Abahani Hockey Icon Zaki Ripon Passes Away

The Bangladesh sporting fraternity is reeling from the sudden loss of Zaki Ahmed Ripon, a veteran figure synonymous with Abahani Club and national hockey. Ripon passed away unexpectedly at his residence on Thursday morning. His demise was confirmed by his longtime friend Shahid Ullah Dolon and several officials associated with Abahani Club.

Ripon’s association with Abahani Club and hockey spanned nearly forty years. While he initially played for the club, his reputation was most pronounced as the manager of the Abahani hockey team, a position he held for over two decades, shaping the team’s identity and mentoring generations of players. He also served as Secretary of the Abahani Hockey Committee, contributing significantly to the organisational and administrative growth of hockey in the country.

At the national level, Ripon’s involvement was equally noteworthy. He served multiple terms on the Bangladesh Hockey Federation Committee, including a tenure as Vice-President. Furthermore, he was a member of the Bangladesh Olympic Association, reflecting his broader engagement with sports governance. His efforts were pivotal in nurturing young talent, and many national-level hockey players attribute their early success to his guidance.

Close friend and former Abahani player Shahid Ullah Dolon, now a committee member of the hockey federation, expressed his grief:

“Just a short while ago, Harun, a former Abahani player and coach, informed me that Ripon suffered a heart attack at home. Ripon was my childhood friend and devoted his entire life to Abahani Club and hockey. So many memories… among our contemporaries, I am now the only one left in the country—Jumman, Pushkin, Rahmat have all passed, and Asir, our goalkeeper, is abroad.”

Ripon, aged 60, recently celebrated the marriage of one of his two daughters. He leaves behind his wife, two daughters, and a large circle of colleagues and admirers across the sporting community. His sudden departure has cast a pall of sorrow over Abahani Club and Bangladesh hockey. Former players, organisers, and various sports organisations have expressed condolences. The club will announce the funeral and burial arrangements in coordination with his family.

Zaki Ripon’s Legacy

Ripon’s enduring commitment to Abahani and the development of hockey in Bangladesh has left an indelible mark. His contributions, both on and off the field, will be remembered by athletes, colleagues, and fans for generations.