Manzoor Hussain Atif stands among the greatest icons in the history of Pakistani hockey, renowned for his stellar performances on the field and his significant contributions off it. Born in Gujrat, Punjab, Pakistan, on September 4, 1928, Manzoor’s passion and dedication to hockey led him to achieve extraordinary heights.

As a key player, Manzoor was instrumental in securing Pakistan’s gold medal victory at the 1960 Rome Olympics and the 1962 Jakarta Asian Games. His decisive goal against Spain in the semi-finals of the 1960 Olympics remains one of the highlights of his illustrious career. His exceptional skills and sportsmanship did not go unnoticed, earning him the prestigious Pride of Performance Award for Sports in 1963.

Beyond his playing days, Manzoor served with distinction in the Pakistan Armed Forces, retiring as a Brigadier. His commitment to the sport extended into his administrative roles, where he spent over a decade as the secretary of the Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) and also served as Vice-President of the Asian Hockey Federation. His leadership and vision were pivotal in nurturing and advancing hockey in Pakistan and across Asia.

In recognition of his lifelong dedication and impact on the sport, the Asian Hockey Federation honored Manzoor with a Lifetime Achievement Award. His legacy continues to inspire future generations of hockey players in Pakistan and around the world.

Manzoor Hussain Atif passed away on December 8, 2008, in Rawalpindi, Punjab, Pakistan, leaving behind a rich legacy that epitomizes excellence and passion for hockey. Today, we remember and celebrate his remarkable contributions to the sport, both as a player and a leader.