Harendra Singh, the coach of India’s women’s hockey team, has set his sights on the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. Following the team’s disappointment after failing to qualify for the Paris Olympics, Singh is focused on building a new foundation for success in the future.
He emphasizes that the team needs to move beyond the disappointment of missing the Paris Games and focus on the opportunity ahead. “When I took up this team, we had discussed this topic in length. I always look into the positive side and feel that something better is there in store for them. Obviously, they were disheartened, the whole country was sad, but I told them that there is something bigger waiting,” said Singh, who was appointed to the role in April of this year.
Singh, who previously led the women’s team from 2017-2018, has identified fitness as a key area for improvement. “This team is lacking in the fitness standard which is needed for modern-day hockey. It includes speed, endurance, agility, and decision-making ability. They have technical skills, and if they fulfill the fitness parameters that will give them an edge in big tournaments,” he stated.
He is also introducing a new coaching philosophy based on a concept he calls “SST”: science, skill, and technology. “We have to incorporate science, skill, and technology. We are now playing in the European style which we were not earlier. We have made a blueprint. There should be one model, one coaching philosophy from the grassroots to national camp,” he explained.
Singh’s decision to appoint Salima Tete as the new captain has allowed former captain and goalkeeper Savita to focus on her role on the field. “Savita is the wall of Indian women’s hockey. She has served our country for many years now and is an integral part of our scheme of things. For me, all players are captains. In hockey, a captain does not have to make many big decisions on the field like cricket. And also there is a new beginning with the new captain. And the good part is that Savita has started contributing more than earlier,” he said.
With a focus on building a strong foundation, implementing a new coaching philosophy, and improving the team’s fitness, Harendra Singh is confident that India’s women’s hockey team can achieve success in Los Angeles in 2028. He believes the team has the potential to win medals and is committed to helping them reach their full potential.
