Sjoerd Marijne Returns as Chief Coach of India's Women's Hockey Team: What’s Next?

Sjoerd Marijne has been reappointed as the chief coach of India's women's hockey team, five years after his successful tenure that led to a historic fourth-place finish at the Tokyo Olympics. With a challenging transition ahead, Marijne aims to revitalize the team, which has faced retirements and missed Olympic qualifications. His first major challenge will be the World Cup Qualifiers in March. The coaching staff will include Matias Vila and Wayne Lombard, focusing on fitness and team cohesion. Hockey India expresses gratitude for the swift appointment to ensure the team's preparation remains on track.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jan 2, 2026, 15:40 IST

Sjoerd Marijne Takes the Helm Again

New Delhi: Dutch coach Sjoerd Marijne has been reinstated as the head coach of India's women's hockey team, five years after he led them to a remarkable fourth-place finish at the Tokyo Olympics. The team has since faced a challenging transition period.

Marijne steps in to replace Harendra Singh, who resigned in December due to disappointing results and claims of a 'high-handed coaching style.'

At 51, Marijne previously coached the team from 2017 to 2021 and will be joined by Matias Vila as the analytical coach. Additionally, Wayne Lombard from South Africa returns as the scientific advisor and head of athletic performance.

"I’m thrilled to be back. After 4.5 years, I return with renewed energy and a clear vision to foster the team's development and help players reach their full potential globally," Marijne expressed in a statement from Hockey India.

During his earlier tenure, Marijne earned significant respect within the team and was instrumental in creating a united squad that celebrated collective achievements. He left post-Tokyo citing family commitments, during which India also entered the top 10 in world rankings.

Vila, a former midfielder for Argentina, has an extensive coaching background spanning over two decades and represented his country in the 2000 and 2004 Olympics.

Lombard will be assisted by Rodet Yila and Ciara Yila, both serving as scientific advisors.

Addressing Transition Challenges:

Following the success in Tokyo, the team encountered a tough transition as key players, including the injured captain Rani Rampal, Vandana Katariya, and Deep Grace Ekka, announced their retirements.

The women's team missed out on qualifying for the 2024 Paris Olympics but secured podium finishes at the 2022 Commonwealth Games and the 2023 Asian Games, earning bronze medals.

Despite winning a silver medal at last year's Asia Cup, the team did not qualify directly for the World Cup scheduled in August in Belgium and the Netherlands.

The squad was relegated to the Nations Cup after achieving only two victories in 16 matches during the elite FIH Pro League last year.

Marijne's first major task as chief coach will be the World Cup Qualifiers in Hyderabad, Telangana, from March 8 to 14. He is set to arrive in India on January 14, with the National Coaching Camp commencing on January 19 in SAI, Bengaluru.

"We welcome Sjoerd Marijne and the entire support staff to the Indian Hockey family," stated Hockey India President Dr. Dilip Tirkey.

"We appreciate the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports (MYAS) and the Sports Authority of India (SAI) for their swift action in finalizing this appointment to ensure the team's preparation for the upcoming World Cup Qualifiers remains uninterrupted."

"Fitness has been a focal point, which was crucial for the Indian Women's historic performance in Tokyo. We anticipate a successful tenure ahead," he added.