Indian Women’s Hockey Team Celebrates Men’s Bronze, Reflects on Missed Olympic Opportunity
As the Indian men’s hockey team celebrated their historic bronze medal victory in Tokyo, a bittersweet feeling washed over the women’s team at the SAI Bengaluru hostel. While they rejoiced in their countrymen’s triumph, they couldn’t help but feel a pang of regret for their own missed opportunity.
The women’s team had come agonizingly close to qualifying for the Paris Olympics, but their hopes were dashed by a 0-1 loss to Japan in the third-place playoff of the FIH Olympic qualifiers. The disappointment was palpable, as they had spent countless hours training and sacrificing to achieve their Olympic dream.
“We were overjoyed for the men’s team,” said Salima Tete, captain of the national women’s hockey team. “But we also wished we could have been there with them.”
The team has since undergone a coaching change, with Harendra Singh replacing Janneke Schopman. They are now focused on preparing for the upcoming World Cup and Asian Games.
“We came very close but didn’t qualify,” said Tete. “It hurts a lot. We spend months together in camp, away from family, working hard, so it’s tough to come to terms with missing out on an Olympics.”
For Savita Punia, the 34-year-old goalkeeper, the World Cup and Asian Games are her immediate priorities. She is determined to make the most of her remaining time in the sport.
“For women, once we get married, family becomes a priority,” said Punia. “I’m happy my husband and in-laws encourage me to pursue my career. But I don’t want to think too far ahead. I just want us to win the Asian Games.”
Despite their disappointment, the women’s team has been inspired by the men’s team’s success. They believe that with hard work and determination, they can achieve their own Olympic dream in 2028.
