Archbishop John Barwa Graces HIL Final at Kalinga Stadium, Urging Youth Engagement Through Sports

Bhubaneswar, Odisha — In a vibrant celebration of sportsmanship and community spirit, the final match of the Hockey India League (HIL) was held at Kalinga Stadium in Bhubaneswar on January 27, 2026, where the Vedanta Kalinga Lancers clinched the championship in a closely contested 3–2 victory over the Ranchi Royals.

Adding dignity and inspiration to the occasion, Most Rev. Dr. John Barwa, SVD, Archbishop of Cuttack–Bhubaneswar, attended the match as one of the Chief Guests, alongside senior officials from Hockey India and various Odisha government departments. His presence highlighted the important role of sports in community building and youth development.
Addressing the gathering, Archbishop Barwa expressed his admiration for the spirit of the game and encouraged young athletes to pursue excellence with discipline and humility. He emphasized that sports not only fosters physical fitness but also builds character, teamwork, and resilience — values that resonate deeply with youth and wider society.

The final match drew an enthusiastic crowd, with supporters cheering on the home team at the iconic stadium. The Lancers’ triumph was hailed as a major sporting achievement for Odisha, showcasing the state’s passion for hockey and its growing prominence in national-level sports.

The event was also marked by the presence of dignitaries from Hockey India, including President Dilip Tirkey, and senior government officials, underlining the collaborative support for promoting hockey and athletic programs in the region.

Archbishop Barwa’s attendance and reflections added a meaningful dimension to the sporting spectacle, reinforcing the message that faith, community engagement, and youth empowerment can go hand-in-hand with athletic excellence.