“Resilience, grit and determination” — that is what defines Indian men’s hockey drag-flicker Jugraj Singh, who once sold water bottles and flags at the Attari-Wagah border to support his family.
Early Struggles at the Border
Now recognised in Indian and world hockey for his rock-solid defence and lethal drag-flicks, Jugraj’s path to success was anything but easy. As a boy, he was forced into street vending after his father, a porter in the Indian Army, fell gravely ill.
My family always comes before everything. I can never forget those days. When my father fell sick, the responsibility fell on me and my brother. I did odd jobs, selling flags and water bottles at the border. I had no hesitation because feeding my family came first.
Inspiration and Sacrifice
Despite hardships, Jugraj’s passion for hockey, a sport he began playing at the age of seven, never faded. He credits his elder brother for keeping that dream alive.
The place and fame I enjoy today is all because of my brother. He sacrificed his own hockey career for me and the family, taking on our father’s job. He never let me quit the sport and always pushed me forward.
Rising Through the Ranks
Jugraj’s breakthrough came in the 2024–25 Hockey India League, where he finished as the tournament’s top scorer with the eventual champions, Shrachi Rarh Bengal Tigers. His exploits secured him a regular spot in the national team.
The HIL has been a game-changer for my career. It gave me the platform to prove my talent. The hard work I’ve put in over the years has finally paid off. There is no substitute for hard work.
Asia Cup Impact
Currently part of the Indian squad at the Asia Cup in Rajgir, Jugraj has already scored four goals, including a hat-trick against Kazakhstan in the pool stages. His consistency and firepower make him one of India’s most reliable assets.
Eyes on Bigger Goals
A member of the 2022 Birmingham Commonwealth Games silver medal-winning team, Jugraj now dreams of the ultimate glory. “Like every athlete, my ultimate goal is to win gold medals at the World Cup, Asian Games and the Olympics,” he said with conviction
