Sjoerd Marijne has been reappointed as the chief coach of the Indian women's hockey team, marking his return after guiding the team to a historic fourth-place finish at the Tokyo Olympics. Hockey India confirmed the appointment on Friday. The 51-year-old Dutchman, who was associated with the team from 2017 to 2021, is set to bring "fresh energy and a clear vision" to the squad.
Marijne replaces Harendra Singh, who resigned last month due to the team's poor performance and allegations of a "high-handed coaching approach". After the highs of Tokyo, the team entered a difficult transition phase with key players such as Rani Rampal, Vandana Katariya and Deep Grace Ekka. India failed to qualify for the 2024 Paris Olympics but managed podium finishes at the 2022 Commonwealth Games and the 2023 Asian Games, winning bronze medals on both occasions.
"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,” Marijne said. During his previous tenure, India broke into the top 10 of the world rankings.
To support Marijne, Matias Vila has been appointed as the analytical coach. Vila, a former Argentine international midfielder, boasts over two decades of coaching experience and represented Argentina at the Sydney 2000 and Athens 2004 Olympics. Dr. Wayne Lombard also returns as the scientific advisor and head of athletic performance. He will be assisted by Rodet Yila and Ciara Yila, both serving as scientific advisors.
Marijne's immediate focus will be the FIH Hockey Women's World Cup Qualifiers in Hyderabad, Telangana, scheduled from March 8 to 14. He is scheduled to arrive in India on January 14, with the national coaching camp commencing on January 19 at the SAI center in Bengaluru.
Hockey India President Dr. Dilip Tirkey welcomed Marijne and the support staff. "We extend our gratitude to the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports (MYAS) and Sports Authority of India (SAI) for expediting the appointment in order to ensure the team's preparations for the upcoming World Cup Qualifiers is not hampered," Tirkey said. Tirkey also emphasized the importance of fitness, which he credited as a key factor in the team's historic performance in Tokyo.
Marijne's return is seen as a crucial step as India prepares for the 2026 FIH Women's World Cup Qualifiers and the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. Hockey India and the team management are optimistic that his leadership will propel the team to new heights, building upon the foundation laid during his successful first stint.
