Following India’s second consecutive bronze medal finish in the Paris Olympics, Hockey India (HI) has begun planning for the 2028 Los Angeles Games. HI President Dilip Tirkey, a former India captain, outlined the federation’s vision.
“We need to start preparing for the 2028 Olympics now. After the 2026 Asian Games, which is a qualifying event for the Olympics, the coach and selectors must collaborate to determine which players from the current team can compete in Los Angeles,” Tirkey stated.
With three players in their 30s and nine expected to be over 30 in four years, HI must consider the team’s age profile. Tirkey emphasized the importance of performing well in major events such as the World Cup and FIH Pro League.
The revival of the Hockey India League (HIL) is seen as a way to promote young talent. “Young players and domestic coaches will benefit. The addition of a women’s competition is crucial,” Tirkey said.
HI faces challenges in managing the HIL, which was launched in 2013 and lasted for five editions. “The bigger challenge is making it successful in the long term. The franchises have been more or less finalized. The Odisha Government continues to be our backbone. I hope corporate houses will participate enthusiastically to support hockey,” Tirkey added.
To make domestic events more attractive, HI has made some of them mandatory for all players, including the National Championships. However, the federation may need to reconsider this decision due to the increased number of international events.
Tirkey believes that the introduction of junior and sub-junior inter-zonal championships this year will provide youngsters with more competitive exposure. “More exposure will sharpen the skills of our under-17 and under-19 players,” he said.
