In a major move to resurrect its faltering women's hockey program, Hockey India has reappointed Sjoerd Marijne as the chief coach of the national team. The Dutchman, celebrated for guiding the side to its best-ever fourth-place finish at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, returns for a third stint at the helm.
A Homecoming to a Team in Crisis
Marijne's return comes at a critical juncture for Indian women's hockey. He takes over from Harendra Singh, who resigned in December 2025 citing personal reasons. Reports suggest, however, that player complaints about his conduct and a series of disappointing results led to the change.
The team Marijne inherits is starkly different from the one he left in 2021. India failed to qualify for the Paris 2024 Olympics, suffered relegation from the elite FIH Pro League, and now faces a tough battle to secure a spot in the upcoming World Cup. Senior players, recalling the structure and success of the Tokyo cycle, are understood to have recommended Marijne's name to the federation to navigate the current turmoil.
The Marijne Blueprint: Fitness and Analysis Key
Marijne, who will join the national camp on January 14, 2026, is not returning alone. He brings with him a trusted support staff aimed at rebuilding the team from the ground up. Matias Vila, the former Argentine midfielder and Olympian, joins as the analytical coach, bringing decades of coaching experience.
Crucially, Wayne Lombard also makes a comeback as the Scientific Advisor and Head of Athletic Performance. Lombard is widely credited with transforming the team's fitness levels, which was a cornerstone of their Tokyo Olympics semifinal run. He will be supported by Rodet Yila and Ciara Yila in scientific advisory roles.
Immediate Challenge: The World Cup Qualifier
The new coaching team's first and most urgent task will be the World Cup qualifying tournament in Hyderabad, scheduled from March 8 to 14, 2026. Success here is non-negotiable for the team's immediate future and will set the tone for Marijne's new tenure.
Expressing his enthusiasm, Marijne stated that he returns with fresh energy and a clear vision to support the team's growth and help players achieve their potential on the global stage. His appointment signals a clear intent by Hockey India to return to the disciplined, high-performance model that once brought the women's team tantalizingly close to an Olympic medal.
