Women’s coach Tim White praises hockey talent pool

Indian junior women’s hockey team head coach Tim White has praised the growing talent pool in the country’s age-group national pathway during his scouting visit to the ongoing India-Australia U-18 exposure series here.

White, who took charge of the U-21 national setup in Bengaluru six weeks ago, emphasised the importance of building a strong connection between the youth tiers and the senior national team.

Speaking on his observations from the stands and his collaboration with the U-18 coaching staff, White said, “I was incredibly curious to come to Bhopal and evaluate the U-18 group because this is our direct talent pipeline. I’ve had some excellent interactions and connections with Rani (Rampal), who is doing a stellar job with this young unit.” Rani is the U-18 women’s team coach.

“This is a youthful squad with several 15 and 16-year-olds who have immense room for physical and tactical maturation. The progression and adaptability they showed between the first and second matches against Australia are highly encouraging.