Rising Stars Hockey Club Celebrates birthday of fellow Player and Brunei High Commissioner Kamal Ahmed
DNA
ISLAMABAD: July 27, 2025 — In a delightful show of camaraderie and sportsmanship, the Rising Stars Hockey Club celebrated the birthday of one of its most respected members, His Excellency Kamal Ahmed, High Commissioner of Brunei Darussalam to Pakistan, following their Sunday morning practice session in Islamabad.
The celebration, held at the club’s regular training ground, saw an informal yet warm gathering of young and veteran players, coaches, and supporters. The event highlighted the unique bond that transcends diplomatic roles and athletic pursuits, uniting individuals through a shared passion for hockey.
High Commissioner Kamal Ahmed, a seasoned hockey enthusiast and former national-level player, expressed his gratitude to the team members for organizing the surprise celebration. Speaking to the players after the practice session, he thanked the Rising Stars for the honor and encouraged them to continue striving for excellence.
“I am truly touched by this gesture,” he said. “It shows the spirit of unity and respect that hockey builds. I urge all of you to remain committed not just to the game, but to improving your skills, embracing modern hockey techniques, and maintaining peak fitness.”
Drawing from his vast experience spanning five decades in the sport, Kamal Ahmed offered valuable advice to the club’s younger players. “There’s no point in exhausting yourself unnecessarily on the field. Modern hockey is about smart play — share the ball, trust your teammates, and keep your energy intact. This approach not only improves the quality of play but also produces better results.”

He emphasized that individual play is no longer the hallmark of modern-day hockey. “The era of solo runs and glory-seeking is long gone. Today’s hockey is built on coordination, tactical understanding, and teamwork. If you want to be part of a winning side, you must learn to work together.”
Kamal Ahmed also encouraged the club to explore advanced training methods, make use of technology, and study international gameplay trends to stay competitive. “Skill development is key, especially for young players. The world is evolving, and so must we if we want to keep pace with global hockey standards,” he added.
Club officials praised the High Commissioner not only for his diplomatic achievements but also for his continuous mentorship and contribution to grassroots hockey development in Islamabad. “Mr. Kamal is an inspiration for all of us,” said a club representative. “Despite his diplomatic responsibilities, he regularly joins our sessions and brings a wealth of knowledge, experience, and positivity.”
The Rising Stars Hockey Club has built a strong reputation in recent years for nurturing young talent and promoting healthy, competitive sports culture in the capital. The presence and active participation of prominent figures like Kamal Ahmed further strengthens its community spirit.
The event concluded with cake-cutting and informal interactions.