Inaugural National Women’s Hockey League: Raising the Bar for Women’s Sports in India

The Indian hockey landscape is set to witness a groundbreaking event with the inaugural season of the National Women’s Hockey League 2024 – 2025. Scheduled to be held in Ranchi from April 30 to May 9, this league promises to be a thrilling showcase of the country’s top women’s hockey talent.

League Structure and Scoring System

The league is structured in two phases, with all matches to be played at the Marang Gomke Jaipal Singh Astroturf Hockey Stadium in Ranchi. This venue has recently hosted prestigious events like the FIH Olympic Qualifiers and the Women’s Asian Champions Trophy, further emphasizing the significance of this league.

The scoring system for the matches is designed to encourage fierce competition. Teams will be awarded three points for a win in normal time, while a draw will result in a shoot-out competition. The winner of the shoot-out will receive one bonus point, and the loser will get one point. No points will be awarded to the losing team in normal time.

Participating Teams: Showcasing India’s Hockey Powerhouses

The league will witness the participation of the top eight teams from the Senior Women’s National Championships – Haryana, Maharashtra, Jharkhand, Madhya Pradesh, Bengal, Mizoram, Manipur, and Odisha. These teams have proven their mettle at the national level and are set to battle it out for the inaugural title.

Inspiring the Next Generation of Women’s Hockey Players

The National Women’s Hockey League is more than just a competition; it is a platform to inspire young girls across India to pursue their passion for hockey. As Hockey India Secretary General Bhola Nath Singh eloquently stated, “This league will not only provide a platform for elite competition but also inspire young girls to pursue their passion for hockey.”

The Significance of the League

The launch of the National Women’s Hockey League is a significant step forward in the development of women’s sports in India. It provides a dedicated platform for the country’s top women’s hockey talent to showcase their skills and compete at the highest level.

Moreover, the league’s location in Ranchi, a hockey-loving city, further emphasizes the growing popularity and recognition of women’s hockey in India. The choice of this venue, which has hosted major international events, underscores the league’s commitment to providing a world-class stage for the players.