Remembering Manuel Frederick: A Hockey Legend's Inspiring Journey

Manuel Frederick, the first Olympian hockey medalist from Kerala, passed away at 78 due to cancer in Bengaluru. A celebrated Indian goalkeeper, he contributed significantly to sports, winning a bronze medal in the 1972 Olympics. He was honored with the Dhyan Chand Award in 2019.

Manuel Frederick, the trailblazing Olympian from Kerala, passed away at a Bengaluru hospital while receiving cancer treatment, family sources confirmed on Friday. The former Olympic hockey star was 78 years old.

Frederick, a native of Kannur district, made a name for himself as the goalkeeper of India's bronze-winning team at the 1972 Munich Olympics. He represented India for seven years, earning the prestigious Dhyan Chand Award in 2019.

Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan expressed his condolences, calling Frederick one of the world's best goalkeepers during the 1970s. Former teammate P R Sreejesh paid tribute to Frederick on social media, honoring the legacy he leaves behind in the realm of Indian sports.

(With inputs from agencies.)