The highly experienced Harmanpreet Singh will continue to lead the men\u2019s team, while senior goalkeeper Savita Punia and midfielder Salima Tete will serve as co-captains of the women\u2019s team.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Harmanpreet's defensive command and world-class drag-flicking ability have been pivotal, bringing both stability and an offensive edge to the Men\u2019s team, which finished third in the Hockey India League last season.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
As captain of the Indian National Hockey Team, he has led the country to numerous significant achievements, including medals at the Olympics and Asian Games. His experience and composure under pressure continue to set an example for his teammates, fuelling their ambition to succeed on the field.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\"It\u2019s always a special feeling to lead this team. Last season\u2019s third-place finish showed what we\u2019re capable of, and we\u2019ve taken a lot of confidence from that. The team has grown closer and stronger; and I genuinely believe we have the right mix to challenge the best. We\u2019re fully focused, motivated, and ready to give everything when we step onto the field this season,\" Harmanpreet said.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
On the women\u2019s side, Savita\u2019s sharp reflexes and calm presence, together with Salima Tete\u2019s agility and creativity, form the backbone of the team. Together, they have been instrumental in leading the squad to a strong runners-up finish last season in a closely contested league.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\u201cSalima and I bring different strengths to the table, but we\u2019re united by the same purpose; to lead this team with clarity, trust, and belief. We take that responsibility seriously, and our focus is on building a strong, positive culture where every player feels confident and empowered. When a team plays for each other and believes in the collective, results follow, and that\u2019s exactly the mindset we\u2019re taking into this season.\u201d<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Adding her thoughts, Salima said, \u201cSharing the captaincy with someone like Savita is truly special for me. Her experience and the standards she set push all of us to be better every day. As a team, we\u2019ve learned a lot from last season, and we\u2019re taking those lessons seriously as we work on every part of our game.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\"We know what it takes to go all the way now, and we\u2019re determined to take that final step and bring the trophy home this season. We are sure that the competition is going to be fierce here at HIL, but we are training hard and looking to put our best foot forward in every game.\u201d<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Soorma Hockey Club\u2019s women\u2019s team will kick off their campaign on December 29 against Shrachi Rarh Bengal Tigers, with the entire tournament hosted at the Marang Gomke Jaipal Singh Munda Astro Turf Stadium in Ranchi.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\"We know what it takes to go all the way now, and we\u2019re determined to take that final step and bring the trophy home this season. We are sure that the competition is going to be fierce here at HIL, but we are training hard and looking to put our best foot forward in every game.\u201d<\/p>\r\n\r\n
The men\u2019s tournament will take place across Chennai, Ranchi, and Bhubaneshwar. Under the guidance of Head Coaches Philippe Goldberg and Jude Menezes, and supported by accomplished leaders on the field, SHC is poised to deliver a competitive campaign and to strive for top honours in both the men\u2019s and women\u2019s competitions this season.<\/p>\r\n\r\n