Hockey India confirmed on Friday that Sjoerd Marijne, the 51‑year‑old Dutch coach, will return as head coach of the Indian women’s hockey team.
Marijne previously guided the side between 2017 and 2021, a tenure that included the team’s historic fourth‑place finish at the Tokyo Olympics.
His appointment comes a month after Harendra Singh resigned following complaints of harassment and ineffective training by players. Marijne was already being considered as a possible replacement, and now he faces the challenge of repeating his success when India competes in the Hyderabad World Cup qualifiers in March 2026.
Support Staff Strengthened
Marijne’s second stint will run until the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. He will be supported by an experienced backroom team:
- Matias Vila, former Argentina defender and Olympian, joins as analytical coach.
- Wayne Lombard, credited with India’s fitness standards during Marijne’s earlier tenure, returns as Head of Athletic Performance.
- Rodet Yila and Ciara Yila, both South Africans, will serve as scientific advisors.
While Vila currently coaches Dutch top‑division side HC Tilburg, Lombard has worked with multiple teams and organisations, including IIS and Delhi Capitals. He was recently appointed strength and conditioning coach for the Boxing Federation of India in a consultancy role.
Marijne’s Statement
“It’s great to be back. After four‑and‑a‑half 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. He is scheduled to arrive on January 14 and take charge immediately, with the preparatory camp beginning January 19.
Meanwhile, Hockey India is also searching for a new junior women’s team coach following the exit of Tushar Khandker, who faced similar misconduct allegations.
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