"I was really excited when I heard the news. My father congratulated me on the call and even my coach and other family members were happy for me," Singh told Sportline over phone from Mumbai. "Though I play for the Air India senior team, this would be my first camp with the senior Indian team members. I knew that my hard work would bear fruit but I never expected to get the call so soon. My dreams have come true," the 20-year-old added.

Singh caught the eyes of the selectors from a young age when he displayed his talent at big stages and won two gold medals in Under-17 All India National School Games and a silver medal in the Under-19 National School Games in 2008. Spotting his flexibility and goal-saving abilities, Air India selected him for their senior team in 2007 and the team's bet paid off as he put forth impressive performances to win tournaments in Lucknow, Pune and Madras a year later after he joined. "I always tried to perform to the best of my abilities and luckily I got breaks at regular intervals. Though we finished ninth, it was quite an experience to play at international level," the GGS College, Sector 26, student said.

Singh's interest picked up momentum ever since he joined Chandigarh Hockey Academy in 2002. Not only he got a platform to improvise upon his talent, he also shared space with players he always wanted to play with. "It was at CFHA where I met Baljit and Indrajeet paaji. Since I was a novice, they came forth for my help and guided me whenever I used to practice at Sector 42 Stadium. They would point out my flaws and shared tips to correct them. They really inspired me to go ahead," Singh, who was awarded best goalkeeper in SN Vohra Junior Hockey tournament in 2007, shared.

His long journey, however, will take a new turn on November 4 when he enters the preparation camp. Not only will he shed the tag of a junior player, he would also fulfill a long-time dream. "I have come closer to realise my dreams now. I know I need to work harder than before to find a place in the senior team. I am hopeful though," said Singh in a confident voice.