Former hockey captain honoured in UK

MANCHESTER: Former Pakistan Hockey Captain and Center Half Ghazanfar Ali, has been awarded the prestigious “Roll of Honor” award for his services to the game both as a player and coach by the Trafford Sports Council, Manchester, UK.

A graduate from Punjab University, Ali broke into the Pakistan junior side in 1997 and got promoted to the senior team in 2000. Then he completed a physical instructor's diploma in England before moving his base to Manchester five years back. He now plays for Manchester-based Bowden Club and works there as a fitness trainer.

The Trafford Sports Awards are an annual event that recognize and reward the many fantastic achievements of sports personnel within Trafford Manchester, who have achieved international recognition by either representing their country, or by winning international events

A veteran of 2004 Athens Olympics and 2006 World Cup in Germany, Ghazanfar was crowned in recognition for his rich contributions in promoting hockey at the grass root level. Since its inception, nearly 40 athletes and coaches have received this award, and Ghazanfar Ali becomes the first Pakistani to be honored with this award.