Commitment to Fitness

Following the footsteps of the Indian men’s hockey team, the Indian women’s squad is placing a strong emphasis on fitness to enhance their performance on the global stage. Coach Harendra Singh has identified fitness and speed as crucial components for success in hockey, reflecting a commitment to rigorous training.

A military-style boot camp organized at the Indian Naval Academy in Kannur last July was among Singh’s initial steps. Captain Salima Tete noted the notable improvements in the players’ fitness levels, stating, “If we are fit as a team, I believe we can defeat any team in the world.”

Focused Training Initiatives

Players have reported significant enhancements in their capabilities. Salima highlighted the strides made by teammates like Lalremsiami, Sharmila, and Sunelita Toppo in their speed due to focused fitness training. “Every time we come back from a break, the whole bunch has to go through the yo-yo test,” she added.

Defender Jyoti Rumavat emphasized the importance of specific drills in their training regimen. Sprint drills, for instance, help players quickly adjust during counter-attacks, enabling them to regain defensive shape efficiently. She remarked, “This is very helpful for us when there is a counter from the opposition team.”

Enhancing Decision-Making Skills

Under Singh’s guidance, the team is also focusing on improving decision-making during high-pressure situations. As Jyoti explained, “We play the three-minute games during practice to see how quickly we make decisions when our body is tired.” Such exercises mimic real match scenarios, allowing players to refine their cognitive responses under fatigue.

Learning from International Exposure

The squad recently returned from a five-match series in Australia, where they faced tough competition, playing against both Australia and Australia A. While India secured only one victory, the focus remained on the learning experience rather than the outcomes. Salima observed, “What we learnt is not to give up ever,” showcasing their resilience during the tour.

Jyoti added, “As a defender, my learnings were how to motivate the team when we are down and how to maintain speed and control while defending a lead.” The players evaluated their strategies and identified areas for improvement, particularly in finishing.

Preparing for the FIH Pro League

The upcoming European leg of the FIH Pro League represents a significant challenge for the team. Set to commence on June 7, India will face formidable opponents including Australia, Argentina, Belgium, and China. Currently, the team sits sixth in the league standings, with the need to build on their previous performances.

Salima acknowledged the challenges of competing without home crowd support but stressed the importance of focusing on their game. “We had an inconsistent run last time, but we have our learnings from the first leg that we will implement in Europe,” she remarked.

Jyoti expressed confidence in the team’s preparation, highlighting improvements in training and increased self-awareness among the players. They have started analyzing opposing teams more thoroughly, which she believes will enhance their performance on the upcoming tour.