Dubai Resident Shanavas Valappil Overcomes Heart Surgery to Compete in 10th International Tournament

Shanavas Valappil: The Heart of a Champion

Advancing years and a serious heart condition may dampen the spirit of many people, but not Shanavas Valappil. The Dubai resident and club-level hockey player faced a critical moment in 2018 when doctors recommended bypass surgery for a serious heart condition. Despite the setback, Valappil remained undeterred in pursuing his passion for hockey.

After undergoing surgery in Kochi, Kerala, Valappil made a remarkable comeback to the hockey ground, competing in his 10th international veterans hockey tournament at the Masters Indoor World Cup in England. The 51-year-old goalkeeper’s inspiring journey serves as a testament to the power of willpower and determination in overcoming challenges.

Valappil, the head of the sales department at Lacnor, was named the best goalkeeper at the Pan American Masters Hockey in Mexico last year, showcasing his resilience and skill on the field. His disciplined approach to diet and lifestyle reflects his commitment to the sport and his overall well-being.

Despite the obstacles he faced, Valappil remains confident in his ability to continue playing in international events, with the upcoming European Masters Hockey League in Germany on the horizon. His dedication to the sport, coupled with the unwavering support of his friends and family, including his wife Benazeer Shanavas, has been instrumental in his success.

Valappil’s story serves as a reminder that with determination, perseverance, and a supportive community, anything is possible. As he continues to defy the odds and excel in his sport, Shanavas Valappil embodies the heart of a true champion.