Daijiworld Media Network – New Delhi

New Delhi, Oct 31: Indian hockey fraternity mourned the loss of Manuel Frederick, former goalkeeper of the Indian men’s hockey team and a member of the historic 1972 Munich Olympics bronze medal-winning squad, who passed away in Bengaluru on Friday morning. He was 78.

Frederick, who had been battling prostate cancer for the past 10 months, breathed his last at his residence. He is survived by two daughters. His demise marks the end of an era in Indian hockey, as he was Kerala’s first-ever Olympic medallist.

Born on October 20, 1947, in Barnasseri, Kannur, Frederick carved a special place in Indian sports history through his outstanding performances between the posts. A fearless and agile custodian, he played a pivotal role in India’s bronze medal triumph at the Munich Olympics in 1972.

He later settled in Bengaluru, where he continued to contribute to the sport. However, in recent years, he had been ailing not just physically but emotionally, struggling with depression after the death of his wife, Sheetala, a year ago.

“Dad passed away this morning. He was suffering from cancer for the last 10 months and was also depressed after our mother expired a year back,” his daughter Freshna said, speaking. “We tried our best but he developed jaundice in the end, and his liver got affected, which worsened his condition,” she added.

In recognition of his remarkable contribution to Indian hockey, Frederick was honoured with the Major Dhyan Chand Award for Lifetime Achievement in Sports and Games in 2019.

Frederick’s passing leaves behind a rich legacy that continues to inspire generations of hockey players from Kerala and across the country. He will be remembered as a true legend who guarded India’s goalpost with unmatched pride and passion.