India is set to host its first-ever Women’s Hockey India League, Dilip Tirkey, Hockey India president, announced on Sunday.
Tirkey emphasized the crucial support from the Odisha government, describing it as the “backbone of Hockey India”. He highlighted the league as a significant platform for young talent.
“The Odisha government is the backbone of Hockey India. Our future plans are largely centered around the Hockey India League (HIL), an essential platform for emerging players and coaches,” said Tirkey. “Currently, our main focus is the success of both men’s and women’s HIL. The Asian Games, FIH World Cup, and the 2028 Olympics also remain high on our agenda.”
Tirkey praised the extraordinary performance of Indian men’s hockey team over the past four years, citing notable achievements such as a bronze medal at the Tokyo Olympics and another at the recently concluded Paris Olympics.
He also commended Harmanpreet Singh, the leading goal-scorer at Paris 2024, for his stellar contributions.
India finished 71st in the Paris Olympics medals tally.
