Prince Deep – The Hindu

Last year’s Junior World Cup, with its packed stands and shifting momentum, became a defining classroom for young Indian goalkeeper Prince Deep Singh.

“The first thing I learned was how to handle pressure in front of such a big crowd,” said the 21-year-old at the ongoing Hockey India League (HIL) on Tuesday. “Especially, when we are in a losing position, how to save the team in that situation, handling however much crowd pressure is there at that time,” he added.

For a goalkeeper, mistakes are magnified. But Prince has learned from his idol and junior India coach P.R. Sreejesh that recovery matters more than regret.

“If one goal happens because of my mistake, I should not think too much about it and let it bring me down. I have to keep pushing myself and the team. I should think about the next save. The most important thing I’ve learned from him is to be serious from the moment I start my warm-up and save as many balls as possible there. Then, to communicate more with your defenders to stay involved in the game. Also, how to handle the penalty-corner pressure, which is different.”

Prince has delivered big time during shootouts. His process is simple and clear. “From what I’ve learned from David bhai (Tamil Nadu Dragons teammate David Harte) and Sree bhai, the more I delay the attacker, the better it is. I shouldn’t commit early.”

He added Harte has taught him to have “zero negative thoughts” and focus only on his “good saves from practice” once he steps onto the field.

Two seasons in the HIL have accelerated his growth. “Facing top drag-flickers and attackers increases your confidence a lot,” he said.

His goals are clear. “Short-term, I want to be in the senior team and in the long-term, I want to win an Olympic gold.”