After outburst, Indian women’s hockey team chief coach Janneke Schopman resigns

New Delhi, February 23

Indian women’s hockey team chief coach Janneke Schopman resigned today, days after creating a furore by claiming that she was not valued and respected enough by the national federation.

The Dutch coach had taken over the reins of the women’s team in 2021 from Sjoerd Marine, who had led the side to a historic fourth position at the Tokyo Olympics.

Schopman had joined the Indian women’s team in January 2020 as analytical coach under Marijne. Her contract was to end in August this year after the Paris Olympics but following her recent critical comments, it was expected that she would not continue.

Hockey India informed that the 46-year-old tendered her resignation to president Dilip Tirkey after the conclusion of the team’s outing in the home leg of the Pro League.

“At the back of the disappointment at the recent Olympic Qualifiers, her resignation has paved the way for Hockey India to look for a suitable Chief Coach for the Women’s Hockey Team who could prepare the Indian Team for the next Women’s World Cup in 2026 and Los Angeles Olympics 2028,” Hockey India said in a release.

“It is time to begin a fresh chapter in Indian women’s hockey with the players progress being at the centre of our focus,” the statement added.

Schopman had broken down during a mixed zone interaction after a Pro League match, claiming that the men’s coaches were treated differently by Hockey India.

The Indian team did well under Schopman, winning 38, drawing 17 and losing 19 matches out of 74 the team played. The title victory at Asian Champions Trophy remains the team’s best performance under her.