'He is still the chubby boy who first came to me': Coach Kolappa reminisces about Olympian Sreejesh

Kochi: In a touching reunion, Ramesh Kolappa, the coach who first discovered the spark in hockey star P. R. Sreejesh, recently visited Sreejesh’s home in Kizhakkambalam to see the Olympic medals that have brought glory to both the athlete and his mentor.

Kolappa was visibly moved when Sreejesh presented him with the bronze medals from the Tokyo, Paris Olympics as a token of gratitude. “Sreejesh is still the chubby boy who first came to me with a sandalwood paste on his head... just like my own son...” Kolappa remembered. The visit was an emotional moment for both, marking the first time they had seen each other since many years.

Sreejesh had first joined G. V. Raja Sports School in Thiruvananthapuram 24 years ago with the dream of pursuing athletics. It was Kolappa, then the coach at the school, who guided him towards hockey. Reflecting on those early days, Kolappa spoke of the need to promote hockey and organise tournaments to encourage young players in Kerala. “The days of being a player are over; now it’s time to focus on organising and promoting the sport,” Kolappa told Sreejesh. Sreejesh responded with commitment, saying, “Let’s try, sir.”

Kolappa was in Kochi to attend a welcome event organised for Sreejesh by the Pittappillil Agencies. The two had not seen each other since the Paris Olympics. “I was filled with joy. Wasn’t he the guest at the ceremony? So, all my emotions were contained for the moment,” Kolappa told 'Mathrubhumi'.

After the event, Sreejesh invited Kolappa and some senior hockey players to his home. They spent time together, sharing stories and celebrating their achievements. Sreejesh’s father, Ravindran, warmly greeted Kolappa, and expressed his gratitude. Kolappa also served as a mentor to Sreejesh’s wife, Anishyak, who was a former star player at G. V. Raja Sports School.

Having served as the hockey coach at G. V. Raja Sports School from 2000 to 2014, Kolappa is now coaching at Peroorkada Government Girls High School since 2021.