In a move that signals a return to familiar leadership, Hockey India has officially appointed Dutch tactician Sjoerd Marijne as the new head coach of the Indian women's national hockey team. This marks a dramatic comeback for Marijne, who previously helmed the side between 2017 and 2021, a period that included the historic fourth-place finish at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics.
A Strategic Homecoming for the Dutch Mentor
The appointment, confirmed on January 2, 2026, comes after a thorough selection process by Hockey India's high-performance committee. Marijne steps into the role following the resignation of his compatriot, Janneke Schopman, in late 2025. His contract is set to run until the conclusion of the 2026 Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya, with a clear mandate to prepare the team for the 2026 FIH Women's Hockey World Cup and the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics.
Sjoerd Marijne's previous tenure is widely regarded as transformative for the Indian women's hockey team. Under his guidance, the team, famously nicknamed the 'Rani Rampal-led side' during that era, developed a resilient and attacking style of play. Their crowning achievement was reaching the semi-finals of the Tokyo Olympics, a feat that captured the nation's imagination and elevated the sport's profile in India.
Building on a Legacy and Future Challenges
Marijne's immediate task will be to assess the current squad's composition and dynamics. The team is now captained by the experienced goalkeeper Savita Punia and features a blend of seasoned Olympians and promising new talent. His deep familiarity with the core group of players and the Indian hockey ecosystem is seen as a significant advantage, allowing for a seamless transition.
The coach's philosophy, which emphasizes fitness, mental strength, and structured aggression, is expected to be reinstated. His first major challenge will be the FIH Nations Cup later in 2026, a crucial tournament for the team's world ranking and confidence. The ultimate benchmarks for success, however, will be podium finishes at the 2026 World Cup and the 2028 Olympics.
Reactions and the Road Ahead
Initial reactions from the hockey community have been largely positive. Many analysts believe Marijne's understanding of the players' strengths and his proven ability to deliver in high-pressure situations make him the ideal candidate for this crucial phase. The players, who shared a strong rapport with him during his first stint, are expected to welcome his return.
For Marijne, the return is an opportunity to complete unfinished business. The fourth-place finish in Tokyo, while heroic, left a lingering desire for a medal. His appointment represents a strategic decision by Hockey India to bank on a known quantity who can harness the team's full potential. The focus will now shift to intensive training camps and competitive exposure to ensure the Indian eves are battle-ready for the challenges that lie ahead, aiming to turn past near-misses into future triumphs.
