In a significant move for Indian hockey, the experienced Dutch coach Sjoerd Marijne has been officially reinstated as the chief coach of the Indian women's national team. This marks a highly anticipated comeback for the architect behind the team's groundbreaking performance at the Tokyo Olympic Games.
A Familiar Leader Returns to the Helm
Sjoerd Marijne, 51, is no stranger to the Indian setup, having previously guided the women's team from 2017 to 2021. His tenure was transformative, witnessing the squad break into the global top 10 rankings and, most memorably, come agonizingly close to an Olympic medal in Tokyo, finishing a historic fourth. His reappointment signals Hockey India's intent to continue that upward trajectory.
Expressing his enthusiasm on social media platform X, Marijne stated, "It's great to be back. After 4.5 years, I return with fresh energy and a clear vision to support the team's growth and help the players achieve their full potential on the world stage." He is scheduled to arrive in India on January 14, with the National Coaching Camp commencing on January 19 at the Sports Authority of India (SAI) centre in Bengaluru.
Strengthened Support Staff for a Crucial Year
Marijne will not be working alone. He will be supported by a robust and experienced team of specialists designed to cover all aspects of modern high-performance sport.
- Matias Vila joins as the analytical coach. A former Argentina midfielder who played at the Sydney 2000 and Athens 2004 Olympics, Vila brings over two decades of coaching expertise to the table.
- Wayne Lombard returns as the scientific advisor and head of athletic performance, a role crucial to maintaining the elite fitness standards that were a cornerstone of the Tokyo campaign.
- Lombard will be assisted by Rodet Yila and Ciara Yila, both appointed as scientific advisors, forming a comprehensive sports science unit.
Hockey India president Dr. Dilip Tirkey welcomed the appointments, saying, "We welcome Sjoerd Marijne, and the entire support staff to the Indian Hockey family." He also acknowledged the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports and SAI for facilitating a swift process and emphasized that fitness would remain a key pillar in this new chapter.
Immediate Focus: Road to the World Cup
The team faces immediate high-stakes action under Marijne's renewed leadership. His first major assignment will be the Women's World Cup Qualifiers, scheduled for Hyderabad, Telangana, from March 8 to 14, 2025. This tournament presents a critical opportunity for India to secure its place in the global showpiece event, setting the tone for the crucial competitive year ahead.
Marijne's return is seen as a strategic decision to provide stability and build upon the formidable foundation laid during his previous stint. The combination of his proven leadership, a strengthened specialist staff, and a team now seasoned with Olympic-level experience creates a potent mix as Indian women's hockey aims for new milestones.
