Pakistan is gifted with enormous hockey potential which needs to be explored and nurtured,” he said, adding that he sincerely hoped to see Pakistan reclaim its historic position at the top of the global hockey arena
DNA
Islamabad, September 21 — The Rising Stars Hockey Club, Islamabad, organized a warm farewell reception in honor of Australian High Commissioner Neil Hawkins, who is set to leave Pakistan next month upon completion of his diplomatic tenure.
Mr. Hawkins, who developed a close association with the Rising Stars Hockey Club during his stay in Pakistan, was lauded for his active engagement with young hockey players and his consistent support for sports diplomacy. The event was attended by club officials, players, and distinguished guests, who gathered to bid him and his wife an affectionate farewell.
In his remarks, the Australian envoy expressed deep gratitude to the club for giving him the opportunity to interact closely with the country’s budding hockey talent. “Pakistan is gifted with enormous hockey potential which needs to be explored and nurtured,” he said, adding that he sincerely hoped to see Pakistan reclaim its historic position at the top of the global hockey arena.
Reflecting on his time in Islamabad, Hawkins noted that his association with the club had provided him not only with sporting engagement but also with cherished memories that he would carry back home. He thanked the club management and players for arranging what he described as an “excellent and heartwarming farewell” for himself and his wife.
The outgoing High Commissioner made special mention of Rising Stars’ Chief Patron Asif Bhatti, President Mehmood Ahmed, Secretary Sohail Janjua, and former President Ansar Mahmood Bhatti. He acknowledged their continued support, hospitality, and facilitation throughout his association with the team. He also mentioned his colleagues from the diplomatic corps and members of the Club namely Kamal Ahmed High Commissioner of Brunei and Eduard Preda Deputy Head of Mission of the Romanian embassy .
Club’s President Mehmood Ahmed praised Hawkins for his enthusiasm in promoting hockey and for becoming an active part of the Rising Stars family. They highlighted his efforts in encouraging youth participation in the sport and described him as a true friend of Pakistan and its national game.
The ceremony concluded with the presentation of souvenirs to the High Commissioner and his wife, symbolizing the bond of friendship created through sport. As Neil Hawkins prepares to depart, members of the Rising Stars Hockey Club expressed their best wishes for his future endeavors and conveyed hope that he will remain an ambassador of goodwill for Pakistan’s hockey on international platforms.
