Like it or not, when you open your eyes, there's always something to see. That's the mantra that Holland's Floris Evers, two-time silver medallist at the Olympics (2004, 2012) and midfielder of the Dabang Mumbai side, believes in.
With the side languishing at the bottom of the ongoing Hockey India League with two defeats and as many draws, it is up to Evers, a staunch believer of Gandhi and spirituality, to show his team the path to glory.
Evers likes to lead from the front. The team spends its mornings meditating during yoga sessions that is headed by Evers himself. "I'm a yoga teacher, but that's not my main profession. People become aware of their body and everything is one. Mentally, physically, emotionally and spiritually merge into one when you do yoga. So, when you're mentally strong, you're physically fit and vice-versa. I learnt from your country that there is always a body attached, so we need to take care of it," said the 31-year-old Olympian who sends motivational messages to all team-mates as well.
Spirituality and love for Mahatma Gandhi has seen Evers fall in love with India and their culture. "I love the structured chaos here. In the west, there is too much planning. It's a good thing but I think we can learn a lot from the east. I've been here many a times with the Dutch team, I was back again with the Ranchi side and now I'm here. I have an Indian as my roommate (Rajat Sharma)," says the foodie who is fond of thaalis.
"Gandhi, for me, is an inspiration because he was able to lead a nation despite not using violence. I try to live my values so one of the things you'll see in me is my competitiveness. Winning is the first thing on my mind but I'll never be violent. I will never hate an opponent. Hate, like they say, is a strong word. I will be the first to go up to the other side and shake hands."
Evers's stint in India over the years has seen him improve his Hindi as well. "Om Shri Ganeshaya Namah, you say that 108 times, don't you? Om Bhur Bhuvas Swaha, these are my two favourite mantras," said Evers with a namaste. "Ganesha is my favourite. I like the Elephant," said the midfielder not before saying "Theek Hai, interview accha tha," with a chuckle.
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Stopwatch: Uttar Pradesh Wizards 2 (VR Raghunath 7, R Singh 9) bt Punjab Warriors 1 (J Dwyert 52)
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