Nations are beginning to see the fruits of Olympic inclusion — and India will now benefit leading up to LA 2028.
HCL, a software and IT outsourcing firm, has supported Squash Rackets Federation of India for over seven years.
Sundar Mahalingam, president of Strategy at HCL, told New Indian Express: “HCL’s motto is all about ‘maximising human potential’. And we are doing it in three key ways — sports, music, and nature. When you are looking at a sportsperson they are taking their potential to the maximum, so that’s why it works well (with our goals).”
According to Mahalingam, HCL is keen to look at sports such as squash, badminton and table tennis.
“We were keen to support sport but at the same time, we were more interested in sports other than cricket and football in India as they are very well supported in the country,” he added.
When squash was given the green light in Mumbai at the IOC session, it was like a “surge of energy for many” when the sport was finally put on the IOC programme.
“With the inclusion, the government will also get involved in infrastructure and other fronts. We come into the picture where we can help coaches and elite players play more matches and get international experience, help with the camps before important tournaments.
“Along with this, we can help with nutrition, recovery, and mental well-being as well. We will continue the support.”