Odisha's star hockey players- Amit Rohidas and Deep Grace Ekka returned home to a rousing reception on Wednesday. Both the players had played stellar roles for the respective Indian Men's and Women's Hockey teams at 19th Asian Games in China.
On their return, the two hockey stars were accorded a warm welcome at Biju Patnaik International Airport in Bhubaneswar.
Notably, the Indian Men’s Hockey team struck gold at the Asian Games while the women's team won the bronze medal.
Talking to reporters at the airport, Amit Rohidas said, “I am happy after securing gold at the Asian Games. It will be a big boost to our morale. I thank everybody for the encouragement. I will advise the young generation to work hard. God is there. The hard work will pay off one day.”
Deep Grace Ekka, who was visibly happy after her team won, said that winning the medal is a matter of happiness.
"However, we had a motive to qualify for the Olympics. I feel happy to receive such a grand welcome. Players will get inspiration from this success," said the star hockey player from the state.