In a move that ends weeks of speculation, Hockey India has officially brought back a familiar face to lead the national women's hockey squad. The governing body confirmed the reappointment of Dutch coach Sjoerd Marijne, tasking him with steering the team's future campaigns.
Official Announcement Ends Speculation
The official confirmation came on Friday, 2 January 2026. Hockey India made the announcement public, putting all rumors to rest. The decision reinstates 51-year-old Sjoerd Marijne, a seasoned Dutch tactician, as the chief coach of the Indian women's national hockey team. This marks a significant return for Marijne, who has previous experience with the squad.
Marijne's Return and Immediate Focus
Marijne's reappointment is seen as a strategic move by Hockey India to bring stability and experienced leadership back to the women's program. His understanding of the players and the hockey landscape in India is considered a major asset. The immediate focus will likely be on:
- Assessing the current squad and player development.
- Planning for upcoming international tournaments.
- Building on the existing foundation to achieve consistent results.
What This Means for Indian Women's Hockey
The return of a dedicated chief coach is a crucial step for the team's structure and preparation. With a clear leader at the helm, the players can expect a defined roadmap and training regimen. Fans and analysts will now watch closely to see how Marijne shapes the team's strategy and performance in the coming months, aiming to build on past successes and reach new heights on the global stage.
