In 2023, the Indian Junior Women’s Hockey Team experienced a remarkable year, culminating in their historic victory at the Women’s Junior Asia Cup in Japan. The team achieved a significant milestone by defeating Korea 2-1 in the Final, securing the Junior Asia Cup trophy for the first time in India’s history.
Their journey commenced with the India U21 Tour of South Africa in February, where they emerged triumphant in all three games against the South African U-21 team. Following rigorous training, the undefeated Indian Junior Women’s Hockey Team claimed the Women’s Junior Asia Cup 2023 in Kakamigahara, Gifu Prefecture, Japan, with an impressive 2-1 victory over Korea in the Final match.
All 18 members of the victorious Indian Junior Women’s Hockey Team were affiliated with the Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS) National Centres of Excellence (NCOE), underscoring their commitment and hard work.
Captain Preeti fondly reminisced about the team’s emotional triumph, stating, “We were elated to bring back the trophy, and the fact that we were the first group from India to win the Women’s Junior Asia Cup 2023 was the icing on the cake.” She highlighted the team’s cohesive and free-flowing style of play, expressing gratitude for the overwhelming love and support they received upon their return.
In preparation for the FIH Junior Hockey World Cup 2023, former Indian Men’s Hockey Team Captain Tushar Khandker and Herman Kruis were enlisted to oversee the development of the Indian Junior Women’s Hockey Team. Their efforts were tested at the 4 Nations Tournament – Dusseldorf 2023, where the team gained valuable experience competing against Germany, Spain, and England.
Additionally, Sonia Devi Kshetrimayum and Dipi Monika Toppo were part of the squad that emerged victorious in the inaugural Women’s Asian Hockey 5s World Cup Qualifier in Salalah, Oman, showcasing the team’s depth and talent.
The Indian Junior Women’s Hockey Team then travelled to Santiago, Chile for the FIH Hockey Women’s Junior World Cup 2023 in November. Despite an initial loss to Germany and Belgium, the team rallied to secure victories against New Zealand, Korea, and the United States, ultimately finishing 9th in the World Cup.
Reflecting on the challenges and triumphs of the year, Preeti remarked, “All-in-all it was a memorable year, we started on the right foot but fell short in the FIH Hockey Women’s Junior World Cup 2023. Although we desired a better result in the World Cup, the growth of the team this year has been astounding.” She expressed pride in leading the Indian Junior Women’s Hockey Team and highlighted the team’s technical improvement, tactical knowledge, and unwavering mental resilience throughout the year.
In conclusion, the Indian Junior Women’s Hockey Team’s journey in 2023 was a testament to their perseverance, skill, and unity, as they cemented their place in history and set their sights on even greater accomplishments in the future.