A new wrestling hall named after Rio bronze medallist wrestler Sakshi Malik was unveiled on Saturday at Sports Authority of India, Sonepat by Minister of Youth Affairs & Sports (Independent charge) Vijay Goel.
Though Sakshi gave the unveiling a miss, two-time Olympics medallist Sushil Kumar and boxer Akhil Kumar were present to address young athletes of SAI centre.
Sushil said the new facility matches international standards and it was up to the young wrestlers to make full use of it.
"My only advice to the upcoming athletes is what my Guru told me. How much ever famous you become, always maintain discipline. We are all there to support you at all times. You have the best of facilities," said Sushil.
"This kind of a wrestling hall I have seen in the United States when we went there for training before the Olympics. It's now therefore also your responsibility."
Goel said: "It has been widely observed that a child growing up playing sport often shines in other spheres of life as well. It takes a lot of hard work and dedication to be Sushil, Sakshi or Akhil.
"I appeal to all the young athletes gathered here to stay focused, respect your coach and work hard, because there is nothing that you cannot achieve if you put your mind to it."
The regional director of SAI NRC, Sonepat, Radhica Shreeman was also present and urged the Sports Minister to sanction new 200-bedded hostel at this campus.
The Minister assured that upon his return to New Delhi he would look into it.
The 'Sakshi Malik Wrestling Hall' has four training mats of international standards as well as a Moorish Sauna and Jacuzzi facility.