Bangladesh’s sporting community is in mourning following the sudden death of Zaki Ahmed Ripon, a longstanding figure in the country’s hockey and club sports. Ripon passed away unexpectedly at his home on Thursday morning, a loss confirmed by his lifelong friend Shahid Ullah Dolon and multiple officials associated with Abahani Club.
Ripon’s bond with Abahani Club and hockey spanned almost forty years. He initially joined the club as a player, but his most enduring contribution came as the manager of the Abahani hockey team, a role in which he served for over two decades, fostering talent and building a legacy of excellence. He also held the position of Secretary of the Abahani Hockey Committee, overseeing organisational and strategic development within the sport.
Beyond the club, Ripon played a significant role at the national level. He was repeatedly elected to the Bangladesh Hockey Federation Committee and served as Vice-President in a past elected committee. He was also a member of the Bangladesh Olympic Association. Colleagues and players alike remember him as a tireless advocate for hockey, committed to nurturing players and strengthening the sport’s infrastructure.
A close confidant of Ripon, former Abahani player and current hockey federation committee member Shahid Ullah Dolon, expressed deep sorrow over the news:
“Just a 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, so many milestones… among our group of 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 vast network of colleagues and admirers in the sporting fraternity. His sudden passing has cast a profound shadow over Abahani Club and the hockey community. Tributes have poured in from former players, organisers, and various sports organisations. The club will provide details regarding his funeral and burial in consultation with his family.
Key Contributions of Zaki Ripon
| Domain | Position / Role | Period / Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Abahani Club | Player | Early career |
| Abahani Hockey Team | Manager | Over 20 years |
| Abahani Hockey Committee | Secretary | Several terms |
| Bangladesh Hockey Federation | Committee Member & Vice-President | Multiple terms |
| Bangladesh Olympic Association | Member | Past committee member |
| Mentorship | Developed emerging hockey players | National recognition |
Ripon’s dedication to Abahani and the growth of hockey in Bangladesh leaves a lasting legacy, inspiring future generations of athletes and sports enthusiasts.