Hockey India (HI) has announced the return of Sjoerd Marijne as chief coach of the Indian women’s hockey team.
Marijne, who coached the team from 2017 to 2021, guided India into the world’s top 10 and helped them reach the Olympic semifinals in only their second appearance at the Games in more than three decades.
He will be assisted by former Argentina international Matias Vila as analytical coach. Vila, a former midfielder, represented Argentina at the 2000 Sydney and 2004 Athens Olympics and has over 20 years of coaching experience. Wayne Lombard also returns as Scientific Advisor and Head of Athletic Performance, supported by Rodet Yila and Ciara Yila, Hockey India said in a statement.
“It’s great to be back,” Marijne said, adding that he was returning with “fresh energy and a clear vision” to help the team grow and compete at the highest level.
His first assignment will be the FIH Hockey Women’s World Cup Qualifiers in Hyderabad from March 8 to 14. Marijne is set to arrive in India on Jan. 14, with the national coaching camp scheduled to begin on Jan. 19 at the Sports Authority of India centre in Bengaluru.
Hockey India President Dilip Tirkey said the appointment was expedited with support from the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports and the Sports Authority of India to ensure smooth preparations, while Secretary General Bhola Nath Singh said Marijne’s familiarity with the squad would be an advantage ahead of key tournaments, including the Asian Games and World Cup qualifiers.
(IANS)
