Sjoerd Marijne returns as head coach of the Indian women’s hockey team

Sjoerd Marijne, who led the Indian women’s hockey team to a historic fourth-place finish at the 2021 Tokyo Olympics, is back in charge ahead of the next Olympics to be held in Los Angeles in 2028.

Marijne, the 51-year-old Dutchman, was head coach of the team between 2017 and 2021. During his period the team reached the Top 10 of the FIH rankings.

Marijne, whose appointment comes a month after Harendra Singh’s resignation, said: «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 reach their full potential on the world stage.»

Marijne is supported by Matias Vila as analytical coach. Vila is a former midfielder from Argentina who made his international debut in 1997 and competed in the 2000 Olympic Games in Sydney and the 2004 Olympic Games in Athens. He has been involved in coaching for the past twenty years.

READ | Harendra Singh steps down as coach of Indian women’s hockey

Also Dr. Wayne Lombard returns to the Indian hockey scene, as Scientific Advisor and Head of Athletic Performance. He will be supported by Rodet Yila and Ciara Yila, both in the role of scientific advisor.

Marijne’s first big challenge as head coach is the FIH Hockey Women’s World Cup Qualifiers in Hyderabad from March 8 to 14. Marijne will arrive in India on January 14, while the national coaching camp will begin on January 19 at SAI, Bengaluru.

Published on January 2, 2026