New Delhi, Nov 7 (NationPress) Soorma Hockey Club has officially appointed Philippe Goldberg, an Olympic athlete from Belgium, as the new head coach for the men’s team in anticipation of the upcoming Hockey India League Season 2.

Joining him in this newly revamped coaching team is Ignacio Ricardo Bergner, an Olympic player from Argentina, who will serve as the analytical coach.

The club’s former head coach, Jeroen Baart, will now take on an advisory role, continuing to support the team with strategy and technical planning throughout the season.

Goldberg and Bergner both bring a wealth of international experience and technical know-how to Soorma Hockey Club. Goldberg, who is a European medallist and has been a coach for the Belgium U21 and senior teams, played a pivotal role in Belgium’s ascent to global acclaim, crafting cohesive and attack-focused teams during his time at Braxgata Hockey Club.

Bergner, who is also an Olympian and a former Argentine international, significantly contributed to Belgium’s campaigns in the 2016 World Cup and 2017 European Championship, later coaching both Argentina’s senior and women’s national teams (Las Leonas). Known for his analytical precision and data-driven insights, he will add a scientific dimension to Soorma’s tactical and performance strategies.

Goldberg expressed his enthusiasm by stating, "Joining Soorma Hockey Club represents a thrilling opportunity to impact India’s evolving hockey scene. The team has laid a robust foundation, and my aim is to enhance it with a strategic framework that promotes discipline, creativity, and sustained performance. Together, we will cultivate a style of hockey that is bold, intelligent, and distinctly Soorma."

Divyanshu Singh, CEO of JSW Sports, welcomed the new additions, saying, "We are excited to have Philippe and Ignacio become part of the Soorma Hockey Club family. Both bring world-class expertise and a shared enthusiasm for the high-octane style of hockey we intend to showcase. Philippe’s tactical insight and leadership experience on the international stage will be crucial in guiding the team’s development.

"Ignacio’s analytical prowess and data-centric approach will further enhance our preparation strategies and performance consistency. With Jeroen remaining as an advisor, we are confident that the team is well-equipped for a strong season ahead."

Arjun Halappa, Technical Director of Soorma Hockey Club, remarked, "The inclusion of Philippe and Ignacio signifies an important advancement in our journey as a team. Philippe’s methodology in constructing structured hockey teams that express themselves aligns seamlessly with our playing philosophy. Ignacio’s analytical depth will enhance both our match preparation and tactical execution."

Following an impressive debut season where Soorma Hockey Club secured third place in the league, they have retained most of their core players, maintaining the essence of their team. The squad is also excited to welcome Jeetpal, a promising young talent, and Akashdeep Singh, whose experience and attacking capabilities are expected to elevate the team’s performance.

Under the leadership of Harmanpreet Singh, the club will commence its 2026 campaign against the defending champions, Shrachi Rarh Bengal Tigers, on January 4 in Chennai.