Former Indian women’s hockey team goalkeeper Yogita Bali supports Hockey India’s initiatives, praises NWHL
Former Indian women’s hockey team goalkeeper Yogita Bali has voiced her support for the National Women’s Hockey League (NWHL), stating that it will provide valuable opportunities for young players to showcase their abilities and gain experience in high-pressure situations.
The NWHL is set to kick off in Ranchi, Jharkhand from April 30 to May 9, featuring teams composed of top performers from the 14th Senior Women National Championship 2024. This league is a significant step forward for women’s hockey in India, offering a platform for players to display their skills and potentially progress to higher levels of competition.
Yogita emphasized the importance of the NWHL as a stepping stone for players aspiring to compete in the Hockey India League (HIL), highlighting the league’s role in providing valuable training and development opportunities for young athletes. She praised Hockey India’s commitment to nurturing talent, particularly through specialized camps for goalkeepers and drag-flickers across the country.
In addition to the NWHL, Hockey India’s grassroots development program aims to cultivate young talent and provide mentorship opportunities for aspiring athletes. Former players like Yogita have been selected to lead training programs at national academies, focusing on refining the skills of future hockey stars.
Looking ahead to the 2024 Paris Olympics, Yogita expressed confidence in the Indian men’s hockey team despite recent setbacks against Australia. She believes that the team has learned valuable lessons from their losses and will use this experience to improve their performance and compete effectively on the world stage.
Overall, Yogita’s endorsement of the NWHL and Hockey India’s development initiatives underscores the growing opportunities for women’s hockey in India and the potential for young players to make their mark on the sport. With a focus on skill development, mentorship, and competitive opportunities, the future looks bright for Indian hockey.