It Felt Unthinkable, Yet I Achieved It: Pooja Yadav's Journey from Varanasi to the Indian Women's Hockey Team

Bengaluru, April 18 (NationPress) At just 21 years old, Pooja Yadav, who comes from the outskirts of Varanasi, has made history by becoming the first woman from the Purvanchal region to join the Indian hockey team.

She has been diligently training at the senior national camp in SAI, Bengaluru, and her hard work has earned her a place in the 26-member Indian Women's Hockey squad for the upcoming tour of Australia, set to occur from April 26 to May 4 at the Perth Hockey Stadium.

Reflecting on her selection, Pooja expressed, "It was an incredible feeling when I learned that I have been selected for the national squad. Everyone from back home started calling me. My parents and siblings were especially overjoyed because something like this seemed impossible before, but now they are proud that I have made it.

"I am very proud that I am the first woman player from Purvanchal to make it to the Indian team. I hope my selection serves as an inspiration for other girls from rural areas to aim high and not suppress their dreams. I urge their families to support them because, with sufficient training and hard work, we can see more women athletes emerging from Purvanchal," she added.

Pooja was initially selected in the 65-member core probable group and has been training alongside senior players since March 23. Discussing her experience in the training camp, she stated, "It has been a wonderful experience so far training with the senior players. Just observing their work and following their lead has significantly improved my game. Everyone is approachable, and they continuously provide tips on how we can enhance our skills."

Pooja also acknowledged the influence her roommate, Neha, has had on her development. "As a midfielder, I always admired Sushila di and Neha di, and now training with them is a dream realized. Neha di, who is also my roommate, has mentored me greatly both on and off the field. She has guided me on my diet, game strategies, and has shared invaluable insights from her extensive experience playing for India."

Pooja originates from a rural village near Varanasi and comes from modest beginnings. In 2022, she was selected for the junior squad of Uttar Pradesh Hockey and subsequently made it to the senior team. Though she has not yet played for the Indian junior team, her remarkable performances at the 15th Hockey India Senior Women National Championship 2025 secured her place in the senior national camp.

Reflecting on her early years, Pooja shared, "I played a lot of cricket as a child, but my passion for hockey ignited when I played at my school next to my house. I started playing in 2015, initially representing the state junior team and later the senior team. I narrowly missed selection for the Indian junior team several times, but I am grateful that everything aligned, allowing me to jump straight into the senior squad.

"My current focus is to excel and make the most of the opportunities that arise during the Australia tour. I aim to perform well and secure my place for the upcoming FIH Hockey Pro League matches," Pooja concluded.