The stick pays tribute to Vandana’s exceptional legacy and her contributions to the sport, marking a first in the world of field hockey — never before has a player, anywhere in the world, had a stick named in their honour.
Published Date – 22 April 2025, 04:28 PM
Hyderabad: Alfa Hockey unveiled the VK16 – Pink Edition, a special-edition hockey stick named after one of India’s most iconic players, Vandana Katariya.
The stick pays tribute to Vandana’s exceptional legacy and her contributions to the sport, marking a first in the world of field hockey — never before has a player, anywhere in the world, had a stick named in their honour.
The VK16 – Pink Edition honours her incredible journey and the barriers she has broken in Indian sport.
In a first for global hockey, this stick will be available for purchase by fans and to play with for aspiring players alike, giving everyone the opportunity to wield a piece of legacy on the field.
It is not just a collector’s item—it’s a fully functional, high-performance stick crafted for serious play.
Alfa Hockey, a homegrown brand known for its commitment to innovation and athlete-first products, sees this launch as more than a product release—it’s a celebration of resilience, leadership, and excellence.
Mr Jitin Mahajan, Managing Director of Alfa Hockey, said Vandana was not just a player; she’s a movement.
“Her story is one of determination, grace, and grit. With the VK16 – Pink Edition, we’re proud to honour a legend who continues to shape the future of Indian hockey. This isn’t just a tribute—it’s a statement that champions deserve to be celebrated in every way possible,” he explained.
The VK16 – Pink Edition celebrates the journey of a player who etched her name in history books during the Tokyo 2021 Olympics, becoming the first Indian woman to score a hat-trick in Olympic hockey. In doing so, Vandana not only lifted the spirits of a nation but also inspired an entire generation of athletes to believe in the power of perseverance and passion.
Vandana Katariya said it wasal truly humbling to have a stick named after her, and even more special that it’s the first time something like this was being done in the world of hockey.
“I’ve always believed in playing with heart and purpose, and this gesture from Alfa is deeply emotional. I would like to extend my thanks to the whole Alfa team.I hope the VK16 – Pink Edition inspires every young girl picking up a hockey stick to dream big,” she said.
The VK16 – Pink Edition will be available for purchase across India and global markets.