rani rampal

19 Shahbad Markanda, Kurukshetra

Hockey player

No hardship big enough for this determined girl

Hers has been a story of rags to riches. Daughter of a cart-puller, Rani Rampal started playing hockey at the famous Shahabad Markanda Hockey Academy under Dronacharya awardwinning coach Baldev Singh. Her hard work and perseverance paid off, as at the age of 15 she became the youngest player in the national team in the 2010 World Cup. As Rani’s talent became evident, she went from success to success, and supported her family with the cash awards too. As a forward, she has 116 caps till now and 64 international goals.

How do you define success?

Success means giving my best on the field. If my performance takes the team to victory, it’s icing on the cake.

Who inspires you, and why?

My coach Baldev Singh is my source of inspiration. His dedication and commitment towards the sport motivate me.

What’s your biggest achievement so far?

Winning the bronze medal at last year’s junior world cup is the biggest achievement so far.

Success means giving my best on the field. If my performance takes the team to victory, it’s icing on the cake.

3 things that can make India an ideal nation.

Women empowerment, housing facilities for the under-privileged, and curbing corruption.

How can youth participate in achieving that ideal?

Youth needs to be aware first of all. Everything else can follow.

What would you have been, if not a hockey player?

I would have been a teacher.

What’s your biggest dream?

I want to build a palatial house for my family.