Hockey India announces inaugural National Women's Hockey League

Hockey India unveiled the National Women’s Hockey League, a step in giving an opportunity to the emerging players to sharpen their skills. The league has been structured into two phases, with the inaugural phase set to take place in Ranchi from 30th April to 9th May 2024. All matches in this phase will be hosted at the Marang Gomke Jaipal Singh Astroturf Hockey Stadium which hosted the FIH Olympic Qualifiers and the Women’s Asian Champions Trophy.

The first edition of the competition will feature the top-eight state teams from the 14th Hockey India Senior Women’s National Championships. The state teams who have earned their place in the inaugural season of the National Women’s Hockey League are - Hockey Haryana, Hockey Maharashtra, Hockey Jharkhand, Hockey Madhya Pradesh, Hockey Bengal, Hockey Mizoram, Manipur Hockey, and Hockey Association of Odisha.

Hockey India claim the National Women’s Hockey League will serve as scouting “platform for the national team, providing selectors with the opportunity to identify and nurture talent for future international competitions.”

Hockey India President Dr. Dilip Tirkey expressed his enthusiasm for the league, stating, “The National Women’s Hockey League marks a watershed moment for Indian hockey, particularly for our women athletes. This league is a testament to our unwavering commitment to women’s sports and will serve as a catalyst for the growth and development of women’s hockey in the country.”

Hockey India Secretary General Shri Bhola Nath Singh added, “We are thrilled to introduce the National Women’s Hockey League, which represents a significant leap forward in our efforts to bolster women’s hockey at both the regional and national levels. This league will not only provide a platform for elite competition but also inspire young girls to pursue their passion for hockey.”

The second phase of the league will be held next year with dates not yet announced.