Indian Women's Hockey Team Undergoes Specialized Goalkeeping Camp

Hockey India has initiated a specialized goalkeeping camp for the Indian Women's Hockey Team, running from April 22 to May 2 in Bengaluru. Led by experienced coach David Williamson and overseen by Chief Coach Sjoerd Marijne, the camp aims to strengthen the team's goalkeeping unit ahead of crucial international tournaments. Supported by Anandana, the Coca-Cola India Foundation, this initiative not only enhances skills but also fosters the development of junior players alongside seniors. Veteran goalkeeper Savita emphasizes the importance of such support for women's hockey, while corporate leaders highlight their commitment to grassroots growth. This camp represents a significant step towards elevating women's hockey in India.

By Narendra Chaudhary Apr 24, 2026, 14:52 IST

Specialized Goalkeeping Camp Announced

On Friday, Hockey India revealed that a dedicated goalkeeping camp for the Indian Women's Hockey Team is taking place from April 22 to May 2 at the Sports Authority of India (SAI) in Bengaluru. This camp is being led by David Williamson, with oversight from the team's Chief Coach, Sjoerd Marijne. Key players including Savita, Bansari Solanki, Bichu Devi Kharibam, and Madhuri Kindo are participating in this initiative, which aims to enhance India's goalkeeping capabilities ahead of an important international schedule, as stated in a press release from Hockey India.

Expert Coaching and Support

The camp receives backing from Anandana, the Coca-Cola India Foundation, which is committed to advancing women's hockey in India. They also supported the recently held 16th Hockey India Sub Junior Women's National Championship 2026. David Williamson, a seasoned hockey coach from Northern Ireland, has extensive experience, having been part of the US Women's National Team coaching staff for several years. He also served as an assistant coach for the Odisha Warriors in the Women's Hero Hockey India League (HIL) in 2025, bringing valuable international expertise in goalkeeping.

Insights from the Chief Coach

Sjoerd Marijne, the Chief Coach of the Indian Women's Hockey Team, expressed, "The goalkeepers performed admirably during the recent tour in Argentina, showcasing their skills against strong opponents. With significant tournaments approaching from June, this focused training camp is timely and beneficial." He also mentioned that junior goalkeepers are training alongside senior players, which will be crucial for their development and ease their transition to the senior level.

Players Appreciate the Support

Veteran goalkeeper Savita remarked, "It's always uplifting for us as players to witness such support for women's hockey. This camp also provides a fantastic opportunity for younger athletes. When young girls observe the backing that hockey is receiving today, it instills confidence and belief in their potential. Support from Anandana and The Coca-Cola India Foundation will significantly contribute to the growth of women's hockey in our country."

Corporate Commitment to Grassroots Development

Devyani Rana, Vice President of Public Affairs, Communications, and Sustainability at Coca-Cola India and Southwest Asia, stated, "Our collaboration with Hockey India is based on a mutual belief that investing in women's sports leads to lasting change. When junior players train alongside seniors in a supportive environment, it reshapes their understanding of what is possible. Through Anandana, The Coca-Cola India Foundation, we are dedicated to being a significant part of the transformation for Indian women's hockey at the grassroots level."