Harendra Singh, the chief coach of the Indian women’s hockey team, resigned from his position on Monday, citing personal reasons. In an email to Hockey India, Harendra announced his immediate resignation.
Harendra expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to coach the team, stating that it had been a highlight of his career. Although he is stepping down for personal reasons, he remains supportive of the team’s ongoing success. He also expressed his commitment to continue supporting Hockey India’s efforts to elevate Indian hockey.
“Coaching the Indian women’s hockey team has been a privilege that has been a highlight of my career. Though personal reasons call me to step away, my heart remains with this extraordinary team and their ongoing success,” Harendra said.
“I will always cherish my journey with Hockey India and continue to support their efforts to take Indian hockey to the highest levels of achievement,” he added.
Sources suggest that Dutch coach Sjoerd Marijne, who led the team to a fourth-place finish at the Tokyo Olympics in 2021, might return as the chief coach. Marijne had resigned from his position in August 2021.
Harendra, who previously coached the United States men’s hockey team, took on the role of chief coach in April 2024. Before this, he guided India’s junior men’s team to victory in the 2016 World Cup in Lucknow.
The performance of the Indian women’s team has been disappointing over the past year, with only two wins in 16 matches in the FIH Pro League 2024-25, failing to qualify for the next season.
“We thank Harendra Singh for his services and his exemplary experience. His commitment towards the development of Indian Hockey is well-known across the hockey community across the world. While we will announce a suitable replacement soon, we wish him the very best,” Hockey India President Dr. Dilip Tirkey said expressed gratitude for Harendra’s services.
We extend our support to Harendra Singh and his contributions to the team. We wish him the very best and further continue to ensure the Indian Women’s Team’s preparations will continue as planned for the Qualifiers,” Hockey India Secretary General Shri Bhola Nath Singh added.
