In the history of Indian field hockey, Baljit Singh’s name stands out not only for his skills as a goalkeeper but also for the extraordinary resilience he demonstrated in the face of career-threatening adversity. From rising through the ranks to representing the national team, and ultimately facing a life-altering injury, Singh’s story is one of determination and reinvention.
Early Career and Rise to National Team
Baljit Singh began his journey in Indian hockey through the domestic circuit, where his consistent performances and quick reflexes earned him recognition. Hailing from Punjab, a region known for producing hockey talent, Singh steadily climbed the ranks and was selected for the Indian men’s senior hockey team in the 2000s.
As a goalkeeper, he played in several international tournaments and was known for his dependable presence in front of the goalpost. His agility, shot-stopping ability, and command of the D made him one of the top goalkeepers in the country at the time.
The Eye Injury That Changed Everything – July 2009
On July 18, 2009, during a national team training camp at the Balewadi Sports Complex in Pune, Singh was involved in a tragic accident. In a reflex training drill, he was hit in the right eye by a golf ball. At the time, he was reportedly not wearing protective headgear, which made the impact more severe.
Singh suffered a perforated cornea, lens damage, retinal detachment, and internal bleeding in the eye. He was rushed to AIIMS, New Delhi, where he underwent emergency surgery on July 19, 2009 to stabilize his condition.
“He was in deep pain and facing complete loss of vision in the right eye,” said team doctors at the time. Singh was later moved to the U.S. for further treatment.
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Treatment in the United States
In August 2009, Singh traveled to Alabama, USA, where he underwent a series of specialized surgeries to repair his eye. Doctors managed to partially restore his vision—he could distinguish objects and colors within close range—but complete recovery was ruled out.
He returned to India in October 2009 and expressed optimism about contributing to hockey in other capacities, despite being declared medically unfit for international competition.
“My vision has improved a lot. I may not return to the same playing level, but I will continue to be involved in hockey,” Singh told the media.
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Attempted Comeback – 2011
Despite partial blindness in one eye, Singh attempted a comeback. In July 2011, he was called up for a national camp. Though his determination impressed the coaching staff, the limitations in his peripheral vision and depth perception made it unfeasible for him to reclaim his spot on the national squad.
As Indian hockey moved forward with goalkeepers like P.R. Sreejesh, Singh stepped aside with grace, acknowledging that his playing days were behind him.
“There is no shame in being defeated by injury. What matters is how you rise again,” Singh once said.
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New Role as Coach – 2025
Baljit Singh’s passion for hockey remained intact. Over the next decade, he focused on coaching and mentoring aspiring players, particularly goalkeepers. His technical insights, combined with his personal story, made him a respected figure in coaching circles.
In July 2025, he was appointed as the goalkeeping coach for the Indian Women’s National Hockey Team. His role signaled a full-circle moment, bringing him back to the national stage—not as a player, but as a mentor shaping the next generation.
“I lost the chance to play again, but I gained a new way to give back to the sport,” Singh said after his appointment.
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Legacy of Resilience
Baljit Singh’s story is not one of just heartbreak—it is one of resilience and adaptation. Despite a devastating injury that ended his playing career, he refused to be sidelined. His evolution from elite goalkeeper to coach reflects the broader narrative of athletes who redefine success after setbacks.
Today, Singh is a symbol of perseverance in Indian sports. His legacy reminds us that while careers may be interrupted, passion and purpose can always find new paths forward.