MIKE DORAISAMY

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We've all dabbled in sports at some point, usually for fun and fitness. But for some, sports become a lifelong passion, demanding immense dedication and sacrifice.  A few achieve legendary status, their names echoing through history.

Michael Doraisamy is one such legend. Born in India in 1937, he moved to Sungai Petani, Kedah, Malaya at the age of three.  His natural athletic talent was evident from childhood, as he enjoyed various sports like hockey, cricket, and football.  However, his heart belonged to hockey, the kind played on grass, not the modern turf version.

Doraisamy's hockey skills earned him Hockey Sportsman of the Year twice, in 1965 and 1966, cementing his place in the sport's hall of fame.  His versatility shone through as he also represented Malaysia in football and cricket.

He captained the national hockey team at the 1964 Tokyo Olympics and the 1966 Bangkok Asian Games.  He was part of the bronze-medal-winning hockey team at the 1962 Jakarta Asian Games and the football team that secured bronze at the 1967 Asian Cup.

After retiring as a player, Doraisamy's passion for hockey led him to coaching, notably the Malaysian Police Ladies Team.

His advice to aspiring athletes is straightforward:  "There are no shortcuts to greatness.  Love your sport and train hard if you want to be a champion."