Page 64 - CIJ May 2025- Digital Edition

DIFFERENT STROKES

defeated Pakistan 2-1 with
almost the same team. There
will be bad days. The key is to
bounce back.”
Highlighting the value
of competition, the three-
time Olympian said: “It is
essential. In 1975, during my
first overseas tour, the size
and strength of European
players were intimidating. But
you must overcome fear and
compete. Today, leagues like
the Hockey India League, IPL,
ISL and PBL have given our
youngsters opportunities to
face international players. That
confidence carries over into
international events. Indian
hockey has benefitted.”
A frequent traveller with
the national teams and on
private trips — often to watch Arjuna award for hockey, pointing to a framed
global sporting events like the photo displaying Mervyn Fernandis receiving
Australian Open in Melbourne the trophy from President of India,
— Mervyn observed changes in Shri Shankar Dayal Shamra, in 1992
passenger expectations. “Today,
passengers prefer cleanliness to stay fit in the off-season.
and punctuality over food. They Post-retirement, staying fit was
want clean seats and spotless a challenge. Badminton was
washrooms. Airlines have too demanding, so I switched
rightly shifted focus.” to tennis. Singles initially, then
As a veteran in aviation, doubles to maintain fitness.”
Mervyn shared an important He admits: “I was a difficult
observation: “It is not partner. My tennis partner
necessary for inflight crew Rafik Khotu reminds me how
to be young to impress I hated losing. Over time, I
passengers. Experienced crew learned that you cannot win
members know how to handle every time. Now, we just
difficult situations better. A enjoy playing and staying
younger crew member might
struggle, while a senior one fit. I also love racketlon and
knows how to diffuse tension pickleball — great for hand-
with tact.” eye coordination and reflexes.”
Now 66, Mervyn continues On the Clean India Mission,
to stay active, playing tennis Mervyn believes the message
in the veterans’ category and needs stronger implementation.
organising hockey events “We can do more. When I see
at Willingdon Catholic Indians following civic rules
Gymkhana, Santacruz. “My in Singapore, it shows we are
father, Joe Fernandis, inspired capable. Every one of us can
me to take up hockey. At contribute in small ways. For
the Ordnance Factory club me, even a small space must
in Ambernath, I picked up be kept clean — it makes a
badminton and table tennis difference.”

64 MAY 2025•Clean India Journal•www.cleanindiajournal.com