NEW DELHI: Manuel Frederick, the stalwart goalkeeper from the golden era of Indian hockey and a member of the Indian team that clinched the bronze medal at the 1972 Munich Olympics, passed away on Friday at the age of 78.

Frederick holds the distinction of being the first Keralite to win an Olympic medal. A fiercely committed custodian of the goalpost, he leaves behind a legacy of excellence, discipline and humility that continues to inspire generations of players and supporters alike.

Born in Burnassery, Kannur, in 1947, Frederick’s journey in sport as a striker in football and a goalkeeper in hockey when he was recruited to the Army’s school team in Bengaluru. His club career saw him represent ASC and HAL in Karnataka, as well as Services, Uttar Pradesh and the iconic Mohun Bagan club

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