Hockey India has named Sjoerd Marijne as the head coach of the Indian women’s hockey team, with Matias Vila joining as the analytical coach. Wayne Lombard returns as the Scientific Advisor and Head of Athletic Performance, supported by Rodet Yila and Ciara Yila in scientific advisory roles.
Marijne, who previously led the team to a top 10 world ranking, expressed excitement about his return to India, aiming to guide the players to reach their full potential on the global stage. His first major task will be the FIH Hockey Women’s World Cup Qualifiers in Hyderabad from March 8 to 14.
Hockey India President Dilip Tirkey thanked the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports and Sports Authority of India for promptly finalizing the appointments to ensure the team’s seamless preparation for the upcoming qualifiers. Emphasizing the team’s fitness, Tirkey highlighted the importance of maintaining the performance standards set in Tokyo.
Secretary General Bhola Nath Singh extended best wishes to Marijne and the support staff, emphasizing the team’s familiarity with the coach’s methods. With the Asian Games and World Cup Qualifiers on the horizon, expectations are high for the team’s performance under Marijne’s guidance.
