Janneke Schopman returns to India for Women’s Hockey India League but what changed

Janneke Schopman, the former head coach of the Indian women’s hockey team, has made a grand return to Indian hockey ahead of the first-ever Women’s Hockey India League. Her previous tenure with the Indian team may have had its ups and downs, but Schopman’s strong bond with the players was undeniable, and her passion for Indian hockey remains unwavering.

New beginning with Odisha Warriors for Janneke Schopman

Janneke Schopman has taken on the role of head coach for the Odisha Warriors, bringing with her a wealth of experience and familiarity with Indian hockey. “I love India, I love the girls, I am happy that I have another opportunity to work with them,” she expressed upon her return.

Despite the challenges she faced during her previous stint, including failing to qualify for the Paris Olympics, Schopman holds no regrets. “I did it with all my heart and it didn’t work for us… I always regret that. A fresh start? Yes, of course,” she said.

Building strong Odisha Warriors squad for HIL

With her deep knowledge of both the Indian senior and junior squads, Schopman has been pivotal in assembling a formidable team for Odisha Warriors. She was keen to recruit players she has worked with closely in the past, particularly from the Junior Women’s Asia Cup-winning squad she coached.

Among her picks were promising talents like Annu, Madhuri Kindo, Anjali Barwa, Jyothi, and Rutaja, as well as seasoned players Deep Grace Ekka, Sonika, and Nisha.

While Schopman aimed to acquire many familiar faces, she made it clear that her top priority was securing Netherlands’ Yibbi Jansen, widely regarded as one of the world’s best drag-flickers. During her tenure with the Indian team, Schopman had identified goal-scoring as a key area for improvement, and now, she has the chance to work with one of the top goal-scorers in the world.

Fierce Bidding and Key Rivalries

The Women’s Hockey India League auction had its fair share of intense rivalries, with Schopman’s Odisha Warriors often going head-to-head with the JSW-owned Soorma Hockey Club, led by former Indian captain Rani Rampal. The bidding war between Schopman and Rampal became a focal point of the day, adding an extra layer of excitement to the auction proceedings.

Soorma HC also secured major players, including current Indian captain Salima Tete. Meanwhile, Schopman’s strategic moves saw Odisha Warriors bring on board Dutch star Freeke Moes, further strengthening their lineup.

Delhi SG Vipers made bold moves, signing young attackers Sunelita Toppo for Rs 24 lakh and Sangita Kumari for Rs 22 lakh, while the Shrachi Rarh Bengal Tigers pulled off a surprise by making Indian defender Udita the most expensive player of the auction at Rs 32 lakh.

Top Five Women’s HIL Auction Buys

• Udita Duhan – Shrachi Rarh Bengal Tigers – Rs 32 lakh
• Yibbi Jansen (NED) – Odisha Warriors – Rs 29 lakh
• Lalremsiami – Shrachi Rarh Bengal Tigers – Rs 25 lakh
• Sunelita Toppo – Delhi SG Vipers – Rs 24 lakh
• Sangita Kumari – Delhi SG Vipers – Rs 22 lakh

As the inaugural season of the Women’s Hockey India League approaches, the excitement is building, and all eyes will be on Janneke Schopman and her Odisha Warriors as they look to make a mark in this historic tournament.