New Delhi, Dec 25 (NationPress) Following a remarkable playing career, former captain of the India women’s hockey team, Rani Rampal, is embarking on a fresh chapter, stepping into a coaching role. In an exclusive interview with IANS, Rani shared her thoughts on transitioning from player to mentor, the hurdles of managing various personalities, her aspirations for Soorma Hockey Club at the Hockey India League (HIL) 2026, and her collaboration with long-time teammate Savita Punia in this new capacity.

For Rani, retiring from playing does not mean leaving hockey behind; rather, it signifies the commencement of a new adventure. “This is merely the beginning of a new journey,” she states. “When one journey concludes, another starts. My time as a player has ended, and a new chapter as a coach has begun. There’s a long road ahead, but I’m truly excited.”

Rani likens her current experience to her initial days as a player—filled with eagerness to learn, curiosity, and personal growth. Her primary motivation lies in contributing to the sport by mentoring the upcoming generation. “I want to absorb every detail from the ground up in this role to assist young players and the new wave of talent,” she emphasizes.

One of the most challenging shifts, Rani confesses, has been altering her mindset from that of a player to that of a coach. “The mentalities of a player and a coach are significantly different,” she explains. “After years of playing, adapting to a new way of thinking isn’t straightforward. Initially, your thoughts still reflect that of a player.”

In her coaching journey, patience has become essential. “You must acknowledge that some players grasp concepts quickly while others take time. As a coach, an abundance of patience is necessary.”

Rani asserts that coaching transcends mere tactics and techniques. “Teaching technical and tactical components is one aspect, but uniting players, ensuring alignment towards a shared vision—this is what truly counts.”

Having donned both hats, Rani is aware that engaging with players is no easy feat. “Players hail from various backgrounds and cultures, each with distinct mindsets,” she notes. “But it is our responsibility to present them with a unified vision. Why are we here? What is our purpose?”

Once players comprehend their roles and responsibilities, she believes everything aligns. However, mistakes are inevitable. “We are human, and errors are part of the process. The crucial aspect is learning from them. Making mistakes is not a fault. However, gaining knowledge from them and avoiding the same errors is a form of self-respect.”

Discussing Soorma Hockey Club, Rani expresses confidence in the team’s prospects as they approach the new season.

“We possess a strong and balanced roster,” she affirms. “Last season, we secured the silver medal and maintained consistent performance throughout the tournament, even if we didn’t conclude the final as we wished.”

This season, the squad features a blend of top international players, seasoned Indian athletes, and promising young talent. However, individual brilliance is not the priority.

“We aim to highlight collective teamwork rather than individual talent,” Rani stresses. “If we leverage our abilities together, we can overcome any team, both defensively and offensively.”

While she keeps specifics under wraps leading up to the tournament, Rani is clear: “The squad is exceptionally strong, and I eagerly anticipate the season.”

Rani is particularly enthusiastic about the emerging talent at Soorma Hockey Club.

“Players like Sonam, Hina Bano, Nidhi, Binima Dhan, and Baljeet Kaur, all under 21, have immense potential,” she asserts. “I’m confident they will exhibit their skills in the HIL.”

Rani’s relationship with Indian goalkeeper Savita Punia has transformed over the years, evolving from teammates on the field to a coach-mentor dynamic off it.

“We’ve been teammates for over a decade. Now she continues to play, while I assume a mentor’s role,” she explains.

Considering Savita’s extensive experience, Rani is aware of her limits. “You can’t coach her on technicalities anymore; she is well aware of her on-field responsibilities. My role is more focused on ensuring her physical and mental well-being. If she requires specific training or a different warm-up, I’m always available.”

Rani’s respect for Savita is evident. “She ranks among the world’s top goalkeepers. I take pride in having a goalkeeper like her who has contributed significantly to our tournament victories, particularly in shootouts.”

From mentoring young talents to managing elite athletes, Rani is tackling the challenges of coaching with the same fervor that characterized her playing career. “This is merely the beginning,” she concludes.