chapter - iv social factors for the downfall of...
TRANSCRIPT
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
Frequency Percentage
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
in the table given below.
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
Frequency Percentage
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
Frequency Percentage
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
Frequency Percentage
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
Frequency Percentage
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
in the table given below.
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
Frequency Percentage
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
Frequency Percentage
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
Frequency Percentage
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
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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.
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Table 4.20Distribution of respondents whether the players have dedication
about the game.
Whether the players have dedicationabout the game
Frequency Percentage
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
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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.
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Table 4.22Distribution of respondents regarding the improvement of dedication
among the players.
Means of improving dedication orcommitment
Frequency Percentage
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
Frequency Percentage
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
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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
Frequency Percentage
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
Frequency Percentage
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
Frequency Percentage
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
The table above reveals that majority of the respondents i.e. 57.98
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
Frequency Percentage
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
presented in the table given below.
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
Frequency Percentage
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
The table above reveals that majority of the respondents i.e. 47.46
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
Frequency Percentage
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
Frequency Percentage
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
presented in the table given below.
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
Frequency Percentage
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.
Table 4.37Distribution of the respondents according to their opinion whether
hockey culture is declining.
Whether hockey culture is declining Frequency Percentage
Strongly agree 99 33.00
Agree 143 47.67
Indifferent 32 10.67
Disagree 22 7.33
Strongly disagree 4 1.33
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.
Table 4.38Distribution of the respondents according to their opinion whether
small family size is responsible for not sending their children to playhockey.
Small family size is responsible for notsending their children to play hockey
Frequency Percentage
Strongly agree 129 43.00
Agree 103 34.33
Indifferent 28 9.33
Disagree 17 5.67
Strongly disagree 23 7.67
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
Frequency Percentage
Strongly agree 78 26.00
Agree 155 51.67
Indifferent 33 11.00
Disagree 22 7.33
Strongly disagree 12 4.00
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
Frequency Percentage
Strongly agree 135 45.00
Agree 125 41.67
Indifferent 16 5.33
Disagree 18 6.00
Strongly disagree 6 2.00
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.
Table 4.41Distribution of the respondents according to their opinion whether
lack of audience hampers the performance of the players.
Whether lack of audience hampers theperformance of the players
Frequency Percentage
Strongly agree 118 39.33
Agree 103 34.33
Indifferent 36 12.00
Disagree 28 9.34
Strongly disagree 15 5.00
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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