in the society


Yes 87 29.00

No 213 71.00

Total 300 100.00

The table above shows that an overwhelming majority of the

respondents i.e. 71.00 percent stated that hockey players do not get their

due respect in the society; while 29.00 percent of the respondents

mentioned that hockey players get their due respect in the society. This

clearly shows that this kind of opinion spreads the inferiority complex

among the players. So society must encourage them by rewarding good

status for their hard labour so that they can perform well in the field. This

needs a lot of propaganda through the media so that this message can be

conveyed to the each citizen of the country. So society should contribute in

a positive manner in providing proper and due respect as well as

recognition to the hockey players. As one of my respondents narrated a

story that his friend who is an international player came to him and he

wanted a car with number 13. When both of them went to the D.T.O.

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officer, the officer did not recognize the international hockey player and did

not provide him with that particular number which he demanded. My

respondents stated that this is the respect as well as recognition given to

the hockey players as they were not even recognized by the society

members.

Further the respondents who mentioned that players are getting due

respect in the society gave different reasons which are mentioned in the

table number 4.18.

Table 4.18Distribution of respondents according to the reasons for getting due

respect in the society.

Reasons for getting respect in thesociety


Due to better performance 33 37.93

Doing noble task for improving the

status of the game

24 27.59

Because it is our national game 17 19.54

Due to hard work 13 14.94

Total 87 100.00

The table above reveals that 87 respondents out of 300 respondents

mentioned that they were getting due respect in the society which

constitutes only 29.00 percent of the total. Among them 37.93 percent

stated that due to their better performance in the game they were getting

respect in the society; followed by 27.59 percent mentioned that they were

doing a noble task for improving the status of hockey that’s why people

respect them; succeeded by 19.54 percent of the respondents who stated

that it is our national game so players get respect from the society; and the

remaining 14.94 percent of the respondents mentioned that due to their

hard work they are earning respect in the society. This table clearly shows

115

that the hard work, training, dedication and determination of the players

for improving the status of the game which were considered as the reasons

for which they were getting respect in the society.

Similarly, the respondents who stated that they are not getting respect in

the society gave the various reasons. The data in this regard is shown in

the following table.

Table 4.19Distribution of respondents according to the reasons for not getting

due respect in the society.

Reasons for not getting respect inthe society


Other games like cricket are more

popular than hockey

74 34.74

Lack of commercialization of the

game

46 21.60

Due to continuous poor performance

at the international competitions

36 16.90

Lack of propaganda by media 26 12.21

Lack of discipline among the players 18 8.45

Malfunctioning of FIH 13 6.10

Total 213 100.00

The above table shows that 213 respondents among the total of 300

who stated that hockey players is not getting due respect in the society

gave the following reasons. Among them 34.74 percent of the respondents

stated that other games like cricket have become more popular as

compared to hockey that’s why hockey is loosing sheen among the people

and the players are not getting their due respect in the society; followed by

21.60 percent of the respondents who stated that due to lack of

commercialization of the game the players are not getting their due

116

respect; while 16.90 percent of the respondents gave reason that due to

continuous poor performance at the international competitions is the

reason for not getting proper respect in the society; another 26

respondents which constitute 12.21 percent of the respondents gave

reasons as lack of propaganda by media is the main reason for the

decreasing respect of the hockey players in the society, as one of the

respondents even said that media including newspapers and television are

full of news relating to cricket and their stars and sometimes even the

important matches relating to hockey are not shown on the television and

they stated that “jine marji akhbar dekh lawo ya television ute channel

dekh lawo ohna vich thohanu cricket hi cricket miluga te hockey tan

bicahri kunje vich lagi hundi hai ya nhi hundi” and they mentioned that

everything needs appreciation, if the hockey as well as hockey players get

its due appreciation and more coverage on the media obviously the more

and more people will get attracted towards the game; followed by 8.45

percent of the respondents said that players themselves are also

responsible due to creating indiscipline in the field as well as outside the

field which brings about a bad name for the discipline they belong so this

is also an emerging reason for not getting due respect; and the remaining

6.10 percent of the respondents have given the reason for not getting

players their due respect is the malfunctioning of FIH and it has spoiled

the status of hockey as well as the hockey players in the eyes of society

(the role of regionalism, casteism, religionalaism and even no financial

rewards are being given to the players as is being given to the cricket

players for the motivation). Hence this table indicates clearly that due to

above given reasons people are loosing their interest in the game as well as

it is also affecting the status and respect of the game as well as the hockey

players in the society.

The respondents were asked to mention whether the players have

dedication about the game. The information in this regard is presented in

the table given on the succeeding page.

117

Table 4.20Distribution of respondents whether the players have dedication

about the game.

Whether the players have dedicationabout the game


Yes 86 28.67

No 214 71.33

Total 300 100.00

The above table reveals that a vast majority of the respondents i.e.

71.33 percent stated that there is lack of dedication among the hockey

players; while 28.67 percent of the respondents said that players were

dedicated towards the hockey. Thus it clearly indicates that there is lack of

dedication and determination among the hockey players. This may be one

of the major issues for the downfall of Indian hockey. Hence, until and

unless the hockey players play with full dedication and determination, we

can not think to enhance its status.

The respondents mentioned few reasons regarding the lack of

dedication among the hockey players which are presented in the table

given below.

Table 4.21Distribution of the respondents according to the reasons given by

them.

Reasons for lack of dedication Frequency Percentage

Sports culture is decreasing 69 32.24

Youngsters prefer to sit in front of

television instead of going to field

61 28.50

Nothing fruitful is expected 48 22.43

Decreasing faith in selection pattern 21 9.81

Due to lack of dedicated coaches 15 7.01

Total 214 100.00

118

The preceding table depicts that 32.24 percent of the respondents

stated that sports culture is decreasing as they stated that (once upon a

time, there was a tradition in the villages that elderly players and other

members of the community used to visit the ground, some of them used to

play, some of them used to do the job of umpire or referee and almost all

of them used to guide the youngsters due to their vast experiences, and

youngsters too love to learn and pay more respect to the elderly players of

the community. This culture is almost absent and the young players are

lagging behind resultantly players are loosing commitment and dedication

for the game which may be a main factor for the downfall of Indian

hockey.); followed by 28.50 percent of the respondents said that

youngsters prefer to sit in front of television instead of going to the field

due to which there is a lack of interest as well as dedication; succeeded by

22.43 percent of the respondents mentioned that nothing fruitful is

expected from the game due to which there is lack of dedication among the

players; while 9.81 percent of the respondents stated that due to

decreasing faith in the selection patterns, players lack commitment (as one

of the respondents mentioned that jiniya marji lata tudwa lawo, age tan

sifarshi hi jange; and the remaining 7.01 percent of the respondents

mentioned that lack of dedicated coaches has resulted in the lack of

dedication among the players (as players mentioned that coaches were not

punctual). These above mentioned reasons lower the level of commitment

and dedication among the hockey players.

Further the respondents mentioned the means of improving the

dedication among the hockey players. The responses in this regard are

shown in the table presented on the succeeding page.

119

Table 4.22Distribution of respondents regarding the improvement of dedication

among the players.

Means of improving dedication orcommitment


By inculcating sports values and culture

in the players by the senior most players

and experienced coaches

69 32.24

By motivating the youngsters by giving

due credit and appreciation by the society

61 28.50

Provisions of economic support by FIH

(like jobs, awards, diet, other incentives)

48 22.43

By creating transparency in the selection

patterns

21 9.81

By efficient and dedicated coaches 15 7.01

Total 214 100.00

The above table reveals that 69 respondents out of 214 which

constitute 32.24 percent mentioned that by inculcating sports values and

culture in the players by the senior most players as well as experiences

coaches, the dedication and commitment among the players can be

improved. This is the societal part to play if the glory of the hockey should

be gained in future. This shows that not only players are responsible for

their performance but society is also responsible at the same time. It was

observed that due to proper sports socialization, players are not committed

to sports; another 28.50 percent of the respondents stated that by

motivating the youngsters by giving due credit and appreciation by the

society, their level of dedication can be improved; followed by 22.43

percent of the respondents mentioned that provisions of economic support

from FIH ( in terms of jobs, awards, diet and incentives) can improve their

120

dedication level; succeeded by 9.81 percent of the respondents sated that

by creating transparency in the selection of the players, the dedication

level of the players can be improved; and the remaining 7.01 percent of the

respondents mentioned that the need is of efficient and dedicated coaches

and they can act as a force for improving the dedication level among the

hockey players. From these responses, two kinds of remedies are

emerging, one is social and other is economical. From social point if view

there is lack of socialization, sports values and culture and another one is

economical i.e. basic needs of an individual to settle in a life and earn

his/her livelihoods so other activities are the secondary things. The

primary thing is to earn livelihood in a life and others are secondary

things.

The respondents were further asked to mention whether hockey

players are obedient to the coaches. The information in this regard is

shown in the table given below.

Table 4.23Distribution of respondents according to their obedience.

Whether the players are obedient Frequency Percentage

Yes 112 37.33

No 188 62.67

Total 300 100.00

The table above clearly shows that an overwhelming majority of the

respondents i.e. 62.67 percent mentioned that players are not obedient to

the coaches; while 37.33 percent mentioned that players are obedient to

the coaches. This table clearly indicates that majority of hockey players

did not respect their coaches and this also shows that how the players are

undisciplined today. They themselves are responsible for their poor

performance and just blaming the coaches and the organizations and

other people. And all those who were obedient and disciplined participated

121

at the higher level. So this also indicates that if the players will not be

obedient, disciplined and respectful to their senior players, coaches and

other officials they can not achieve their higher targets. It is generally

believed in the society that when an individual becomes undisciplined,

disobedient and disrespectful to his/her elderly, his downfall begins.

Further to elaborate the previous table, the respondents were

enquired whether they have conflict with their coaches. The role of a coach

in a life of a player plays an important role for inculcating values, skills

etc. Their responses are shown in the table number 4.24.

Table 4.24Distribution of respondents whether they have conflict with their

coaches.

Whether players have conflictwith their coaches


Quite Often 57 19.00

Sometime 97 32.33

Rarely 35 11.67

Never 111 37.00

Total 300 100.00

The table above clearly reveals that if we club first three categories,

we will find that a majority of the respondents i.e. 63.00 percent

mentioned that up to some extent they have conflict with their coaches;

while 37.00 percent of the respondents stated that they have never been in

conflict with their coaches. This clearly depicts that hockey players have

unhealthy and uncordial relationships with their coaches. This clearly

indicates that due to strained relationships between coaches and players,

neither coach spend more time in the ground for training nor do the

players even obey them. This may be one of the reasons for bad

performance in the competitions. Those who do not have cordial

122

relationships between the coaches, they can not grow. (It is a well known

fact that any family, group, team, organization which does not have cordial

relationships among their members will not grow).

The reasons given by the respondents for conflict with the coaches

are presented in the table given below.

Table 4.25Distribution of reasons for conflict with their coaches.

Reasons for conflict with theircoaches


Money mindedness of the coaches 69 36.51

Partiality by the coaches 58 30.69

Undue discouragement 39 20.63

Using abusive language 23 12.17

Total 189 100.00

The above table depicts that 189 respondents out of 300 who have

mentioned that they have conflict with their respective coaches have given

different reasons. Among them 36.51 percent of the respondents

mentioned that coaches are money minded, their main interest is to gain

more and more income by any other means and they do not provide proper

coaching to the trainees. Another 30.69 percent of the respondents

mentioned that coaches do partiality with the players so sometimes their

relations become strain; while 20.63 percent of the respondents have

stated that coaches are indulged in undue discouragement with the

players which causes conflict between the players and the coaches; and

the remaining 12.17 percent of the respondents stated that coaches use

abusive language for which they have conflict between each other. Thus

the above mentioned reasons narrate the exact story of the coaches as

they lack dedication, commitment as well as patience.

123

As the factions are the groups based on political ideology, caste

power, clash of personality etc. These groups are opposed to one another.

Sociologists are of the view that “the factions are formed” on the account of

natural rivalry and conflict or clash of personality. As H.S. Dhillon has

pointed out in his book “Leadership and Group in a South IndianVillage” while rivalry and opposition to some group is a general feature of

a faction and faction usually come into existence on account of natural

rivalry and conflict or clash of personalities these are, by no means, the

only features of a factions. The respondents were further asked to mention

whether there is any form of factionalism between the team members.

Their responses in this regard are presented in the table number 4.26.

Table 4.26Distribution of respondents whether there is any form of factionalism

between the team members.

Factionalism between the teammembers


Yes 189 63.00

No 111 37.00

Total 300 100.00

The above table reveals that a majority of the respondents i.e. 63.00

percent mentioned that there exist factions between the team members;

while 37.00 percent of the respondents stated that it is not. Thus it depicts

that factionalism divide the team members into different parts and

germinates the seeds of jealousy, hatredness and quarrels among the team

members.

Further the respondents were asked to mention what are the basis

on which they divide themselves in the teams. The responses in this

regard are shown in the table given on the succeeding page.

124

Table 4.27Distribution of respondents on the basis of the formation of factions.

Basis of factions Frequency Percentage

Region wise 101 53.44

Caste wise 53 28.04

Religion wise 23 12.17

Linguistic wise 12 6.35

Total 189 100.00

The above table reveals that more than half of the respondents i.e.

53.44 percent said that factions are created on the basis of region;

followed by 28.04 percent of the respondents who stated that the basis for

the formation of faction is caste; succeeded by 12.17 percent of the

respondents who mentioned that religion becomes the basis for the

creation of factions; and only 6.35 percent of the respondents stated that

factions are created on the basis of language. Thus it is clear that among

the team members factionalism exist which plays a negative role because

hockey is a team game which requires each ones cooperation and co-

ordination. If there will be any kind of factionalism in any team, the better

results of the performance can not be expected. And sometimes it extends

up to fights and quarrels.

The players were asked whether they face any conflict at the home

due to their involvement in the game. The information in this regard is

presented in the table given on the succeeding page.

125

Table 4.28Distribution of respondents whether they face conflict at home due to

their involvement in the game.

Face conflict at home due toinvolvement in the game


Yes 238 79.33

No 62 20.67

Total 300 100.00

The table number 4.28 reveals that overwhelming majority of the

respondents i.e. 79.33 percent said that they face conflict at home due to

their involvement in the game; while 20.67 percent of the respondents

stated that they do not face any form of conflict at home. Thus the table

reveals that parents do not seem to be happy and they do not have any

interest in hockey.

Further the respondents were asked to mention the extent of the

conflict at home due to their involvement in the game. Their responses are

presented in the table given below.

Table 4.29Distribution of respondents regarding the extent of the conflict at

home due to their involvement in the game.

Extent of the conflict in the family Frequency Percentage

Sometimes 138 57.98

Quite often 79 33.20

Rarely 21 8.82

Total 238 100.00


percent stated that they face conflict sometimes in the family due to their

involvement in the game; followed by 33.20 percent of the respondents

126

who said that they face conflict quite often in the family due to their

involvement in the game; and only 8.82 percent of the respondents who

mentioned that they face conflict rarely in the family due to their

involvement in the game. Thus the table clearly indicates the extent of

conflict in the family.

Further the respondents were asked to mention whether the

number of players in hockey is reducing day by day. In this regard, the

responses of the respondents are given in the table below. This table will

determine the success of the game, as the success of the game depends on

the number of the players participating in the game.

Table 4.30Distribution of the respondents whether the number of players in

hockey is reducing day by day.

Whether the number of players inhockey is reducing day by day


Yes 257 85.67

No 43 14.33

Total 300 100.00

The table above reveals that an overwhelming majority of the

respondents i.e. 85.67 percent stated that number of players in hockey is

reducing day by day and only 14.33 percent of the respondents mentioned

that it is not. Thus the table clearly reveals that the society is not

contributing in the positive manner by not encouraging their wards to

participate in the game as well as the kids prefer to play computer games

instead of hockey.

Further the respondents mentioned the reasons regarding the

number of players in hockey are reducing day by day which are shown in

the table number 4.31 given on the succeeding page.

127

Table 4.31Distribution of the respondents regarding the reasons for reducing of

number of players in hockey day by day.

Reasons Frequency Percentage

Decreasing size of the family 97 37.74

Due to more pressure of studies and

no time is left for the game

41 15.95

Lack of inspiration from the family 32 12.45

Decreasing popularity of the game 28 10.90

Lack of commitment among the

coaches

25 9.73

Expensive equipments 19 7.40

Favoritism 15 5.83

Total 257 100.00

The table given above reveals that 257 respondents out of 300

respondents which constitute 85.67 percent mentioned that the number of

players in hockey is reducing day by day. Among them 37.74 percent of

the respondents said that it is due to the decreasing size of the family.

Another 15.95 percent of the respondents said that it is due to more

pressure of studies as no time is left for the game; while 12.45 percent of

the respondents mentioned that it is the lack of inspiration from the

family; another 10.90 percent of the respondents said that due to

decreasing popularity of the game; while 9.73 percent of the respondents

stated that due to lack of commitment among the coaches is the another

reason; 7.40 percent of the respondents mentioned that due to expensive

equipments; and the rest of the respondents i.e. 5.83 percent stated that

favoritism is the another reason for reducing of players in hockey.

Further to know their responses regarding astro turfs, the

respondents were asked to mention whether astro turfs fields are

128

responsible for our degraded status. The responses of the respondents are


Table 4.32Distribution of respondents according to their responses whether

astro turf grounds are responsible for downfall of hockey.

Whether astro turf grounds areresponsible for downfall of hockey


Yes 236 78.67

No 64 21.33

Total 300 100.00

The table above reveals that an overwhelming majority of the

respondents i.e. 78.67 percent mentioned that astro turf grounds were

responsible for downfall of hockey; while only 21.33 percent of the

respondents who stated that astro turf grounds were not responsible for

its downfall. This table clearly indicates that of astro turf grounds are

responsible for demise of hockey. The respondents further stated that

before we used to play on grass fields but due to changes in the rules of

hockey the game has become very fast and instead of grassy grounds the

new types of astro turf fields have been introduced. They mentioned that

there is lack of astro turf grounds in Punjab. Even the astro turf grounds

have not reached the districts level and the school level of Punjab. Due to

which players can not be produced is the main reason for the downfall of

hockey in Punjab. Until and unless the basic facilities like astro turf

grounds are not available, how can we think of better performance at the

international competitions? Hence, this is the basic requirement for its up

gradation at the grass root level.

The respondents were further inquired to narrate the reasons by

which astro turf grounds are responsible for downfall of hockey. The

responses of the respondents are presented in the table number 4.33.

129

Table 4.33Distribution of the respondents according to their responses

regarding reasons for which astro turfs are responsible for downfall ofhockey.

Reasons Frequency Percentage

Lack of astro turfs 112 47.46

Lack of practice on astro turfs 73 30.93

Skills of the game are different on

astro turfs as compared to grassy

grounds

51 21.61

Total 236 100.00


percent stated that due to lack of astro turfs in Punjab are responsible for

its downfall; followed by 30.93 percent of the respondents mentioned that

the lack of practice on the astro turfs even if the astro turfs are available

have resulted in its downfall; while 21.61 percent of the respondents said

that astro turf grounds require different types of skills, endurance as

compared to grassy grounds. Thus the table clearly indicates that majority

of the respondents mentioned that due to paucity of astro turfs is one of

the major reason for the downfall of hockey in Punjab. They stated that

lack of astro turf grounds at the grass root level lowers the performance

level of the hockey players. They even mentioned that they were not

allowed to do practice on the astro turfs, as the respondents narrated that

if they do practice on the astro turfs, the coaches and the sports

administrators say that the astro turfs will become dirty and they advice

them not to practice on it. The respondents told me “ki ik ta astro turfs di

kami hai te je astro turfs hai tah sanu ohna te khedan nhi dita janda te

authority kehndi hai ki astro turf kharab ho jawega te ganda vi ho jawega

te sanu astro turf ground te pair vi nhi dinde, respondents puchde ne

130

authority nu ki je astro turf te khedan nhi dena tan astro turf lagwayi

kade waste hai.” This attitude of the administrators as well as the coaches

and trainers is hampering the status of the game as well as the hockey

players.

The respondents were asked to mention whether they were satisfied

by the training provided to them. The responses given by the respondents

are presented in the table given below.

Table 4.34Distribution of the respondents according to their responses whether

they were satisfied by the training provided to them.

Satisfaction about the trainingprovided to them


Yes 56 18.67

No 244 81.33

Total 300 100.00

The table above depicts that the vast majority of the respondents i.e.

81.33 percent mentioned that they were not satisfied by the training

provided to them; while only small proportion of the respondents i.e. 18.67

percent of the respondents stated that they were satisfied by the training

given to them. This table clearly indicates that lack of training to the

hockey players is also one of the reasons responsible for its downfall.

The respondents were further asked to mention the reasons for

their dissatisfaction by the training provided to them. The responses of the

respondents are presented in the table given on the succeeding page.

131

Table 4.35Distribution of the respondents according to their responsesregarding the reasons for their dissatisfaction by the training

provided to them.

Reasons for players dissatisfactionregarding the training


Lack of efficient and experienced coaches 112 45.90

Lack of modern tools and techniques 77 31.56

Lack of dedication among the coaches 55 22.54

Total 244 100.00

The table above reveals that out of 300 respondents, 244 respondents

from the total were those who felt dissatisfied from their training and

blamed the coaches. They provided different reasons for their

dissatisfaction regarding their training. Out of 244 respondents, 112

respondents which constitutes 45.90 percent stated that the lack of

efficient and experienced coaches is the main cause for their

dissatisfaction; 77 respondents out of 244 that constitutes 31.56 percent

stated that lack of modern tools and techniques and other facilities for

their training is the main cause for their dissatisfaction in which they

explained that they were not shown videography of their practices in which

a player can watch his limitations and the remaining 55 respondents i.e.

22.54 percent stated that lack of dedication among the coaches is another

reason for their dissatisfaction regarding the training. Respondents with

hesitation responded that coaches are not punctual or dedicated for their

services by which trainees suffer a lot and further when they were probed

they mentioned that sometimes coaches comes to the ground for 10 to 15

minutes only and for many times they do not bother about their training.

Thus the table clearly indicates that lack of efficient coaching by the

dedicated and experienced coaches, players were not satisfied from the

132

training. If proper and efficient coaching is not provided to them, how can

we imagine raising its degraded status? These are the big issues which we

should consider on the part of coaches and trainers which are

contributing a lot for the downfall of hockey.

The respondents were further asked some opinion based questions

like growing popularity of cricket is responsible for downfall of hockey,

hockey culture is declining, small family size is responsible for not sending

their children to play hockey, society’s attitude has changed towards

hockey, there is lack of sports socialization in the game, lack of audience

de-motivates and hampers the performance of the players. The responses

were categorized into five broad divisions such as strongly agree, agree,

indifferent, disagree and strongly disagree. Firstly, the respondents were

asked to give their opinion whether growing popularity of cricket is

responsible for downfall of hockey. In this regard, the opinions are


Table 4.36Distribution of the respondents according to their opinion whether

cricket is responsible for downfall of hockey.

Whether cricket is responsible fordownfall of hockey


Strongly agree 201 67.00

Agree 65 21.67

Indifferent 3 1.00

Disagree 19 6.33

Strongly disagree 12 4.00

Total 300 100.00

The table given on the preceding page reveals that about two third of

the respondents i.e. 67.00 percent strongly agreed to this opinion; followed

by 21.67 percent of the respondents agreed to this opinion; while 6.33

133

percent of the respondents disagreed to this opinion; followed by 4.00

percent of the respondents strongly disagreed to this opinion; and only

1.00 percent of the respondents were such who were indifferent to this

opinion. Thus the table depicts that an overwhelming majority of the

respondents were of the opinion that growing popularity of cricket is

responsible for downfall of hockey.

Secondly, the respondents were asked whether hockey culture is

declining. In this regard, the opinions are presented in the table given

below.


hockey culture is declining.

Whether hockey culture is declining Frequency Percentage


Agree 143 47.67

Indifferent 32 10.67

Disagree 22 7.33


Total 300 100.00

The table above depicts that 47.67 percent agreed to this opinion;

followed by 33.00 percent of the respondents strongly agreed to this

opinion; succeeded by 10.67 percent of the respondents fall in the category

of indifferent, who stated that we can not say anything in this regard;

while 7.33 percent of the respondents disagreed to this opinion; and only

1.33 percent of the respondents were strongly disagreed to this opinion.

Therefore, the table clearly indicates that majority of the respondents were

of the opinion that hockey culture is declining day by day as it is

mentioned earlier in this chapter that people like other games where

competition is less and not much skill and training is required. Until and

134

unless more and more players will not participate in the field, there will be

lesser choice for the selection of good players. If more and more players

will be in queue, the senior players may have the fear that if I will not

perform well, there are others who can replace me. This kind of fear will be

created if the hockey culture will be maintained and it will become the

attraction of the players.

Thirdly, the respondents were asked whether small family size is

responsible for not sending their children to play hockey. In this regard,

the opinions are presented in the table given below.


small family size is responsible for not sending their children to playhockey.

Small family size is responsible for notsending their children to play hockey



Agree 103 34.33

Indifferent 28 9.33

Disagree 17 5.67


Total 300 100.00

The table above depicts that 43.00 percent of the respondents

strongly agreed to this opinion; while another 34.33 percent of the

respondents mentioned that they agreed to this opinion. If we club both

these categories that constitute 77.33 percent who were of the opinion that

due to decreasing size of the family, the number of participation is

reducing day by day. Until and unless the parents will encourage their

children towards the game, the better results can not be expected. There

were 28 respondents which constitute 9.33 percent of the total

135

respondents who were indifferent towards this opinion. On the other hand,

7.67 percent of the respondents strongly disagreed to this opinion;

followed by 5.67 percent of the respondents disagreed to this opinion.

Thus the table indicates that the parents do not want to send their

children to play hockey due to small family size. The respondents even

stated that parents prefer to send their children in professional jobs

instead of wasting their time in playing hockey.

Fourthly, the respondents were asked to give their opinion whether

society’s attitude has been changed towards hockey. In this regard, the

opinions of the respondents are presented in the following table.

Table 4.39Distribution of respondents according to their opinions whether

society’s attitude has been changed towards hockey.

Whether society’s attitude haschanged towards hockey



Agree 155 51.67


Disagree 22 7.33


Total 300 100.00

The above table depicts that a little more than half of the respondents

i.e. 51.67 percent agreed to this opinion; followed by 26.00 percent of the

respondents who were strongly agreed to this opinion; followed by 11.00

percent of the respondents who fall in the category of indifferent who

stated that we can not say anything in this regard; while 7.33 percent of

the respondents disagreed to this opinion; and only 4.00 percent of the

respondents who were strongly disagreed. Thus, the table clearly indicates

that majority of the respondents stated that society’s attitude has changed

136

towards hockey particularly if we compare it with other games. The

respondents stated that society give preference to professional and other

glamorous sports like cricket, golf, archery, tennis etc. The society’s

attitude has shifted from hockey to other games and sports which has

resulted in downfall of hockey.

Fifthly, the respondents were asked to give their opinion whether

there is lack of sports socialization regarding the game. In this regard, the

data are presented in the table number 4.40.

Table 4.40Distribution of respondents according to their opinion whether there

is lack of sports socialization in the game.

Whether there is lack of sportssocialization in the game



Agree 125 41.67

Indifferent 16 5.33

Disagree 18 6.00


Total 300 100.00

The above table depicts that 45.00 percent of the respondents

strongly agreed to this opinion; followed by 41.67 percent of the

respondents who agreed to this opinion; succeeded by 6.00 percent of the

respondents disagreed to this opinion; while 5.33 percent of the

respondents fall in the category of indifferent; and only 2.00 percent of the

respondents strongly disagreed to this opinion. Thus the table clearly

indicates that if we club first two opinions which constitute 86.67 percent

of the total respondents who agreed to this opinion that there is lack of

sports socialization. They mentioned that various agencies of socialization

such as family, neighbourhood, peer group and school have not supported

137

the individuals to choose the game. They mentioned that hockey has been

kept aside at school as there are no events, matches and tournaments at

school. They even stated that family does not inculcate among their

children the values of the game and even neighbourers demoralize the

children to play hockey but motivate them for other sports. Therefore, the

hockey players stated that lack of sports socialization at grass root level

has resulted in the demise of hockey instead of promoting it.

Lastly, the respondents were asked to give their opinion whether

lack of audience demotivates and hampers the performance of the players.

The role of audience can not be negated as the individual performance is

affected by the audience. The performance on the stage also needs the

support of the audience and an individual performs well due to support of

audience. Same is the case in hockey, if there will be audience to support

the hockey players, they will perform well otherwise if there will be no

audience to support the hockey players there will be lack of enthusiasm.

Therefore, audience gives strength to the players. In this regard, the

opinions are presented in the table given below.


lack of audience hampers the performance of the players.

Whether lack of audience hampers theperformance of the players



Agree 103 34.33


Disagree 28 9.34


Total 300 100.00

138

The preceding table depicts that 39.33 percent of the respondents

strongly agreed to this opinion; while 34.33 percent of the respondents

agreed to this opinion; succeeded by 12.00 percent of the respondents who

fall in the category of indifferent means they were neutral to this opinion;

while 9.34 percent of the respondents disagreed to this opinion; and only

5.00 percent of the respondents were strongly disagreed to this opinion.

Thus majority of the players (if we club first two categories) mentioned that

lack of audience demotivates and hampers the performance of the players.

They stated that the audience is the source of inspiration and motivation

for their performance in the ground and long, high shouts, cries and loud

voices raised by them gives them an inspiration to perform well. They

mentioned that the support of the audience, film stars to sponsor the

hockey players will lead to the upgradation of hockey. They were also of

the view that audience gives strength to the players as well as to perform

well.

According to the opinions given above and the responses, it was

observed that majority of the respondents stated that cricket is responsible

for the downfall of hockey, hockey culture is declining, small family size is

responsible for not sending their children to play hockey, society’s attitude

has changed towards hockey, there is lack of sports socialization in the

game, and lack of audience hampers the performance of the players. These

are all parts of society; an individual must upgrade this if we want to raise

its status in the eyes of society. No single factor is responsible for the

downfall of hockey, we should not blame the single organization,

individual or association for its downfall but there are multiple aspects

which collectively has hampered the game.

139

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