In an exciting move for Indian women’s hockey, former captain Rani Rampal has stepped into a new role as a coach in the nation’s first-ever Women’s Hockey League. For years, Rani was the face of Indian women’s hockey, leading the team with unwavering passion and determination. Today, as she begins her coaching journey, she shares her insights on the league’s impact, her hockey dreams, and the challenges ahead for women’s hockey in India.
A New Chapter Begins
Rani Rampal, renowned as the “poster girl” of Indian women’s hockey, has had a remarkable career, representing India in 212 matches and scoring 134 goals. At the age of 30, she now finds herself at the forefront of a league she had always dreamt of. “We’ve waited so many years for a platform like this,” Rani expressed at the player auction event. “Although I’m not playing, it’s a matter of pride to be part of it as a coach.”
In this debut season of the Women’s Hockey League, Rani will coach Surma Hockey Club, representing Punjab and Haryana. This milestone is not only a personal achievement for her but also a step forward for Indian women’s hockey as a whole.
Reflecting on Her Journey and the State of Indian Women’s Hockey
Rani led the Indian women’s hockey team to a historic fourth-place finish at the 2021 Tokyo Olympics. This accomplishment showcased the progress of Indian women’s hockey on the global stage. Yet, her recent absence from the team sparked conversations about her future in the sport.
“I worked hard to return to the national team,” Rani shared. “Although I couldn’t make it to the Paris Olympics squad, my passion for hockey remains. I may not be on the field, but I’m still contributing to the game.” She admitted that stepping into the coaching role was a tough decision, as her desire to play still lingers, but she embraces the opportunity to shape young players’ careers.
The Impact of the Women’s Hockey League
The Women’s Hockey League is a significant development for Indian hockey, giving players a professional platform to showcase their talents. For Rani, the league is not just about competition but about nurturing future stars. “The league will help us prepare a strong pool of players,” she stated. “With more opportunities, players can improve their skills and gain valuable experience.”
The league, which includes teams like Surma Hockey Club, Bengal Tigers, Delhi SG Pipers, and Odisha Warriors, features an auction model that gives teams a budget of ₹2 crore. While Rani acknowledged that the initial budget is modest, she’s hopeful for the future. “This is just the beginning. Once people see the league’s impact, more franchises will join, and the prize money will increase,” she said. “For many players, this league will be a financial boost, especially those from humble backgrounds.”
Challenges and the Road Ahead
One of the challenges Rani highlights is the team’s recent failure to qualify for the 2024 Paris Olympics. “It’s a setback, no doubt, but there are always lessons to be learned,” she remarked. Rani believes that this experience can fuel the team’s preparation for upcoming events, including the 2026 Asian Games and the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.
She emphasizes the role of Harendra Singh, the current coach, in guiding the team toward these goals. “Having Harendra sir as a coach is an advantage. He understands our culture and communicates well with players from rural areas. He’s someone who instills a winning mindset in everyone,” Rani shared, adding that his leadership will be key to the team’s journey toward Olympic success.
Building a Stronger Future for Women’s Hockey in India
Rani envisions a brighter future for women’s hockey in India, one where young girls from small towns have the same opportunities she did. “The league will give girls from all backgrounds a chance to pursue hockey professionally,” she said. “This platform is something we always wanted. It’s about more than just playing; it’s about making a mark for Indian women in sports.”
She is also passionate about changing perceptions around women’s hockey. By drawing in a wider audience, the league could inspire a new generation of players. “When more people watch these matches, they’ll see the talent and dedication of our players. We’re breaking barriers and showing that Indian women can compete at the highest level.”
Why This League Matters
The Women’s Hockey League isn’t just a new competition; it’s a sign of progress for Indian women’s sports. By providing a professional environment for female players, it paves the way for growth, visibility, and financial stability. Rani believes that the league will encourage young women to consider hockey as a viable career path.
“The league’s introduction gives me hope that more girls will pick up the hockey stick, not just as a hobby but as a career,” she said. “It’s about time we have a system that supports and nurtures talent. This league is a milestone, not just for women’s hockey but for sports in India.”
Rani’s journey, from being the captain of the Indian team to a mentor in the Women’s Hockey League, reflects her dedication to the sport. As she steps into this new role, she brings not only her experience and expertise but also her unwavering passion for hockey. Her transition from player to coach is a reminder that, even off the field, she continues to play an influential role in shaping Indian hockey’s future.
The Women’s Hockey League marks the beginning of a new era, and with Rani Rampal’s involvement, the league is already off to an inspiring start. As the games unfold, fans and players alike will witness the rise of Indian women’s hockey, supported by a league that champions growth, inclusion, and dreams coming true.
