New Delhi, Dec 23 (NationPress) Soorma Hockey Club (SHC) has confirmed its decision to maintain the same leadership for its men’s and women’s teams for the upcoming seasons of the Hockey India League.

The highly skilled Harmanpreet Singh will continue to be at the helm of the men’s squad, while veteran goalkeeper Savita Punia and midfielder Salima Tete will act as joint captains of the women’s team.

Harmanpreet’s ability to command the defense and his exceptional drag-flicking prowess have been crucial in providing both stability and an attacking dimension to the men’s team, which secured a third-place finish last season in the Hockey India League.

As the captain of the Indian National Hockey Team, he has steered the country to several remarkable accomplishments, including winning medals at the Olympics and Asian Games. His extensive experience and calm demeanor under pressure serve as an inspiration to his teammates, driving their desire to excel.

"Leading this team is always a special experience. Our third-place finish last season demonstrated our potential, and we’ve gained a lot of confidence from it. The team has united and strengthened; I truly believe we possess the right blend to challenge the best. We are completely focused, driven, and prepared to give our all when we play this season," Harmanpreet stated.

On the women’s front, Savita’s quick reflexes and composed presence, combined with Salima Tete’s agility and creativity, form the core of the team. Together, they have played a pivotal role in guiding the squad to a commendable runners-up finish last season in a fiercely competitive league.

“Salima and I contribute different strengths, but we share the same goal: to lead this team with clarity, trust, and conviction. We take this responsibility seriously, aiming to cultivate a robust, positive environment where every player feels confident and empowered. When a team plays for one another and believes in their collective abilities, success follows, and that’s the mindset we’re bringing into this season,” Savita shared.

Salima added, “It’s a privilege to share the captaincy with someone like Savita. Her experience and the standards she sets motivate all of us to improve every day. We’ve gained significant lessons from last season, and we’re addressing every aspect of our performance.

"We now understand what it takes to go all the way, and we’re committed to making that final push to bring home the trophy this season. We recognize that the competition will be fierce at HIL, but we are training diligently and aiming to put our best foot forward in every match.”

The women’s team of Soorma Hockey Club will commence their campaign on December 29 against Shrachi Rarh Bengal Tigers, with the entire tournament taking place at the Marang Gomke Jaipal Singh Munda Astro Turf Stadium in Ranchi.

The men’s team will also compete against Shrachi Rarh Bengal Tigers, the defending champions of the Men’s Hockey India League, on January 4 at the Mayor Radhakrishnan Hockey Stadium in Chennai.

The men’s tournament will be hosted across Chennai, Ranchi, and Bhubaneshwar. Under the guidance of Head Coaches Philippe Goldberg and Jude Menezes, and backed by experienced leaders on the field, SHC is set to embark on a competitive campaign, striving for the top honors in both the men’s and women’s divisions this season.